bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selection and Location of Fixed-Step Capacitor Banks in Distribution Grids for Minimization of Annual Operating Costs: A Two-Stage Approach
Authors: Montoya Oscar Danilo , Rivas-Trujillo Edwin , Giral-Ramírez Diego Armando
Published: June 2022

The problem regarding the optimal location and sizing of fixed-step capacitor banks in distribution networks with radial configuration is studied in this research by applying a two-stage optimization approach. The first stage consists of determining the nodes where the capacitor banks will be placed. In this stage, the exact mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) model that represents the studied problem is transformed into a mixed-integer quadratic convex (MIQC) model. The solution of the MIQC model ensures that the global optimum is reached given the convexity of the solution space for each combination of nodes where the capacitor banks will be installed. With the solution of the MIQC, the suitable nodes for the installation of the fixed-step capacitors are fixed, and their sizes are recursively evaluated in a power flow methodology that allows for determining the optimal sizes. In the second stage, the successive approximation power flow method is applied to determine the optimal sizes assigned to these compensation devices. Numerical results in three test feeders with 33, 69, and 85 buses demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed two-stage solution method for two operation scenarios: (i) operation of the distribution system under peak load conditions throughout the year, and (ii) operation considering daily demand variations and renewable generation penetration. Comparative results with the GAMS software confirm the excellent results reached using the proposed optimization approach. All the simulations were carried out in the MATLAB programming environment, version 2021b, as well as using the Gurobi solver in the convex programming tool known as CVX.
Methylcellulose-Chitosan Smart Gels for Hairstyling
Authors: Hartson Meghan , Coyle Ciara , Amin Samiul
Published: June 2022

Methylcellulose and chitosan served as promising ingredients for a thermoresponsive hair styling gel after successful application in the medical industry. Both ingredients uphold the clean beauty standard without infringing on performance. By combining these two ingredients, a hair gel can be created that promises an extended hold of style once a heated external stimulus, such as a curling wand, is applied to the hair. Chitosan serves as the cationic biopolymer to adhere the gel to the hair, whereas the methylcellulose acts as the smart biopolymer to lock the desired hairstyle in place. Various ranges of chitosan and methylcellulose concentrations were explored for formulation optimization with rheology and curl drop testing. The rheology testing included a flow sweep test to understand the shear-thinning behavior of the sample as well as the effect of concentration on viscosity. Another rheology test completed was a temperature ramp test from room temperature (25 °C) to 60 °C to study the effect of heat on the various concentrations within the samples. A curl drop test was performed as well, over a 48-h period in which the different samples were applied to wet hair tresses, dried, curled, and hung vertically to see how the style held up over a long period of time with the influence of gravity.
Computational Study of Benzothiazole Derivatives for Conformational, Thermodynamic and Spectroscopic Features and Their Potential to Act as Antibacterials
Authors: Mubarik Adeel , Mahmood Sajid , Rasool Nasir , Hashmi Muhammad Ali , Ammar Muhammad , Mutahir Sadaf , Ali Kulsoom Ghulam , Bilal Muhammad , Akhtar Muhammad Nadeem , Ashraf Ghulam Abbas
Published: June 2022

Benzothiazole analogs are very interesting due to their potential activity against several infections. In this research, five benzothiazole derivatives were studied using density functional theory calculations. The optimized geometry, geometrical parameters and vibrational spectra were analyzed. The charge distribution diagrams, such as FMO (HOMO-LUMO), energies of HOMO-LUMO, polarizability, hyperpolarizability, MESP and density of states, were calculated. The computed energies of HOMO and LUMO showed that the transfer of charge occurred within the compound. The effect of the change of substituents on the ring on the value of the HOMO-LUMO energy gap was also observed. It was observed that, in this series, compound 4 with CF3 substituent had the lowest energy gap of HOMO-LUMO, and compound 5 with no substituent had highest HOMO-LUMO energy gap. From the energies of HOMO and LUMO, the reactivity descriptors, such as electron affinity (A), ionization potential (I), chemical softness (σ), chemical hardness (ƞ), electronic chemical potential (μ), electrophilicity index (ω), were calculated. In addition, the 13C and 1H NMR chemical shifts of the molecules were calculated using the gauge-independent atomic orbit (GIAO) method; the shifts were in good agreement with the experimental values. The anti-bacterial potential of compounds 1 to 5 was tested by molecular docking studies toward target proteins 2KAU and 7EL1 from Klebsiella aerogenes and Staphylococcus aureus. Compounds 3 and 1 showed high affinity toward 2KAU and 7EL1, respectively.
Comparison of Two RNA Extraction Methods for the Molecular Detection of SARS-CoV-2 from Nasopharyngeal Swab Samples
Authors: Scarabotto Anna , Balestro Simona , Gagliardi Stella , Trotti Rosa
Published: June 2022

