bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selective C–C Bond Cleavage in Diols and Lignin Models: High-Throughput Screening of Metal Oxide-Anchored Vanadium in Mesoporous Silica
Authors: Lu Xinnan , Clément Roxanne , Lu Yong , Albela Belén , Baker R. Tom , Bonneviot Laurent
Published: July 2021

The development of selective and robust heterogeneous oxidation catalysts is an enabling technology for conversion of biomass-derived platform chemicals. Vanadium active sites were incorporated into the structure of mesoporous silica via an ultra-fast, one-pot synthesis method based on microwave-assisted heating. In addition, Al/Ti/Zr/Ce anchoring ions were introduced in order to minimize vanadium leaching and better control its dispersion. The supported V-(Al/Ti/Zr/Ce)-MCM-41 composite materials were assessed as catalysts for aerobic C–C bond cleavage of simple models for lignin (1,2-diphenyl-2-methoxyethanol) and sugar-derived polyalcohols (meso-hydrobenzoin). The TiIV ions proved to be the best anchors to prevent V leaching, while AlIII and ZrIV ions were the best to improve selective conversion of the substrates. The active sites in these catalysts are shown to be 2D VOx layers stabilized on the anchors. In a screen of twelve solvents, weakly polar solvents like toluene were found to be most suitable for this reaction, as was environmentally friendly ethyl acetate. The above properties, together with the high selectivity for C–C bond cleavage, advocate for a heterogeneous catalytic pathway, intrinsically different from that reported previously for molecular oxovanadium (V) catalysts.
Concurrent BMP Signaling Maintenance and TGF-β Signaling Inhibition Is a Hallmark of Natural Resistance to Muscle Atrophy in the Hibernating Bear
Authors: Cussonneau Laura , Boyer Christian , Brun Charlotte , Deval Christiane , Loizon Emmanuelle , Meugnier Emmanuelle , Gueret Elise , Dubois Emeric , Taillandier Daniel , Polge Cécile , Béchet Daniel , Gauquelin-Koch Guillemette , Evans Alina L. , Arnemo Jon M. , Swenson Jon E. , Blanc Stéphane , Simon Chantal , Lefai Etienne , Bertile Fabrice , Combaret Lydie
Published: July 2021

Muscle atrophy arises from a multiplicity of physio-pathological situations and has very detrimental consequences for the whole body. Although knowledge of muscle atrophy mechanisms keeps growing, there is still no proven treatment to date. This study aimed at identifying new drivers for muscle atrophy resistance. We selected an innovative approach that compares muscle transcriptome between an original model of natural resistance to muscle atrophy, the hibernating brown bear, and a classical model of induced atrophy, the unloaded mouse. Using RNA sequencing, we identified 4415 differentially expressed genes, including 1746 up- and 2369 down-regulated genes, in bear muscles between the active versus hibernating period. We focused on the Transforming Growth Factor (TGF)-β and the Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) pathways, respectively, involved in muscle mass loss and maintenance. TGF-β- and BMP-related genes were overall down- and up-regulated in the non-atrophied muscles of the hibernating bear, respectively, and the opposite occurred for the atrophied muscles of the unloaded mouse. This was further substantiated at the protein level. Our data suggest TGF-β/BMP balance is crucial for muscle mass maintenance during long-term physical inactivity in the hibernating bear. Thus, concurrent activation of the BMP pathway may potentiate TGF-β inhibiting therapies already targeted to prevent muscle atrophy.
Regulation of Store-Operated Ca2+ Entry by SARAF
Authors: Dagan Inbal , Palty Raz
Published: July 2021

Calcium (Ca2+) signaling plays a dichotomous role in cellular biology, controlling cell survival and proliferation on the one hand and cellular toxicity and cell death on the other. Store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) by CRAC channels represents a major pathway for Ca2+ entry in non-excitable cells. The CRAC channel has two key components, the endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ sensor stromal interaction molecule (STIM) and the plasma-membrane Ca2+ channel Orai. Physical coupling between STIM and Orai opens the CRAC channel and the resulting Ca2+ flux is regulated by a negative feedback mechanism of slow Ca2+ dependent inactivation (SCDI). The identification of the SOCE-associated regulatory factor (SARAF) and investigations of its role in SCDI have led to new functional and molecular insights into how SOCE is controlled. In this review, we provide an overview of the functional and molecular mechanisms underlying SCDI and discuss how the interaction between SARAF, STIM1, and Orai1 shapes Ca2+ signaling in cells.
Modelling Particle Agglomeration on through Elastic Valves under Flow
Authors: Baksamawi Hosam Alden , Ariane Mostapha , Brill Alexander , Vigolo Daniele , Alexiadis Alessio
Published: July 2021

