bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fifty Years of Drama on Israeli Children’s Television
Authors: Gozansky Yuval
Published: August 2018

This article analyzes the changes in drama series in the first
five decades (1966–2016) of Israeli children’s television. Based on interviews
with 27 central producers, this cultural-historical study seeks to
explain the significance attributed to children’s drama over the years.
Early children’s drama series in Israel were instructional or educational,
but they also sought to control the representation of childhood under the
direct supervision of the state. The neo-liberal privatization process in
Israeli society led to the creation of locally produced, Hebrew-speaking
daily dramas on private channels for children. In the multiscreen environment
created by the age of multichannel television and digital media,
original Israeli daily drama shows functioned as a central branding tool
for children’s channels. The article contends that these shows became
one of the producers’ key answers to the changes in children’s viewing
habits and, more particularly, linear television’s strategy for success in a
world of multiple online screens.
Stacked-GRU Based Power System Transient Stability Assessment Method
Authors: Pan Feilai , Li Jun , Tan Bendong , Zeng Ciling , Jiang Xinfan , Liu Li , Yang Jun
Published: August 2018

With the interconnection between large power grids, the issue of security and stability has become increasingly prominent. At present, data-driven power system adaptive transient stability assessment methods have achieved excellent performances by balancing speed and accuracy, but the complicated construction and parameters are difficult to obtain. This paper proposes a stacked-GRU (Gated Recurrent Unit)-based transient stability intelligent assessment method, which builds a stacked-GRU model based on time-dependent parameter sharing and spatial stacking. By using the time series data after power system failure, the offline training is performed to obtain the optimal parameters of stacked-GRU. When the application is online, it is assessed by framework of confidence. Basing on New England power system, the performance of proposed adaptive transient stability assessment method is investigated. Simulation results show that the proposed model realizes reliable and accurate assessment of transient stability and it has the advantages of short assessment time with less complex model structure to leave time for emergency control.
Simulation and Experimental Evaluation of a Flexible Time Triggered Ethernet Architecture Applied in Satellite Nano/Micro Launchers
Authors: Eramo Vincenzo , Lavacca Francesco G. , Valente Francesco , Pisculli Andrea , Caporossi Stefano
Published: August 2018

The success of small satellites has lead to the study of new technologies for the realization of Nano and Micro Launch Vehicle (NMLV) in order to make competitive launch costs. The paper has the objective to define and experimentally investigate the performance of a communication system for NMLV interconnecting the End Systems as On-Board Computer (OBC), telemetry apparatus, Navigation Unit...we propose a low cost Ethernet-based solution able to provide the devices with high interconnection bandwidth. To guarantee hard delays to the Guide, Navigation and Control applications we propose some architectural changes of the traditional Ethernet network with the introduction of a layer implemented in the End Systems and allow for the lack of any contention on the network links. We show how the proposed solution has comparable performance to the one of TTEthernet standard that is a very expensive solution. An experimental test-bed equipped with Ethernet switches and Hercules boards by Texas Instruments is also provided to prove the feasibility of the proposed solution.
A Cooperative Co-Evolutionary Optimisation Model for Best-Fit Aircraft Sequence and Feasible Runway Configuration in a Multi-Runway Airport
Authors: Ahmed Md Shohel , Alam Sameer , Barlow Michael
Published: August 2018

A careful arrival and departure sequencing of aircraft can reduce the inter-arrival/departure time, thereby opening up opportunities for new landing and/or take-off slots, which may increase the runway throughput. This sequence when serviced with a suitable runway configuration may result in an optimal aircraft sequence with a runway configuration that can process the maximum number of aircraft within a given time interval. In this paper, we propose a Cooperative Co-evolutionary Genetic Algorithm (CCoGA) to find the combined solution of a best-fit sequence with a feasible runway configuration for a given traffic demand at an airport. The aircraft sequence and the runway configuration are modelled as individual species, which can cooperatively interact with each other. Therefore, we computationally evolve the best possible combination of aircraft sequence (arrival and departure) and the feasible runway configuration. The proposed CCoGA algorithm is evaluated for Chicago O’Hare International Airport runway layout and resulting configurations. Arrival and departure traffic demand is modelled through a Poisson distribution. Two different arrival/departure sequencing methods, i.e., constraint position shifting with one, two and N-position shifting and first come first serve, are modelled. Runway configuration and traffic sequence (arrivals and departure) are modelled as two species, which are evolved co-operatively, through the CCoGA algorithm, to achieve the optimal traffic sequencing with a feasible runway configuration. Time-space diagrams are presented for the best-evolved population of arrival-departure sequence and runway configuration to illustrate the possibility of using available departure slots between arrivals to maximize capacity. Arrival-departure capacity envelopes are then presented to illustrate the trade-off between the arrivals and departures, given a runway configuration for each sequencing method. Results demonstrate the high mutual dependence between arrival-departure sequence and the runway configuration, as well as its effect on overall runway capacity. The results also demonstrate the viability of using evolutionary computation-based methods for modelling and evaluating complex problems in the air transport domain.
Pesticide Use in Northern Ireland’s Arable Crops from 1992–2016 and Implications for Future Policy Development
Authors: Jess Stephen , Matthews David I. , Murchie Archie K. , Lavery Michael K.
Published: August 2018

