bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Anonymity versus Examinee Name on a Measure of Depressive Symptoms in Adolescents
Authors: Merino-Soto César , Copez-Lonzoy Anthony , Toledano-Toledano Filiberto , Nabors Laura A. , Rodrígez-Castro Jorge Homero , Hernández-Salinas Gregorio , Núñez-Benítez Miguel Ángel
Published: June 2022

There is evidence in the literature that anonymity when investigating individual variables could increase the objectivity of the measurement of some psychosocial constructs. However, there is a significant gap in the literature on the theoretical and methodological usefulness of simultaneously assessing the same measurement instrument across two groups, with one group remaining anonymous and a second group revealing identities using names. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the psychometric characteristics of a measure of depressive symptoms in two groups of adolescents as a consequence of identification or anonymity at the time of answering the measuring instrument. The participants were 189 adolescents from Metropolitan Lima; classrooms were randomly assigned to the identified group (n = 89; application requesting to write one’s own name) or to the anonymous group (n = 100; application under usual conditions), who responded to the Childhood Depression Inventory, short version (CDI-S). Univariate characteristics (mean, dispersion, distribution), dimensionality, reliability, and measurement invariance were analyzed. Specific results in each of the statistical and psychometric aspects evaluated indicated strong psychometric similarity. The practical and ethical implications of the present results for professional and research activity are discussed.
Probiotics in Children with Asthma
Authors: Ciprandi Giorgio , Tosca Maria Angela
Published: June 2022

A type-2 immune response usually sustains wheezing and asthma in children. In addition, dysbiosis of digestive and respiratory tracts is detectable in patients with wheezing and asthma. Probiotics may rebalance immune response, repair dysbiosis, and mitigate airway inflammation. As a result, probiotics may prevent asthma and wheezing relapse. There is evidence that some probiotic strains may improve asthma outcomes in children. In this context, the PROPAM study provided evidence that two specific strains significantly prevented asthma exacerbations and wheezing episodes. Therefore, oral probiotics could be used as add-on asthma therapy in managing children with asthma, but the choice should be based on documented evidence.
New Corrosion Inhibitors Based on Perylene Units in Epoxy Ester Resin Coatings
Authors: Kohl Miroslav , Alafid Fouzy , Bouška Marek , Krejčová Anna , Raycha Yash , Kalendová Andréa , Hrdina Radim , Burgert Ladislav
Published: June 2022

Four new compounds from perylene dianhydride were prepared and tested for their anti-corrosion properties. Dizinc salt of perylene-3,4,9,10-tetracarboxylic acid and dimagnesium salts of perylene-3,4,9,10-tetracarboxylic acid, 5,5′-(1,3,8,10-tetraoxo-1,3,8,10-tetrahydroanthra[2,1,9-def:6,5,10-d′e′f′] diisoquinoline-2,9-diyl) bis(2-hydroxybenzoic acid) and N,N′-bis[3,3′-(dimethylamino)propylamine]-3,4,9,10-perylenediimide were characterized by analytical methods (SEM, EDX, X-ray) and parameters used in the field of paints (density, oil number and critical volume concentrations of pigment). The pigments (in a pigment volume concentration series) were used to prepare paints also containing a perylene C26H14N2O4 (Compound I) derivative pigment plus inert titanium dioxide to maintain a constant concentration of solids in the paint film. A mixture containing zinc nitroisophthalate and both the perylene derivative and titanium dioxide served as the reference material. The paints were applied to steel panels in two layers with a ruler. The organic coatings were subjected to electrochemical measurements and accelerated cyclic corrosion tests. The highest corrosion resistance was found for the coating containing C24H8O8Mg2. Superior to the coating containing either C26H14N2O4 or the conventional corrosion inhibitor C8H5N06-Zn, this pigment type acted mainly by a mechanism based on the compound’s complexation capacity at the metallic surface/organic coating/corrosion medium interface. The organic coatings containing perylene acid salts also attained high mechanical resistance.
Board Level Drop Test for Evaluating the Reliability of High-Strength Sn–Bi Composite Solder Pastes with Thermosetting Epoxy
Authors: Liu Lu , Xue Songbai , Ni Ruiyang , Zhang Peng
Published: June 2022

The Sn–Bi solder paste is commonly used in electronic assembly and packaging, but its brittleness causes poor reliability in shock environments. In this study, the mechanical reliability of Sn–Bi solder paste and Sn–Bi composite solder paste with thermosetting epoxy (TSEP Sn–Bi) was investigated with the board level drop test. The crack characterizations of solder joints were evaluated using a stereomicroscope after the dye and pull test. The microstructure characterization and failure types of solder joints were analyzed by a scanning electron microscope (SEM), and an energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) was employed to investigate the initial phase identification and elemental analysis. Compared with Sn–Bi solder paste, the results show that the TSEP Sn–Bi solder pastes reduced the proportion of the complete failure and partial failure of the solder joints during the drop test. The microstructure observation of the crack path showed that the Sn–Bi/TSEP Sn–Bi solder joints were reinforced through the cured epoxy resin. The number of drops of the Sn–Bi/TSEP Sn–Bi-x (x = 3, 5, 7) solder joints had 1.55, 2.57, and over 3.00 times that of Sn–Bi/Sn–Bi solder joints after the board level drop test.
Nano- and Crystal Engineering Approaches in the Development of Therapeutic Agents for Neoplastic Diseases
Authors: Kiyonga Emmanuel M. , Kekani Linda N. , Chidziwa Tinotenda V. , Kahwenga Kudzai D. , Bronkhorst Elmien , Milne Marnus , Poka Madan S. , Mokhele Shoeshoe , Demana Patrick H. , Witika Bwalya A.
Published: June 2022

