bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the Combined Effect of Variable Inlet Guide Vane Drift, Fouling, and Inlet Air Cooling on Gas Turbine Performance
Authors: Hashmi Muhammad Baqir , Lemma Tamiru Alemu , Abdul Karim Zainal Ambri
Published: December 2019

Variable geometry gas turbines are susceptible to various malfunctions and performance deterioration phenomena, such as variable inlet guide vane (VIGV) drift, compressor fouling, and high inlet air temperatures. The present study investigates the combined effect of these performance deterioration phenomena on the health and overall performance of a three-shaft gas turbine engine (GE LM1600). For this purpose, a steady-state simulation model of the turbine was developed using a commercial software named GasTurb 12. In addition, the effect of an inlet air cooling (IAC) technique on the gas turbine performance was examined. The design point results were validated using literature results and data from the manufacturer’s catalog. The gas turbine exhibited significant deterioration in power output and thermal efficiency by 21.09% and 7.92%, respectively, due to the augmented high inlet air temperature and fouling. However, the integration of the inlet air cooling technique helped in improving the power output, thermal efficiency, and surge margin by 29.67%, 7.38%, 32.84%, respectively. Additionally, the specific fuel consumption (SFC) was reduced by 6.88%. The VIGV down-drift schedule has also resulted in improved power output, thermal efficiency, and the surge margin by 14.53%, 5.55%, and 32.08%, respectively, while the SFC decreased by 5.23%. The current model can assist in troubleshooting the root cause of performance degradation and surging in an engine faced with VIGV drift and fouling simultaneously. Moreover, the combined study also indicated the optimum schedule during VIGV drift and fouling for performance improvement via the IAC technique.
Analytical and Simulation Fair Comparison of Three Level Si IGBT Based NPC Topologies and Two Level SiC MOSFET Based Topology for High Speed Drives
Authors: Loncarski Jelena , Monopoli Vito Giuseppe , Leuzzi Riccardo , Ristic Leposava , Cupertino Francesco
Published: December 2019

Wide bandgap (WBG) power devices such as silicon carbide (SiC) can viably supply high speed electrical drives, due to their capability to increase efficiency and reduce the size of the power converters. On the other hand, high frequency operation of the SiC devices emphasizes the effect of parasitics, which generates reflected wave transient overvoltage on motor terminals, reducing the life time and the reliability of electric drives. In this paper, a SiC metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) based two level (2L) inverter is systematically studied and compared to the performance of Si insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) based three level (3L) neutral point clamped (NPC) inverter topologies, for high speed AC motor loads, in terms of efficiency, overvoltages, heat sink design, and cost. A fair comparison was introduced for the first time, having the same output voltage capabilities, output current total harmonic distortion (THD), and overvoltages for the three systems. The analysis indicated the convenience of using the SiC MOSFET based 2L inverter for lower output power. In the case of the maximum output power, the heat sink volume was found to be 20% higher for the 2L SiC based inverter when compared to 3L NPC topologies. Simulations were carried out by realistic dynamic models of power switch modules obtained from the manufacturer’s experimental tests and verified both in the LTspice and PLECS simulation packages.
Large-Eddy Simulation of Yawed Wind-Turbine Wakes: Comparisons with Wind Tunnel Measurements and Analytical Wake Models
Authors: Lin Mou , Porté-Agel Fernando
Published: December 2019

In this study, we validated a wind-turbine parameterisation for large-eddy simulation (LES) of yawed wind-turbine wakes. The presented parameterisation is modified from the rotational actuator disk model (ADMR), which takes account of both thrust and tangential forces induced by a wind turbine based on the blade-element theory. LES results using the yawed ADMR were validated with wind-tunnel measurements of the wakes behind a stand-alone miniature wind turbine model with different yaw angles. Comparisons were also made with the predictions of analytical wake models. In general, LES results using the yawed ADMR are in good agreement with both wind-tunnel measurements and analytical wake models regarding wake deflections and spanwise profiles of the mean velocity deficit and the turbulence intensity. Moreover, the power output of the yawed wind turbine is directly computed from the tangential forces resolved by the yawed ADMR, in contrast with the indirect power estimation used in the standard actuator disk model. We found significant improvement in the power prediction from LES using the yawed ADMR over the simulations using the standard actuator disk without rotation, suggesting a good potential of the yawed ADMR to be applied in LES studies of active yaw control in wind farms.
Flow Angularity Investigations in an Automotive Slotted Wall Wind Tunnel
Authors: Ljungskog Emil , Sebben Simone , Broniewicz Alexander
Published: December 2019

The Volvo Cars aerodynamic wind tunnel has had a vortical flow angularity pattern in the test section since its original commissioning in 1986. The vortical flow nature persisted after an upgrade in 2006, when the fan was replaced and a moving ground system was introduced. It has been hypothesized that the cause for this flow angularity pattern was leakages around the heat exchanger installed in the settling chamber. The present paper tests this hypothesis by measuring the flow angularity in the test section before and after sealing the leakages. The findings show that the leakage path around the heat exchanger does not influence the flow angularity, and that the current pattern is different compared to the commissioning after the upgrade. This prompted an investigation of the influence from the turbulence screens, which were changed after the upgrade commissioning. These investigations indicate that the probable cause of the vortical flow angularity pattern is residual swirl from the fan. Force measurements on a reference car with and without extra induced flow angularity show that the flow angles measured in the tunnel for regular operation are most likely small enough to not have a significant effect on the measured aerodynamic forces.
Data-Driven Distributionally Robust Stochastic Control of Energy Storage for Wind Power Ramp Management Using the Wasserstein Metric
Authors: Yang Insoon
Published: December 2019

