bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blockchain technologies and their application in governmentadministration
Authors: Kosіak Myroslav , Kosіak Inna
Published: December 2019

The purpose of the article. The article considers the Blockchain technology asan innovative tool. In particular, the essence and background of the developmentof blocks, the principles and specifics of the functioning of the system, as well asthe scheme of its work, are determined. The article presents the prospects forusingdistributed registry technologies (blockchain) in various socioeconomic spheresrelated to state administration. Provided examples and forecasts of the use ofblockchain technologies in the provision of state and municipal services forindividuals and legal entities in the following areas: formation of a unified registercontaining the history of the placement of the state, municipal order, as well asprocurement of corporations with state participation and / or control; registers ofdocuments (diplomas, certificates, lost and disavowed passports, policies for movableand immovable property insurance, health, etc.); database of court decisions andexecutive proceedings; public participation portals for citizens of Ukraine district- city – country. The fact that the blockchain technology is, first of all, theprinciples, and not the only possible way of implementing them, allows us to counton maximum openness and multivariate application in a dynamically changingchanging«digital world». Methodology. The research methodology is to use a combinationof methods: analytical, historical, comparative. The scientific novelty. The priorityof state blockchain systems introduction in stationary and distant voting, distributeddocument circulation, medical data registration, land resources registration,electronic auctions (auctions) in Ukraine was grounded. Conclusions. Already today,blockchain systems can change the role and participation of citizens in the conductof the state-management process, by raising the responsibility level, from thetransparent will expression in the elections to regulating the government serviceactivity in the society’s digitization conditions. The main advantages blockchainsystems using by public authorities that will increase the level of citizens trust todigital technologies using in general, namely: reliability and reliability of datastorage, transparency of transactions and virtually absolute protection of informationfrom distortion and unauthorized removal (relocation), are determined. In furtherscientific research it is proposed to consider the promising areas of the blockchaindigital technology usage: service activities of public authorities, legal proceedings,property rights management, implementation of migration control, verification ofgoods and services, registration of data on passing qualifying tests, patenting,intellectual property, digital identification, logistics , taxation, accounting ofbudget funds movement.
Application of the principle of threeunity for the evaluation of ironore deposits
Authors: Bodiuk Adam
Published: December 2019

Subject of research – deposits of iron ore on the principle of threeunity asobjects of natural, needs, economic. The purpose of writing the article is thedevelopment of a resource-based approach to the study of problems, systems ofconcepts and indicators that allow to characterize the resource-cost aspects andevaluation of the results of the study of iron ore deposits in accordance with theirneeds in the process of exploration of mineral resources, conducting search andexploration research and work. Because we are substantiated by the need-resourceconcept of the EG, the system of indicators of iron ore stocks. The methodologyof the work – application of abstract-logical, system-structural and comparativeanalysis (to determine the system of concepts and indicators that allow characterizingresource-cost aspects and evaluating the results of the study of deposits of ironores); analysis (study of the right base for studying the geology of the interior);monographic analysis (with the application of a resource approach); generalization(formation of a system of monetary obligations to the state); interpretation(substantiated systems of concepts using the principle of threeunity and resourceand cost estimates for the study of mineral resources, minerals, conductingexploratory research and work on the needs and resources concept of economicgeology). Results of work-justified: resource approach to evaluation of exploreddeposits of iron ore; Consideration on the principle of fourunity quaternity ofgeological objects as: natural resources (quantity, quality, structure of ores);production and economic resources (costs, production facilities); informationalresources ie information display of geology of subsoil (for example, deposits inthe form of geological maps, geological reports); property resources (fiscal payments from the sale of deposits, iron ore, information about them). Conclusions -using the resource approach and the fourunity principle, iron ore deposits canbe estimated not by geological and economic indicators, but by a system ofquantitative and qualitative indicators, which reflect them as objects of natural,industrial-economic, informational, and fiscal.
A/B-testing as an efficient tools for digital marketing
Authors: Fedorchenko Andrii , Ponomarenko Igor
Published: December 2019

The subject of the research is a set of approaches to A/B split testing of thesite in the framework of the company’s digital marketing strategy implementationin the Internet. The purpose of writing this article is to study the main approaches to implementing A/B split testing as an effective tool for improving the conversion of a company website. Methodology. The research methodology is to use asystem-structural and comparative analysis (for the formation of the company’sweb resource effective functioning mechanism); monographic (when studying themethods of A/B split testing of the of the company site main elements); economicanalysis (when implementing a conversion estimate as a result of using a varietyof site elements). The scientific novelty consists the features of A/B split testingin modern conditions as an important digital marketing component in the processof constructing effective communication between the company and its target audience. The main elements of a web site tested to determine the optimal option fora positive perception of the target audience are considered. The main services andprogramming languages used for conducting split-testing of sites are investigated.Conclusions. The use of A/B split testing as part of the digital marketing strategy implementation will allow the company to enhance communication with thetarget audience through site optimization, which ultimately has a positive effecton conversion growth.
Credit support for the animal breeding through the mechanism ofthe interest rate reimbursement
Authors: Ryabukha Galyna
Published: December 2019