Background: Rapid diagnosis of COVID-19 is essential in order to restrict the spread of the pandemic, and different approaches for SARS-CoV-2 testing have been proposed as cost-effective and less time-consuming alternatives. For virus detection, the real-time reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technique is still the “gold standard” for accuracy and reliability, but its performance is affected by the efficiency of nucleic acid extraction methods. Objective: In order to improve the SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic workflow, we compared a “standard” commercially available kit, based on viral RNA extraction from human swab samples by magnetic beads, with its technological evolution. The two methods differ mainly in their time consumption (9 vs. 35 min). Methods: We adopted the MAGABIO PLUS VIRUS DNA/RNA PURIFICATION KIT II (BIOER), defined as “standard”, with the automatic extractor BIOER (GenePure Pro fully automatic nucleic acid purification system) to isolate RNA from nasopharyngeal swabs for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 by RT-PCR. We tested this kit with a new faster version of the first one, defined as “rapid” (MAGABIO PLUS VIRUS RNA PURIFICATION KIT II). Results and Conclusion: The two evaluated procedures provided similar analytical results, but the faster method proved to be a more suitable tool for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 from nasopharyngeal swabs, due to a more rapid availability of results, which may contribute to improving both clinical decision making and patient safety.
Merging Multiphase CTA Images and Training Them Simultaneously with a Deep Learning Algorithm Could Improve the Efficacy of AI Models for Lateral Circulation Assessment in Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Wang Jingjie , Tan Duo , Liu Jiayang , Wu Jiajing , Huang Fusen , Xiong Hua , Luo Tianyou , Chen Shanxiong , Li Yongmei
Published: June 2022

We aimed to build a deep learning-based, objective, fast, and accurate collateral circulation assessment model. We included 92 patients who had suffered acute ischemic stroke (AIS) with large vessel occlusion in the anterior circulation in this study, following their admission to our hospital from June 2020 to August 2021. We analyzed their baseline whole-brain four-dimensional computed tomography angiography (4D-CTA)/CT perfusion. The images of the arterial, arteriovenous, venous, and late venous phases were extracted from 4D-CTA according to the perfusion time–density curve. The subtraction images of each phase were created by subtracting the non-contrast CT. Each patient was marked as having good or poor collateral circulation. Based on the ResNet34 classification network, we developed a single-image input and a multi-image input network for binary classification of collateral circulation. The training and test sets included 65 and 27 patients, respectively, and Monte Carlo cross-validation was employed for five iterations. The network performance was evaluated based on its precision, accuracy, recall, F1-score, and AUC. All the five performance indicators of the single-image input model were higher than those of the other model. The single-image input processing network, combining multiphase CTA images, can better classify AIS collateral circulation. This automated collateral assessment tool could help to streamline clinical workflows, and screen patients for reperfusion therapy.
Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors Mimicking Gynecologic Disease: Clinicopathological Analysis of 20 Cases
Authors: Liu Ying , Shahi Maryam , Miller Karin , Meyer Christian F. , Hung Chien-Fu , Wu T.-C. , Vang Russell , Xing Deyin
Published: June 2022

Diagnosis of pelvic gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) can be challenging because of their nonspecific presentation and similarity to gynecological neoplasms. In this series, we describe the clinicopathological features of 20 GIST cases: 18 patients presented with pelvic mass and/or abdominal pain concerning gynecological disease; 2 patients presented with a posterior rectovaginal mass or an anorectal mass. Total abdominal hysterectomy and/or salpingo-oophorectomy (unilateral or bilateral) were performed in 13 cases. Gross and histological examination revealed that the ovary/ovaries were involved in three cases, the uterus in two cases, the vagina in two cases and the broad ligament in one case. Immunohistochemically, all tumors (20/20, 100%) were diffusely immunoreactive for c-KIT. The tumor cells were also diffusely positive for DOG-1 (10/10, 100%) and displayed focal to diffuse positivity for CD34 (11/12, 92%). Desmin was focally and weakly expressed in 1 of the 14 tested tumors (1/14, 7%), whereas 2 of 8 tumors (2/8, 25%) showed focal SMA positivity. At the molecular level, 7 of 8 (87.5%) GISTs with molecular analysis contained c-KIT mutations with the second and third c-KIT mutations detected in some recurrent tumors. In addition to c-KIT mutation, a pathogenic RB1 mutation was detected in two cases. We extensively discussed these cases focusing on their differential diagnosis described by the submitting pathologists during consultation. Our study emphasizes the importance of precision diagnosis of GISTs. Alertness to this entity in unusual locations, in combination with clinical history, morphological features as well as immunophenotype, is crucial in leading to a definitive classification.
A Modified YOLOv4 Deep Learning Network for Vision-Based UAV Recognition
Authors: Dadrass Javan Farzaneh , Samadzadegan Farhad , Gholamshahi Mehrnaz , Ashatari Mahini Farnaz
Published: June 2022