This work proposes a model of particle agglomeration in elastic valves replicating the geometry and the fluid dynamics of a venous valve. The fluid dynamics is simulated with Smooth Particle Hydrodynamics, the elastic leaflets of the valve with the Lattice Spring Model, while agglomeration is modelled with a 4-2 Lennard-Jones potential. All the models are combined together within a single Discrete Multiphysics framework. The results show that particle agglomeration occurs near the leaflets, supporting the hypothesis, proposed in previous experimental work, that clot formation in deep venous thrombosis is driven by the fluid dynamics in the valve.
Plate Fixation for Irreducible Proximal Humeral Fractures in Children and Adolescents—A Single-Center Case Series of Six Patients
Authors: Freislederer Florian , Bensler Susanne , Specht Thomas , Magerkurth Olaf , Eid Karim
Published: July 2021

Background: Recommended treatment for severely displaced proximal humeral fractures in children is the closed reduction and percutaneous fixation by K-wires or intramedullary nailing. Methods: From January 2016 to January 2017 6, 21 children/adolescents (range 8 to 16 years) with proximal humeral fractures were treated surgically for severe displacement. In these six patients, several attempts of closed reduction were unsuccessful, and an open reduction was performed. The humeral head was fixed with a 3.5 mm T-plate without affecting the growth plate. Plate removal was performed at a mean interval of 132 days after initial surgery. Two years after initial surgery, the clinical outcome was assessed by the Constant–Murley score and QuickDASH score (including sport/music and work) and the shoulder joint was evaluated with a standardized sonographic examination for the rotator cuff and the conjoint tendon. Results: In all six patients, dorsal displacement of the fracture was irreducible due to the interposition of tendinous or osseous structures. Intraoperatively, the interposed structures were the long biceps tendon in two, periosteal tissue in two, a bony fragment in one, and the long biceps tendon together with the conjoint tendon in one case. At mean follow-up of 26 months (range 22 months to 29 months), patients showed very good clinical results with an excellent mean Constant–Murley score of 97.5 (range 91 to 100) and mean QuickDASH score (including sport/music and work) of 5.5 (range 0–20.8). An X-ray follow-up 6 weeks after surgery demonstrated early consolidation and correct alignment in all patients. A sonographic evaluation at 2 years post injury showed that the biceps and the conjoined tendon were intact in all patients. Conclusions: If a proximal humeral fracture is not reducible by closed means, a tissue entrapment (most likely biceps tendon) should be considered. Treatment with an open reduction and plate fixation yields very good clinical and radiological results and preserves interposed structures as the biceps and conjoint tendon.
A Micro-Power Generator Based on Two Piezoelectric MFC Films
Authors: Ma Yongxin , Wang Jia , Li Chong , Fu Xiaorui
Published: July 2021

In order to realize the collection of micro or small vibration energy, a micro-power generator based on two piezoelectric Macro Fiber Composite (MFC) films is proposed. The piezoelectric generator consists of a double piezoelectric MFCs type vibrator and a displacement amplifying mechanism, which can achieve the output of high energy density. The design process of this kind of piezoelectric generator is presented. Based on LabVIEW platform and NI Data Acquisition (DAQ) card, the output voltage acquisition system of the generator is built, and the output voltage and power are collected and calculated. Experimental results show that the maximum output power is 6.2 mW under transient excitation. Under continuous excitation with a load resistance of 10 kΩ and an excitation frequency of 26 Hz, the maximum output of the generator is up to 11.9 mW. The research results lay a foundation for the application of the proposed micro-power piezoelectric generator.
Post-Treatment Adverse Health Correlates among Prostate Cancer Survivors in a Sample of Men Residing in Atlantic Canada
Authors: Ilie Gabriela , Rutledge Robert , Sweeney Ellen
Published: July 2021

Background: Recent large population-based studies have shed light on an association between prostate cancer (PCa) survivorship and mental health, which emerged when the comparison group was either men without a history of cancer or those with any other type of cancer except prostate. Here we examine the role of surgery alone, compared to other types of treatment modalities in this association in a population-based sample of men with prostate or other types of cancer. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted on a subsample of 632 male participants aged 36–69 from the 2009–2015 survey cycle of the Atlantic PATH cohort study. The primary outcomes were the presence of mild, moderate or severe depression or anxiety indicators and were assessed using the seven-item generalized anxiety disorder (GAD-7) scale and the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), respectively. The presence of a lifetime history of PCa or other form of cancer (except PCa) was the main predictor variable and was assessed in cancer treatment modality (surgery or other types of treatment modalities) stratified analyses. Covariates included age, marital status, household income, comorbidity, and survivorship time. Results: The presence of depression in this sample was prevalent among 17.7% of men, and of anxiety among 9.3% of men. Survivors who were treated with surgery for their PCa diagnosis had 7.55 statistically significantly higher odds of screening positive for current depression symptoms compared with those of other forms of cancer in controlled analyses. These differences were not observed for anxiety. Conclusions: These findings emphasize the need for multidisciplinary survivorship care plans among PCa patients, especially those who undergo surgery. Targeted programming aimed at prioritizing and delivering comprehensive mental health support to PCa survivors early in the survivorship journey is justified.
Transference of Citizen Science Program Impacts: A Theory Grounded in Public Participation in Scientific Research
Authors: Lynch-O’Brien Louise I. , Babchuk Wayne A. , Dauer Jenny M. , Heng-Moss Tiffany , Golick Doug
Published: July 2021