Subject of research-a set of theoretical and practical outlines of the creditsupport improving for the animal breeding enterprises. The purpose of the article.The purpose of the article is to improve the mechanism of credit support to animalbreeding business entities with the involvement of the state agrarian bank. Identify the advantages and prospects of the proposed algorithm. The methodology ofthe work. The methodological basis of the research is economic-statistical, abstractlogical, calculation-constructive and systematic methods of scientific knowledge.On the basis of the modeling method, a scheme for the credit support with theinvolvement of the state agrarian bank was developed, and the method of generalization revealed positive results of the expansion of the feed base for enterprises. The results of the work. It is proposed to involve the state agrarian bankin the process of credit support, which will act as the guarantor of the return ofthe attracted resources. It is proved, that the proposed scheme of the credit support to expand the feed base will contribute to an increase in output and raise theefficiency of the enterprise. Conclusions. Animal breeding business entities requireadditional financial resources. Credit support through the mechanism of the interest rate reimbursement with the involvement of the state agrarian bank minimizes the risks for creditors and creates favorable conditions for borrowers.
The essence of entrepreneurial motivation in the agrarian sector
Authors: Yarova Yuliіa , Midliar Alla
Published: December 2019

The subject of research – an analysis of the state of the agrarian sector ofentrepreneurship and the identification of factors that negatively affect the businessclimate in the agrarian sector of the region. The purpose of the articleis to studythe main problems of motivation of entrepreneurship in the agrarian sector.Methodology of work- a method of cognition and a systematic approach to thestudy of the fundamental provisions of economic science in relation to thedevelopment of entrepreneurship in the agrarian sector. The results of the work- the essence of the motivation of entrepreneurial activity in the agrarian sectoris revealed, problems of using entrepreneurial potential are considered, themechanism of entrepreneurship motivation is given; the efficiency of the functioningof the entrepreneurial structures of the agrarian sector is investigated; thedefinition of the motivation of entrepreneurship and the main motives ofentrepreneurial activity are considered; the main directions of support for thedevelopment of rural areas are presented. Conclusions- any final result of themotivation of entrepreneurial activity in the agrarian sector affects the componentsof entrepreneurial activity, improving them and even leading to a change in theirfoundations, therefore, one can say that motivation is one of the factors thatensures the qualitative performance of the work.
Adjusting Ceptometer Data to Improve Leaf Area Index Measurements
Authors: Pokovai Klára , Fodor Nándor
Published: December 2019

Leaf Area Index (LAI) is an important plant parameter for both farmers and plant scientists to monitor and/or model the growth and the well-being of plants. Since direct LAI measurement techniques are relatively laborious and time-consuming, various indirect methods have been developed and widely used since the early 1990s. The LP-80 ceptometer uses a linear array of PAR (photosynthetically active radiation) sensors for non-destructive LAI measurements that is backed by 15 years of research. Despite this, considerable discrepancy can be found between the expert opinions regarding the optimal illumination conditions recommended for the measurement. The sensitivity of ceptometer-based LAI values to PAR was investigated, and a simple method was devised to correct raw ceptometer data collected under non-ideal light conditions. Inadequate light conditions (PAR < 1700 µmol m−2 s−1) could cause an underestimation of LAI. Using the corrected LAI values, the ceptometer data showed a significantly better fit (higher R2, smaller mean average error and closer to zero mean signed error values) to the destructive LAI data for both wheat and maize. With the help of the correction equations, the use of the LP-80 ceptometer could be extended to days when light conditions are not ideal.
Effects of Different Probiotics on Laying Performance, Egg Quality, Oxidative Status, and Gut Health in Laying Hens
Authors: Xiang Quanhang , Wang Chao , Zhang Hong , Lai Wen , Wei Hongkui , Peng Jian
Published: December 2019

With recent bans on the growth-promoting use of antibiotics, alternative strategies are needed to improve the performance of agricultural animals. Here, the effects of dietary supplementation with Clostridium butyricum and a combination of Saccharomyces boulardii and Pediococcus acidilactici were assessed on laying performance, egg quality, oxidative status, and gut health in laying hens. A total of 8208 Lohmann pink laying hens were divided into 3 treatment groups, with each group replicated 12 times (n = 228). Hens in the control group (CON) were provided a basic diet devoid of added antibiotics and probiotics. Treatment group 1 (T1) received the same base diet supplemented with 0.5 g/kg C. butyricum, and the diets of treatment group 2 (T2) supplemented with S. boulardii (0.05 g/kg) and P. acidilactici (0.1 g/kg) for the entirety of the 5-week trial. The data indicated that C. butyricum supplementation resulted in a significant reduction in ADFI, a significant increase in feed conversion, eggshell strength, and the CP% of albumen (dry matter, DM) relative to CON. The probiotic-treated hens exhibited decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in ileum and cecum, and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) in serum. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with C. butyricum may be beneficial with respect to hen performance, egg quality, and gut health.
Feature Deep Continuous Aggregation for 3D Vehicle Detection
Authors: Zhao Kun , Liu Li , Meng Yu , Gu Qing
Published: December 2019