The integration of wind energy into the power grid is challenging because of its variability, which causes high ramp events that may threaten the reliability and efficiency of power systems. In this paper, we propose a novel distributionally robust solution to wind power ramp management using energy storage. The proposed storage operation strategy minimizes the expected ramp penalty under the worst-case wind power ramp distribution in the Wasserstein ambiguity set, a statistical ball centered at an empirical distribution obtained from historical data. Thus, the resulting distributionally robust control policy presents a robust ramp management performance even when the future wind power ramp distribution deviates from the empirical distribution, unlike the standard stochastic optimal control method. For a tractable numerical solution, a duality-based dynamic programming algorithm is designed with a piecewise linear approximation of the optimal value function. The performance and utility of the proposed method are demonstrated and analyzed through case studies using the wind power data in the Bonneville Power Administration area for the year 2018.
Experimental Investigation of a 10 MW Prototype Kaplan Turbine during Start-Up Operation
Authors: Soltani Dehkharqani Arash , Engström Fredrik , Aidanpää Jan-Olov , Cervantes Michel J.
Published: December 2019

An increase in the start/stop cycles of hydraulic turbines due to the penetration of intermittent renewable energy sources is important. Hydraulic instabilities that occur in hydraulic turbines during start/stops may cause structural issues in the turbine components. High-stress fluctuations on the runner blades are expected during start-ups due to the unsteady pressure loading on the runner blades. This paper presents experiments performed on a 10 MW prototype Kaplan turbine at the Porjus Hydropower Center during a start-up cycle. Synchronized unsteady pressure and strain measurements on a runner blade and axial, bending (in two directions) and torsion strain measurements on the shaft were performed. In addition, the general parameters of the turbine (e.g., rotational speed, guide vane opening and runner blade angle) were acquired. Low-frequency fluctuations (0–15 Hz) were observed in the pressure data on the runner blade after opening the guide vanes from the completely closed position. A higher strain value was observed on the strain gauges installed on the runner blade near the hub (200–500 μ m / m ) compared to the ones near the shroud at the leading and trailing edge. The strain fluctuation level on the shaft decreased after loading the generator by further opening the guide vanes. Higher fluctuations were observed in the torsion strain compared to axial and bending strain. In addition, the torsion strain peak-to-peak value reached 12 times its corresponding value at 61% guide vane opening.
Combining Quantitative Data on Growth, Wood Density and Other Traits with SSR Markers to Evaluate Genetic Diversity and Structure in a Planted Population of Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehn.
Authors: Shang Xiuhua , Arnold Roger J. , Wu Zhihua , Zhang Peijian , Liu Guo , Luo Jianzhong , Zhan Ni
Published: December 2019

Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehn. is one of the most morphologically and genetically variable Eucalyptus species. Growth, Leptocybe invasa Fisher & La Salle susceptibility, pilodyn penetration and other traits up to age 36 months were assessed in a seed source/family trial in China comprising 112 seedlots representing five natural stand and six exotic seed sources. Genetic diversity and population structure of this trial population were also analyzed using 48 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. The key objective was to examine whether the genomic data could provide value over information obtained from just quantitative trait data. Significant genetic variation was found among seed sources and among families within seed sources for most quantitative traits. The ratio of variance among seed sources to variance among families within seed sources, based on variances estimated from quantitative trait data, varied from 0.1% (height at 9 months) up to 75.2% (bark thickness). Equivalent ratios estimated from the AMOVA on SSR loci data were similar for height (ages 24 and 36 months) and also pilodyn penetration at 36 months, but not for 9-month height or 36-month bark thickness. From 48 SSR loci examined, the genetic differentiation coefficient (among seed sources) was 0.086, indicating low genetic differentiation among seed sources. While overall genetic diversity in the trial population examined was high, the levels within the different seed sources varied markedly. Prior to this study, genetic distances among families from the three exotic seed sources (from domesticated Indian populations) in the trial, along with their genetic distances from, and relatedness to, families from five natural stand seed sources (Australian) in the trial were unknown. The SSR loci data removed uncertainties and revealed that the exotic sources increased the breadth of genetic origins represented in the trial population—information that could not have been obtained from just the quantitative trait data.
Search for Ancestral Features in Genomes of Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. viciae Strains Isolated from the Relict Legume Vavilovia formosa
Authors: Chirak Elizaveta R. , Kimeklis Anastasiia K. , Karasev Evgenii S. , Kopat Vladimir V. , Safronova Vera I. , Belimov Andrey A. , Aksenova Tatiana S. , Kabilov Marsel R. , Provorov Nikolay A. , Andronov Evgeny E.
Published: December 2019