Since the 1960s, the objective for the United Kingdom (UK) government policy and legislation on crop protection practices has been to minimise the impact of pesticide use in agriculture and horticulture to the wider environment. Subsequent European Union (EU) policy and legislation have also targeted this objective through a demanding approvals process, competency tests for users, maximum residue limits, regular post-registration monitoring and the promotion of integrated pest and disease management techniques. However, none of this substantive regulation refers to target reduction levels for pesticide use. Since 1992, the number of arable farms in Northern Ireland has decreased by 61% with a consequent reduction of 34% in the area of arable crops grown. Despite this reduction in area of arable crops grown, the area treated by the major pesticide groups increased by 49% due to intensification, but the weight of major pesticides applied to arable crops decreased by 37%. However, the intensity of application measured by the total quantity of all pesticides applied to the basic area of arable crops treated remained relatively constant at approximately 3.2 kg/ha. Pesticide usage trends and reduction policies in other geographic regions are also discussed for comparative purposes.
Seasonal Changes of Soil Quality Indicators in Selected Arid Cropping Systems
Authors: Omer Mohammed , Idowu Omololu J. , Ulery April L. , VanLeeuwen Dawn , Guldan Steven J.
Published: August 2018

Improving the soil quality in arid agro-ecosystems requires a greater understanding of how the time-of-sampling and management affect the soil measurements. We evaluated the selected soil quality indicators on samples collected at a 0–0.15 m depth, and at various sampling dates of the year, corresponding to the fall of 2015, winter of 2015/2016, spring of 2016, and the summer of 2016. The three crop management systems sampled included alfalfa (Medicago sativa), upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum), and pecan (Carya illinoinensis). The soil properties measured included the wet aggregate stability (WAS), mean weight diameter of dry aggregates (MWD), dry aggregates greater than 2 mm (AGG >2 mm), dry aggregates less than 0.25 mm (AGG <0.25 mm), available water capacity (AWC), soil organic matter (SOM), permanganate oxidizable carbon (POXC), soil bulk density (BD), soil electrical conductivity (EC), pH, nitrate-nitrogen (NO3-N), extractable potassium (K), extractable phosphorus (P), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), and micronutrients (zinc, iron, copper, and manganese). Out of the 21 soil measurements, 15 varied significantly with the time-of-sampling within a year, although there were no consistent trends in variability. However, only a few measurements differed significantly with the crop management practices tested. Wet aggregate stability, MWD, AWC, and BD were significantly higher in the summer, while POXC and SOM were significantly higher in the fall and winter, respectively. Soil quality indicators such as NO3-N, K, and P decreased significantly during the spring. This study shows that the seasonal variability of the soil measurements can be significant in the arid agro-ecosystems, with the magnitude of variation depending on the measurement type. The soil managers in the region need to account for this variability, in order to be able to assess the changes in the soil quality. Also, because of the variability that can occur across the different sampling dates within a year, it is advisable to sample during the same period every year, for a consistent interpretation of the directional changes of the soil quality indicators.
Peach Brown Rot: Still in Search of an Ideal Management Option
Authors: Obi Vitus Ikechukwu , Barriuso Juan José , Gogorcena Yolanda
Published: August 2018

The peach is one of the most important global tree crops within the economically important Rosaceae family. The crop is threatened by numerous pests and diseases, especially fungal pathogens, in the field, in transit, and in the store. More than 50% of the global post-harvest loss has been ascribed to brown rot disease, especially in peach late-ripening varieties. In recent years, the disease has been so manifest in the orchards that some stone fruits were abandoned before harvest. In Spain, particularly, the disease has been associated with well over 60% of fruit loss after harvest. The most common management options available for the control of this disease involve agronomical, chemical, biological, and physical approaches. However, the effects of biochemical fungicides (biological and conventional fungicides), on the environment, human health, and strain fungicide resistance, tend to revise these control strategies. This review aims to comprehensively compile the information currently available on the species of the fungus Monilinia, which causes brown rot in peach, and the available options to control the disease. The breeding for brown rot-resistant varieties remains an ideal management option for brown rot disease control, considering the uniqueness of its sustainability in the chain of crop production.
Signal Pattern Recognition Based on Fractal Features and Machine Learning
Authors: Shi Chang-Ting
Published: August 2018

