bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Model for Locating Tall Buildings through a Visual Analysis Approach
Authors: Karimimoshaver Mehrdad , Hajivaliei Hatameh , Shokri Manouchehr , Khalesro Shakila , Aram Farshid , Shamshirband Shahab
Published: September 2020

Tall buildings have become an integral part of cities despite all their pros and cons. Some current tall buildings have several problems because of their unsuitable location; the problems include increasing density, imposing traffic on urban thoroughfares, blocking view corridors, etc. Some of these buildings have destroyed desirable views of the city. In this research, different criteria have been chosen, such as environment, access, social-economic, land-use, and physical context. These criteria and sub-criteria are prioritized and weighted by the analytic network process (ANP) based on experts’ opinions, using Super Decisions V2.8 software. On the other hand, layers corresponding to sub-criteria were made in ArcGIS 10.3 simultaneously, then via a weighted overlay (map algebra), a locating plan was created. In the next step seven hypothetical tall buildings (20 stories), in the best part of the locating plan, were considered to evaluate how much of theses hypothetical buildings would be visible (fuzzy visibility) from the street and open spaces throughout the city. These processes have been modeled by MATLAB software, and the final fuzzy visibility plan was created by ArcGIS. Fuzzy visibility results can help city managers and planners to choose which location is suitable for a tall building and how much visibility may be appropriate. The proposed model can locate tall buildings based on technical and visual criteria in the future development of the city and it can be widely used in any city as long as the criteria and weights are localized.
Economic Valuation of Reducing Submerged Marine Debris in South Korea
Authors: Jin Se-Jun , Kwon Young-Ju , Yoo Seung-Hoon
Published: September 2020

Submerged marine debris (SMD) scattered between sea level and the bottom of the sea damages the habitats of marine life and threatens its growth in South Korea. The collection of SMD is more difficult and expensive than that of coastal and floating debris. The government is trying to achieve a 33% reduction in SMD by 2023 by expanding its collection, which requires huge additional investments and additional information about the economic value or benefits of the reduction. This article seeks to conduct an economic valuation of the reduction by employing contingent valuation (CV), which asks people to indicate their willingness to pay (WTP) for the reduction. A dichotomous choice CV survey was undertaken with 1000 households by a professional survey firm through person-to-person interviews during July 2019. Overall, people understood the CV questions well and reported the WTP responses for a hypothetical market successfully created with CV. Although 37.9% of interviewees stated zero WTP, the average of the yearly household WTP was estimated as 5523 Korean won (KRW) (USD 4.92). This value ensures statistical significance. The population’s WTP for the reduction would be KRW 110.30 billion (USD 99.75 million) per year over the next five years. It was found that the reduction is socially beneficial since the value was greater than the costs involved in the reduction.
Method for Estimating Optimal Position of S-Band Relay Station through Path Loss Analysis in an Outdoor Environment
Authors: Jang Doyoung , Wang Sungsik , Kim Chun Won , Park Yong Bae , Choo Hosung
Published: September 2020

This article investigates a novel estimation method to optimize the position of a relay station of the S-band telemetry system in outdoor environments. To determine an optimal relay station position, complex terrain surface and buildings near the Naro Space Center are included in the EM (Electromagnetic) simulation. The optimal relay station position is then determined using the estimation method by comparing the path losses from the rocket to the main station and some candidate positions of the relay station. To better understand the path loss, the ray analysis is also conducted, and the result demonstrates that once the rocket altitude to be covered by the relay station is determined, it is possible to find the optimum position of the relay station.
Improving Pressure–Velocity Limit of Mechanical Seal with Polycrystalline Diamond Coating
Authors: Guo Daidong , Cai Ningning , Wu Guoping , Xie Fangmin , Tan Shouhong , Jiang Nan , Li He
Published: September 2020

Polycrystalline diamond (PCD)-coated mechanical seal rings were prepared by hot filament chemical vapor deposition (HFCVD) on graphite-loaded silicon carbide (GSiC) substrates. From the initial deposition process, the diamond first nucleated and then grew into a dense coating with grain size of 4 μm and thickness of 12.3 μm. The well-grown PCD coating, as confirmed by Raman spectroscopy and X-ray diffractometry, significantly improves the pressure–velocity limit of the mechanical seal applied in harsh operating conditions, no matter whether for a hard-to-soft mating combination or a hard-to-hard mating combination. Comparing GSiC against sintered silicon carbide (SSiC) combination (GSiC/SSiC), GSiC against graphite combination (GSiC/graphite) and PCD against graphite combination (PCD/graphite), PCD against SSiC combination (PCD/SSiC) shows the highest pressure velocity (PV) limit of 42.31 MPa·m/s with 4 kN loading at 4500 rpm rotation speed. An extremely low and stable friction coefficient and super mechanical properties under harsh conditions can be approved as the source of the high PV limit of PCD coating. A mechanical seal with PCD coating can be used for more demanding applications.
A Low-Autogenous-Shrinkage Alkali-Activated Slag and Fly Ash Concrete
Authors: Li Zhenming , Yao Xingliang , Chen Yun , Lu Tianshi , Ye Guang
Published: September 2020