3D object detection has recently become a research hotspot in the field of autonomous driving. Although great progress has been made, it still needs to be further improved. Therefore, this paper presents FDCA, a feature deep continuous aggregation network using multi-sensors for 3D vehicle detection. The proposed network adopts a two-stage structure with the bird’s-eye view (BEV) map and the RGB image as an input. In the first stage, two feature extractors were used to generate feature maps with the high-resolution and representational ability for each input view. These feature maps were then fused and fed to a 3D proposal generator to obtain the reliable 3D vehicle proposals. In the second stage, the refinement network aggregated the features of the proposal regions further and performed classifications, a 3D bounding boxes regression, and orientation estimations to predict the location and heading of vehicles in 3D space. The FDCA network proposed was trained and evaluated on the KITTI 3D object detection benchmark. The experimental results of the validation set illustrated that compared with other fusion-based methods, the 3D average precision (AP) could achieve 76.82% on a moderate setting while having real-time capability, which was higher than that of the second-best performing method by 2.38%. Meanwhile, the results of ablation experiments show that the convergence rate of FDCA was much faster and the stability was also much better, making it a candidate for application in autonomous driving.
Incremental Algorithm for Association Rule Mining under Dynamic Threshold
Authors: Aqra Iyad , Abdul Ghani Norjihan , Maple Carsten , Machado José , Sohrabi Safa Nader
Published: December 2019

Data mining is essentially applied to discover new knowledge from a database through an iterative process. The mining process may be time consuming for massive datasets. A widely used method related to knowledge discovery domain refers to association rule mining (ARM) approach, despite its shortcomings in mining large databases. As such, several approaches have been prescribed to unravel knowledge. Most of the proposed algorithms addressed data incremental issues, especially when a hefty amount of data are added to the database after the latest mining process. Three basic manipulation operations performed in a database include add, delete, and update. Any method devised in light of data incremental issues is bound to embed these three operations. The changing threshold is a long-standing problem within the data mining field. Since decision making refers to an active process, the threshold is indeed changeable. Accordingly, the present study proposes an algorithm that resolves the issue of rescanning a database that had been mined previously and allows retrieval of knowledge that satisfies several thresholds without the need to learn the process from scratch. The proposed approach displayed high accuracy in experimentation, as well as reduction in processing time by almost two-thirds of the original mining execution time.
Quantum Correlations and Quantum Non-Locality: A Review and a Few New Ideas
Authors: Genovese Marco , Gramegna Marco
Published: December 2019

In this paper we make an extensive description of quantum non-locality, one of the most intriguing and fascinating facets of quantum mechanics. After a general presentation of several studies on this subject dealing with different but connected facets of quantum non-locality, we consider if this, and the friction it carries with special relativity, can eventually find a “solution” by considering higher dimensional spaces.
Art and Identity in Late Antique Synagogues of the Roman-Byzantine Diaspora
Authors: Yuval-Hacham Noa
Published: December 2019

Late antiquity witnessed the increased construction of synagogues in the Jewish diaspora of the Roman-Byzantine world. Although not large in number, these synagogues were impressive and magnificent structures that were certainly conspicuous in the urban landscape, especially when constructed within a central location. This paper focuses on mosaic carpets discovered at these synagogues, to discern their distinguishing features through a comparative perspective. Two focal points are examined: on the one hand, local Roman-Byzantine mosaics in civic and religious buildings, and on the other hand, Jewish mosaics carpets in Palestinian synagogues. This comparison reveals several clear distinctions between the Jewish diasporic mosaic carpets and the other two groups of mosaics, that broaden our understanding of the unique nature of Jewish art in the Roman-Byzantine diaspora in particular, and of Jewish diasporic identity in late antiquity in general.
On the Use of Original and Bias-Corrected Climate Simulations in Regional-Scale Hydrological Scenarios in the Mediterranean Basin
Authors: Sangelantoni Lorenzo , Tomassetti Barbara , Colaiuda Valentina , Lombardi Annalina , Verdecchia Marco , Ferretti Rossella , Redaelli Gianluca
Published: December 2019