As a typical pattern recognition method, communication signal modulation involves many complicated factors. Fractal theory can be used for signal modulation feature extraction and recognition because of its good ability to express complex information. In this paper, we conduct a systematic research study by using the fractal dimension as the feature of modulation signals. Box fractal dimension, Katz fractal dimension, Higuchi fractal dimension, Petrosian fractal dimension, and Sevcik fractal dimension are extracted from eight different modulation signals for signal pattern recognition. Meanwhile, the anti-noise function, box-diagram, and running time are used to evaluate the noise robustness, separability, and computational complexity of five different fractal features. Finally, Bback-Propagation (BP) neural network, grey relation analysis, random forest, and K-nearest neighbor are proposed to classify the different modulation signals based on these fractal features. The confusion matrices and recognition results are provided in the experimental section. They indicate that random forest had a better recognition performance, which could reach 96% in 10 dB.
Mathematics and the Islamic Architecture of Córdoba
Authors: Arnold Felix
Published: August 2018

In 10th-century Córdoba, mathematics—and particularly geometry—was applied to architectural design in new ways, constituting a “mathematical turn” of Islamic architecture. In the mosque of Córdoba and in the palaces of Madīnat al-Zahrāʾ, geometry was employed in the design of ground plans, elevations, decorative patterns, and even to measure the human view. While Roman architects like Vitruvius had used mathematics to place each element of a building in its appropriate relation to all other elements of a building, the architects at Córdoba employed geometry to create a spatial web in which all parts are equal to each other and part of a single, unified space. The architects of Córdoba thus pointed the way to new possibilities of designing architecture, possibilities which were to be tested further by architects of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, though to different ends.
Impedance Pumping and Resonance in a Multi-Vessel System
Authors: Zislin Victor , Rosenfeld Moshe
Published: August 2018

Impedance pumping is a mechanism that generates flow in a compliant vessel by repeatedly actuating the vessel asymmetrically, without employing any internal valves, blades, or other mechanisms. The net flow is obtained by establishing a constructive wave pattern. Elaborate studies of impedance pumping in a single vessel have shown that the flow rate strongly depends on the actuation frequency, as well as on other parameters, such as actuator location and amplitude, and that it operates best in the resonance mode. The present study extends these principles to a network of multiple compliant vessels, representing a cardiovascular system. The flow is modeled numerically by the one-dimensional approximation of the Navier-Stokes equations. Two configurations were examined, systems consisting of three and five compliant vessels. First, the natural frequencies of these configurations were identified. Then, the dependence of the net flow rate (NFR) on the actuating frequency was explored, showing that impedance pumping operates best in the resonance mode in the case of a network of vessels as well. The impact of other parameters were studied as well, such as the location of one or two actuators, actuation amplitude, actuator width, the duty cycle, and the phase lag between the actuators. The results show that impedance pumps can generate significant NFR and the obtained NFR can be manipulated by properly setting up one or more of the governing parameters. These findings indicate that impedance pumping principles may be applied to flow control of the cardiovascular system.
UnPAXing the Divergent Roles of PAX2 and PAX8 in High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Hardy Laura R. , Salvi Amrita , Burdette Joanna E.
Published: August 2018

High-grade serous ovarian cancer is a deadly disease that can originate from the fallopian tube or the ovarian surface epithelium. The PAX (paired box) genes PAX2 and PAX8 are lineage-specific transcription factors required during development of the fallopian tube but not in the development of the ovary. PAX2 expression is lost early in serous cancer progression, while PAX8 is expressed ubiquitously. These proteins are implicated in migration, invasion, proliferation, cell survival, stem cell maintenance, and tumor growth. Hence, targeting PAX2 and PAX8 represents a promising drug strategy that could inhibit these pro-tumorigenic effects. In this review, we examine the implications of PAX2 and PAX8 expression in the cell of origin of serous cancer and their potential efficacy as drug targets by summarizing their role in the molecular pathogenesis of ovarian cancer.
Organotypic 3D Models of the Ovarian Cancer Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Watters Karen M. , Bajwa Preety , Kenny Hilary A.
Published: August 2018

Ovarian cancer progression involves multifaceted and variable tumor microenvironments (TMEs), from the in situ carcinoma in the fallopian tube or ovary to dissemination into the peritoneal cavity as single cells or spheroids and attachment to the mesothelial-lined surfaces of the omentum, bowel, and abdominal wall. The TME comprises the tumor vasculature and lymphatics (including endothelial cells and pericytes), in addition to mesothelial cells, fibroblasts, immune cells, adipocytes and extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. When generating 3D models of the ovarian cancer TME, researchers must incorporate the most relevant stromal components depending on the TME in question (e.g., early or late disease). Such complexity cannot be captured by monolayer 2D culture systems. Moreover, immortalized stromal cell lines, such as mesothelial or fibroblast cell lines, do not always behave the same as primary cells whose response in functional assays may vary from donor to donor; 3D models with primary stromal cells may have more physiological relevance than those using stromal cell lines. In the current review, we discuss the latest developments in organotypic 3D models of the ovarian cancer early metastatic microenvironment. Organotypic culture models comprise two or more interacting cell types from a particular tissue. We focus on organotypic 3D models that include at least one type of primary stromal cell type in an ECM background, such as collagen or fibronectin, plus ovarian cancer cells. We provide an overview of the two most comprehensive current models—a 3D model of the omental mesothelium and a microfluidic model. We describe the cellular and non-cellular components of the models, the incorporation of mechanical forces, and how the models have been adapted and utilized in functional assays. Finally, we review a number of 3D models that do not incorporate primary stromal cells and summarize how integration of current models may be the next essential step in tackling the complexity of the different ovarian cancer TMEs.
A Review of Philenis Champion, 1906 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Conoderinae), with Descriptions of New Species from Central and South America
Authors: Hespenheide Henry
Published: August 2018