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. It is a global quandary that requires the administration of many different active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) with different characteristics. As is the case with many APIs, cancer treatments exhibit poor aqueous solubility which can lead to low drug absorption, increased doses, and subsequently poor bioavailability and the occurrence of more adverse events. Several strategies have been envisaged to overcome this drawback, specifically for the treatment of neoplastic diseases. These include crystal engineering, in which new crystal structures are formed to improve drug physicochemical properties, and/or nanoengineering in which the reduction in particle size of the pristine crystal results in much improved physicochemical properties. Co-crystals, which are supramolecular complexes that comprise of an API and a co-crystal former (CCF) held together by non-covalent interactions in crystal lattice, have been developed to improve the performance of some anti-cancer drugs. Similarly, nanosizing through the formation of nanocrystals and, in some cases, the use of both crystal and nanoengineering to obtain nano co-crystals (NCC) have been used to increase the solubility as well as overall performance of many anticancer drugs. The formulation process of both micron and sub-micron crystalline formulations for the treatment of cancers makes use of relatively simple techniques and minimal amounts of excipients aside from stabilizers and co-formers. The flexibility of these crystalline formulations with regards to routes of administration and ability to target neoplastic tissue makes them ideal strategies for effectiveness of cancer treatments. In this review, we describe the use of crystalline formulations for the treatment of various neoplastic diseases. In addition, this review attempts to highlight the gaps in the current translation of these potential treatments into authorized medicines for use in clinical practice.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Peritoneal Carcinomatosis: Evaluation of High b-Value Computed Diffusion-Weighted Imaging
Authors: Ablefoni Maxime , Leonhardi Jakob , Ehrengut Constantin , Mehdorn Matthias , Sucher Robert , Gockel Ines , Denecke Timm , Meyer Hans-Jonas
Published: June 2022

Over the last few years, diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) has become increasingly relevant in the diagnostic assessment of peritoneal carcinomatosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the benefits of high-b DWI (c-DWI) compared to standard DWI in patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis. A cohort of 40 patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis were included in this retrospective study. DWI was performed with b-values of 50, 400, and 800 or 1000 s/mm² on a 1.5-T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner. C-DWI was calculated using a mono-exponential model with high b-values of 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, and 5000 s/mm². All c-DWI images with high b-values were compared in terms of volume, detectability of peritoneal lesions, and image quality with the DWI sequence acquired with a b-value of 800 or 1000 s/mm² by two readers. In the group with a b-value of 800 s/mm², there was no statistically significant difference in terms of lesion volume. In the second group with a b-value of 1000 s/mm², peritoneal carcinomatosis lesions were statistically significantly larger than in the c-DWI with a- high b-value of 2000 s/mm² (median 7 cm³, range 1–26 cm³vs. median 6 cm³, range 1–83 cm³, p < 0.05). In both groups, there was a marked decrease in the detectability of peritoneal lesions starting at b = 2000 s/mm². In addition, image quality decreased noticeably from c-DWI at b = 3000 s/mm². In both groups, all images with high b-values at b = 4000 s/mm² and 5000 s/mm² were not diagnostically valuable due to poor image quality. The c-DWI technique offers good diagnostic performance without additional scanning time. High c-DWI b-values up to b = 1000 s/mm² provide comparable detectability of peritoneal carcinomatosis compared to standard DWI. Higher b-values over 1500 s/mm² result in lower image quality, which might lead to misdiagnosis.
Cocaine/Levamisole-Induced, Skin-Limited ANCA-Associated Vasculitis with Pyoderma Gangrenosum-like Presentation
Authors: Urosevic-Maiwald Mirjana , Hardenberg Jan-Hendrik B. , Hafner Jürg , Brüggen Marie-Charlotte
Published: June 2022

The use of levamisole as the most frequent adulterant of cocaine has merged in previously unknown toxicities, notably a disease entity called cocaine/levamisole-associated autoimmune syndrome (CLAAS). Clinically, CLAAS can manifest with diverse cutaneous and extracutaneous features sharing common laboratory findings (neutropenia, autoantibody patterns). We report the case of a cocaine-abusing female patient with relapsing episodes of painful ulcers, worsening and expanding over a three-year period. The case exhibited all features of a drug-induced, skin-limited, ANCA-associated vasculitis, evolving over time to PG-like findings. In both disease stages, the patient responded well to the cessation of cocaine exposure and systemic glucocorticosteroids. This case demonstrates the continuous nature of cutaneous CLAAS manifestations in a single patient. CLAAS has become a major public health issue in the at-risk group of cocaine users, and clinicians should be alert of this condition when treating cocaine users presenting with single or multiple skin ulcerations.
Primary Tumor Resection Provides Survival Benefits for Patients with Synchronous Brain Metastases from Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Cheng Xiaofei , Li Yanqing , Chen Dong , Xu Xiangming , Liu Fanlong , Zhao Feng
Published: June 2022