The response of Mediterranean small catchments hydrology to climate change is still relatively unexplored. Regional Climate Models (RCMs) are an established tool for evaluating the expected climate change impact on hydrology. Due to the relatively low resolution and systematic errors, RCM outputs are routinely and statistically post-processed before being used in impact studies. Nevertheless, these techniques can impact the original simulated trends and then impact model results. In this work, we characterize future changes of a small Apennines (Central Italy) catchment hydrology, according to two radiative forcing scenarios (Representative Concentration Pathways, RCPs, 4.5 and 8.5). We also investigate the impact of a widely used bias correction technique, the empirical Quantile Mapping (QM) on the original Climate Change Signal (CCS), and the subsequent alteration of the original Hydrological Change Signal (HCS). Original and bias-corrected simulations of five RCMs from Euro-CORDEX are used to drive the CETEMPS hydrological model CHyM. HCS is assessed by using monthly mean discharge and a hydrological-stress index. HCS shows a large spatial and seasonal variability where the summer results are affected by the largest decrease of mean discharge (down to −50%). QM produces a small alteration of the original CCS, which generates a generally wetter HCS, especially during the spring season.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation of Transmembrane Transport of Chloride Ions in Mutants of Channelrhodopsin
Authors: Zhang Wenying , Yang Ting , Zhou Shuangyan , Cheng Jie , Yuan Shuai , Lo Glenn V. , Dou Yusheng
Published: December 2019

Channelrhodopsins (ChRs) are light-gated transmembrane cation channels which are widely used for optogenetic technology. Replacing glutamate located at the central gate of the ion channel with positively charged amino acid residues will reverse ion selectivity and allow anion conduction. The structures and properties of the ion channel, the transport of chloride, and potential of mean force (PMF) of the chimera protein (C1C2) and its mutants, EK-TC, ER-TC and iChloC, were investigated by molecular dynamics simulation. The results show that the five-fold mutation in E122Q-E129R-E140S-D195N-T198C (iChloC) increases the flexibility of the transmembrane channel protein better than the double mutations in EK-TC and ER-TC, and results in an expanded ion channel pore size and decreased steric resistance. The iChloC mutant was also found to have a higher affinity for chloride ions and, based on surface electrostatic potential analysis, provides a favorable electrostatic environment for anion conduction. The PMF free energy curves revealed that high affinity Cl− binding sites are generated near the central gate of the three mutant proteins. The energy barriers for the EK-TC and ER-TC were found to be much higher than that of iChloC. The results suggest that the transmembrane ion channel of iChloC protein is better at facilitating the capture and transport of chloride ions.
Interfacial Dilational Viscoelasticity of Adsorption Layers at the Hydrocarbon/Water Interface: The Fractional Maxwell Model
Authors: Loglio Giuseppe , Kovalchuk Volodymyr I. , Bykov Alexey G. , Ferrari Michele , Krägel Jürgen , Liggieri Libero , Miller Reinhard , Noskov Boris A. , Pandolfini Piero , Ravera Francesca , Santini Eva
Published: December 2019

In this communication, the single element version of the fractional Maxwell model (single-FMM or Scott–Blair model) is adopted to quantify the observed behavior of the linear interfacial dilational viscoelasticity. This mathematical tool is applied to the results obtained by capillary pressure experiments under low-gravity conditions aboard the International Space Station, for adsorption layers at the hydrocarbon/water interface. Two specific experimental sets of steady-state harmonic oscillations of interfacial area are reported, respectively: a drop of pure water into a Span-80 surfactant/paraffin-oil matrix and a pure n-hexane drop into a C13DMPO/TTAB mixed surfactants/aqueous-solution matrix. The fractional constitutive single-FMM is demonstrated to embrace the standard Maxwell model (MM) and the Lucassen–van-den-Tempel model (L–vdT), as particular cases. The single-FMM adequately fits the Span-80/paraffin-oil observed results, correctly predicting the frequency dependence of the complex viscoelastic modulus and the inherent phase-shift angle. In contrast, the single-FMM appears as a scarcely adequate tool to fit the observed behavior of the mixed-adsorption surfactants for the C13DMPO/TTAB/aqueous solution matrix (despite the single-FMM satisfactorily comparing to the phenomenology of the sole complex viscoelastic modulus). Further speculations are envisaged in order to devise combined FMM as rational guidance to interpret the properties and the interfacial structure of complex mixed surfactant adsorption systems.
Learning from Both Experts and Data
Authors: Besson Rémi , Le Pennec Erwan , Allassonnière Stéphanie
Published: December 2019

In this work, we study the problem of inferring a discrete probability distribution using both expert knowledge and empirical data. This is an important issue for many applications where the scarcity of data prevents a purely empirical approach. In this context, it is common to rely first on an a priori from initial domain knowledge before proceeding to an online data acquisition. We are particularly interested in the intermediate regime, where we do not have enough data to do without the initial a priori of the experts, but enough to correct it if necessary. We present here a novel way to tackle this issue, with a method providing an objective way to choose the weight to be given to experts compared to data. We show, both empirically and theoretically, that our proposed estimator is always more efficient than the best of the two models (expert or data) within a constant.
Statistical Inference on the Shannon Entropy of Inverse Weibull Distribution under the Progressive First-Failure Censoring
Authors: Yu Jiao , Gui Wenhao , Shan Yuqi
Published: December 2019