A brief review of the history of the taxonomic treatment of the genus Philenis Champion is presented and characters are discussed. Philenis flavipes Champion and P. fuscofemorata Champion, and 11 new species are described, including the first records from South America: P. anzaldoi new species (Costa Rica, Panamá), P. costaricensis new species (Costa Rica), P. laselvaensis new species (Costa Rica), P. auritibiae new species (Costa Rica), P. brunnea new species (Costa Rica, Panamá), P. muscamimetica new species (Panamá), P. chiriquiensis new species (Panamá), P. guyanensis new species (French Guiana), P. ferruginea new species (Ecuador), P. howdeni new species (Ecuador), and P. kuscheli new species (Colombia, Ecuador). A key is provided to separate the species, and an unusual type of “multifurcate” scale is reported for some species. Two species have been associated with plants of the family Araceae. Most collections of this genus by the Arthropods of La Selva (ALAS) biodiversity project in Costa Rica were made by passive trapping methods during the dry season and at lower to middle elevations along an altitudinal transect on the slopes of Volcan Barva. The coloration of some species in the genus is hypothesized to mimic social Hymenoptera or flies.
High Duty Cycle Echolocation May Constrain the Evolution of Diversity within Horseshoe Bats (Family: Rhinolophidae)
Authors: Jacobs David S. , Bastian Anna
Published: August 2018

The phenotype of organisms is the net result of various evolutionary forces acting upon their lineages over time. When an innovative trait arises that confers a substantial advantage in terms of survival and reproduction, the evolution of adaptive complexes between such an innovation and other traits may constrain diversification of that lineage. The specialized echolocation system of the Rhinolophidae may represent such an innovation which affects other parts of the phenotype. We investigated a potential constraint on the diversity of phenotypes of several species of horseshoe bats within a phylogenetic framework. If phenotypic convergence stems from stasis as a result of the specialized echolocation system, phenotypes should converge not only among members of the same species and between sexes but also among species. We analyzed the phenotypic diversity of >800 individuals of 13–16 species. The phenotypes in the horseshoe bats did indeed converge. There was no sexual size dimorphism in mass, forearm length and wingspan within species and there was marked interspecific similarity in both wing and echolocation variables but marked variability in body mass. Furthermore, correlations of wing and echolocation variables with mass suggest that variability within horseshoe bats was largely the result of selection on body size with allometric responses in wing and echolocation parameters, a potential consequence of constraints imposed by their specialized echolocation.
Rényi Entropy and Rényi Divergence in Product MV-Algebras
Authors: Markechová Dagmar , Riečan Beloslav
Published: August 2018

This article deals with new concepts in a product MV-algebra, namely, with the concepts of Rényi entropy and Rényi divergence. We define the Rényi entropy of order q of a partition in a product MV-algebra and its conditional version and we study their properties. It is shown that the proposed concepts are consistent, in the case of the limit of q going to 1, with the Shannon entropy of partitions in a product MV-algebra defined and studied by Petrovičová (Soft Comput. 2000, 4, 41–44). Moreover, we introduce and study the notion of Rényi divergence in a product MV-algebra. It is proven that the Kullback–Leibler divergence of states on a given product MV-algebra introduced by Markechová and Riečan in (Entropy 2017, 19, 267) can be obtained as the limit of their Rényi divergence. In addition, the relationship between the Rényi entropy and the Rényi divergence as well as the relationship between the Rényi divergence and Kullback–Leibler divergence in a product MV-algebra are examined.
On a Matrix Inequality Related to the Distillability Problem
Authors: Shen Yi , Chen Lin
Published: August 2018

We investigate the distillability problem in quantum information in ℂ d ⊗ ℂ d . One case of the problem has been reduced to proving a matrix inequality when d = 4 . We investigate the inequality for three families of non-normal matrices. We prove the inequality for the first two families with d = 4 and for the third family with d ≥ 5 . We also present a sufficient condition for the fulfillment of the inequality with d = 4 .
The Use of LPC and Wavelet Transform for Influenza Disease Modeling
Authors: Daqrouq Khaled , Ajour Mohammed
Published: August 2018