Vavilovia formosa is a relict leguminous plant growing in hard-to-reach habitats in the rocky highlands of the Caucasus and Middle East, and it is considered as the putative closest living relative of the last common ancestor (LCA) of the Fabeae tribe. Symbionts of Vavilovia belonging to Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. viciae compose a discrete group that differs from the other strains, especially in the nucleotide sequences of the symbiotically specialised (sym) genes. Comparison of the genomes of Vavilovia strains with the reference group composed of R. leguminosarum bv. viciae strains isolated from Pisum and Vicia demonstrated that the vavilovia strains have a set of genomic features, probably indicating the important stages of microevolution of the symbiotic system. Specifically, symbionts of Vavilovia (considered as an ancestral group) demonstrated a scattered arrangement of sym genes (>90 kb cluster on pSym), with the location of nodT gene outside of the other nod operons, the presence of nodX and fixW, and the absence of chromosomal fixNOPQ copies. In contrast, the reference (derived) group harboured sym genes as a compact cluster (<60 kb) on a single pSym, lacking nodX and fixW, with nodT between nodN and nodO, and possessing chromosomal fixNOPQ copies. The TOM strain, obtained from nodules of the primitive “Afghan” peas, occupied an intermediate position because it has the chromosomal fixNOPQ copy, while the other features, the most important of which is presence of nodX and fixW, were similar to the Vavilovia strains. We suggest that genome evolution from the ancestral to the derived R. leguminosarum bv. viciae groups follows the “gain-and-loss of sym genes” and the “compaction of sym cluster” strategies, which are common for the macro-evolutionary and micro-evolutionary processes. The revealed genomic features are in concordance with a relict status of the vavilovia strains, indicating that V. formosa coexists with ancestral microsymbionts, which are presumably close to the LCA of R. leguminosarum bv. viciae.
Rhizobia Isolated from the Relict Legume Vavilovia formosa Represent a Genetically Specific Group within Rhizobium leguminosarum biovar viciae
Authors: Kimeklis Anastasiia K. , Chirak Elizaveta R. , Kuznetsova Irina G. , Sazanova Anna L. , Safronova Vera I. , Belimov Andrey A. , Onishchuk Olga P. , Kurchak Oksana N. , Aksenova Tatyana S. , Pinaev Alexander G. , Andronov Evgeny E. , Provorov Nikolay A.
Published: December 2019

Twenty-two rhizobia strains isolated from three distinct populations (North Ossetia, Dagestan, and Armenia) of a relict legume Vavilovia formosa were analysed to determine their position within Rhizobium leguminosarum biovar viciae (Rlv). These bacteria are described as symbionts of four plant genera Pisum, Vicia, Lathyrus, and Lens from the Fabeae tribe, of which Vavilovia is considered to be closest to its last common ancestor (LCA). In contrast to biovar viciae, bacteria from Rhizobium leguminosarum biovar trifolii (Rlt) inoculate plants from the Trifolieae tribe. Comparison of house-keeping (hkg: 16S rRNA, glnII, gltA, and dnaK) and symbiotic (sym: nodA, nodC, nodD, and nifH) genes of the symbionts of V. formosa with those of other Rlv and Rlt strains reveals a significant group separation, which was most pronounced for sym genes. A remarkable feature of the strains isolated from V. formosa was the presence of the nodX gene, which was commonly found in Rlv strains isolated from Afghanistan pea genotypes. Tube testing of different strains on nine plant species, including all genera from the Fabeae tribe, demonstrated that the strains from V. formosa nodulated the same cross inoculation group as the other Rlv strains. Comparison of nucleotide similarity in sym genes suggested that their diversification within sym-biotypes of Rlv was elicited by host plants. Contrariwise, that of hkg genes could be caused by either local adaptation to soil niches or by genetic drift. Long-term ecological isolation, genetic separation, and the ancestral position of V. formosa suggested that symbionts of V. formosa could be responsible for preserving ancestral genotypes of the Rlv biovar.
Complete Mitogenome of a Leaf-Mining Buprestid Beetle, Trachys auricollis, and Its Phylogenetic Implications
Authors: Xiao Lifang , Zhang Shengdi , Long Chengpeng , Guo Qingyun , Xu Jiasheng , Dai Xiaohua , Wang Jianguo
Published: December 2019

A complete mitogenome of Trachys auricollis is reported, and a mitogenome-based phylogenetic tree of Elateriformia with all protein-coding genes (PCGs), rRNAs, and tRNAs is presented for the first time. The complete mitochondrial genome of T. auricollis is 16,429 bp in size and contains 13 PCGs, two rRNA genes, 22 tRNA genes, and an A + T-rich region. The A + T content of the entire genome is approximately 71.1%, and the AT skew and GC skew are 0.10 and −0.20, respectively. According to the the nonsynonymous substitution rate to synonymous substitution rates (Ka/Ks) of all PCGs, the highest and lowest evolutionary rates were observed for atp8 and cox1, respectively, which is a common finding among animals. The start codons of all PCGs are the typical ATN. Ten PCGs have complete stop codons, but three have incomplete stop codons with T or TA. As calculated based on the relative synonymous codon usage (RSCU) values, UUA(L) is the codon with the highest frequency. Except for trnS1, all 22 tRNA genes exhibit typical cloverleaf structures. The A + T-rich region of T. auricollis is located between rrnS and the trnI-trnG-trnM gene cluster, with six 72-bp tandem repeats. Both maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian (BI) trees suggest that Buprestoidea is close to Byrrhoidea and that Buprestoidea and Byrrhoidea are sister groups of Elateroidea, but the position of Psephenidae is undetermined. The inclusion of tRNAs might help to resolve the phylogeny of Coleoptera.
From the Laboratory to The Vineyard—Evolution of The Measurement of Grape Composition using NIR Spectroscopy towards High-Throughput Analysis
Authors: Power Aoife , Truong Vi Khanh , Chapman James , Cozzolino Daniel
Published: December 2019