Entropy is an uncertainty measure of random variables which mathematically represents the prospective quantity of the information. In this paper, we mainly focus on the estimation for the parameters and entropy of an Inverse Weibull distribution under progressive first-failure censoring using classical (Maximum Likelihood) and Bayesian methods. For Bayesian approaches, the Bayesian estimates are obtained based on both asymmetric (General Entropy, Linex) and symmetric (Squared Error) loss functions. Due to the complex form of Bayes estimates, we cannot get an explicit solution. Therefore, the Lindley method as well as Importance Sampling procedure is applied. Furthermore, using Importance Sampling method, the Highest Posterior Density credible intervals of entropy are constructed. As a comparison, the asymptotic intervals of entropy are also gained. Finally, a simulation study is implemented and a real data set analysis is performed to apply the previous methods.
Power Balance Management of an Autonomous Hybrid Energy System Based on the Dual-Energy Storage
Authors: Obukhov Sergey , Ibrahim Ahmed , Tolba Mohamed A. , El-Rifaie Ali M.
Published: December 2019

The urgent task of modern energy is to ensure reliable and efficient power supply to consumers, even those located in remote, far end places. A hybrid energy system with renewable energy sources is a promising way to ensure such a process. A characteristic feature of the modes of such systems, especially with high penetration levels of renewable energy sources, is the presence of ripples in the charge–discharge currents of the batteries used as energy storage devices. Batteries operation with such current fluctuations leads to rapid degradation of its characteristics as well as a reduction in its lifetime. Furthermore, it leads to a decrease in the reliability of the power supply system and an increase in the cost of generated electricity. A significant drawback of hybrid systems built according to well-known standard schemes is the inefficient use of the primary renewable energy, which is especially critical for energy systems located geographically in areas with severe climatic conditions. This article proposes a new construction method and an algorithm for controlling the modes of hybrid energy systems based on a dual-circuit energy storage device, which increases their reliability and energy efficiency. The prominent outcomes of operating modes of a hybrid power plant with a high penetration of renewable sources are presented, which proves that the proposed method of construction and the proposed control algorithm provide reliable and efficient control of the power balance of the hybrid power system in all possible operating conditions. In addition, the overall efficiency of the proposed renewable energy system is increased from 28% to 60% compared to standard hybrid power plants.
Finite Control Set Model Predictive Control of Six-Phase Asymmetrical Machines—An Overview
Authors: Gonçalves Pedro , Cruz Sérgio , Mendes André
Published: December 2019

Recently, the control of multiphase electric drives has been a hot research topic due to the advantages of multiphase machines, namely the reduced phase ratings, improved fault tolerance and lesser torque harmonics. Finite control set model predictive control (FCS-MPC) is one of the most promising high performance control strategies due to its good dynamic behaviour and flexibility in the definition of control objectives. Although several FCS-MPC strategies have already been proposed for multiphase drives, a comparative study that assembles all these strategies in a single reference is still missing. Hence, this paper aims to provide an overview and a critical comparison of all available FCS-MPC techniques for electric drives based on six-phase machines, focusing mainly on predictive current control (PCC) and predictive torque control (PTC) strategies. The performance of an asymmetrical six-phase permanent magnet synchronous machine is compared side-by-side for a total of thirteen PCC and five PTC strategies, with the aid of simulation and experimental results. Finally, in order to determine the best and the worst performing control strategies, each strategy is evaluated according to distinct features, such as ease of implementation, minimization of current harmonics, tuning requirements, computational burden, among others.
Impact of Domestic Hot Water Systems on District Heating Temperatures
Authors: Lidberg Tina , Olofsson Thomas , Ödlund Louise
Published: December 2019

When buildings become more energy effective, the temperature levels of district heating systems need to be lower to decrease the losses from the distribution system and to keep district heating a competitive alternative on the heating market. For this reason, buildings that are refurbished need to be adapted to suit low-temperature district heating. The aim of this paper is to examine whether four different energy refurbishment packages (ERPs) can be used for lowering the temperature need of a multi-family buildings space heating and domestic hot water (DHW) system as well as to analyse the impact of the DHW circulation system on the return temperature. The results show that for all ERPs examined in this study, the space heating supply temperature agreed well with the temperature levels of a low-temperature district heating system. The results show that the temperature need of the DHW system will determine the supply temperature of the district heating system. In addition, the amount of days with heating demand decreases for all ERPs, which further increases the influence of the DHW system on the district heating system. In conclusion, the DHW system needs to be improved to enable the temperature levels of a low-temperature district heating system.
Assessment of a Universal Reconfiguration-less Control Approach in Open-Phase Fault Operation for Multiphase Drives
Authors: Barrero Federico , Bermudez Mario , Duran Mario J. , Salas Pedro , Gonzalez-Prieto Ignacio
Published: December 2019