Alkali-activated slag and fly ash (AASF) materials are emerging as promising alternatives to conventional Portland cement. Despite the superior mechanical properties of AASF materials, they are known to show large autogenous shrinkage, which hinders the wide application of these eco-friendly materials in infrastructure. To mitigate the autogenous shrinkage of AASF, two innovative autogenous-shrinkage-mitigating admixtures, superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) and metakaolin (MK), are applied in this study. The results show that the incorporation of SAPs and MK significantly mitigates autogenous shrinkage and cracking potential of AASF paste and concrete. Moreover, the AASF concrete with SAPs and MK shows enhanced workability and tensile strength-to-compressive strength ratios. These results indicate that SAPs and MK are promising admixtures to make AASF concrete a high-performance alternative to Portland cement concrete in structural engineering.
Effects of Protein Unfolding on Aggregation and Gelation in Lysozyme Solutions
Authors: Nikfarjam Shakiba , Jouravleva Elena V. , Anisimov Mikhail A. , Woehl Taylor J.
Published: September 2020

In this work, we investigate the role of folding/unfolding equilibrium in protein aggregation and formation of a gel network. Near the neutral pH and at a low buffer ionic strength, the formation of the gel network around unfolding conditions prevents investigations of protein aggregation. In this study, by deploying the fact that in lysozyme solutions the time of folding/unfolding is much shorter than the characteristic time of gelation, we have prevented gelation by rapidly heating the solution up to the unfolding temperature (~80 °C) for a short time (~30 min.) followed by fast cooling to the room temperature. Dynamic light scattering measurements show that if the gelation is prevented, nanosized irreversible aggregates (about 10–15 nm radius) form over a time scale of 10 days. These small aggregates persist and aggregate further into larger aggregates over several weeks. If gelation is not prevented, the nanosized aggregates become the building blocks for the gel network and define its mesh length scale. These results support our previously published conclusion on the nature of mesoscopic aggregates commonly observed in solutions of lysozyme, namely that aggregates do not form from lysozyme monomers in their native folded state. Only with the emergence of a small fraction of unfolded proteins molecules will the aggregates start to appear and grow.
Lipid Phosphate Phosphatases and Cancer
Authors: Tang Xiaoyun , Brindley David N.
Published: September 2020

Lipid phosphate phosphatases (LPPs) are a group of three enzymes (LPP1–3) that belong to a phospholipid phosphatase (PLPP) family. The LPPs dephosphorylate a wide spectrum of bioactive lipid phosphates, among which lysophosphatidate (LPA) and sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) are two important extracellular signaling molecules. The LPPs are integral membrane proteins, which are localized on plasma membranes and intracellular membranes, including the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi network. LPPs regulate signaling transduction in cancer cells and demonstrate different effects in cancer progression through the breakdown of extracellular LPA and S1P and other intracellular substrates. This review is intended to summarize an up-to-date understanding about the functions of LPPs in cancers.
Flavonoid Nanoparticles: A Promising Approach for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Dobrzynska Malgorzata , Napierala Marta , Florek Ewa
Published: September 2020

Flavonoids, a ubiquitous group of naturally occurring polyphenolic compounds, have recently gained importance as anticancer agents. Unfortunately, due to low solubility, absorption, and rapid metabolism of dietary flavonoids, their anticancer potential is not sufficient. Nanocarriers can improve the bioavailability of flavonoids. In this review we aimed to evaluate studies on the anticancer activity of flavonoid nanoparticles. A review of English language articles published until 30 June 2020 was conducted, using PubMed (including MEDLINE), CINAHL Plus, Cochrane, and Web of Science data. Most studies determining the anticancer properties of flavonoid nanoparticles are preclinical. The potential anticancer activity focuses mainly on MCF-7 breast cancer cells, A549 lung cancer cells, HepG2 liver cancer cells, and melanoma cells. The flavonoid nanoparticles can also support the anti-tumour effect of drugs used in cancer therapy by enhancing the anti-tumour effect or reducing the systemic toxicity of drugs.
Partial Similarity Reveals Dynamics in Brainstem-Midbrain Networks during Trigeminal Nociception
Authors: May Arne , Schulte Laura Helene , Nolte Guido , Mehnert Jan
Published: September 2020

Imaging studies help us understand the important role of brainstem and midbrain regions in human trigeminal pain processing without solving the question of how these regions actually interact. In the current study, we describe this connectivity and its dynamics during nociception with a novel analytical approach called Partial Similarity (PS). We developed PS specifically to estimate the communication between individual hubs of the network in contrast to the overall communication within that network. Partial Similarity works on trial-to-trial variance of neuronal activity acquired with functional magnetic resonance imaging. It discovers direct communication between two hubs considering the remainder of the network as confounds. A similar method to PS is Representational Similarity, which works with ordinary correlations and does not consider any external influence on the communication between two hubs. Particularly the combination of Representational Similarity and Partial Similarity analysis unravels brainstem dynamics involved in trigeminal pain using the spinal trigeminal nucleus (STN)—the first relay station of peripheral trigeminal input—as a seed region. The combination of both methods can be valuable tools in discovering the network dynamics in fMRI and an important instrument for future insight into the nature of various neurological diseases like primary headaches.
Smart Buildings: Systems and Drivers
Authors: Froufe Mariangela , Chinelli Christine , Guedes André , Haddad Assed , Hammad Ahmed , Soares Carlos
Published: September 2020