In this paper, we investigated the modeling of the pathological features of the influenza disease on the human speech. The presented work is novel research based on a real database and a new combination of previously used methods, discrete wavelet transform (DWT) and linear prediction coding (LPC). Three verification system experiments, Normal/Influenza, Smokers/Influenza, and Normal/Smokers, were studied. For testing the proposed pathological system, several classification scores were calculated for the recorded database, from which we can see that the proposed method achieved very high scores, particularly for the Normal with Influenza verification system. The performance of the proposed system was also compared with other published recognition systems. The experiments of these schemes show that the proposed method is superior.
Gradient and GENERIC Systems in the Space of Fluxes, Applied to Reacting Particle Systems
Authors: Renger D. R. Michiel
Published: August 2018

In a previous work we devised a framework to derive generalised gradient systems for an evolution equation from the large deviations of an underlying microscopic system, in the spirit of the Onsager–Machlup relations. Of particular interest is the case where the microscopic system consists of random particles, and the macroscopic quantity is the empirical measure or concentration. In this work we take the particle flux as the macroscopic quantity, which is related to the concentration via a continuity equation. By a similar argument the large deviations can induce a generalised gradient or GENERIC system in the space of fluxes. In a general setting we study how flux gradient or GENERIC systems are related to gradient systems of concentrations. This shows that many gradient or GENERIC systems arise from an underlying gradient or GENERIC system where fluxes rather than densities are being driven by (free) energies. The arguments are explained by the example of reacting particle systems, which is later expanded to include spatial diffusion as well.
A Fractional Order Power System Stabilizer Applied on a Small-Scale Generation System
Authors: Ayres Junior Florindo A. de C. , Costa Junior Carlos T. da , Medeiros Renan L. P. de , Barra Junior Walter , Neves Cleonor C. das , Lenzi Marcelo K. , Veroneze Gabriela de M.
Published: August 2018

In this paper, a Fractional Order Power System controller (FOPSS) is designed, and its performance and robustness are experimentally evaluated by tests in a 10 kVA laboratory scale power system. The FOPSS design methodology is based on the tuning of an additional design variable, namely the fractional order of the controller transfer function. This design variable is tuned aiming to obtain a tradeoff between satisfactory damping of dominant oscillating mode and improved closed-loop system robustness. For controller synthesis, transfer function models were estimated from data collected at selected operating points and subsequently applied for the controller design and for obtaining upper bounds estimates on the operating-point depends on plant uncertainties. The experimental results show that the FOPPS was able to obtain a robust performance for the considered set of the power system operating conditions.
Thermophilic Anaerobic Digestion: Enhanced and Sustainable Methane Production from Co-Digestion of Food and Lignocellulosic Wastes
Authors: David Aditi , Govil Tanvi , Tripathi Abhilash Kumar , McGeary Julie , Farrar Kylie , Sani Rajesh Kumar
Published: August 2018

This article aims to study the codigestion of food waste (FW) and three different lignocellulosic wastes (LW) (Corn stover (CS), Prairie cordgrass (PCG), and Unbleached paper (UBP)) for thermophilic anaerobic digestion to overcome the limitations of digesting food waste alone (volatile fatty acids accumulation and low C:N ratio). Using an enriched thermophilic methanogenic consortium, all the food and lignocellulosic waste mixtures showed positive synergistic effects of codigestion. After 30 days of incubation at 60 °C (100 rpm), the highest methane yield of 305.45 L·kg−1 volatile solids (VS) was achieved with a combination of FW-PCG-CS followed by 279.31 L·kg−1 VS with a mixture of FW-PCG. The corresponding volatile solids reduction for these two co-digestion mixtures was 68% and 58%, respectively. This study demonstrated a reduced hydraulic retention time for methane production using FW and LW.
Parameter Estimation of Electromechanical Oscillation Based on a Constrained EKF with C&I-PSO
Authors: Sun Yonghui , Wang Yi , Bai Linquan , Hu Yinlong , Sidorov Denis , Panasetsky Daniil
Published: August 2018

By combining together the extended Kalman filter with a newly developed C&I particle swarm optimization algorithm (C&I-PSO), a novel estimation method is proposed for parameter estimation of electromechanical oscillation, in which critical physical constraints on the parameters are taken into account. Based on the extended Kalman filtering algorithm, the constrained parameter estimation problem is formulated via the projection method. Then, by utilizing the penalty function method, the obtained constrained optimization problem could be converted into an equivalent unconstrained optimization problem; finally, the C&I-PSO algorithm is developed to address the unconstrained optimization problem. Therefore, the parameters of electromechanical oscillation with physical constraints can be successfully estimated and better performed. Finally, the effectiveness of the obtained results has been illustrated by several test systems.
An Electric Bus Power Consumption Model and Optimization of Charging Scheduling Concerning Multi-External Factors
Authors: Gao Yajing , Guo Shixiao , Ren Jiafeng , Zhao Zheng , Ehsan Ali , Zheng Yanan
Published: August 2018