Multiphase drives have been important in particular industry applications where reliability is a desired goal. The main reason for this is their inherent fault tolerance. Different nonlinear controllers that do not include modulation stages, like direct torque control (DTC) or model-based predictive control (MPC), have been used in recent times to govern these complex systems, including mandatory control reconfiguration to guarantee the fault tolerance characteristic. A new reconfiguration-less approach based on virtual voltage vectors (VVs) was recently proposed for MPC, providing a natural healthy and faulty closed-loop regulation of a particular asymmetrical six-phase drive. This work validates the interest in the reconfiguration-less approach for direct controllers and multiphase drives.
ISO 50001: 2018 and Its Application in a Comprehensive Management System with an Energy-Performance Focus
Authors: Poveda-Orjuela P. Pablo , García-Díaz J. Carlos , Pulido-Rojano Alexander , Cañón-Zabala Germán
Published: December 2019

Business progress and human development are linked to the efficient management of energy resources. The research in this paper contributes to the generalized application of good practices that reduce the vulnerability of companies. The research focuses on energy efficiency through comprehensive management systems (CMS), and “thought based on risks and opportunities”, considering the discussion about the revision of ISO 50001:2018, the basic approach of the model and the route to implement CMS for quality, safety and health in the workplace, environmental management, energy efficiency, and other risk components. This implementation route, with the acronym CMS QHSE3+, places special emphasis on the functions of strategic planning, operational and risk management, and controls, as well as on deliverables and references to examples, templates, standards, and documents, to facilitate its application general in small and medium enterprises and in the management of energy efficiency.
Research on Gas-Path Fault-Diagnosis Method of Marine Gas Turbine Based on Exergy Loss and Probabilistic Neural Network
Authors: Cao Yunpeng , Lv Xinran , Han Guodong , Luan Junqi , Li Shuying
Published: December 2019

In order to improve the accuracy of gas-path fault detection and isolation for a marine three-shaft gas turbine, a gas-path fault diagnosis method based on exergy loss and a probabilistic neural network (PNN) is proposed. On the basis of the second law of thermodynamics, the exergy flow among the subsystems and the external environment is analyzed, and the exergy model of a marine gas turbine is established. The exergy loss of a marine gas turbine under the healthy condition and typical gas-path faulty condition is analyzed, and the relative change of exergy loss is used as the input of the PNN to detect the gas-path malfunction and locate the faulty component. The simulation case study was conducted based on a three-shaft marine gas turbine with typical gas-path faults. Several results show that the proposed diagnosis method can accurately detect the fault and locate the malfunction component.
Prospects for Anion-Exchange Membranes in Alkali Metal–Air Batteries
Authors: Tsehaye Misgina Tilahun , Alloin Fannie , Iojoiu Cristina
Published: December 2019

Rechargeable alkali metal–air batteries have enormous potential in energy storage applications due to their high energy densities, low cost, and environmental friendliness. Membrane separators determine the performance and economic viability of these batteries. Usually, porous membrane separators taken from lithium-based batteries are used. Moreover, composite and cation-exchange membranes have been tested. However, crossover of unwanted species (such as zincate ions in zinc–air flow batteries) and/or low hydroxide ions conductivity are major issues to be overcome. On the other hand, state-of-art anion-exchange membranes (AEMs) have been applied to meet the current challenges with regard to rechargeable zinc–air batteries, which have received the most attention among alkali metal–air batteries. The recent advances and remaining challenges of AEMs for these batteries are critically discussed in this review. Correlation between the properties of the AEMs and performance and cyclability of the batteries is discussed. Finally, strategies for overcoming the remaining challenges and future outlooks on the topic are briefly provided. We believe this paper will play a significant role in promoting R&D on developing suitable AEMs with potential applications in alkali metal–air flow batteries.
Development of an SDBC-MMCC-Based DSTATCOM for Real-Time Single-Phase Load Compensation in Three-Phase Power Distribution Systems
Authors: Chang Wei-Neng , Liao Ching-Huan
Published: December 2019

This paper proposes a newly developed single-delta bridge-cell, modular multilevel cascade converter (SDBC-MMCC)-based distribution-level static synchronous compensator (DSTATCOM) for single-phase load compensation in three-phase, three-wire electric power distribution systems. Each main circuit arm of the DSTATCOM uses a modular multilevel cascade converter based on full-H-bridge (FHB) cells. The three main DSTATCOM arms are delta-connected to allow phase-independent operations for phase balancing and unity power factor correction of the single-phase load in three-phase, three-wire electric power distribution systems. By using the symmetrical components method, a feedforward compensation algorithm was employed for the DSTATCOM. A simulation of the DSTATCOM was performed for functioning verification. Finally, a hardware test system was built by using a multi-DSP-based control system. The test results verified the effectiveness of the proposed SDBC-MMCC-based DSTATCOM in single-phase load compensation.
Effects of Local Electricity Trading on Power Flows and Voltage Levels for Different Elasticities and Prices
Authors: Herenčić Lin , Ilak Perica , Rajšl Ivan
Published: December 2019