Since the 1980s, smart buildings have aroused the interest of researchers. However, there is still no consensus on what the intelligence of a building is, and what enhances that intelligence. The purpose of this paper is to identify and correlate the main drivers and systems of smart buildings, by associating them with the main beneficiaries: users, owners, and the environment. To identify the main drivers and systems of these buildings, we carried out a comprehensive, detailed, and interpretative literature search. From the selected articles, we sorted the information, extracted the main concepts and knowledge, and, finally, identified the set of potential drivers and systems. Results showed eleven drivers and eight systems, and these can be enhanced by more than one driver. By analyzing the main beneficiaries, we grouped the drivers into three categories: users, owners, and the environment. Given the lack of consensus on the key drivers that make buildings smarter, this article contributes to filling this gap by identifying them, together with the key systems. It is also relevant for detecting the relationships between drivers and systems, and pointing out which drivers have the greatest potential to affect a particular system, keeping in mind the main beneficiary.
Robotic-Assisted Colonoscopy Platform with a Magnetically-Actuated Soft-Tethered Capsule
Authors: Verra Mauro , Firrincieli Andrea , Chiurazzi Marcello , Mariani Andrea , Lo Secco Giacomo , Forcignanò Edoardo , Koulaouzidis Anastasios , Menciassi Arianna , Dario Paolo , Ciuti Gastone , Arezzo Alberto
Published: September 2020

Background and Aims: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite offering a prime paradigm for screening, CRC screening is often hampered by invasiveness. Endoo is a potentially painless colonoscopy method with an active locomotion tethered capsule offering diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities. Materials and Methods: The Endoo system comprises a soft-tethered capsule, which embeds a permanent magnet controlled by an external robot equipped with a second permanent magnet. Capsule navigation is achieved via closed-loop interaction between the two magnets. Ex-vivo tests were conducted by endoscopy experts and trainees to evaluate the basic key features, usability, and compliance in comparison with conventional colonoscopy (CC) in feasibility and pilot studies. Results: Endoo showed a 100% success rate in operating channel and target approach tests. Progression of the capsule was feasible and repeatable. The magnetic link was lost an average of 1.28 times per complete procedure but was restored in 100% of cases. The peak value of interaction forces was higher in the CC group than the Endoo group (4.12N vs. 1.17N). The cumulative interaction forces over time were higher in the CC group than the Endoo group between the splenic flexure and mid-transverse colon (16.53Ns vs. 1.67Ns, p < 0.001), as well as between the hepatic flexure and cecum (28.77Ns vs. 2.47Ns, p = 0.005). The polyp detection rates were comparable between groups (9.1 ± 0.9% vs. 8.7 ± 0.9%, CC and Endoo respectively, per procedure). Robotic colonoscopies were completed in 67% of the procedures performed with Endoo (53% experts and 100% trainees). Conclusions: Endoo allows smoother navigation than CC and possesses comparable features. Although further research is needed, magnetic capsule colonoscopy demonstrated promising results compared to CC.
mTOR Modulates Intercellular Signals for Enlargement and Infiltration in Glioblastoma Multiforme
Authors: Ryskalin Larisa , Biagioni Francesca , Lenzi Paola , Frati Alessandro , Fornai Francesco
Published: September 2020

Recently, exosomal release has been related to the acquisition of a malignant phenotype in glioblastoma cancer stem cells (GSCs). Remarkably, intriguing reports demonstrate that GSC-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) contribute to glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) tumorigenesis via multiple pathways by regulating tumor growth, infiltration, and immune invasion. In fact, GSCs release tumor-promoting macrovesicles that can disseminate as paracrine factors to induce phenotypic alterations in glioma-associated parenchymal cells. In this way, GBM can actively recruit different stromal cells, which, in turn, may participate in tumor microenvironment (TME) remodeling and, thus, alter tumor progression. Vice versa, parenchymal cells can transfer their protein and genetic contents to GSCs by EVs; thus, promoting GSCs tumorigenicity. Moreover, GBM was shown to hijack EV-mediated cell-to-cell communication for self-maintenance. The present review examines the role of the mammalian Target of Rapamycin (mTOR) pathway in altering EVs/exosome-based cell-to-cell communication, thus modulating GBM infiltration and volume growth. In fact, exosomes have been implicated in GSC niche maintenance trough the modulation of GSCs stem cell-like properties, thus, affecting GBM infiltration and relapse. The present manuscript will focus on how EVs, and mostly exosomes, may act on GSCs and neighbor non tumorigenic stromal cells to modify their expression and translational profile, while making the TME surrounding the GSC niche more favorable for GBM growth and infiltration. Novel insights into the mTOR-dependent mechanisms regulating EV-mediated intercellular communication within GBM TME hold promising directions for future therapeutic applications.
Rare-Earth Metals-Doped Nickel Aluminate Spinels for Photocatalytic Degradation of Organic Pollutants
Authors: Regulska Elzbieta , Breczko Joanna , Basa Anna , Dubis Alina Teresa
Published: September 2020