Citizen science is known for increasing the geographic, spatial, and temporal scale from which scientists can gather data. It is championed for its potential to provide experiential learning opportunities to the public. Documentation of educational outcomes and benefits for citizen scientists continues to grow. This study proposes an added benefit of these collaborations: the transference of program impacts to individuals outside of the program. The experiences of fifteen citizen scientists in entomology citizen science programs were analyzed using a constructivist grounded theory methodology. We propose the substantive-level theory of transference to describe the social process by which the educational and attitudinal impacts intended by program leaders for the program participants are filtered by citizen scientists and transferred to others. This process involves individual and external phases, each with associated actions. Transference occurred in participants who had maintained a long-term interest in nature, joined a citizen science program, shared science knowledge and experiences, acquired an expert role to others, and influenced change in others. Transference has implications for how citizen scientists are perceived by professional communities, understanding of the broader impacts and contributions of citizen science to wicked problems, program evaluation, and the design of these programs as informal science education opportunities.
Microbial Community’s Dynamic Response to Fomesafen Usage in Chernozems of Northeast China
Authors: Yang Fengshan , Wang Yanbo , Huang Yanan , Wei Yuning , Yuan Mingrui , Fu Haiyan , Zeng Weimin , Liu Chunguang
Published: July 2021

The main purpose of this study was to explore the effects of the recommended usage level and twice the recommended usage level of the long-acting herbicide fomesafen on the soil enzymes and microbial community structure in chernozems of soybean fields. Culturable microbial biomass and phospholipid fatty acids (PLFA) were used as the main references for this evaluation. The digestion curve of fomesafen in soil conforms to the law of a single exponential function. The activities of four soil enzymes decreased significantly when exposed to twice the recommended amount, and then returned to the control level. The inhibition of the fungal and bacterial biomass section of culturable microorganisms in soil at twice the recommended usage level was greater than that under the recommended usage level, and this dosage also stimulated the rapid recovery of the initial level of fungal biomass before the application of fomesafen. The PLFA analysis showed that the ratio of GN/GP decreased significantly, and soil pressure increased significantly. Compared with the recommended usage level, the effect of twice the recommended usage level of fomesafen on soil microbial community structures was more significant. This provides a reference for environmental location recommendations, environmental safety assessments, and the rational use of herbicides.
Machine-Learning-Based Prediction of Corrosion Behavior in Additively Manufactured Inconel 718
Authors: Mythreyi O. V. , Srinivaas M. Rohith , Amit Kumar Tigga , Jayaganthan R.
Published: July 2021

This research work focuses on machine-learning-assisted prediction of the corrosion behavior of laser-powder-bed-fused (LPBF) and postprocessed Inconel 718. Corrosion testing data of these specimens were collected and fit into the following machine learning algorithms: polynomial regression, support vector regression, decision tree, and extreme gradient boosting. The model performance, after hyperparameter optimization, was evaluated using a set of established metrics: R2, mean absolute error, and root mean square error. Among the algorithms, the extreme gradient boosting algorithm performed best in predicting the corrosion behavior, closely followed by other algorithms. Feature importance analysis was executed in order to determine the postprocessing parameters that influenced the most the corrosion behavior in Inconel 718 manufactured by LPBF.
Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced and Intravoxel Incoherent Motion MRI Biomarkers Are Correlated to Survival Outcome in Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Bang-Bin , Shao Yu-Yun , Lin Zhong-Zhe , Hsu Chih-Hung , Cheng Ann-Lii , Hsu Chiun , Liang Po-Chin , Shih Tiffany Ting-Fang
Published: July 2021