Compared to traditional laboratory methods, spectroscopic techniques (e.g., near infrared, hyperspectral imaging) provide analysts with an innovative and improved understanding of complex issues by determining several chemical compounds and metabolites at once, allowing for the collection of the sample “fingerprint”. These techniques have the potential to deliver high-throughput options for the analysis of the chemical composition of grapes in the laboratory, the vineyard and before or during harvest, to provide better insights of the chemistry, nutrition and physiology of grapes. Faster computers, the development of software and portable easy to use spectrophotometers and data analytical methods allow for the development of innovative applications of these techniques for the analyses of grape composition.
Risk of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Women Exposed to Fine Air Pollutants and Acidic Gases: A Nationwide Cohort Analysis
Authors: Lin Shih-Yi , Yang Yu-Cih , Chang Cherry Yin-Yi , Lin Cheng-Chieh , Hsu Wu-Huei , Ju Shu-Woei , Hsu Chung-Y. , Kao Chia-Hung
Published: December 2019

Background: Air pollutants cause endocrine disorders and hormone disruption. The relationship between air pollutants and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) must be carefully investigated using a nationwide cohort. Methods: Data were extracted from two nationwide databases, namely Longitudinal Health Insurance Database and Taiwan Air Quality Monitoring Database, and analyzed. The study considered a range of data that began on 1 January 2000 and ended on 31 December 2013. Women diagnosed with PCOS were excluded. From the residential data, the study assessed the daily concentrations of sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), nitrogen monoxide (NO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and PM2.5 the women were exposed to. A Cox proportional hazard regression model was applied to assess PCOS risk. Results: In total, 91,803 women were enrolled in this study; of those women, 2072 developed PCOS after 12 years of follow-up. The mean daily concentrations of SO2, NOx, NO, NO2, and PM2.5 women were exposed to were 4.25 (±1.44) ppb, 20.41 (±6.65) ppb, 9.25 (±4.36) ppb, 20.99 (±3.33) ppb, and 30.85 (±6.16) μg/m3, respectively. Compared with the first-quartile levels of exposure, the fourth-quartile levels of exposure to SO2, NOx, NO, NO2, and PM2.5 increased PCOS risk by 10.31 times (95% CI = 8.35–12.7), 3.37 times (95% CI = 2.86–3.96), 4.18 times (95% CI = 3.57–4.89), 7.46 times (95% CI = 6.38–8.71), and 3.56 times (95% CI = 3.05–4.15), respectively. Conclusion: Women exposed to a high concentrations of air pollutants, namely SO2, NO, NO2, NOx, and PM2.5, had a high PCOS risk.
Grief Experiences in Family Caregivers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Authors: Bravo-Benítez Jorge , Pérez-Marfil María Nieves , Román-Alegre Belén , Cruz-Quintana Francisco
Published: December 2019

The main objective of this study was to analyse the experience of grief and feelings of loss in family caregivers of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as well as the perceived overload from taking on the primary caregiver role. Twenty family caregivers of children with ASD participated. The family members were assessed using an ad-hoc semi-structured interview that addressed the families’ reactions to the diagnosis, implications for daily functioning, and concerns for the immediate and long-term future of their relatives with ASD. The results indicate that family caregivers of children with ASD endure intense and continuous sorrow and grief due to the impact that having and caring for a child with these characteristics has on all aspects of their lives. These data highlight the importance of creating support and intervention programmes and services focused on the feelings and manifestations of ambiguous grief that occur in these family members, in order to improve their well-being and quality of life and reduce caregiver role overload.
Temporal and Spatial Features of the Correlation between PM2.5 and O3 Concentrations in China
Authors: Chen Jiajia , Shen Huanfeng , Li Tongwen , Peng Xiaolin , Cheng Hairong , Ma Chenyan
Published: December 2019

In recent years, particulate matter of 2.5 µm or less (PM2.5) pollution in China has decreased but, at the same time, ozone (O3) pollution has become increasingly serious. Due to the different research areas and research periods, the existing analyses of the correlation between PM2.5 and O3 have reached different conclusions. In order to clarify the relationship between PM2.5 and O3, this study selected mainland China as the research area, based on the PM2.5 and O3 concentration data of 1458 air quality monitoring stations, and analyzed the correlation between PM2.5 and O3 for different time scales and geographic divisions. Moreover, by combining the characteristics of the pollutants, topography, and climatic features of the study area, we attempted to discuss the causes of the spatial and temporal differences of R-PO (the correlation between PM2.5 and O3). The study found that: (1) R-PO tends to show a positive correlation in summer and a negative correlation in winter, (2) the correlation coefficient of PM2.5 and O3 is lower in the morning and higher in the afternoon, and (3) R-PO also shows significant spatial differences, including north–south differences and coastland–inland differences.
Observation Criteria for Physical Education Teachers to Identify Gifted Children through Invasion Games
Authors: Prieto-Ayuso Alejandro , Pastor-Vicedo Juan Carlos , González-Víllora Sixto , Contreras-Jordán Onofre
Published: December 2019