Visible-light-activated photocatalysts based on samarium-doped, europium-doped, and gadolinium-doped nickel aluminates (SmNA, EuNA, GdNA) were synthesized. The spinel crystalline structures of the doped mixed metal oxides were demonstrated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis. The presence of the rare-earth metals (REMs) was confirmed by the energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) studies. Ultraviolet-visible-near-infrared (UV-Vis-NIR) spectra revealed that the REMs-doped catalysts absorb in the full solar spectrum range covering both visible and near infrared wavelengths. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) visualized the profound morphological alterations of the doped nickel aluminate samples. Consequently, the pore volume and the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area decreased, while nanoparticles sizes increased. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) exposed that surfaces of REMs-doped nickel aluminates are rich in hydroxyl groups. Finally, the photocatalytic performance was notably increased through doping nickel aluminate (NA) with REMs; the highest activity was observed for EuNA.
Impact of Pre-Analytical Factors on MSI Test Accuracy in Mucinous Colorectal Adenocarcinoma: A Multi-Assay Concordance Study
Authors: Malapelle Umberto , Parente Paola , Pepe Francesco , De Luca Caterina , Cerino Pellegrino , Covelli Claudia , Balestrieri Mariangela , Russo Gianluca , Bonfitto Antonio , Pisapia Pasquale , Fiordelisi Fabiola , D’Armiento Maria , Bruzzese Dario , Loupakis Fotios , Pietrantonio Filippo , Triassi Maria , Fassan Matteo , Troncone Giancarlo , Graziano Paolo
Published: September 2020

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and fragment separation by capillary electrophoresis represent the current clinical laboratory standard for the evaluation of microsatellite instability (MSI) status. The importance of reporting MSI status in colorectal cancer is based on its potential for guiding treatment and as a prognostic indicator. It is also used to identify patients for Lynch syndrome testing. Our aim was to evaluate pre-analytical factors, such as age of formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) block, neoplastic cell percentage, mucinous component, and DNA integrity, that may influence the accuracy of MSI testing and assess the concordance between three different MSI evaluation approaches. We selected the mucinous colorectal cancer (CRC) histotype for this study as it may possibly represent an intrinsic diagnostic issue due to its low tumor cellularity. Seventy-five cases of mucinous CRC and corresponding normal colon tissue samples were retrospectively selected. MMR proteins were evaluated by IHC. After DNA quality and quantity evaluation, the Idylla™ and TapeStation 4200 platforms were adopted for the evaluation of MSI status. Seventy-three (97.3%) cases were successfully analyzed by the three methodologies. Overall, the Idylla™ platform showed a concordance rate with IHC of 98.0% for microsatellite stable (MSS)/proficient MMR (pMMR) cases and 81.8% for MSI/deficient MMR (dMMR) cases. The TapeStation 4200 system showed a concordance rate with IHC of 96.0% for MSS/pMMR cases and 45.4% for MSI/dMMR cases. The concordance rates of the TapeStation 4200 system with respect to the Idylla™ platform were 98.1% for MSS profile and 57.8% for MSI profile. Discordant cases were analyzed using the Titano MSI kit. Considering pre-analytical factors, no significant variation in concordance rate among IHC analyses and molecular systems was observed by considering the presence of an acellular mucus cut-off >50% of the tumor area, FFPE year preparation, and DNA concentration. Conversely, the Idylla™ platform showed a significant variation in concordance rate with the IHC approach by considering a neoplastic cell percentage >50% (p-value = 0.002), and the TapeStation 4200 system showed a significant variation in concordance rate with the IHC approach by considering a DNA integrity number (DIN) ≥4 as cut-off (p-value = 0.009). Our data pinpoint a central role of the pre-analytical phase in the diagnostic outcome of MSI testing in CRC.
Rapid Thermal Annealing for Surface Optimisation of ZnO Substrates for MBE-Grown Oxide Two-Dimensional Electron Gases
Authors: Sparks Matthew , Kennedy Oscar , Warburton Paul
Published: September 2020

Two-dimensional electron gases (2DEGs) at the ZnO/ZnMgO interface are promising for applications in spintronics and quantum computing due to the combination of low spin-orbit coupling and high electron mobility. Growing high mobility 2DEGs requires high quality substrates with low impurity densities. In this work we demonstrate a ZnO substrate sample treatment combining high temperature rapid thermal annealing and chemical etching to improve the surface quality for the subsequent growth of 2DEGs. This process enables the growth of a 2DEG with low-temperature mobility of 4.8×104 cm2V−1s−1. An unannealed control sample shows a scattering rate at least three times greater than the annealed sample.
Green Synthesis, SC-XRD, Non-Covalent Interactive Potential and Electronic Communication via DFT Exploration of Pyridine-Based Hydrazone
Authors: Ali Akbar , Khalid Muhammad , Abid Saba , Tahir Muhammad , Iqbal Javed , Ashfaq Muhammad , Kanwal Fariha , Lu Changrui , Rehman Muhammad
Published: September 2020