With the large scale operation of electric buses (EBs), the arrangement of their charging optimization will have a significant impact on the operation and dispatch of EBs as well as the charging costs of EB companies. Thus, an accurate grasp of how external factors, such as the weather and policy, affect the electric consumption is of great importance. Especially in recent years, haze is becoming increasingly serious in some areas, which has a prominent impact on driving conditions and resident travel modes. Firstly, the grey relational analysis (GRA) method is used to analyze the various external factors that affect the power consumption of EBs, then a characteristic library of EBs concerning similar days is established. Then, the wavelet neural network (WNN) is used to train the power consumption factors together with power consumption data in the feature library, to establish the power consumption prediction model with multiple factors. In addition, the optimal charging model of EBs is put forward, and the reasonable charging time for the EB is used to achieve the minimum operating cost of the EB company. Finally, taking the electricity consumption data of EBs in Baoding and the data of relevant factors as an example, the power consumption prediction model and the charging optimization model of the EB are verified, which provides an important reference for the optimal charging of the EB, the trip arrangement of the EB, and the maximum profit of the electric public buses.
Identification of the Heat Equation Parameters for Estimation of a Bare Overhead Conductor’s Temperature by the Differential Evolution Algorithm
Authors: Sarajlić Mirza , Pihler Jože , Sarajlić Nermin , Štumberger Gorazd
Published: August 2018

This paper deals with the Differential Evolution (DE) based method for identification of the heat equation parameters applied for the estimation of a bare overhead conductor`s temperature. The parameters are determined in the optimization process using a dynamic model of the conductor; the measured environmental temperature, solar radiation and wind velocity; the current and temperature measured on the tested overhead conductor; and the DE, which is applied as the optimization tool. The main task of the DE is to minimise the difference between the measured and model-calculated conductor temperatures. The conductor model is relevant and suitable for the prediction of the conductor temperature, as the agreement between measured and model-calculated conductor temperatures is exceptional, where the deviation between mean and maximum measured and model-calculated conductor temperatures is less than 0.03 °C.
High Efficiency and Power Tracking Method for Wireless Charging System Based on Phase-Shift Control
Authors: Kindl Vladimir , Zavrel Martin , Drabek Pavel , Kavalir Tomas
Published: August 2018

The paper presents optimal operating point tracking algorithm for wireless charging system using identical coupling coils providing us to meet simultaneously high efficiency and high transmitted power under varied load and detuning conditions. The proposed method is suitable either for purely resistive load or battery load and it is based on phase-shift control between the primary and the secondary voltage. The paper also gives an intuitive mathematical description of the key control idea and demonstrates its operational abilities. The proposed algorithm is finally implemented into digital signal processor (DSP) and tested on 4 kW laboratory prototype of shielded wireless power transfer system.
Sea-Water Desalination for Load Levelling of Gen-Sets in Small Off-Grid Islands
Authors: Corsini Alessandro , Tortora Eileen
Published: August 2018

This study deals with the energy/water nexus on small off-grid islands. Small islands share several characteristics that hinder the introduction of new plants, such as: Energy system balance when renewable sources are introduced; water shortages, usually addressed via shipping from the mainland; environmental and historical heritage values; and, scarce land availability. In these cases, it is mandatory to detect energy/water technology integration and management solutions respecting the peculiarities and boundaries of the sites. The present work proposes a desalination plant with a primary scope of load leveler and a secondary scope of water producer. The aim is to propose a simple and non-invasive solution for energy/water management in order to limit impacts on the local environment while improving the match between renewable energy and local generation by means of desalination. This study led to an integrated system composed of local diesel engine power plant, distributed roof-top photovoltaic plants and a desalination plant, managed by a dedicated control logic. Desalination from renewable energy and power adjustments of already active diesel engines are favored. The case study refers to Ponza island, in the Tyrrhenian Sea. This paper demonstrates the effective possibility of using a desalination plant with the double purpose of water production and load levelling, providing 98% of the local water demand while mitigating the renewable energy fluctuations effects on the gen-set. Moreover, the proposed system results in a 50% CO2eq emissions abatement over the current water supply carbon footprint.
A Simple Assessment of Housing Retrofit Policies for the UK: What Should Succeed the Energy Company Obligation?
Authors: Miu Luciana Maria , Wisniewska Natalia , Mazur Christoph , Hardy Jeffrey , Hawkes Adam
Published: August 2018

Despite the need for large-scale retrofit of UK housing to meet emissions reduction targets, progress to date has been slow and domestic energy efficiency policies have struggled to accelerate housing retrofit processes. There is a need for housing retrofit policies that overcome key barriers within the retrofit sector while maintaining economic viability for customers, funding organizations, and effectively addressing UK emission reductions and fuel poverty targets. In this study, we use a simple assessment framework to assess three policies (the Variable Council Tax, the Variable Stamp Duty Land Tax, and Green Mortgage) proposed to replace the UK’s current major domestic retrofit programme known as the Energy Company Obligation (ECO). We show that the Variable Council Tax and Green Mortgage proposals have the greatest potential for overcoming the main barriers to retrofit policies while maintaining economic viability and contributing to high-level UK targets. We also show that, while none of the assessed schemes are capable of overcoming all retrofit barriers on their own, a mix of all three policies could address most barriers and provide key benefits such as wide coverage of property markets, operation on existing financial infrastructures, and application of a “carrot-and-stick” approach to incentivize retrofit. Lastly, we indicate that the specific support and protection of fuel-poor households cannot be achieved by a mix of these policies and a complementary scheme focused on fuel-poor households is required.
Green Production Planning and Control for the Textile Industry by Using Mathematical Programming and Industry 4.0 Techniques
Authors: Tsai Wen-Hsien
Published: August 2018