Whilst in other curriculum subjects, it exists observation criteria to detect gifted pupils, there is a paucity of information in Physical Education. For that reason, we aimed to reveal the observation criteria for identifying gifted pupils in Physical Education in an invasion game. Physical Education (PE) talent was evaluated combining results of questionnaire to experts, parents, and students. A validated nomination scale (NSIFT) and the Game Performance Evaluation Tool (GPET) were used. The research approach used in this study was transversal, descriptive, and inferential. The talent pool was composed of 18 gifted pupils aged 8–14 (Mage = 11.67, SD = 1.53). The results showed that the most discriminating criteria to identify PE talent were found to be precocity in both execution and decision-making in the acquisition of tactical principles and tactical-technical skills. Getting free was the skill that they best mastered. In conclusion, the importance of tactical principles and decision-making as observation criteria is emphasized. Future studies should focus on developing mentoring programs in Physical Education.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Korean Version of the Personhood in Dementia Questionnaire Using Rasch Analysis
Authors: Kim Da Eun , Ko Young , Hunter Paulette V. , Yoon Ju Young
Published: December 2019

There is an increasing awareness of the need to promote behaviors consistent with the understanding that individuals with dementia deserve adequate respect. Person-centered attitudes on the part of a care facility’s staff can affect care practices and relationships with residents. This study examined the psychometric properties of the Korean version of the Personhood in Dementia Questionnaire (KPDQ), which measures staff’s person-centered attitudes toward individuals with dementia. The KPDQ was translated and adapted based on commonly used guidelines from the World Health Organization. For psychometric testing, the data obtained from a total of 269 participants in 13 long-term care facilities were analyzed. Factor analysis, item fit, convergent validity, and known-group validity were examined. Reliability and differential item functioning (DIF) based on Rasch analysis were also assessed. The KPDQ consists of 20 items with three subscales (“agency”, “respect for personhood” and “psychosocial engagement”). Item fit statistics indicated that each item fits well with the underlying construct. The KPDQ demonstrated satisfactory convergent validity, known-group validity and internal consistency reliability. There was no DIF by subgroup according to age or educational status. Results indicated that the KPDQ is a reliable and valid tool for measuring long-term care staff’s beliefs about personhood.
Riding into Health: A Case Study on an Equine-Assisted Childhood Obesity Intervention
Authors: Schroeder Katy , Van Allen Jason , Dhurandhar Emily , Lancaster Brittany , Heidari Zohal , Cazenave Kandis , Boone Dianna , Erdman Phyllis
Published: December 2019

In this article, we present an exploratory case study that describes the initial outcomes of the Equine-Assisted Positively Fit (EAPF) program. Children with obesity and their caregivers were recruited to participate in the eight-session program. Results indicated that treatment completers (n = 2) had a decrease in fat mass and fat mass percentage and an increase in fat-free mass and fat-free mass percentage. Moreover, results from accelerometer measurements of physical activity indicated that participants increased their moderate to vigorous physical activity, as well as reported increased self-efficacy for physical activity. Qualitative data from the post-intervention focus group suggested children perceived the treatment acceptable and enjoyable. Findings from this study provide support for future investigations on the feasibility and potential efficacy of pairing children and their caregivers with horses to accomplish health-related goals.
Childcare Physical Activity Interventions: A Discussion of Similarities and Differences and Trends, Issues, and Recommendations
Authors: Jones Rachel A. , Sousa-Sá Eduarda , Peden Michele , Okely Anthony D.
Published: December 2019

Early childhood education and care (ECEC) settings have a pivotal role in the promotion of physical activity for young children, and thus, the number of ECEC-based physical activity interventions has exponentially increased in the last two decades. The aim of this study was three-fold: (1) to discuss some of the similarities and differences in ECEC-based physical activity interventions, (2) to highlight current trends and issues in the ECEC sector relating to such interventions, and (3) to provide recommendations for future interventions. Twenty-four individual studies are discussed. Most studies have targeted children aged between 3 and 5 years and involved children participating in additional physical activity opportunities while at childcare. In all studies, educators participated in some professional development either prior or during the intervention. Less the half of the studies discussed reported significant positive changes in physical activity outcomes. Those involved in developing future interventions will need to consider current national and international trends in the ECEC sector (e.g., over-crowded curriculum, administrative requirements, and more highly-qualified educators devoting time for business development), as well as creative and unique ways of delivering ECEC-based physical activity interventions.
Emotional Intelligence, Bullying, and Cyberbullying in Adolescents
Authors: Méndez Inmaculada , Jorquera Ana Belén , Ruiz-Esteban Cecilia , Martínez-Ramón Juan Pedro , Fernández-Sogorb Aitana
Published: December 2019