Ultrasound-based synthesis at room temperature produces valuable compounds greener and safer than most other methods. This study presents the sonochemical fabrication and characterization of a pyridine-based halogenated hydrazone, (E)-2-((6-chloropyridin-2-yl)oxy)-N′-(2-hydroxybenzylidene) acetohydrazide (HBPAH). The NMR spectroscopic technique was used to determine the structure, while SC-XRD confirmed its crystalline nature. Our structural studies revealed that strong, inter-molecular attractive forces stabilize this crystalline organic compound. Moreover, the compound was optimized at the B3LYP/6-311G(d,p) level using the Crystallographic Information File (CIF). Natural bonding orbital (NBO) and natural population analysis (NPA) were performed at the same level using optimized geometry. Time-dependent density functional theory (DFT) was performed at the B3LYP/6-311G (d,p) method to calculate the frontier molecular orbitals (FMOs) and molecular electrostatic potential (MEP). The global reactivity descriptors were determined using HOMO and LUMO energy gaps. Theoretical calculations based on the Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules (QT-AIM) and Hirshfeld analyses identified the non-covalent and covalent interactions of the HBPAH compound. Consequently, QT-AIM and Hirshfeld analyses agree with experimental results.
Identification the Cross-Reactive or Species-Specific Allergens of Tyrophagus putrescentiae and Development Molecular Diagnostic Kits for Allergic Diseases
Authors: Yu Ching-Hsiang , Tsai Jaw-Ji , Lin Yi-Hsueh , Yu Sheng-Jie , Liao En-Chih
Published: September 2020

Mite allergens are considerable factors in the genesis of allergic diseases. The storage mite Tyrophagus putrescentiae (Tp) appears in contaminated foods and household surroundings. The current diagnostic tools for Tp allergy are mostly based on crude extracts and still contain shortcomings. This study aimed to investigate the immunoglobulin E (IgE)- responsiveness profiles of Tp-allergic patients and develop a molecular diagnostic method using recombinant allergens. Allergenic components were characterized as cross-reacting or species-specific allergens, in which the effective combinations of recombinant allergens were developed and analyzed in terms of the prediction accuracy for clinical diagnosis. Seven recombinant allergens were cloned and generated to detect the IgE responsiveness of the Tp allergy. A survey on the prevalence of mite allergy showed there were higher sensitizations with IgE responsiveness to house dust mites (HDM) (78.9–80.9%) than to storage mites Tp (35.6%). Prevalence of sensitization to Tp was higher in elderly subjects. The principal IgE-binding components of Tp were Tyr p 1, Tyr p 2 and Tyr p 3. Prediction accuracy for Tp allergy by IgE-responsiveness combination D (Tyr p 1, Tyr p 2 & Tyr p 3) was with high precision (100%). Avoiding the cross-reactivity of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, the prediction accuracy of IgE-responsiveness combination H+ (Tyr p 1, Tyr p 2, Tyr p 3, Tyr p 7, Tyr p 8, Tyr p 10 & Tyr p 20) was suitable for Tp-specific diagnosis. Panels of Tp allergens were generated and developed a diagnostic kit able beneficial to identify IgE-mediated Tp hypersensitivity.
Efficacy and Safety of Digital Single-Operator Cholangioscopy in the Diagnosis of Indeterminate Biliary Strictures by Targeted Biopsies: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wen Li-Jia , Chen Jun-Hong , Xu Hong-Ji , Yu Qiong , Liu Kai
Published: September 2020

Background: Biliary strictures are frequently encountered in clinical practice. The determination of their nature is often difficult. This study aims to systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of the second generation of digital single-operator cholangioscopy (SpyGlass DS, DSOC) in indeterminate biliary strictures (IBDS) through biopsies. Methods: All relative studies published in Medline, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and EMBASE were included. The diagnostic tests for IBDS were compared to the surgical histology, autopsy, or long-term clinical follow-up. The methodological quality of the included studies was evaluated by the Quality Assessment of Studies of Diagnostic Accuracy Included in Systematic Reviews (QUADAS-2). Results: A total of 11 studies, which involved 356 patients diagnosed through biopsies, were included. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio and diagnostic odds ratio were 0.74 (95% CI: 0.67–0.80), 0.98 (95% CI: 0.95–1.00), 10.52 (95% CI: 5.45–20.32), 0.31 (95% CI: 0.23–0.41), and 65.18 (95% CI: 26.79–158.61), respectively. The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.9479, and the pooled adverse event rate was 7%. The sensitivity and specificity in the heterogeneity analysis were I2 = 48.1% and I2 = 25.4%, respectively. Conclusion: SpyGlass DS is a safe and effective technique for IBDS. However, future randomized trials are needed to determine optimal number of biopsies.
Infrared Small Target Detection Based on Non-Overlapping Patch Model via l0-l1 Norm
Authors: Yang Jiaqi , Cui Yi , Song Fei , Lei Tao
Published: September 2020