Background: Brain metastases (BMs), particularly synchronous brain metastases, in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients are uncommon. The survival benefit of primary tumor resection (PTR) in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer is controversial. Whether PTR can bring survival benefits to patients with BMs of CRC has not been reported. Methods: From 2010 to 2016, 581 CRC patients with BMs from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database were divided into PTR and non-PTR groups. The log-rank test was used to compare the survival distributions. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate survival. By controlling additional prognostic factors, a Cox proportional multivariate regression analysis was used to estimate the survival benefit of PTR. Results: The median overall survival for CRC patients with synchronous BMs was 3 months, with a 1-year survival rate of 27.2% and a 2-year survival rate of 12.8%. The PTR group contained 171 patients (29.4%), whereas the non-PTR group had 410 patients (70.6%). Patients who underwent PTR had a 1-year survival rate of 40.2% compared to 21.7% in those who did not (p < 0.0001). Cox proportional analysis showed that patients ≥60 years (hazard ratio [HR] 1.718, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.423–2.075, p < 0.0001) had a shorter OS than patients < 60 years of age. OS was better in CEA-negative than in CEA-positive patients (HR 0.652, 95% CI 0.472–0.899, p = 0.009). Patients in whom the primary tumor was removed had considerably improved prognoses (HR 0.654, 95% CI 0.531–0.805, p < 0.0001). Subgroup analysis revealed that the PTR group achieved a survival advantage except for patients with CEA negative. Conclusions: Patients with synchronous BMs from CRC may benefit from primary tumor resection (PTR). Age, CEA level, and PTR were independent prognostic risk factors for CRC patients with synchronous BMs.
Advance in the Diagnostics and Management of Musculoskeletal Diseases
Authors: de Sire Alessandro , Ferraro Elisabetta , Leigheb Massimiliano
Published: June 2022

Musculoskeletal disorders are a broad spectrum of diseases, affecting muscles, bones, ligaments, and tendons worldwide [...]
Improved Visualization of Prostate Cancer Using Multichannel Computed Diffusion Images: Combining ADC and DWI
Authors: Hammon Matthias , Saake Marc , Laun Frederik B. , Heiss Rafael , Seuss Nicola , Janka Rolf , Cavallaro Alexander , Uder Michael , Seuss Hannes
Published: June 2022

(1) Background: For the peripheral zone of the prostate, diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) is the most important MRI technique; however, a high b-value image (hbDWI) must always be evaluated in conjunction with an apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) map. We aimed to unify the important contrast features of both a hbDWI and ADC in one single image, termed multichannel computed diffusion images (mcDI), and evaluate the values of these images in a retrospective clinical study; (2) Methods: Based on the 2D histograms of hbDWI and ADC images of 70 patients with histologically proven prostate cancer (PCa) in the peripheral zone, an algorithm was designed to generate the mcDI. Then, three radiologists evaluated the data of 56 other patients twice in three settings (T2w images +): (1) hbDWI and ADC; (2) mcDI; and (3) mcDI, hbDWI, and ADC. The sensitivity, specificity, and inter-reader variability were evaluated; (3) Results: The overall sensitivity/specificity were 0.91/0.78 (hbDWI + ADC), 0.85/0.88 (mcDI), and 0.97/0.88 (mcDI + hbDWI + ADC). The kappa-values for the inter-reader variability were 0.732 (hbDWI + ADC), 0.800 (mcDI), and 0.853 (mcDI + hbDWI + ADC). (4) Conclusions: By using mcDI, the specificity of the MRI detection of PCa was increased at the expense of the sensitivity. By combining the conventional diffusion data with the mcDI data, both the sensitivity and specificity were improved.
Entropy-Based Distributed Behavior Modeling for Multi-Agent UAVs
Authors: Fina Luke , Smith Douglas Shane , Carnahan Jason , Sevil Hakki Erhan
Published: June 2022

This study presents a novel distributed behavior model for multi-agent unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) based on the entropy of the system. In the developed distributed behavior model, when the entropy of the system is high, the UAVs get closer to reduce the overall entropy; this is called the grouping phase. If the entropy is less than the predefined threshold, then the UAVs switch to the mission phase and proceed to a global goal. Computer simulations are performed in AirSim, an open-source, cross-platform simulator. Comprehensive parameter analysis is performed, and parameters with the best results are implemented in multiple-waypoint navigation experiments. The results show the feasibility of the concept and the effectiveness of the distributed behavior model for multi-agent UAVs.
State-of-the-Art Statistical Approaches for Estimating Flood Events
Authors: Fawad Muhammad , Cassalho Felício , Ren Jingli , Chen Lu , Yan Ting
Published: June 2022