The use of drones in various applications has now increased, and their popularity among the general public has increased. As a result, the possibility of their misuse and their unauthorized intrusion into important places such as airports and power plants are increasing, threatening public safety. For this reason, accurate and rapid recognition of their types is very important to prevent their misuse and the security problems caused by unauthorized access to them. Performing this operation in visible images is always associated with challenges, such as the small size of the drone, confusion with birds, the presence of hidden areas, and crowded backgrounds. In this paper, a novel and accurate technique with a change in the YOLOv4 network is presented to recognize four types of drones (multirotors, fixed-wing, helicopters, and VTOLs) and to distinguish them from birds using a set of 26,000 visible images. In this network, more precise and detailed semantic features were extracted by changing the number of convolutional layers. The performance of the basic YOLOv4 network was also evaluated on the same dataset, and the proposed model performed better than the basic network in solving the challenges. Compared to the basic YOLOv4 network, the proposed model provides better performance in solving challenges. Additionally, it can perform automated vision-based recognition with a loss of 0.58 in the training phase and 83% F1-score, 83% accuracy, 83% mean Average Precision (mAP), and 84% Intersection over Union (IoU) in the testing phase. These results represent a slight improvement of 4% in these evaluation criteria over the YOLOv4 basic model.
Influence of Moon Luminosity, Seasonality, Sex and Weather Conditions on the Activity Levels of the Nocturnal Javan Slow Loris
Authors: Campera Marco , Balestri Michela , Stewart Aria N. , Nekaris K. A. I.
Published: June 2022

The activity patterns of mammals depend on environmental changes (e.g., moon luminosity, food availability, weather) and endogenous rhythms. Behavioral observations are traditionally used to estimate the activity patterns of animals, but low visibility and the cryptic nature of some species entail that, in certain conditions, the animal is visible only for around 60% of the time. Recent advances in technology allow automatic data collection on the activity levels of animals. We used five years of data collected via accelerometers to understand how moon luminosity, seasonality, sex, and weather conditions influence the activity levels of the nocturnal and cryptic Javan slow loris. We collected 9589 h on six females and 7354 h on six males. Via Generalized Additive Mixed Models, we found that lorises are lunarphobic; they reduce activity levels during cold nights, they have higher activity levels when the relative humidity is close to 100%, and they have high peaks of activity between December and February and between June and August. The activity levels are thus influenced by avoidance of predators, food availability, consumption of insects and nectar, physiological, and behavioral adaptations to cold temperatures and energy requirements during reproductive stages. We highlight the importance of using bio-loggers for cryptic animals as with behavioral observations only, and the observer might underestimate active behaviors and overestimate inactivity.
China in Africa: An Examination of the Impact of China’s Loans on Growth in Selected African States
Authors: Mlambo Courage
Published: June 2022

This study sought to test the impact of China’s infrastructure investment on economic growth in selected African states. Many comparative studies have shown the positive role that infrastructural loans plays in supporting economic growth. However, for Africa, the role of China’s infrastructure projects has mixed views with regards to its contribution to growth and development. A survey of the literature showed that the central question about Chinese infrastructural loans is whether the infrastructural projects are beneficial or detrimental to Africa. Currently, there is no settled opinion as to whether (or not) Africa is benefiting from the Chinese economic relations. This study was quantitative, and we used panel data to achieve our objectives. The study employed annual panel data for 15 African countries covering the period of 2000–2017. The Pooled Mean Group, Mean Group, Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares, and Dynamic Ordinary Least Squares panel techniques were used for estimation purposes. The main conclusion from the quantitative analysis of China’s infrastructural loans in Africa is that China’s efforts in developing infrastructure are translating into economic growth. This study provides evidence that China’s engagement in Africa could be beneficial, given the positive relationship between loans and economic growth.
Changing Personal Values through Value-Manipulation Tasks: A Systematic Literature Review Based on Schwartz’s Theory of Basic Human Values
Authors: Russo Claudia , Danioni Francesca , Zagrean Ioana , Barni Daniela
Published: June 2022

According to the Theory of Basic Human Values, values are relatively stable, but not immutable, abstract goals which strongly influence peoples’ lives. Since their relative stability, psychosocial research is attempting to understand the extent to which it is possible to induce a voluntary change in people’s personal values. The main aim of this study was to systematically review the existing literature on experiments to induce a value change, also highlighting the theoretical perspectives used to develop the experimental tasks. We conducted a literature search of five databases (SCOPUS, ProQuest, PsycINFO, PubMed, and Web of Science). After the screening and the eligibility phase, we included a total of 14 articles (25 experiments). Most of these studies involved university students and adopted a pre-and post-test design, using different manipulation tasks. The results highlighted the possibility of inducing a voluntary value change, assessed in terms of mean levels and/or rank order. These findings provide new insights regarding the stability of values in the light of the Theory of Basic Human Values. The practical implications and future research directions are discussed.
A Strategy Adaptive Evolution Approach Based on the Public Goods Game
Authors: Li Hua , Duan Jianmei , Sun Qiubai
Published: June 2022