Infrared small target detection technology has sufficient applications in many engineering fields, such as infrared early warning, infrared tracking, and infrared reconnaissance. Due to the tiny size of the infrared small target and the lack of shape and texture information, existing methods often leave residuals or miss the target. To address these issues, a novel method based on a non-overlapping patch (NOP) joint l0-l1 norm is proposed with the introduction of sparsity regularized principal component pursuit (SRPCP). The NOP model makes the patch lighter in the first place, reducing time consumption. The adoption of the l0 norm enhances the sparsity of the target, while the adoption of the l1 norm enhances the robustness of the algorithm under clutter. As a smart optimization method, SRPCP solves the NOP model fittingly and achieves stable separation of low-rank and sparse components, thereby improving detection capacity while suppressing the background efficiently. The proposed method ultimately yielded favorable detection results. Adequate experiment results demonstrate that the proposed method is competitive in terms of background suppression and true target detection with respect to state-of-the-art methods. In addition, our method also reduces the computational time.
Multi-Agent Approach Using LoRaWAN Devices: An Airport Case Study
Authors: Sales Mendes André , Jiménez-Bravo Diego M. , Navarro-Cáceres María , Reis Quietinho Leithardt Valderi , Villarrubia González Gabriel
Published: September 2020

The current situation with COVID-19 is changing our courses of action toward ensuring health security. This is particularly crucial in airports, which usually receive more than 300,000 travellers in one single day. In this work, we present an Internet of Things (IoT) network to monitor the status of toilets and improve their maintenance. The system is based on IoT networks with different sensors to control soap levels, room capacity, distances, temperature, and humidity. This information is processed by a multi-agent system that detects possible anomalies and makes decisions accordingly. A case study in a real environment is developed in order to demonstrate the usefulness of the system. The results show that the proposed method can be used to successfully manage and control airport toilets.
Integration of Electric Vehicles in the Distribution Network: A Review of PV Based Electric Vehicle Modelling
Authors: Mohammad Asaad , Zamora Ramon , Lie Tek Tjing
Published: September 2020

Electric vehicles (EVs) are one of a prominent solution for the sustainability issues needing dire attention like global warming, depleting fossil fuel reserves, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Conversely, EVs are shown to emit higher emissions (measured from source to tailpipe) for the fossil fuel-based countries, which necessitates renewable energy sources (RES) for maximizing EV benefits. EVs can also act as a storage system, to mitigate the challenges associated with RES and to provide the grid with ancillary services, such as voltage regulation, frequency regulation, spinning reserve, etc. For extracting maximum benefits from EVs and minimizing the associated impact on the distribution network, modelling optimal integration of EVs in the network is required. This paper focuses on reviewing the state-of-the-art literature on the modelling of grid-connected EV-PV (photovoltaics) system. Further, the paper evaluates the uncertainty modelling methods associated with various parameters related to the grid-connected EV-PV system. Finally, the review is concluded with a summary of potential research directions in this area. The paper presents an evaluation of different modelling components of grid-connected EV-PV system to facilitate readers in modelling such system for researching EV-PV integration in the distribution network.
Simulation of the Energy Efficiency Auction Prices via the Markov Chain Monte Carlo Method
Authors: López-Gonzales Javier Linkolk , Castro Souza Reinaldo , Leite Coelho da Silva Felipe , Carbo-Bustinza Natalí , Ibacache-Pulgar Germán , Calili Rodrigo Flora
Published: September 2020

Over the years, electricity consumption behavior in Brazil has been analyzed due to financial and social problems. In this context, it is important to simulate energy prices of the energy efficiency auctions in the Brazilian electricity market. The Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) method generated simulations; thus, several samples were generated with different sizes. It is possible to say that the larger the sample, the better the approximation to the original data. Then, the Kernel method and the Gaussian mixture model used to estimate the density distribution of energy price, and the MCMC method were crucial in providing approximations of the original data and clearly analyzing its impact. Next, the behavior of the data in each histogram was observed with 500, 1000, 5000 and 10,000 samples, considering only one scenario. The sample which best approximates the original data in accordance with the generated histograms is the 10,000th sample, which consistently follows the behavior of the data. Therefore, this paper presents an approach to generate samples of auction energy prices in the energy efficiency market, using the MCMC method through the Metropolis–Hastings algorithm. The results show that this approach can be used to generate energy price samples.
Text Analysis Reveals Major Trends in Exploration Geophysics
Authors: Eltsov Timofey , Yutkin Maxim , Patzek Tadeusz W.
Published: September 2020

Evolution of professional language reveals advances in geophysics: researchers enthusiastically describe new methods of surveying, data processing techniques, and objects of their study. Geophysicists publish their cutting-edge research in the proceedings of international conferences to share their achievements with the world. Tracking changes in the professional language allows one to identify trends and current state of science. Here, we explain our text analysis of the last 30 annual conferences organized by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG). These conferences are among the largest geophysical gatherings worldwide. We split the 21,864 SEG articles into 52 million words and phrases, and analyze changes in their usage frequency over time. For example, we find that in 2019, the phrase “neural network” was used more often than “field data.” The word “shale” became less commonly used, but the term “unconventional” grew in frequency. An analysis of conference materials and metadata allows one to identify trends in a specific field of knowledge and predict its development in the near future.
Mitigation of Over-Frequency through Optimal Allocation of BESS in a Low-Inertia Power System
Authors: Masood Nahid-Al , Shazon Md. Nahid Haque , Ahmed Hasin Mussayab , Deeba Shohana Rahman
Published: September 2020