Reliable quantile estimates of annual peak flow discharges (APFDs) are needed for the design and operation of major hydraulic infrastructures and for more general flood risk management and planning. In the present study, linear higher order-moments (LH-moments) and nonparametric kernel functions were applied to APFDs at 18 stream gauge stations in Punjab, Pakistan. The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the impacts of different quantile estimation methods towards water resources management and engineering applications by means of comparing the state-of-the-art approaches and their quantile estimates calculated from LH-moments and nonparametric kernel functions. The LH-moments (η = 0, 1, 2) were calculated for the three best-fitted distributions, namely, generalized logistic (GLO), generalized extreme value (GEV), and generalized Pareto (GPA), and the performances of these distributions for each level of LH-moments (η = 0, 1, 2) were compared in terms of Anderson–Darling, Kolmogorov–Smirnov, and Cramér–Von Mises tests and LH-moment ratio diagrams. The findings indicated that GPA and GEV distributions were best fitted for most stations, followed by GLO distribution. The quantile estimates derived from LH-moments (η = 0, 1, 2) had a lower relative absolute error, particularly for higher return periods. However, the Gaussian kernel function provided a close estimate among nonparametric kernel functions for small return periods when compared to LH-moments (η = 0, 1, 2), thus highlighting the importance of using LH-moments (η = 0, 1, 2) and nonparametric kernel functions in water resources management and engineering projects.
Multi-Objective Optimization of the Basic and Regenerative ORC Integrated with Working Fluid Selection
Authors: Zhou Yuhao , Ruan Jiongming , Hong Guotong , Miao Zheng
Published: June 2022

A multi-objective optimization based on the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA-II) is carried out in the present work for the basic organic Rankine cycle (BORC) and regenerative ORC (RORC) systems. The selection of working fluids is integrated into multi-objective optimization by parameterizing the pure working fluids into a two-dimensional array. Two sets of decision indicators, exergy efficiency vs. thermal efficiency and exergy efficiency vs. levelized energy cost (LEC), are adopted and examined. Five decision variables including the turbine inlet temperature, vapor superheat degree, the evaporator and condenser pinch temperature differences, and the mass fraction of the mixture are optimized. It is found that the turbine inlet temperature is the most effective factor for both the BORC and RORC systems. Compared to the reverse variation of exergy efficiency and thermal efficiency, only a weak conflict exists between the exergy efficiency and LEC which tends to make the binary objective optimization be a single objective optimization. The RORC provides higher thermal efficiency than BORC at the same exergy efficiency while the LEC of RORC also becomes higher because the bare module cost of buying one more heat exchange is higher than the cost reduction due to the reduced heat transfer area. Under the heat source temperature of 423.15 K, the final obtained exergy and thermal efficiencies are 45.6% and 16.6% for BORC, and 38.6% and 20.7% for RORC, respectively.
A Novel Structure to Improve the Erase Speed in 3D NAND Flash Memory to Which a Cell-On-Peri (COP) Structure and a Ferroelectric Memory Device Are Applied
Authors: Choi Seonjun , Jeong Jae Kyeong , Kang Myounggon , Song Yun-heub
Published: June 2022

In this paper, a Silicon-Pillar (SP) structure, a new structure to improve the erase speed in the 3D NAND flash structure to which ferroelectric memory is applied, is proposed and verified. In the proposed structure, a hole is supplied to the channel through a pillar in the P+ crystal silicon sub-region located at the bottom of the 3D NAND flash structure to which the COP structure is applied. To verify this, we first confirmed that when the Gate Induced Drain Leakage (GIDL) erasing method used in the 3D NAND structure using the existing Charge Trap Flash (CTF) memory is applied as it is, the operation speed takes more than 10ms, for various reasons. Next, as a result of using the SP structure to solve this problem, even if the conventional erasing method was used until the thickness of the pillar was 20 nm, thanks to the rapidly supplied hole carriers, a fast-erasing rate of 1us was achieved. Additionally, this result is up to 10,000 times faster than the GIDL deletion method. Next, it was confirmed that when the pillar thickness is 10 nm, the erase operation time is greatly delayed by the conventional erasing method, but this can also be solved by appropriately adjusting the operating voltage and time. In conclusion, it was confirmed that, when the proposed SP structure is applied, it is possible to maximize the fast operation performance of the ferroelectric memory while securing the biggest advantage of the 3D NAND flash structure, the degree of integration.
A Digital Support Platform for Community Energy: One-Stop-Shop Architecture, Development and Evaluation
Authors: Hill Martin , Duffy Annie
Published: June 2022

In the European energy market, the community energy sector is earmarked to make a significant contribution to the transition from fossil fuels to sustainable sources. Based on the diffusion of innovation model, large-scale development of community energy requires that the concept and the success of existing energy communities be widely communicated to potential participants and that user confidence be developed over time. In this paper, we present the architecture, design, prototyping, and testing of a digital support platform, co-designed with EU-wide energy communities, to support this process. The platform has been designed to engage early-stage or ongoing groups to progress projects and to connect and share experiences with other communities. This “community of communities” creates the necessary communication channel defined in the Diffusion of Innovation model. A transactional architecture for such a platform is outlined with clear links to all community energy actors. Based on this architecture, a prototype one-stop-shop (OSS) implementation is presented. Feedback gathered and lessons learned from beta testing with a representative group of end-users are outlined. The OSS architecture shows potential as a communications channel to expand the community energy concept and as a monitoring tool to track the progress of the energy community sector.
Advanced Technologies in Smart Cities
Authors: Mazza Daniela , Tarchi Daniele , Juan Angel A.
Published: June 2022