Local electricity trading is a concept that allows active electricity trading between consumers, producers and/or prosumers located in a local low voltage distribution grid. The concept should provide added value to the participants and accelerate the democratization, decarbonization and decentralization of the power sector. The effects of local electricity trading on voltage levels in distribution grids are just in the early stage of research, together with the possible means of control, market design, market-clearing approaches and integration of the local electricity trading within the electricity markets. The aim of this work is to contribute to the research by examining if near real-time local electricity trading can be implemented in a distribution grid without time-consuming security-constrained unit commitment calculations for the observed time horizon and without security-constrained economic dispatch calculations for each trading period. Moreover, this work investigates if the implementation of local electricity trading can contribute to the avoidance of unpredictable and unfavorable consumption/production patterns, which can appear in the distribution grid due to the random behavior of a large number of participants. It is analyzed if a contribution to the maintenance of the voltages and currents within limits can be achieved that way. The method for simulation of a local electricity market and analysis of power flows and voltage levels is presented. The auction-based local electricity trading is simulated and applied on the modified IEEE European Low Voltage Test Feeder where the effects of local electricity trading on power flows and voltage levels are studied for boundary elasticities and prices of demand and supply offering curves. It is shown that the local electricity trading has potential to incentivize active participation of prosumers, which can lead to better demand/supply balancing at the local level and to a decrease of voltage fluctuations.
Seasonal Performance Investigation for Residential Heat Pump System with Different Outdoor Heat Exchanger Designs
Authors: Ishaque Shehryar , Kim Man-Hoe
Published: December 2019

A finned tube heat exchanger is a key component used as a condenser or an evaporator in residential air-conditioning (AC) and heat pump systems. The overall cycle performance of these systems is significantly affected by the heat exchanger’s geometric design. This study investigates outdoor heat exchanger designs with varying geometric parameters such as the fin pitch, number of tube rows, and tube length, and their effect on system performance based on seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) and seasonal coefficient of performance (SCOP). Air face velocity profiles for each operating condition along the outdoor heat exchangers are determined using CFD, with subsequent cycle simulations for 10 different operating conditions. Results have been validated with the available experimental data. The number of tube rows, fin pitch, and length of tube have been varied from 2–10, 1.4–2.5 mm, and 800–2800 mm respectively. The numerical results reveals that SEER increases 3.21% while SCOP increases 5.32% up to fourth and fifth tube row respectively and remain unaffected thereafter. Similarly, SEER increases by 3.55% as the tube length is increased from 800–1800 mm, while it increases only 0.67% for 1800–2800 mm and the maximum variation of 4.32% has been found for SCOP. Moreover, increasing the fin pitch reduces SEER and SCOP (except for fin pitch from 1.4 to 1.8 mm). Finally, the performance of the system with four different fin configurations have also been investigated and it has been found that slit fins are more effective.
Duration Limits on Field Storage in Closed Cardboard Boxes before Planting of Norway Spruce and Scots Pine Container Seedlings in Different Planting Seasons
Authors: Luoranen Jaana , Pikkarainen Laura , Poteri Marja , Peltola Heli , Riikonen Johanna
Published: December 2019

For spring plantings, conifer seedlings are usually packed in closed cardboard boxes and freezer stored over winter. Additionally, seedlings are increasingly being stored in cardboard boxes in spring, summer, and autumn plantings in Finland. The aim of this study was to determine the maximum safe duration for the field storage of Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) container seedlings in closed cardboard boxes for different planting times (dates) in Nordic boreal conditions. In the first experiment, Norway spruce seedlings (85-cm3 peat plugs) were packed in cardboard boxes in August, September, or October, and, in the second experiment, in the middle of May. In the third Scots pine experiment, mini seedlings (30-cm3 peat plugs) were packed in May. In each experiment, the seedlings were stored in closed cardboard boxes in a nursery for one, three, seven, 14, and 21 days. The control seedlings were stored in open storage in the nursery. After storage, the seedlings were planted in a field. In all of the experiments, increased closed-box storage reduced the maximum photochemical yield of photosystem II (Fv/Fm) in the needles, and reduced root growth after planting. The frost hardiness was weakened in the Norway spruce seedlings that were stored in closed boxes for 21 days in August and October. In the spring experiments, prolonged storage increased the mortality of seedlings. Mortality rates were high in the autumn experiment due to the exceptionally warm and dry weather. Our conclusions, being based on the short term effects of field storage, are that conifer seedlings can be stored in closed boxes for only three days in August and about a week in September, October, and spring.
DNA Helicases as Safekeepers of Genome Stability in Plants
Authors: Dorn Annika , Puchta Holger
Published: December 2019