The primary objective of this paper is to alleviate the over-frequency problem in low-inertia power systems through optimal allocation of a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). With prolific integration of wind power, conventional fossil-fuel driven synchronous generators are being replaced in the generation fleet. Variable speed wind machines are connected to the grid via power electronics converters. As such, these machines usually do not participate in frequency regulation. During high wind penetration, a generation-rich zone of an interconnected power system may face significant over-frequency following the loss of interconnection. If the frequency goes above a certain threshold, an Over-Frequency Generator Shedding (OFGS) scheme is activated. This may cause considerable amount of generation cut in a low-inertia power system. To address this challenge, this paper develops a siting and sizing methodology of frequency-responsive BESS to simultaneously maintain frequency and voltage stabilities. As such, BESS is placed at the most voltage-sensitive bus, determined by an index called reactive power margin. Furthermore, an optimization model is formulated to determine the BESS size to avoid generation shedding. The proposed technique is applied to a low-inertia power system, which resembles the equivalent high-voltage transmission network of South Australia. The simulation results reveal that the developed methodology successfully mitigates the over-frequency phenomenon. In addition, the proposed technique is found to be more effective than its counterpart (i.e., without BESS) to enhance the frequency resilience of a low-inertia grid.
Reduction in the Fluctuating Load on Wind Turbines by Using a Combined Nacelle Acceleration Feedback and Lidar-Based Feedforward Control
Authors: Yamaguchi Atsushi , Yousefi Iman , Ishihara Takeshi
Published: September 2020

An advanced pitch controller is proposed for the load mitigation of wind turbines. This study focuses on the nacelle acceleration feedback control and lidar-based feedforward control, and discusses how these controllers contribute to reduce the load on wind turbines. The nacelle acceleration feedback control increases the damping ratio of the first mode of wind turbines, but it also increases the fluctuation in the rotor speed and thrust force, which results in the optimum gain value. The lidar-based feedforward control reduces the fluctuation in the rotor speed and the thrust force by decreasing the fluctuating wind load on the rotor, which reduces the fluctuating load on the tower. The combination of the nacelle acceleration feedback control and the lidar-based feedforward control successfully reduces both the response of the tower first mode and the fluctuation in the rotor speed at the same time.
The Roles of the Histone Protein Modifier EZH2 in the Uterus and Placenta
Authors: Mesa Ana M. , Rosenfeld Cheryl S. , Tuteja Geetu , Medrano Theresa I. , Cooke Paul S.
Published: September 2020

Epigenetic modifications regulate normal physiological, as well as pathological processes in various organs, including the uterus and placenta. Both organs undergo dramatic and rapid restructuring that depends upon precise orchestration of events. Epigenetic changes that alter transcription and translation of gene-sets regulate such responses. Histone modifications alter the chromatin structure, thereby affecting transcription factor access to gene promoter regions. Binding of histones to DNA is regulated by addition or removal of subunit methyl and other groups, which can inhibit or stimulate transcription. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is the catalytic subunit of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) that catalyzes tri-methylation of histone H3 at Lys 27 (H3K27me3) and subsequently suppresses transcription of genes bound by such histones. Uterine EZH2 expression exerts a critical role in development and function of this organ with deletion of this gene resulting in uterine hyperplasia and expression of cancer-associated transcripts. Elucidating the roles of EZH2 in uterus and placenta is essential as EZH2 dysregulation is associated with several uterine and placental pathologies. Herein, we discuss EZH2 functions in uterus and placenta, emphasizing its physiological and pathological importance.
Conversion of Xylose from Birch Hemicellulose Hydrolysate to 2,3-Butanediol with Bacillus vallismortis
Authors: Kuenz Anja , Jäger Malee , Niemi Harri , Kallioinen Mari , Mänttäri Mika , Prüße Ulf
Published: September 2020

Biotechnologically produced 2,3-butanediol (2,3-BDO) is a potential starting material for industrial bulk chemicals, such as butadiene or methyl ethyl ketone, which are currently produced from fossil feedstocks. So far, the highest 2,3-BDO concentrations have been obtained with risk class 2 microorganisms and pure glucose as substrate. However, as glucose stays in competition to food and feed industries, a lot of effort has been done in the last years finding efficient alternative substrates. Thereby xylose from hydrolysed wood hemicelluloses is a promising substrate for the production of 2,3-BDO. The risk class 1 microorganism Bacillus vallismortis strain was identified as a very promising 2,3-BDO producer. The strain is able to utilize xylose almost in the same manner as glucose. B. vallismortis is less prone to common inhibiting compounds in lignocellulosic extracts/hydrolysates. When using a concentrated hemicellulose fraction from birch wood hydrolysate, which was produced with ultrafiltration and after which the acetate concentration was reduced, a yield of 0.43 g g−1 was achieved and the xylose consumption and the 2,3-BDO production is basically the same as using pure xylose.
Characterization of Local Products for Their Industrial Use: The Case of Italian Potato Cultivars Analyzed by Untargeted and Targeted Methodologies
Authors: Ingallina Cinzia , Spano Mattia , Sobolev Anatoly P. , Esposito Cristina , Santarcangelo Cristina , Baldi Alessandra , Daglia Maria , Mannina Luisa
Published: September 2020