World urbanization is an important process: it is predicted that by 2050 about 64% of the developing world and 86% of the developed world will be urbanized [...]
Research on 3D Design of High-Load Counter-Rotating Compressor Based on Aerodynamic Optimization and CFD Coupling Method
Authors: Yan Tingsong , Chen Huanlong , Fang Jiwei , Yan Peigang
Published: June 2022

In view of the flow instability problem caused by the strong shock wave and secondary flow in the channel of the high-load counter-rotating compressor, this paper adopts the design method of coupling aerodynamic optimization technology and CFD and establishes a three-dimensional aerodynamic optimization design platform for the blade channel based on an artificial neural network and genetic algorithm. The aerodynamic optimization design and internal flow-field diagnosis of a high-load counter-rotating compressor with a 1/2 + 1 aerodynamic configuration are carried out. The research indicates that the optimized blade channel can drive and adjust the flow better, and the expected supercharging purpose and efficient energy conversion process are achieved by controlling the intensity of the shock wave and secondary flow in the channel. The total pressure ratio at the design point of the compressor exceeds 2.9, the adiabatic efficiency reaches 87%, and the aerodynamic performance is excellent at the off-design condition, which is on the advanced design level of the same type of axial compressor. The established aerodynamic optimization design platform has important practical engineering applications for the development of high thrust-to-weight ratio aero-engine compression systems.
Secure Routing-Based Energy Optimization for IoT Application with Heterogeneous Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Nagaraju Regonda , C Venkatesan , J Kalaivani , G Manju , Goyal S. B. , Verma Chaman , Safirescu Calin Ovidiu , Mihaltan Traian Candin
Published: June 2022

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are increasingly making an impact in a wide range of domain-specific applications. In IoT-integrated WSNs, nodes generally function with limited battery units and, hence, energy efficiency is considered as the main design challenge. For homogeneous WSNs, several routing techniques based on clusters are available, but only a few of them are focused on energy-efficient heterogeneous WSNs (HWSNs). However, security provisioning in end-to-end communication is the main design challenge in HWSNs. This research work presents an energy optimizing secure routing scheme for IoT application in heterogeneous WSNs. In our proposed scheme, secure routing is established for confidential data of the IoT through sensor nodes with heterogeneous energy using the multipath link routing protocol (MLRP). After establishing the secure routing, the energy and network lifetime is improved using the hybrid-based TEEN (H-TEEN) protocol, which also has load balancing capacity. Furthermore, the data storage capacity is improved using the ubiquitous data storage protocol (U-DSP). This routing protocol has been implemented and compared with two other existing routing protocols, and it shows an improvement in performance parameters such as throughput, energy efficiency, end-to-end delay, network lifetime and data storage capacity.
Deep Learning Neural Networks for Short-Term PV Power Forecasting via Sky Image Method
Authors: Kuo Wen-Chi , Chen Chiun-Hsun , Chen Sih-Yu , Wang Chi-Chuan
Published: June 2022

Solar photovoltaic (PV) power generation is prone to drastic changes due to cloud cover. The power is easily affected within a very short period of time. Thus, the accuracy of grasping cloud distribution is important for PV power forecasting. This study proposes a novel sky image method to obtain the cloud coverage rate used for short-term PV power forecasting. The authors developed an image analysis algorithm from the sky images obtained by an on-site whole sky imager (WSI). To verify the effectiveness of cloud coverage rate as the parameter for PV power forecast, four different combinations of weather features were used to compare the accuracy of short-term PV power forecasting. In addition to the artificial neural network (ANN) model, long short-term memory (LSTM) and the gated recurrent unit (GRU) were also introduced to compare their applicability conditions. After a comprehensive analysis, the coverage rate is the key weather feature, which can improve the accuracy by about 2% compared to the case without coverage feature. It also indicates that the LSTM and GRU models revealed better forecast results under different weather conditions, meaning that the cloud coverage rate proposed in this study has a significant benefit for short-term PV power forecasting.
Selecting Surface Inclination for Maximum Solar Power
Authors: Raptis Ioannis-Panagiotis , Moustaka Anna , Kosmopoulos Panagiotis , Kazadzis Stelios
Published: June 2022

Maximum efficiency of surfaces that exploit solar energy, including Photovoltaic Panels and Thermal collectors, is achieved by installing them in a certain inclination (tilt). Most common approach is to select an inclination angle equal to the location’s latitude. This is based on the astronomical calculations of the sun’s position throughout the year but ignores meteorological factors. Cloud coverage and aerosols tend to change the direct irradiance but also the radiance sky distribution, thus horizontal surfaces receive larger amounts than tilted ones in specific atmospheric conditions (e.g., cases of cloud presence). In the present study we used 15 years of data, from 25 cities in Europe and North Africa in order to estimate the optimal tilt angle and the related energy benefits based in real atmospheric conditions. Data were retrieved from Copernicus Atmospheric Monitoring Service (CAMS). Four diffuse irradiance, various models are compared, and their differences are evaluated. Equations, extracted from solar irradiance and cloud properties regressions, are suggested to estimate the optimal tilt angle in regions, where no climatological data are available. In addition, the impact of cloud coverage is parameterized using the Cloud Modification Factor (CMF) and an equation is proposed to estimate the optimal tilt angle. A realistic representation of the photovoltaic energy production and a subsequent financial analysis were additionally performed. The results are able to support the prognosis of energy outcome and should be part of energy planning and the decision making for optimum solar power exploitation into the international clean energy transitions. Finally, results are compared to a global study and differences on the optimal tilt angle at cities of Northern Europe is presented.
Flame Propagation Characteristics of Hybrid Explosion of Ethylene and Polyethylene Mixture under Pressure Accumulation
Authors: Ji Wentao , Yang Jingjing , Wang Yang , He Jia , Wen Xiaoping , Wang Yan
Published: June 2022