Bullying and cyberbullying are important global issues with negative consequences for physical and mental health in education. The objective of this study was to analyze to what extent some dimensions of emotional intelligence predict certain manifestations of bullying and cyberbullying in adolescents. The total number of subjects recruited in compulsory secondary education schools, was 309 (53.1% female). Their ages ranged from 12 to 16 (M = 14.17, SD = 1.4). The used instruments were the school violence questionnaire and the emotional coefficient inventory; the study design was cross-sectional. Results showed that the score increases on some scales (adaptability, stress management, and interpersonal) involved a greater risk of increasing the likelihood of social perception the different manifestations of school violence. However, in the general mood, the increase in this variable score implied lower perceiving in likelihood of violent behavior. It is important to take into account preventive actions aimed at improving school life and, above all, to alleviate difficulties in managing stress, adaptability, and interpersonal relationships.
GMO/GMF on Social Media in China: Jagged Landscape of Information Seeking and Sharing Behavior through a Valence View
Authors: Zhou Rongting , Wang Dong , Siddiquei Ahmad Nabeel , Anwar Muhammad Azfar , Hammad Ali , Asmi Fahad , Ye Qing , Nawaz Muhammad Asim
Published: December 2019

The study examines the critical factors affecting Chinese social media (SM) users’ intentions and behavior to seek and share information on genetically modified organisms/ genetically modified food (GMO/GMF). The proposed framework was conceptualized through benefit-risk analysis and subsequently mapped SM users’ perceived benefits and risks to seeks and share information using Kurt Lewin’s valence view. Quantitative data was collected using survey questionnaires administered from 583 SM users. The results of the path analysis demonstrated two key findings related to SM users’ perceived benefits and risks to seek and share information on GMO/GMF. Among risks, the psychological risk is the strongest predictor of perceived risk to use SM for GMO/GMF, which consequently determines the intentions and behaviors to share information about GMO/GMF on SM in People’s Republic of China. Among benefits, the results showed that perceived usefulness, creditability of GMO/GMF information, and information support are positively related to perceived benefits to use SM for GMO/GMF, which subsequently, predicts the intentions and behaviors to seek information about GMO/GMF on SM. This study suggests scholars and practitioners explore and utilize the efficient communication strategy to fulfill the potential of the SM to increase GMO/GMF acceptance in Chinese society.
Overcoming Hurdles in Nanoparticle Clinical Translation: The Influence of Experimental Design and Surface Modification
Authors: Shreffler Jacob W. , Pullan Jessica E. , Dailey Kaitlin M. , Mallik Sanku , Brooks Amanda E.
Published: December 2019

Nanoparticles are becoming an increasingly popular tool for biomedical imaging and drug delivery. While the prevalence of nanoparticle drug-delivery systems reported in the literature increases yearly, relatively little translation from the bench to the bedside has occurred. It is crucial for the scientific community to recognize this shortcoming and re-evaluate standard practices in the field, to increase clinical translatability. Currently, nanoparticle drug-delivery systems are designed to increase circulation, target disease states, enhance retention in diseased tissues, and provide targeted payload release. To manage these demands, the surface of the particle is often modified with a variety of chemical and biological moieties, including PEG, tumor targeting peptides, and environmentally responsive linkers. Regardless of the surface modifications, the nano–bio interface, which is mediated by opsonization and the protein corona, often remains problematic. While fabrication and assessment techniques for nanoparticles have seen continued advances, a thorough evaluation of the particle’s interaction with the immune system has lagged behind, seemingly taking a backseat to particle characterization. This review explores current limitations in the evaluation of surface-modified nanoparticle biocompatibility and in vivo model selection, suggesting a promising standardized pathway to clinical translation.
3’-O-Methylorobol Inhibits the Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel Nav1.7 with Anti-Itch Efficacy in A Histamine-Dependent Itch Mouse Model
Authors: Zhang Fan , Wu Ying , Xue Shuwen , Wang Shuangyan , Zhang Chunlei , Cao Zhengyu
Published: December 2019

An itch is a clinical complication that affects millions of patients. However, few treatment options are available. The voltage-gated sodium channel Nav1.7 is predominantly expressed in peripheral sensory neurons and is responsible for the rising phase of action potentials, thereby mediating nociceptive conduction. A gain-of-function mutation of Nav1.7 results in the hyperexcitability of sensory neurons and causes the inherited paroxysmal itch. Conversely, a monoclonal antibody that selectively inhibits Nav1.7 is able to effectively suppress the histamine-dependent itch in mice. Therefore, Nav1.7 inhibitors may possess the potential to relieve the itch. In the present study, using whole-cell voltage-clamp recordings, we demonstrated that 3’-O-methylorobol inhibited Na+ currents in Nav1.7-CHO cells and tetrodotoxin-sensitive Na+ currents in mouse dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons with IC50 (half-maximal inhibitory concentration) values of 3.46 and 6.60 μM, respectively. 3’-O-methylorobol also suppressed the tetrodotoxin-resistant Na+ currents in DRG neurons, though with reduced potency (~43% inhibition at 30 µM). 3’-O-methylorobol (10 µM) affected the Nav1.7 by shifting the half-maximal voltage (V1/2) of activation to a depolarizing direction by ~6.76 mV, and it shifted the V1/2 of inactivation to a hyperpolarizing direction by ~16.79 mV. An analysis of 3’-O-methylorobol activity toward an array of itch targets revealed that 3’-O-methylorobol was without effect on histamine H1 receptor, TRPV1, TRPV3, TRPV4, TRPC4 and TRPM8. The intrathecal administration of 3’-O-methylorobol significantly attenuated compound 48/80-induced histamine-dependent spontaneous scratching bouts and the expression level of c-fos in the nuclei of spinal dorsal horn neurons with a comparable efficacy to that of cyproheptadine. Our data illustrated the therapeutic potential for 3’-O-methylorobol for histamine-dependent itching, and the small molecule inhibition of Nav1.7 may represent a useful strategy to develop novel therapeutics for itching.
The PPARδ Agonist GW501516 Improves Lipolytic/Lipogenic Balance through CPT1 and PEPCK during the Development of Pre-Implantation Bovine Embryos
Authors: Idrees Muhammad , Xu Lianguang , El Sheikh Marwa , Sidrat Tabinda , Song Seok-Hwan , Joo Myeong-Don , Lee Kyeong-Lim , Kong Il-Keun
Published: December 2019