Cluster behavior is prevalent in nature. Many individuals change their behavior to adapt to a dynamically changing environment by following simple rules of behavior and interacting with information from neighboring individuals. In this study, the traditional public goods game model is improved by combining the advantages of game theory and interactive learning. A strategy adaptive evolution method based on a public goods game is proposed. The emergence of cooperative behavior in weighted networks under the co-evolution of game strategies and node weights is explored in conjunction with multi-agent interactive learning. The results show that in a public goods game with strategic adaptation, a person’s influence becomes greater if their level of adaptation exceeds the desired level, and less otherwise. This weight adjustment is defined by the intensity parameter δ. A moderate δ value can effectively facilitate the occurrence of cooperative evolution. The level of cooperation depends mainly on the weight distribution of participants, which leads to the formation of cooperative clusters controlled by high-weighted cooperators. Even with the great temptation to defect, these cooperators can prevail over defectors. The adjustment of node weights increases the heterogeneity of individuals. This research provides a viable pathway to solve social dilemmas and will further promote the application of multi-agent intelligent decision making.
Influence of Linewidth Enhancement Factor on the Nonlinear Dynamics and TDS Concealment of Semiconductor Ring Lasers
Authors: Wang Yichen , Wang Xianglong , Mu Penghua , Guo Gang , Liu Xintian , Wang Kun , He Pengfei , Hu Guoying , Jin Gang
Published: June 2022

In this paper, the influences of linewidth enhancement factor on the output characteristics of a semiconductor ring laser (SRL) are numerically investigated. By constructing a master–slave injection model, we discuss the influence of linewidth enhancement factor on the output characteristics of SRL. In addition, the 0–1 chaos test is introduced to study the effects of linewidth enhancement factor, feedback strength, feedback time delay and normalized injection current on the dynamic characteristics of the master laser. Furthermore, a simulation study is carried out on the suppression of time delay characteristics by the linewidth enhancement factor. The results show that selecting a proper linewidth enhancement factor has a significant effect on the chaotic output of SRL, and a larger linewidth enhancement factor is beneficial for the concealment of time delay signature. Such results are beneficial for achieving the security chaos communication and physical random generators.
Diagnosis in Analog Electronic Circuits, Electrical Power Systems and Smart Grids
Authors: Piccirilli Maria Cristina , Luchetta Antonio
Published: June 2022

Diagnosis, in its most general meaning, is the process aimed at identifying the causes that have produced a behavior, normally anomalous, in a system of either biological or artificial nature [...]
Real-Time State-of-Charge Estimation Using an Embedded Board for Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Hong Seonri , Kang Moses , Park Hwapyeong , Kim Jonghoon , Baek Jongbok
Published: June 2022

With the use of batteries increases, the complexity of battery management systems (BMSs) also rises. Thus, assessing the functionality of BMSs and performance of the BMS hardware is of utmost importance. Testing with embedded boards at an early stage of BMS development is a pragmatic approach for developing a BMS because it is cost- and time-efficient and considers hardware performance. In this study, we tested and analyzed the real-time state-of-charge (SOC) estimation using a test platform with limited CPU performance as well as memory resources of the embedded board. We collected battery data on a single-cell basis using a first-order RC equivalent circuit and achieved an accuracy of 95% compared to the measured data obtained using actual battery tests. The SOC estimation method applies the extended Kalman filter (EKF) and unscented Kalman filter (UKF). The experiment was performed on the real-time test platform, with 1%, 2%, and 5% noise in the measurement data. The algorithm complexity and hardware implementation were evaluated in terms of the resources used and processing speed. Although the EKF is cost-effective, its error rate increases by 5% with noise interference. The UKF exhibits high accuracy and noise robustness; however, it has a high resource occupancy.
Depth Estimation Method for Monocular Camera Defocus Images in Microscopic Scenes
Authors: Ban Yuxi , Liu Mingzhe , Wu Peng , Yang Bo , Liu Shan , Yin Lirong , Zheng Wenfeng
Published: June 2022

When using a monocular camera for detection or observation, one only obtain two-dimensional information, which is far from adequate for surgical robot manipulation and workpiece detection. Therefore, at this scale, obtaining three-dimensional information of the observed object, especially the depth information estimation of the surface points of each object, has become a key issue. This paper proposes two methods to solve the problem of depth estimation of defiant images in microscopic scenes. These are the depth estimation method of the defocused image based on a Markov random field, and the method based on geometric constraints. According to the real aperture imaging principle, the geometric constraints on the relative defocus parameters of the point spread function are derived, which improves the traditional iterative method and improves the algorithm’s efficiency.
A Nonisolated Transformerless High-Gain DC–DC Converter for Renewable Energy Applications
Authors: Zaid Mohammad , Malick Ifham H. , Ashraf Imtiaz , Tariq Mohd , Alamri Basem , Rodrigues Eduardo M. G.
Published: June 2022