In order to study the flame propagation characteristics of a ethylene/polyethylene hybrid explosion under pressure accumulation, a visual pressure-bearing gas/power hybrid-explosion experimental platform was built. The flame propagation characteristics of polyethylene and ethylene/polyethylene hybrid explosions in the closed vessel were analyzed. The results show that the flame brightness, flame front continuity and average flame propagation velocity of polyethylene dust explosion in the closed vessel increased first and then decreased when the polyethylene dust concentration increased. The curve of the flame propagation velocity with time had obvious pulsation characteristics. Adding 1% and 3% ethylene to different concentrations of polyethylene dust significantly improved its explosion flame brightness, flame front continuity and average flame propagation velocity. Moreover, it also improved the fluctuation amplitude of the explosion flame propagation velocity with time curve. The explosion flame of the polyethylene dust and ethylene/polyethylene hybrid mixture included four zones during the propagation process, which were denoted as the unburned zone, preheated zone, premixed flame zone and dust flame zone. The addition of ethylene to polyethylene dust can significantly increase its thickness of premixed flame zone and preheated zone, and the thickness increased when the ethylene concentration increased.
Development of Methods for Route Optimization of Work in Inhomogeneous Radiation Fields to Minimize the Dose Load of Personnel
Authors: Tashlykov Oleg L. , Sesekin Alexander N. , Chentsov Alexander G. , Chentsov Alexei A.
Published: June 2022

The importance of the optimization principle implementation in ensuring the radiation protection of NPP personnel was emphasized. The potential of route optimization in reducing the dose load of the personnel of nuclear power plants and other nuclear facilities is shown. The paper considers the main directions of the authors’ development of the theory and algorithms of route optimization of work in inhomogeneous radiation fields during maintenance, repair, modernization, dismantling of NPP equipment, and elimination of the radiation accident consequences. The results of the computational experiments that were carried out with the “Uran” supercomputer of the IMM UB RAS for the checking of the developed algorithms are presented. The article provides an overview of the developed methods of route optimization of work using the dynamic programming method, including consideration of the constraints in the form of precedence conditions, which means the requirement to perform certain tasks only after the completion of others. Dijkstra’s method was used to solve the “dosimetrist’s problem”, where the optimal route for the dosimetrist’s movement is being constructed, including obstacles bypassing and visiting specified points in the room where it is necessary to perform work to determine the radiation environment characteristics such as measuring the radiation dose rate, taking samples, etc. The routing of movements with the non-additive aggregation of costs is considered. The content of the problem is shown on the example of the radiation accident consequences eliminating on a locality, where, as a result of radioactive fragments scattering, a system of emitting elements appears, which must be deactivated, i.e., dismantled or screened. This task must be carried out in consecutive cycles with a definite threshold level of personnel exposure per shift. A characteristic feature is the dependence of cost functions (here, dosimetric cost) on the list of tasks: only sources that have not been dismantled yet continue emitting at the moment. Precedence conditions are also possible.
Recent Advances on CO2 Mitigation Technologies: On the Role of Hydrogenation Route via Green H2
Authors: Varvoutis Georgios , Lampropoulos Athanasios , Mandela Evridiki , Konsolakis Michalis , Marnellos George E.
Published: June 2022

The increasing trend in global energy demand has led to an extensive use of fossil fuels and subsequently in a marked increase in atmospheric CO2 content, which is the main culprit for the greenhouse effect. In order to successfully reverse this trend, many schemes for CO2 mitigation have been proposed, taking into consideration that large-scale decarbonization is still infeasible. At the same time, the projected increase in the share of variable renewables in the future energy mix will necessitate large-scale curtailment of excess energy. Collectively, the above crucial problems can be addressed by the general scheme of CO2 hydrogenation. This refers to the conversion of both captured CO2 and green H2 produced by RES-powered water electrolysis for the production of added-value chemicals and fuels, which are a great alternative to CO2 sequestration and the use of green H2 as a standalone fuel. Indeed, direct utilization of both CO2 and H2 via CO2 hydrogenation offers, on the one hand, the advantage of CO2 valorization instead of its permanent storage, and the direct transformation of otherwise curtailed excess electricity to stable and reliable carriers such as methane and methanol on the other, thereby bypassing the inherent complexities associated with the transformation towards a H2-based economy. In light of the above, herein an overview of the two main CO2 abatement schemes, Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) and Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU), is firstly presented, focusing on the route of CO2 hydrogenation by green electrolytic hydrogen. Next, the integration of large-scale RES-based H2 production with CO2 capture units on-site industrial point sources for the production of added-value chemicals and energy carriers is contextualized and highlighted. In this regard, a specific reference is made to the so-called Power-to-X schemes, exemplified by the production of synthetic natural gas via the Power-to-Gas route. Lastly, several outlooks towards the future of CO2 hydrogenation are presented.
Real-Time Detection of Vine Trunk for Robot Localization Using Deep Learning Models Developed for Edge TPU Devices
Authors: Alibabaei Khadijeh , Assunção Eduardo , Gaspar Pedro D. , Soares Vasco N. G. J. , Caldeira João M. L. P.
Published: June 2022