The PPARs (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors) play critical roles in the regulation of lipid and glucose metabolism. PPARδ, a member of the PPARs family, is associated with decreased susceptibility to ectopic lipid deposition and is implicated in the regulation of mitochondrial processes. The current study aimed to determine the role of PPARδ in fatty acid β-oxidation and its influence on PEPCK for the lipogenic/lipolytic balance during in vitro bovine oocyte maturation and embryo development. Activation of PPARδ by GW501516, but not 2-BP, was indicated by intact embryonic PEPCK (cytosolic) and CPT1 expression and the balance between free fatty acids and mitochondrial β-oxidation that reduced ROS and inhibited p-NF-κB nuclear localization. Genes involved in lipolysis, fatty acid oxidation, and apoptosis showed significant differences after the GW501516 treatment relative to the control- and 2-BP-treated embryos. GSK3787 reversed the PPARδ-induced effects by reducing PEPCK and CPT1 expression and the mitochondrial membrane potential, revealing the importance of PPARδ/PEPCK and PPARδ/CPT1 for controlling lipolysis during embryo development. In conclusion, GW501516-activated PPARδ maintained the correlation between lipolysis and lipogenesis by enhancing PEPCK and CPT1 to improve bovine embryo quality.
A Computational Study on Fairness of the Tendermint Blockchain Protocol
Authors: Lagaillardie Nicolas , Djari Mohamed Aimen , Gürcan Önder
Published: December 2019

Fairness is a crucial property for blockchain systems since it affects the participation: the ones that find the system fair tend to stay or enter, the ones that find the system unfair tend to leave. While current literature mainly focuses on fairness for Bitcoin-like blockchains, little has been done to analyze Tendermint. Tendermint is a blockchain technology that uses a committee-based consensus algorithm, which finds an agreement among a set of block creators (called validators), even if some are malicious. Validators are regularly selected to the committee based on their investments. When a validator does not have enough asset to invest, it can increase it with the help of participants that delegate their assets to the validators (called delegators). In this paper, we implement the default Tendermint model and a Tendermint model for fairness in a multi-agent blockchain simulator where participants are modeled as rational agents who enter or leave the system based on their utility values. We conducted experiments for both models where agents have different investment strategies and with various numbers of delegators. In the light of our experimental evaluation, we observed that while, for both models, the fairness decreases and the system shrinks in the absence of delegators, the fairness increases, and the system expands for the second model in the presence of delegators.
Trapping Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs: “The Nazgȗl” Lure and Kill Nets
Authors: Suckling David Maxwell , Mazzoni Valerio , Roselli Gerardo , Levy Mary Claire , Ioriatti Claudio , Stringer Lloyd Damien , Zeni Valeria , Deromedi Marco , Anfora Gianfranco
Published: December 2019

Improvements to current brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB), Halyomorpha halys, surveillance and killing systems are needed to improve detection sensitivity and to reduce pesticide use. Detection of BMSB in New Zealand with traps is reliant on sticky panels with aggregation pheromone, which are low cost but inefficient compared with beating foliage. Trapping for BMSB adults and nymphs was conducted daily with lethal traps consisting of an aggregation pheromone-baited-coat hanger covered with dark-colored long-lasting insecticide-treated mesh, we termed “The Nazgȗl”, based on its sinister appearance. A deep tray lined with white plastic was attached centrally at the base for collecting the dead BMSB. The lethal traps killed and caught up to 3.5-fold more nymphs and adult BMSB than identically-baited sticky panels in the 3 weeks of deployment, and provided a snapshot of phenology by instar. We expect that lure-and-kill stations could contribute to the suppression of a delimited population and could be included as part of a semiochemical-based eradication program. Attracting and killing females and nymphs, thus removing future offspring, could contribute to population suppression during an eradication.
Free Vibration Analysis of Laminated Functionally Graded Carbon Nanotube-Reinforced Composite Doubly Curved Shallow Shell Panels Using a New Four-Variable Refined Theory
Authors: Van Tham Vu , Huu Quoc Tran , Minh Tu Tran
Published: December 2019