Genetic information of all organisms is coded in double-stranded DNA. DNA helicases are essential for unwinding this double strand when it comes to replication, repair or transcription of genetic information. In this review, we will focus on what is known about a variety of DNA helicases that are required to ensure genome stability in plants. Due to their sessile lifestyle, plants are especially exposed to harmful environmental factors. Moreover, many crop plants have large and highly repetitive genomes, making them absolutely dependent on the correct interplay of DNA helicases for safeguarding their stability. Although basic features of a number of these enzymes are conserved between plants and other eukaryotes, a more detailed analysis shows surprising peculiarities, partly also between different plant species. This is additionally of high relevance for plant breeding as a number of these helicases are also involved in crossover control during meiosis and influence the outcome of different approaches of CRISPR/Cas based plant genome engineering. Thus, gaining knowledge about plant helicases, their interplay, as well as the manipulation of their pathways, possesses the potential for improving agriculture. In the long run, this might even help us cope with the increasing obstacles of climate change threatening food security in completely new ways.
Examining the Effect of the Environment and Commuting Flow from/to Epidemic Areas on the Spread of Dengue Fever
Authors: Zhou Shuli , Zhou Suhong , Liu Lin , Zhang Meng , Kang Min , Xiao Jianpeng , Song Tie
Published: December 2019

Environment and human mobility have been considered as two important factors that drive the outbreak and transmission of dengue fever (DF). Most studies focus on the local environment while neglecting environment of the places, especially epidemic areas that people came from or traveled to. Commuting is a major form of interactions between places. Therefore, this research generates commuting flows from mobile phone tracked data. Geographically weighted Poisson regression (GWPR) and analysis of variance (ANOVA) are used to examine the effect of commuting flows, especially those from/to epidemic areas, on DF in 2014 at the Jiedao level in Guangzhou. The results suggest that (1) commuting flows from/to epidemic areas affect the transmission of DF; (2) such effects vary in space; and (3) the spatial variation of the effects can be explained by the environment of the epidemic areas that commuters commuted from/to. These findings have important policy implications for making effective intervention strategies, especially when resources are limited.
Risk Assessment and Implications of Schoolchildren Exposure to Classroom Heavy Metals Particles in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alghamdi Mansour A. , Hassan Salwa K. , Alzahrani Noura A. , Almehmadi Fahd M. , Khoder Mamdouh I.
Published: December 2019

Classrooms Air Conditioner Filter (CACF) particles represent all of the exposed particles that have migrated to the interior environment. This study was conducted to assess the heavy metals contamination in CACF particles from Jeddah primary schools located in urban, suburban and residential areas; and to evaluate their health risks of children exposure (non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic). Heavy metals levels in CACF particles of schools were in the following order: urban schools > suburban schools > residential schools. Fe, Mn and Zn were the dominant species. Geo-accumulation index (Igeo), contamination factor (CF) and pollution load index (PLI) values indicated that the contamination levels was in the following order Cd > Pb > Zn > As > Cu > Ni > Mn > Cr > Co >V > Fe. School CACF particles was moderately contaminated with As and Zn and moderately to heavily contaminated with Pb and Cd. Enrichment factors (EFs) indicated that Zn, Cd, Pb, As and Cu in CACF particles were severe enriched. The hazard quotient (HQs) and hazards index (HI) values for heavy metals were lower than the acceptable level of one. As, Pb, Cr and Mn were exhibited high non-cancer effects for children. The lifetime cancer risk (LCR) and total lifetime cancer risk (TLCR), HQs and HI values for the different exposure pathways of heavy metals decreased in the following order: ingestion > dermal contact > inhalation. Carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk rank order of schools were urban schools > suburban schools > residential schools. The LCR and TLCR of heavy metals was in the following order: Co > Ni >Cr > Cd > As > Pb. The ingestion lifetime cancer risk (LCRing) and TLCR values from exposure to Ni and Cr in urban and suburban schools, Cd in urban schools, and Co in all Jeddah schools only exceed the acceptable range (1 × 10−6–1 × 10−4) Only LCRing and TLCR values from exposure to ∑ carcinogens exceed the acceptable level.
Improving Biomethanation of Chicken Manure by Co-Digestion with Ethanol Plant Effluent
Authors: Cheong Dae-Yeol , Harvey Jeffrey Todd , Kim Jinsu , Lee Changsoo
Published: December 2019

As the global production of chicken manure has steadily increased, its proper management has become a challenging issue. This study examined process effluent from a bioethanol plant as a co-substrate for efficient anaerobic digestion of chicken manure. An anaerobic continuous reactor was operated in mono- and co-digestion modes by adding increasing amounts of the ethanol plant effluent (0%, 10%, and 20% (v/v) of chicken manure). Methanogenic performance improved significantly in terms of both methane production rate and yield (by up to 66% and 36%, respectively), with an increase in organic loading rate over the experimental phases. Correspondingly, the specific methanogenic activity was significantly higher in the co-digestion sludge than in the mono-digestion sludge. The reactor did not suffer any apparent process imbalance, ammonia inhibition, or nutrient limitation throughout the experiment, with the removal of volatile solids being stably maintained (56.3–58.9%). The amount of ethanol plant effluent appears to directly affect the rate of acidification, and its addition at ≥20% (v/v) to chicken manure needs to be avoided to maintain a stable pH. The overall results suggest that anerobic co-digestion with ethanol plant effluent may provide a practical means for the stable treatment and valorization of chicken manure.