The concept of the Internet of Things (IoT) in agriculture is associated with the use of high-tech devices such as robots and sensors that are interconnected to assess or monitor conditions on a particular plot of land and then deploy the various factors of production such as seeds, fertilizer, water, etc., accordingly. Vine trunk detection can help create an accurate map of the vineyard that the agricultural robot can rely on to safely navigate and perform a variety of agricultural tasks such as harvesting, pruning, etc. In this work, the state-of-the-art single-shot multibox detector (SSD) with MobileDet Edge TPU and MobileNet Edge TPU models as the backbone was used to detect the tree trunks in the vineyard. Compared to the SSD with MobileNet-V1, MobileNet-V2, and MobileDet as backbone, the SSD with MobileNet Edge TPU was more accurate in inference on the Raspberrypi, with almost the same inference time on the TPU. The SSD with MobileDet Edge TPU achieved the second-best accurate model. Additionally, this work examines the effects of some features, including the size of the input model, the quantity of training data, and the diversity of the training dataset. Increasing the size of the input model and the training dataset increased the performance of the model.
Potential Impact of Climate Change on Fish Reproductive Phenology: A Case Study in Gonochoric and Hermaphrodite Commercially Important Species from the Southern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Brulé Thierry , Renán Ximena , Colás-Marrufo Teresa
Published: June 2022

In tropical regions, temperature is the fundamental environmental factor controlling the reproduction-related physiological activities of fish. Tropical fish are particularly sensitive to climate change since they develop in a relatively stable thermal environment. A review was done to assess the potential effect of temperature rise on reproduction and population structure in the commercially important hermaphrodite grouper and wrasse species, and in gonochoric snapper species in the southern Gulf of Mexico. Temperature increase can disturb the aromatase synthesis and/or activity, which can affect the reproductive cycle and sexual differentiation in all studied species and the sexual inversion process in sequential hermaphrodites. Moreover, a mistiming or discontinuity in spawning seasonality could occur, with an alteration in the sex ratio in favor of males and a consequent reduction in populations’ fecundity. Furthermore, if the level of fishing exploitation enhances species’ sensitivity to environmental changes, then the stock of red grouper Epinephelus morio would be more affected by temperature increases than other species because it is the only fish population in the Campeche Bank currently assessed as overexploited.
Purified Saponins in Momordica charantia Treated with High Hydrostatic Pressure and Ionic Liquid-Based Aqueous Biphasic Systems
Authors: Ma Jing , Yang Hongkai , Chen Yajing , Feng Xiaoping , Wu Chunyu , Long Fangyu
Published: June 2022

Momordica charantia L. (Cucurbitaceae) is rich in saponins, which have multiple biological effects. In this study, the total saponins of M. charantia were extracted by high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) technology. The optimal extraction process was determined (ethanol concentration 68%, pressure-holding time 8 min, ratio of material to solvent 1:35 and pressure 510 MPa), and the extraction amount of saponins reached 127.890 mg/g. On this basis, an ionic liquid-based aqueous biphasic system was constructed to purify the total saponins. Under the optimized conditions, the purity of M. charantia saponins was 76.06%. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC/MS) was used to characterize the saponins in the purified extract of M. charantia. It was found that there were four kinds of saponins in the extract of M. charantia: kuguaglycoside A, momordicoside L, kuguacin B and kuguacin J, providing a basis for the study of the biological activity of saponins.
Correction: Xie et al. Selection and Application of ssDNA Aptamers for Fluorescence Biosensing Detection of Malachite Green. Foods 2022, 11, 801
Authors: Xie Miaojia , Chen Zanlin , Zhao Fengguang , Lin Ying , Zheng Suiping , Han Shuangyan
Published: June 2022

In the original publication [...]
Comparative Effects of Traditional Versus Genetically Modified Soybean Oils on Colon Tumorigenesis in Mice
Authors: Tu Maolin , Sun Quancai , Zhang Jianan , Zhang Guodong
Published: June 2022

Soybean oil, which has high abundance of linoleic acid (LA, 18:2ω-6), is the most commonly consumed edible oil. Recent studies support that a high dietary intake of LA is linked with increased risks of developing colonic inflammation and colon cancer. Here we studied the effects of the genetically modified Plenish® soybean oil, which has low abundance of LA as well as α-linolenic acid (ALA, 18:3ω-3), on development of azoxymethane (AOM)/dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colon tumorigenesis in mice. Compared with a diet rich in traditional soybean oil, administration of a diet enriched with the Plenish oil has little impact on AOM/DSS-induced colon tumorigenesis, colonic infiltration of immune cells, expressions of inflammatory genes, and tumor markers. These results suggest that the traditional and the Plenish soybean oils have similar effects on development of AOM/DSS-induced colon cancer in mice.
Effects of Modified Atmosphere Packaging with Different Gas Ratios on the Quality Changes of Golden Pompano (Trachinotus ovatus) Fillets during Superchilling Storage
Authors: Zhang Xiaofan , Pan Chuang , Chen Shengjun , Xue Yong , Wang Yueqi , Wu Yanyan
Published: June 2022