The textile industry is one of the world’s major sources of industrial pollution, and related environmental issues are becoming an ever greater concern. This paper considers the environmental issues of carbon emissions, energy recycling, and waste reuse, and uses a mathematical programming model with Activity-Based Costing (ABC) and the Theory of Constraints (TOC) to achieve profit maximization. This paper discusses the combination of mathematical programming and Industry 4.0 techniques to achieve the purpose of green production planning and control for the textile industry in the new era. The mathematical programming model is used to determine the optimal product mix under various production constraints, while Industry 4.0 techniques are used to control the production progress to achieve the planning targets. With the help of an Industry 4.0 real-time sensor and detection system, it can achieve the purposes of recycling waste, reducing carbon emission, saving energy and cost, and finally achieving a maximization of profit. The main contributions of this research are using mathematical programming approach to formulate the decision model with ABC cost data and TOC constraints for the textile companies and clarifying the relation between mathematical programming models and Industry 4.0 techniques. Managers in the textile companies can apply this decision model to achieve the optimal product-mix under various constraints and to evaluate the effect on profit of carbon emissions, energy recycling, waste reuse, and material quantity discount.
A Numerical Investigation of Frost Growth on Cold Surfaces Based on the Lattice Boltzmann Method
Authors: Gong Jianying , Hou Jianqiang , Sun Jinjuan , Li Guojun , Gao Tieyu
Published: August 2018

A numerical investigation of frost growth on a cold flat surface was presented based on two-dimensional Lattice Boltzmann model. This model has been validated to have less prediction error by past experiments. According to the results, it is shown that average frost density appears different at an increasing rate at different frosting stages. In addition, cold surface temperature has great influence on frost growth parameters such as frost crystal deposition mass, frost deposition rate, and frost crystal volume fraction. It was found that the frost crystal deposition mass, frost crystal volume, and the deposition rate first increase rapidly, then gradually slow down, finally remaining unchanged while the cold surface temperature decreases. The further away from the cold surface, the more sparser the frost layer structure becomes due to the smaller frost crystal volume fraction.
Modelling the Effect of Weed Competition on Long-Term Volume Yield of Eucalyptus globulus Labill. Plantations across an Environmental Gradient
Authors: Vargas Felipe , Gonzalez-Benecke Carlos A. , Rubilar Rafael , Sanchez-Olate Manuel
Published: August 2018

Several studies have quantified the responses of Eucalyptus globulus Labill. plantations to weed control on its early development (2–3 years after establishment). However, long-term results of competing vegetation effects have not been included into growth and yield models that incorporate treatments of competing vegetation control, and its interaction with site resource availability. In this article, we compared several models predicting stand volume yield of E. globulus plantations established across an environmental gradient, growing under different intensity levels of competing vegetation control. Four sites were selected encompassing a gradient in rainfall and amount of competing vegetation. Treatments were applied at stand establishment and were monitored periodically until age 9 years. Competing vegetation control intensity levels considered 0, 5, 20, 44, and 100% weed-free cover around individual E. globulus cuttings. Maximum competing vegetation biomass production during the first growing season were 2.9, 6.5, 2.2, and 12.9 Mg ha−1, for sites ranging from low to high annual rainfall. As expected, reductions in volume yield at age 9 years were observed as competing vegetation control intensity decreased during the first growing season. A strong relationship was established between stem volume yield loss and the intensity of competing vegetation control, the amount of competing vegetation biomass produced during the first growing season and mean annual rainfall. The slope of the relationship was different among sites and was related mainly to water and light limitations. Our results suggest that the biomass of competing vegetation (intensity of competition), affecting site resource availability, contribute to observed long-term effects on E. globulus plantations productivity. The site with the lowest mean annual rainfall showed the highest volume yield loss at age 9 years. Sites with highest rainfall showed contrasting results related to the amount of competing vegetation biomass.
Motives for Instagram Use and Topics of Interest among Young Adults
Authors: Huang Yi-Ting , Su Sheng-Fang
Published: August 2018