Dc–dc converters with a high gain, continuous input current, and common ground are usually employed in renewable energy applications to boost the generated output voltage of renewable energy sources. In this paper, a high-gain dc–dc converter comprising a voltage multiplier cell (VMC) and a common ground with continuous input current and low-voltage stress across semiconductor devices is proposed. The converter produces a voltage gain of about ten times compared to the conventional boost converter at a duty ratio of 50% by utilizing switched capacitors and switched inductors. The simultaneous operation of both the switches with the same gate pulse offers easy and simple control of the proposed converter with a wide range of operations. The boundary operation of the converter is analyzed and presented in both modes, i.e., continuous conduction mode (CCM) and discontinuous conduction mode (DCM). Ideal and nonideal analysis of the converter is carried out by integrating real models of passive elements and semiconductor devices by using PLECS software. The simulation is also used to calculate the losses and hence the working efficiency of the converter. The performance of the converter analyzed in the steady state is compared with various similar converters based on the voltage boosting capability and switching stresses. A hardware prototype is also developed to confirm and validate the theoretical analysis and simulation of the proposed converter.
A Multi-Time-Gated SPAD Array with Integrated Coarse TDCs
Authors: Scott Ryan , Jiang Wei , Qian Xuanyu , Deen M. Jamal
Published: June 2022

Time-gating of single-photon avalanche diodes (SPADs) was commonly used as a method to reduce dark noise in biomedical imaging applications where photon events are correlated with a reference clock. Time-gating was also used to obtain timing information of photon events by shifting the gate windows applied to a SPAD array. However, in this approach, fine timing resolution comes at the cost of a lengthened measurement time due to the large number of counts required for each shift. As a solution, we present a multi-time-gated SPAD array that simultaneously applies shifted gate windows to an array of SPADs, which has the potential to reduce the measurement time compared to a single time gate window. Compared to similar works, this design has fully integrated the multi-gate generation using shared circuitry which also functions as a coarse time-to-digital converter. The proposed array, fabricated in the TSMC 65 nm standard CMOS process, achieved a median dark count rate (DCR) of 37 kHz, 4.37 ns gate widths, 550 ps timing resolution, and a peak photon detection probability (PDP) of 42.9% at 420 nm, all at a 0.8 V excess bias.
Memristor-Based Read/Write Circuit with Stable Continuous Read Operation
Authors: Lu Weijun , Bao Ning , Zheng Tangren , Zhang Xiaorui , Song Yutong
Published: June 2022

In recent years, computation-intensive applications, such as artificial intelligence, video processing and encryption, have been developing rapidly. On the other hand, the problems of “storage wall” and “power consumption wall” for the traditional storage and computing separated architectures limit the computing performance. The computational circuits and memory cells based on nonvolatile memristors are unified and become a competitive solution to this problem. However, there are various problems that prevent memristor-based circuits from entering practical applications, one of which is the memristor state deviation problem caused by continuous reading. In this paper, we study some circuits studied by predecessors on read/write circuit, compare the experimental results, analyze the reason for the resistance state deviation of memristor, and put forward a new parallel structure of memristor based on opposite polarity. The logic “1” and logic “0” are represented by the positive and negative voltage difference of two memristors with opposite polarity, which can effectively alleviate the problem of the resistance state deviation caused by continuous reading. A reading voltage of 2 V is applied to the four circuits at the same time, and continuous reading is carried out until the output voltage becomes stable. The voltage offset of the optimized circuit when reading logic “0” is reduced to 78 mV, which is significantly smaller than that of other circuits. In addition, when reading logic “1”, it has the effect of enhancing the information stored in the memristor.
High Hybrid Power Converter Performance Using Modern-Optimization-Methods-Based PWM Strategy
Authors: Nusair Khaled , Alasali Feras , Holderbaum William , Vinayagam Arangarajan , Aziz Asma
Published: June 2022

Recently, interest in DC networks and converters has increased due to the high number of applications in renewable energy systems. Consequently, the importance of improving the efficiency of the hybrid converters has been highlighted. An optimal control strategy is a significant solution to handle the challenges of controlling the hybrid interleaved boost–Cuk converter. In this article, a modern-optimization-methods-based PWM strategy for a hybrid power converter is developed. In order to improve the performance of the hybrid converter, four modern optimization algorithms—namely, Manta ray foraging optimization (MRFO), Marine Predators Algorithm (MPA), Jellyfish Search Optimizer (JS), and Equilibrium Optimizer (EO)—are employed to minimize the input current ripple under different operation scenarios. The results of the proposed modern optimization algorithms have shown more efficient converter performance and balanced power-sharing compared with conventional strategies and the literature on optimization algorithms such as Differential Evolution (DE) and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). In addition, the results of all operation cases presenting the proposed optimal strategy successfully reduced the input current ripple and improve the performance of power-sharing at the converter compared with the conventional methods.
Effect of Endogenous Methane Production: A Step Forward in the Validation of Biochemical Methane Potential (BMP) Tests
Authors: Oliveira João V. , Costa José C. , Cavaleiro Ana J. , Pereira Maria Alcina , Alves Maria Madalena
Published: June 2022