The quality changes of golden pompano fillets in air packaging (AP) and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) with 30% CO2/70% N2, 50% CO2/50% N2, and 70% CO2/30% N2 were evaluated under superchilling (−3 °C). The results showed that the whiteness of fillets decreased during storage. The rate of pH increase of MAP was significantly slower than in AP groups, in which MAP with 70% CO2/30% N2 effectively suppressed the PH. Interestingly, the hardness decreased on day five following the treatments, followed by a relatively stationary trend. MAP could greatly suppress the increase of total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) contents of fillets compared to fillets packed in AP. All MAP groups of fillets maintained first-grade freshness throughout storage, while the AP samples decreased to second-grade freshness on about the 25th day. MAP with 70% CO2/30% N2 and MAP with 50% CO2/50% N2 had the best results in inhibiting protein degeneration and explanation. Unexpectedly, drip loss of fillets in MAP far exceeded the AP group during storage, which causes sensory discomfort. Anaerobic plate count (APC) of fillets in AP exceeded the consumption limit of 6.7 log CFU/g on day 26 (6.75 log CFU/g on the 26th day), whereas the MAP was still microbiologically acceptable after 30 days of storage (6.43, 6.41, 6.22 log CFU/g, respectively). Considering physicochemical and microbiological parameters, the shelf life of fillets packed in AP was 25 days. MAP treatments could prolong the shelf life of fillets by ~4–5 days compared to AP. Overall, MAP with 70% CO2/30% N2 gas ratio was best for inhibiting the quality deterioration of fillets. Furthermore, principal component analysis (PCA) was performed to evaluate the critical indicators of quality deterioration of the fillets. Two principal components were determined by dimensionality reduction, in which the contribution of the first principal component was centrifugal loss > hardness > TVB-N > APC > CO2 solubility > TBARs > drip loss > pH, which mainly reflected the degree of microbial proliferation, protein hydrolysis, and oxidation. The contribution of the second principal component was pH > TBRAs > drip loss > APC > CO2 solubility > TVB-N > hardness > centrifugal loss, indicating a high correlation between lipid oxidation and microbial proliferation index.
Strong Solution for Fractional Mean Field Games with Non-Separable Hamiltonians
Authors: Ye Hailong , Zou Wenzhong , Liu Qiang
Published: June 2022

In this paper, we establish the existence and uniqueness of a strong solution to a fractional mean field games system with non-separable Hamiltonians, where the fractional exponent σ∈(12,1). Our result is new for fractional mean field games with non-separable Hamiltonians, which generalizes the work of D.M. Ambrose for the integral case. The important step is to choose the new appropriate fractional order function spaces and use the Banach fixed-point theorem under stronger assumptions for the Hamiltonians.
The Role of Lactic Acid in the Management of Bacterial Vaginosis: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Mendling Werner , Shazly Maged Atef El , Zhang Lei
Published: June 2022

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common infection characterized by an imbalance in the vaginal microbiome. Alongside the extensive research for effective therapies, treatment recommendations for symptomatic BV with antibiotics have been developed and are currently available. However, the recurrence of BV remains a considerable challenge given that about 60% of women experience BV relapse within six months after initial treatment. In addition, clear guidelines on the treatment of asymptomatic BV during pregnancy or for BV mixed infections are still missing. Lactic acid has been put forward as a potential treatment or for prophylaxis of BV due to its ability to restore the imbalance of the vaginal microbiota and to promote the disruption of vaginal pathogenic bacterial biofilms, which might trigger BV recurrence. This review evaluates the clinical evidence regarding the efficacy and prophylactic potential of lactic acid in BV through a systematic literature search. In addition, a treatment regimen consisting of lactic acid as a standalone treatment or in combination with current recommended therapies for practice is suggested based on these findings and stratified according to BV severity, pregnancy status, and coincidence with vulvovaginal candidosis (VVC) or trichomoniasis.
Promoting Entry and Efficiency via Reserve Prices
Authors: Michelucci Fabio
Published: June 2022

Reserve prices are used by sellers to modify the allocation induced by standard auctions. The existing literature has shown that, if the number of bidders is fixed, a reserve price can be used to increase expected revenues. This comes at the expense of efficiency when the auctioned good goes unsold. Instead, when the number of bidders is not fixed, a reserve price may discourage entry. The reduction in the number of bidders caused by the reserve price in this situation is detrimental for both revenues and efficiency. This work shows that a different conclusion may emerge when potential entrants arrive sequentially and face the risk of incurring losses conditional on winning the object on sale. In fact, we show that reserve prices may lead to more entry and raise the efficiency. Applications characterized by the presence of an incumbent who is better informed about some common characteristics of the object for sale may yield the type of features that are needed for our different conclusion to hold.