Instagram is currently the most popular social media app among young people around the world. More than 70% of people between the ages of 12 and 24 are Instagram users. The research framework of this study was constructed based on smartphone addiction and the uses and gratifications theory. We used 27 question items divided into five factors, namely social interaction, documentation, diversion, self-promotion, and creativity, to investigate the motives for Instagram use and topics of interest among university students in Taiwan. A total of 307 valid questionnaires were obtained. The results revealed that on the whole, the motives for Instagram use were mostly to look at posts, particularly involving social interaction and diversion motives. The level of agreement expressed toward motives for creating posts was lower. Gender, professional training background, and level of addiction to Instagram all exert influence on motives for Instagram use. Over half of the students majoring in design followed artisans and celebrities (including designers), and female students noticed ads on Instagram more than male students did.
Speciation Theory of Carcinogenesis Explains Karyotypic Individuality and Long Latencies of Cancers
Authors: Hirpara Ankit , Bloomfield Mathew , Duesberg Peter
Published: August 2018

It has been known for over 100 years that cancers have individual karyotypes and arise only years to decades after initiating carcinogens. However, there is still no coherent theory to explain these definitive characteristics of cancer. The prevailing mutation theory holds that cancers are late because the primary cell must accumulate 3–8 causative mutations to become carcinogenic and that mutations, which induce chromosomal instability (CIN), generate the individual karyotypes of cancers. However, since there is still no proven set of mutations that transforms a normal to a cancer cell, we have recently advanced the theory that carcinogenesis is a form of speciation. This theory predicts carcinogens initiate cancer by inducing aneuploidy, which automatically unbalances thousands of genes and thus catalyzes chain-reactions of progressive aneuploidizations. Over time, these aneuploidizations have two endpoints, either non-viable karyotypes or very rarely karyotypes of new autonomous and immortal cancers. Cancer karyotypes are immortalized despite destabilizing congenital aneuploidy by clonal selections for autonomy—similar to those of conventional species. This theory predicts that the very low probability of converting the karyotype of a normal cell to that of a new autonomous cancer species by random aneuploidizations is the reason for the karyotypic individuality of new cancers and for the long latencies from carcinogens to cancers. In testing this theory, we observed: (1) Addition of mutagenic and non-mutagenic carcinogens to normal human and rat cells generated progressive aneuploidizations months before neoplastic transformation. (2) Sub-cloning of a neoplastic rat clone revealed heritable individual karyotypes, rather than the non-heritable karyotypes predicted by the CIN theory. (3) Analyses of neoplastic and preneoplastic karyotypes unexpectedly identified karyotypes with sets of 3–12 new marker chromosomes without detectable intermediates, consistent with single-step origins. We conclude that the speciation theory explains logically the long latencies from carcinogen exposure and the individuality of cancers. In addition, the theory supports the single-step origins of cancers, because karyotypic autonomy is all-or-nothing. Accordingly, we propose that preneoplastic aneuploidy and clonal neoplastic karyotypes provide more reliable therapeutic indications than current analyses of thousands of mutations.
EcoHealth and the Determinants of Health: Perspectives of a Small Subset of Canadian Academics in the EcoHealth Community
Authors: Lisitza Aryn , Wolbring Gregor
Published: August 2018

EcoHealth is an emerging field that examines the complex relationships among humans, animals, and the environment, and how these relationships affect the health of each of these domains. The different types of determinants of health greatly influence human health and well-being. Therefore, EcoHealth’s ability to improve human, animal, and environmental health and well-being is, in part, influenced by its ability to acknowledge and integrate the determinants of health. However, our previous research demonstrates that the academic EcoHealth literature had a low, uneven engagement with the determinants of health. Accordingly, to make sense of this gap, our research aim is to better understand the views of a small subset of the Canadian EcoHealth community about EcoHealth and the determinants of health relative to EcoHealth. We used a qualitative research design involving seven semi-structured interviews, which were analyzed using thematic analysis. Our findings suggest a tension across themes and a lack of conceptual engagement with the determinants of health. As we consider a future with rapid, unsustainable changes, we expect the identification and integration of the different types of determinants of health within EcoHealth to be imperative for EcoHealth to attain its goal of improving the health and well-being of humans, animals, and the environment.
Predicting Condom Use among Undergraduate Students Based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour, Coquimbo, Chile, 2016
Authors: Ramírez-Correa Patricio , Ramírez-Santana Muriel
Published: August 2018

Background: Sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy in adolescents are acknowledged public health problems in many countries. Although it is known that the proper use of condoms allows avoiding these health problems, their use in Chile is still limited, for unknown reasons. Objective: Based on planned behavioural theory, the aim was to validate a behaviour model regarding condom use by measuring the influence of the variables that predict this use among Chilean university students. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out in October 2016 among 151 Chilean university students belonging to the health and engineering areas. The information was collected through a self-administered survey. The sample was divided into two groups: stable and not stable relationships. Partial least squares (PLS) regression was used for the analysis. Results: It was possible to explain the condom use of the students by 57%. The attitude was the main variable related to the intention of using condoms, together with the perceived behavioural control. Additionally, there are statistically significant differences in the variables that predict condom use among students with stable relations compared to those without a stable relationship. Conclusions: The planned behavioural theory is useful for predicting condom use behaviour when students have a stable partner.