The chemical characterization of local Italian potato cultivars is reported to promote their preservation and use as high quality raw material in food industries. Twenty potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cultivars from Piedmont and Liguria Italian regions were investigated using NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) and RP-HPLC-PDA-ESI-MSn (Reversed Phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Photodiode Array Detector and Electrospray Ionization Mass Detector) methodologies. Water soluble and lipophilic metabolites were identified and quantified. With respect to literature data, a more complete 1H (protonic) spectral assignment of the aqueous potato extracts was reported, whereas the 1H NMR assignment of potato organic extracts was reported here for the first time. Phenolics resulted to be in high concentrations in the purple–blue colored Rouge des Flandres, Bergerac, Fleur Bleu, and Blue Star cultivars. Servane, Piatlina, and Malou showed the highest amount of galacturonic acid, a marker of pectin presence, whereas Jelly cultivar was characterized by high levels of monosaccharides. Roseval and Rubra Spes contained high levels of citric acid involved in the inhibition of the enzymatic browning in fresh-cut potato. High levels of the amino acids involved in the formation of pleasant-smell volatile compounds during potato cooking were detected in Rouge des Flandres, Blue Star, Bergerac, Roseval, and Ratte cultivars. These results suggest that each local cultivar is characterized by a proper chemical profile related to specific proprieties that can be useful to obtain high quality industrial products.
The Impact of Germination on Sorghum Nutraceutical Properties
Authors: Arouna Nafiou , Gabriele Morena , Pucci Laura
Published: September 2020

Sorghum is a gluten-free cereal representing a staple food in many countries of Africa, where germination is traditionally used for the preparation of several sorghum-based products. This study focused on the effect of germination on total phenolic content, in vitro and ex vivo antioxidant activity, and antihypertensive action of sorghum from Togo. Total phenolic content was estimated as Folin–Ciocalteu reducing capacity, while antioxidant activities were assessed using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) in vitro tests and ex vivo by the cellular antioxidant activity (CAA) assay on human erythrocytes. The antihypertensive effect of germinated and non-germinated sorghum peptides fraction was evaluated as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity. Despite our findings demonstrated no impact of germination on the total phenolic content, non-germinated sorghum showed significantly higher in vitro antioxidant activities than the germinated one; further, non-germinated sorghum displayed significantly higher ACE inhibition than germinated sorghum that, instead, at lower doses, exhibited better erythrocytes protection from peroxyl radicals. In conclusion, the germination process negatively impacted the in vitro antioxidant activity and the antihypertensive effect of sorghum while improved erythrocytes protection. This study evidenced better nutraceutical potential of non-germinated sorghum that, besides good antioxidant activity, represents an important source of ACE-inhibitory peptides. However, the germination process might have positively impacted the profile of bioactive compounds involved in the protection of human erythrocytes from oxidative damage.
The Effect of Different Oak Products Used during Fermentation and Ageing on the Sensory Properties of a White Wine over Time
Authors: Botha Anri , du Toit Wessel , Brand Jeanne , Kidd Martin , Groenewald Niël
Published: September 2020

The sensorial evaluation of Chenin blanc wine produced with different types of oak wood treatments over time has not been investigated before. The main aim of this study was to assess the sensory profile, using a trained panel, of a South African Chenin blanc wine fermented and matured in old barrels, three types of new oak barrels, two types of oak staves as well as a stainless steel tank over time, which has not been done before. Results indicate mainly separation between the stainless-steel tank/old barrel treatments from the stave and new barrel treatments, with separation between the latter two treatments also being found. More fruity descriptors were used in the stainless-steel tank and old barrel treatments, with oak-related descriptors being used in the stave and new barrel treatments. Separation between among the new barrel and stave treatments were also noted, which was still reflected during bottle maturation. These results indicate that winemakers need to take cognizance of the sensorial differences induced by barrel and stave maturation in white wines and how these evolve over time.
Changes of the Aroma Composition and Other Quality Traits of Blueberry ‘Garden Blue’ during the Cold Storage and Subsequent Shelf Life
Authors: Yan Xiaoxue , Yan Jun , Pan Siyi , Yuan Fang
Published: September 2020

The changes of volatile composition and other quality traits of blueberry during postharvest storage were investigated. Blueberries were packaged in vented clam-shell containers, and stored at 0 °C for 0, 15 and 60 days, followed by storage at room temperature (25 °C) for up to 8 days for quality evaluation. The firmness, pH, and total soluble solids increased by 8.42%, 8.92% and 42.9%, respectively, after 60 days of storage at 0 °C. Titratable acidity decreased 18.1% after 60 days of storage at 0 °C. The volatile change was monitored using headspace–solid-phase microextraction–gas chromatography–quadrupole time-of-flight–mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-TOF-MS) and off-odor was evaluated by sensory panel. Volatile compounds generally showed a downward trend during cold storage. However, the subsequent shelf life was the most remarkable period of volatile change, and was represented by the strong fluctuation of ethyl acetate and the rapid decrease of terpenoids. Extending storage from 15 to 60 days under cold condition still resulted in an acceptable odor. However, subsequent storage at higher temperature resulted in a quick deterioration in sensory acceptability. The results proved that cold storage was a reliable way to maintain the quality of blueberry, and flavor deterioration during subsequent shelf life was more fatal to the blueberry flavor.