In this paper, a new four-variable refined shell theory is developed for free vibration analysis of multi-layered functionally graded carbon nanotube-reinforced composite (FG-CNTRC) doubly curved shallow shell panels. The theory has only four unknowns and satisfies zero stress conditions at the free surfaces without correction factor. Five different types of carbon nanotube (CNTs) distribution through the thickness of each FG-CNT layer are considered. Governing equations of simply supported doubly curved FG-CNTRC panels are derived from Hamilton’s principle. The resultant eigenvalue system is solved to obtain the frequencies and mode shapes of the anti-symmetric cross-ply laminated panels by using the Navier solution. The numerical results in the comparison examples have proved the accuracy and efficiency of the developed model. Detailed parametric studies have been carried out to reveal the influences of CNTs volume fraction, CNTs distribution, CNTs orientation, dimension ratios and curvature on the free vibration responses of the doubly curved laminated FG-CNTRC panels.
Novel AM60-SiO2 Nanocomposite Produced via Ultrasound-Assisted Casting; Production and Characterization
Authors: Barati Farzan , Latifi Mojtaba , Moayeri far Ehsan , Mosallanejad Mohammad Hossein , Saboori Abdollah
Published: December 2019

There has been growing interest in developing new materials with higher strength-to-weight ratios. Therefore, AM60 magnesium alloy reinforced with SiO2 nanoparticles was synthesized using ultrasound-casting method for the first time, in this study. We introduced 1 and 2 wt.% of SiO2 nanoparticles into the samples. Introduction of nanoparticles led to the grain size drop in MS2 (AM60 + 2 wt.% SiO2) samples. In addition, this increased the hardness of samples from 34.8 Vickers hardness (HV) in M (AM60) to 51.5 HV in MS2, and increased the compressive strength of MS2. Improvement of the mechanical properties can be attributed to a combination of Orowan, Hall–Petch and load-bearing mechanisms. However, ductility of the composites decreased with fracture strains being 0.41, 0.39 and 0.37, respectively, for samples M, MS1 and MS2. Fracture surfaces showed shear fracture in both composite samples with microcracks and a more brittle fracture in MS2.
Preparation of Porous Liquid Based on Silicalite-1
Authors: Liu Yutong , Bai Yang , Tian Tao
Published: December 2019

Solid porous materials, like zeolites, have been widely used in a variety of fields such as size-and-shape-selective absorption/separation and catalysis because of their porosity. However, there are few liquid materials that exhibit permanent porosity. Porous liquids are a novel material that combine the properties of fluidity and permanent porosity. They have potential applications in many fields such as gas separation, storage and transport. Herein, we report a novel Type 1 porous liquid prepared based on silicalite-1. The pore size of this porous liquid was determined by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS), and the CO2 capacities were determined by the intelligent gravimetric analyzer (IGA). The unique properties of this porous liquid can promote its application in many fields such as gas storage and transport.
Design of a Tunable Absorber Based on Active Frequency-Selective Surface for UHF Applications
Authors: Qi Kainan , Li Liangsheng , Su Jianxun , Liu Yongqiang , Chen Junwen
Published: December 2019

An ultrathin tunable absorber for the ultrahigh frequency (UHF) band is presented in this paper. The absorber is a single-layer structure based on the topology of a Salisbury screen, in which the conventional resistive layer is replaced by an active frequency-selective surface (AFSS) loaded with resistors and varactors. The reflectivity response of the absorber can be controlled by adjusting the reverse bias voltage for the varactors, which is verified by both simulated and measured results. The experimental results show that the reflectivity response of the absorber can be modulated below −10 dB over a frequency band ranging from 415 to 822 MHz. The total thickness of the absorber, 10 mm, is equivalent to only λ/72 of the lower limit frequency. The absorbing mechanism for the designed absorber is illustrated by simulating the volume loss density distributions. A detailed analysis is also carried out on the basis of these parameters, such as the AFSS shape, resistor, thickness of the foam, thickness and permittivity of the dielectric substrate, and incident angles, which contribute to the reflectivity of the AFSS absorber.
Study of the Degree of Cure through Thermal Analysis and Raman Spectroscopy in Composite-Forming Processes
Authors: García-Manrique Juan A. , Marí Bernabé , Ribes-Greus Amparo , Monreal Llúcia , Teruel Roberto , Gascón Llanos , Sans Juan A. , Marí-Guaita Julia
Published: December 2019

The curing of composite materials is one of the parameters that most affects their mechanical behavior. The inspection methods used do not always allow a correct characterization of the curing state of the thermosetting resins. In this work, Raman spectroscopy technology is used for measuring the degree of cure. The results are compared with conventional thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Carbon fiber specimens manufactured with technologies out of autoclave (OoA) have been used, with an epoxy system Prepreg System, SE 84LV. The results obtained with Raman technology show that it is possible to verify the degree of polymerization, and the information is complementary from classical thermal characterization techniques such as TGA and DSC; thus, it is possible to have greater control in curing and improving the quality of the manufactured parts.
Reinterpretation of Multi-Stage Methods for Stiff Systems: A Comprehensive Review on Current Perspectives and Recommendations
Authors: Jeon Yonghyeon , Bak Soyoon , Bu Sunyoung
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we compare a multi-step method and a multi-stage method for stiff initial value problems. Traditionally, the multi-step method has been preferred than the multi-stage for a stiff problem, to avoid an enormous amount of computational costs required to solve a massive linear system provided by the linearization of a highly stiff system. We investigate the possibility of usage of multi-stage methods for stiff systems by discussing the difference between the two methods in several numerical experiments. Moreover, the advantages of multi-stage methods are heuristically presented even for nonlinear stiff systems through several numerical tests.