This work evaluates the influence of the inoculum type, the pre-consumption of the residual substrate and the ratio of blanks’ headspace volume to working volume (Hv Wv−1, 0.6 to 10) on Biochemical Methane Potential (BMP) measurements when methane is monitored by gas chromatography. Different inocula were tested: digested sewage sludge—DSS, granular sludge—GS and fresh dairy manure—DM. Microcrystalline cellulose was used as the substrate. BMP surpassed the maximum theoretical value (BMPmax = 414 L kg−1) when methane produced in the blanks was not discounted, showing that degassing cannot stand alone as an alternative to the procedure of discounting the inoculum’s background production. Still, when the residual substrate concentration is high (e.g., in DM), degassing is mandatory because methane produced from its digestion will conceal the methane produced from the substrate in the BMP determination. For inocula with a low residual substrate (e.g., GS), short degassing periods are recommended in order to avoid detrimental effects on methanogenic activity. For moderate residual substrate concentrations (e.g., DSS), BMP values closer to BMPmax (90–97%) were achieved after degassing and discounting the blanks with lower Hv Wv−1. For higher Hv ∙ Wv−1, less accurate quantification occurred, likely due to error propagation. Proper inoculum pre-incubation time and discounting the methane production from blanks with low Hv Wv−1 (adjusted according to the estimated background methane) are essential for accurate BMP determinations.
Enhancing the Activity of Employees of the Communication Department of an Energy Sector Company
Authors: Malynovska Yuliia , Bashynska Iryna , Cichoń Dariusz , Malynovskyy Yuriy , Sala Dariusz
Published: June 2022

Currently, companies in the energy sector are focus on sustainable growth, although they face many challenges, including the peculiarities of their operations. One of the features of companies in the energy sector is the need for effective communication with the media and the public. This is of paramount importance due to the current trends and challenges in the energy sector, the market requirements and the low level of development in such companies. The object of this study invovles the employees of the communication departments of energy sector companies, while the subject is the intensification of their activities based on the use of motivational tools. The authors chose the tools of the game theory, which is a game that the company and employees of the project team engage in when implementing information and communication projects. The study developed a method for motivating the employees of communication departments, which based on the game theory, allows the formation of many possible parameters of the optimal structure of fixed and commission remuneration payments for the employees to maximize their utility, depending on the propensity or unwillingness of these employees to take risks, which contributes to the development of staff motivation tools. This method was applied to the activities of several Ukrainian energy companies. The proposed approach differs from the existing ones based on the opportunity to intensify the activity of the employees of the communication departments, taking into account their willingness to take risks in each case, and will increase the interest of such personnel in the effective implementation of each stage of the information and communication project, better meet the needs of the end-users and ultimately affect the sustainable growth of energy companies.
Theoretical Analysis of Active Flow Ripple Control in Positive Displacement Pumps
Authors: Casoli Paolo , Vescovini Carlo Maria , Scolari Fabio , Rundo Massimo
Published: June 2022

Positive displacement machines present a well-known major drawback that is the oscillation in delivered flow rate. This paper presents two active solutions for reducing the flow ripple generated by a pump with an external device actuated by means of a piezo-stack actuator. The work is focused on a theoretical analysis, with the aim of collecting information about the performance of the solutions proposed and their main advantages and drawbacks. The active methods proposed involve a cylindrical actuator connected to the delivery line of the pump. The piston could be actuated directly by a piezo-stack actuator or by a differential pressure modulated by a proportional piezo actuated valve. The actuators were modelled and a control algorithm based on Least Mean Square algorithm was used to achieve the adaptability for both systems at different operating conditions. The developed mathematical model permits to define the great potential of these solutions that can drastically reduce the flow ripple. The first architecture presented resulted as the best solution, while the second one allowed reduction of the production cost.
Sedimentary Characteristics of the Neogene in the Eastern Liaodong Area, Bohai Sea, China
Authors: Hao Ranran , Wang Yongshi , Wang Jing , Wu Zhiping , Jing Anyu , Liu Xiaolin , Xu Haoqing , Wu Qunhu
Published: June 2022

The sedimentary characteristics of the Neogene in the eastern Liaodong area are poorly studied, which restricts the oil and gas exploration in this area. Based on the current seismic, logging, drilling, and core data, we have studied the sequence stratigraphy and sedimentary characteristics of the Neogene in the eastern Liaodong area. Ultimately, we identified the controlling factors of sedimentation and established the depositional model. In this study, six sequence boundaries of the Neogene were identified and can be divided into five third-order sequences. The sedimentary evolution can be divided into four stages: braided river delta, meandering river delta with a low sand-stratum ratio, meandering river delta with a high sand-stratum ratio, and meandering river delta. Both the palaeotectonic movements and paleoclimate changes of the Neogene influence the periodical fluctuation of the lake level and then control the vertical evolution of the sedimentary types. The paleogeomorphology controls the macroscopic distribution of the sedimentary facies zone, the paleo-valleys that are associated with the strike-slip faults control the channel strike, and the fault slopes at the edge of the lacustrine basins control the sand redistribution of the delta front.
Methodology to Determine Energy Efficiency Strategies in Buildings Sited in Tropical Climatic Zones; Case Study, Buildings of the Tertiary Sector in the Dominican Republic
Authors: Felix Benitez Joan Manuel , del Portillo-Valdés Luis Alfonso , Pérez Rene , Sosa David
Published: June 2022

The application of energy-efficiency strategies in buildings is a hot topic around the world; in some countries, there are regulations with more or less degree of compliance, but in most countries located in the tropical zone, there are no regulations, and it is not easy to transfer regulations of countries outside of tropical zone. For countries located in tropical zones, the implementation of strategies to reduce the heat flow from outside to inside buildings is a key point. As a case study, the Dominican Republic (DR) was chosen, and during 2020, an analysis focusing on buildings of the tertiary level was carried out with the goal of using scientific methodology focused on tropical climates that allows for a significant reduction in energy consumption by implementing Energy Efficiency Strategies (EESs) that are available, with minimal intrusion into the building and low cost. The study includes, as parts of the proposed methodology, the characterization of building parks, including the climatic zonification of the country, an in-depth study of the building typologies in DR, and a massive survey around the country about the technical characteristics of air conditioning units and their usage; the election and characterization of buildings, including simulation and validation throughout the monitoring of eight different buildings; ananalysis of the measures of energy efficiency and implementation in the models, including the election of a demonstrative building, the election of the most convenient EESs, modeling of EESs, implementing EESs in the building, monitoring, and validation; and ananalysis of the impact of the measures at the region or country level, throughout which important conclusions can be obtained in order to reduce energy consumption in the country. The results show that this methodology is a valid tool for countries situated in tropical areas in order to reduce the energy consumption associated with air conditioning units with low cost, availability, and no intrusive EESs.
Social, Cultural, and Economic Determinants of Well-Being
Authors: Livingston Val , Jackson-Nevels Breshell , Reddy Velur Vedvikash
Published: June 2022

Individual well-being is influenced by a number of economic and social factors that include income, mental health, physical health, education, social relationships, employment, discrimination, government policies, and neighborhood conditions. Well-being involves both physical and mental health as part of a holistic approach to health promotion and disease prevention. The well-being of a society’s people has the potential to impact the well-being and productivity of the society as a whole. Though it may be assessed at the individual level, well-being becomes an important population outcome at the macro level and therefore represents a public health issue.
Degradation Characteristics of Environment-Friendly Bamboo Fiber Lunch Box Buried in the Soil
Authors: Jiang Huan , Wang Ge , Chen Fuming , Chen Xiaoyi , Wei Xin
Published: June 2022

The research on the development of lunch boxes made of clean, environment-friendly, and naturally degradable plant fibers has attracted enormous attention. A bamboo fiber lunch box prepared by the clean and efficient steam explosion method has the advantages of good stiffness, water and oil resistance, and easy degradation. The purpose of this study was to investigate the degradation behavior of the environment-friendly bamboo fiber lunch box under indoor soil burial, as represented by the changes in physical properties, mechanical strength, chemical components, morphological structure, and so on. The results showed that: with the extension of the burial time, the weight loss increased rapidly from slowly to quickly; the boxes were completely degraded in the soil on the 70th day; the microorganisms in the soil first decomposed the tapioca starch, hemicellulose, and cellulose in the lunch box, and finally decomposed the lignin; the residual debris in the soil was further decomposed into CO2, H2O, and inorganic salts. In short, the degradation process of the lunch box mainly included the following stages: stage I: the increase in apparent roughness, the generation of microcracks, the rapid increase in weight loss, and the breakdown of starch and hemicellulose; stage II: the slow increase in the weight loss rate of the box fragmentation, the rapid decay of the mechanical strength, and the cellulose decomposition; stage III: the decomposition of lignin, the complete degradation of the debris, and the integration with the soil.
Development of a Climate-Sensitive Structural Stand Density Management Model for Red Pine
Authors: Newton Peter F.
Published: June 2022

The primary objective of this study was to develop a climate-sensitive modular-based structural stand density management model (SSDMM) for red pine (Pinus resinosa Aiton) plantations situated within the western Great Lakes—St. Lawrence and south-central Boreal Forest Regions of Canada. For a given climate change scenario (e.g., representative concentration pathway (RCP)), geographic location (longitude and latitude), site quality (site index) and crop plan (e.g., initial espacement density and subsequent thinning treatments), the resultant hierarchical-based SSDMM consisting of six integrated modules, enabled the prediction of a multitude of management-relevant performance metrics over rotational lengths out to the year 2100. These metrics included productivity measures (e.g., mean annual volume, biomass and carbon increments), volumetric yield estimates (e.g., total and merchantable volumes), pole and log product distributions (e.g., number and size distribution of pulp and saw logs, and utility poles), biomass production and carbon sequestration outcomes (e.g., oven-dried masses of above-ground components and associated carbon mass equivalents), recoverable end-product volumes and associated monetary values (e.g., volumes and economic worth estimates of recovered chip and dimensional lumber products extractable via stud and randomized length mill processing protocols), and crop tree fibre attributes reflective of end-product potential (e.g., wood density, microfibril angle, and modulus of elasticity). The core modules responsible for quantifying stand dynamics and structural change were developed using 491 tree-list measurements and 146 stand-level summaries obtained from 98 remeasured permanent sample plots situated within 21 geographically separated plantation-based initial spacing and thinning experiments distributed throughout southern and north-central Ontario. Computationally, the red pine SSDMM and associated algorithmic analogue (1) produced mathematically compatible stem and end-product volume estimates, (2) accounted for density-dependent as well as density-independent mortality losses, response delay following thinning and genetic worth effects, (3) enabled end-users to specify merchantability standards (log and pole dimensions), product degrade factors and cost profiles, and (4) addressed climate change impacts on rotational yield outcomes by geo-referencing RCP-specific effects on stand dynamical processes via the deployment of a climate-driven biophysical site-based height-age model. In summary, the provision of the red pine SSDMM and its unique ability to account for locale-specific climate change effects on crop planning forecasts inclusive of utility pole production, should be of consequential utility as the complexities of silvicultural decision-making intensify during the Anthropocene.
Probiotics, Prebiotics, Synbiotics, and Fermented Foods as Potential Biotics in Nutrition Improving Health via Microbiome-Gut-Brain Axis
Authors: Dahiya Divakar , Nigam Poonam Singh
Published: June 2022

Biological, social, and psychological practices greatly affect the dietary intake of people; as a result, health-related complexities occur. Functional food and supplements have become popular due to their nutraceutical benefits, which make different choices of fermented food and beverages available to people. This review describes the characteristics of probiotics, prebiotics, post- and paraprobiotics, and their role in nutrition and in the sustainability of health. Currently, several synbiotic supplements have attracted consumers in the nutraceutical market to offer a number of health benefits, which are complementary mixtures of selected characterized probiotic cultures and prebiotic substrates. Traditional fermented foods consumed in different cultures are different than probiotics and symbiotic preparations, though these could be considered potential biotics in nutrition. Fermented foods are part of a staple diet in several countries and are cost-effective due to their preparation using seasonal raw materials available from local agriculture practices. Intake of all biotics discussed in this article is intended to improve the population of beneficial microbiota in the gut, which has proved important for the microbiome–gut–brain axis, influencing the activity of vagus nerve.
Cooperative D-GNSS Aided with Multi Attribute Decision Making Module: A Rigorous Comparative Analysis
Authors: Mpimis Thanassis , Kapsis Theodore T. , Panagopoulos Athanasios D. , Gikas Vassilis
Published: June 2022

Satellite positioning lies within the very core of numerous Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) and Future Internet applications. With the emergence of connected vehicles, the performance requirements of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) are constantly pushed to their limits. To this end, Cooperative Positioning (CP) solutions have attracted attention in order to enhance the accuracy and reliability of low-cost GNSS receivers, especially in complex propagation environments. In this paper, the problem of efficient and robust CP employing low-cost GNSS receivers is investigated over critical ITS scenarios. By adopting a Cooperative-Differential GNSS (C-DGNSS) framework, the target’s vehicle receiver can obtain Position–Velocity–Time (PVT) corrections from a neighboring vehicle and update its own position in real-time. A ranking module based on multi-attribute decision-making (MADM) algorithms is proposed for the neighboring vehicle rating and optimal selection. The considered MADM techniques are simulated with various weightings, normalization techniques, and criteria associated with positioning accuracy and reliability. The obtained criteria values are experimental GNSS measurements from several low-cost receivers. A comparative and sensitivity analysis are provided by evaluating the MADM algorithms in terms of ranking performance and robustness. The positioning data time series and the numerical results are then presented, and comments are made. Scoring-based and distance-based MADM methods perform better, while L1 RMS, HDOP, and Hz std are the most critical criteria. The multi-purpose applicability of the proposed scheme, not only for land vehicles, is also discussed.
Investigation of the Temperature Beneath Curved Tunnel Ceilings Induced by Fires with Natural Ventilation
Authors: Tao Haowen , Xu Zhisheng , Zhou Dongmei
Published: June 2022

The distribution characteristics of the temperature below ceilings in curved tunnel fires have not been quantitatively studied. A small-scale tunnel was constructed in this work to study the maximum temperature and longitudinal attenuation of the temperature below ceilings induced by fires in a curved tunnel with natural ventilation. Different tunnel turning radiuses and fire heat release rates were taken into account. The results show that the distribution characteristics of temperature below the tunnel ceiling is hardly affected by the tunnel turning radius in a scenario where the flame plume impinges on the ceiling (strong-plume-driven). The fire-induced maximum temperature and longitudinal attenuation of temperature in curved tunnels are comparable to those of straight tunnels. Improved correlations are proposed for the condition of a strong-plume-driven ceiling jet, and the measured value of the temperature of the experiment collapsed well. This work may enhance the understanding of temperature distributions in curved tunnel fires.