Objective: This study assessed dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE)-MRI and intravoxel incoherent motion diffusion-weighted imaging (IVIM DWI) parameters to prospectively predict survival outcomes in participants with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who received lenalidomide, a dual antiangiogenic and immunomodulatory agent, as second-line therapy in a Phase II clinical trial. Materials and methods: Forty-four participants with advanced HCC who had progression after sorafenib as first-line treatment were prospectively enrolled. Pretreatment MRI parameters—obtained from DCE-MRI (peak, slope, AUC, Ktrans, Kep, and Ve), apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), and IVIM DWI (pure diffusion coefficient (D), pseudodiffusion coefficient (D*), and perfusion fraction (f))—were derived from the largest hepatic tumor. The Cox model was used to investigate the associations of the parameters with progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Results: Median PFS and OS were 2.3 and 8.0 months, respectively. Univariate analysis showed that participants with a high slope (p = 0.024), Kep (p < 0.001), and ADC (p = 0.018) values had longer PFS than those with low values; participants with a small tumor size (p = 0.006), high slope (p = 0.01), ADC (p = 0.015), and f (p = 0.012) values had longer OS than those with low values did. Cox multivariable analysis revealed that Kep (p < 0.001) and ADC (p = 0.009) remained independent predictors of PFS; slope (p = 0.003) and ADC (p = 0.009) remained independent predictors of OS. Moreover, Kep and slope were still significant after Bonferroni correction was performed (p < 0.005). Conclusion: Both pretreatment DCE-MRI and IVIM DWI parameters, especially slope and ADC, may predict PFS and OS in participants with HCC receiving lenalidomide as second-line therapy.
The Matter of Time
Authors: Annila Arto
Published: July 2021

About a century ago, in the spirit of ancient atomism, the quantum of light was renamed the photon to suggest that it is the fundamental element of everything. Since the photon carries energy in its period of time, a flux of photons inexorably embodies a flow of time. Thus, time comprises periods as a trek comprises legs. The flows of quanta naturally select optimal paths (i.e., geodesics) to level out energy differences in the least amount of time. The corresponding flow equations can be written, but they cannot be solved. Since the flows affect their driving forces, affecting the flows, and so on, the forces (i.e., causes) and changes in motions (i.e., consequences) are inseparable. Thus, the future remains unpredictable. However, it is not all arbitrary but rather bounded by free energy. Eventually, when the system has attained a stationary state where forces tally, there are no causes and no consequences. Since there are no energy differences between the system and its surroundings, the quanta only orbit on and on. Thus, time does not move forward either but circulates.
Modeling and Analysis of Anomalies in the Network Infrastructure Based on the Potts Model
Authors: Paszkiewicz Andrzej
Published: July 2021

The paper discusses issues concerning the occurrence of anomalies affecting the process of phase transitions. The considered issue was examined from the perspective of phase transitions in network structures, particularly in IT networks, Internet of Things and Internet of Everything. The basis for the research was the Potts model in the context of IT networks. The author proposed the classification of anomalies in relation to the states of particular nodes in the network structure. Considered anomalies included homogeneous, heterogeneous, individual and cyclic disorders. The results of tests and simulations clearly showed the impact of anomalies on the phase transitions in the network structures. The obtained results can be applied in modelling the processes occurring in network structures, particularly in IT networks.
Geometrical Optics Restricted Eavesdropping Analysis of Satellite-to-Satellite Secret Key Distillation
Authors: Pan Ziwen , Djordjevic Ivan B.
Published: July 2021

Traditionally, the study of quantum key distribution (QKD) assumes an omnipotent eavesdropper that is only limited by the laws of physics. However, this is not the case for specific application scenarios such as the QKD over a free-space link. In this invited paper, we introduce the geometrical optics restricted eavesdropping model for secret key distillation security analysis and apply to a few scenarios common in satellite-to-satellite applications.
A Case Study: Using a Neuro-Physiological Measure to Monitor Students’ Interest and Learning during a Micro:Bit Activity
Authors: Tan Aik Lim , Gillies Robyn , Jamaludin Azilawati
Published: July 2021

Interest plays a critical role in learning and development. It is able to compel students toward short term exploration, motivating them toward the pursuit of future goals, as well as leading to the development of knowledge and cognitive abilities. Interest also enables students to rise above perceived restrictions and limitations to achieve their goals. Interest therefore plays a significant role in learning and development. Currently, most of the extant research on interest has been typically done using self-report surveys or by observations, which may be somewhat subjective in nature. This study therefore aims to further deepen our understanding of the value of interest on learning, and more importantly, suggests a novel method of tracing interest development over time. An alternative measure of interest through the use of neuro-physiological markers is suggested, with examples based on two case studies out of a class of 22 students. The Empatica E4 wristband was used to collect electrodermal activity (EDA) data to capture instances of triggered interest during a 10-week curriculum, which were triangulated with behavioral observations. The study found that EDA is a possible measure for recording and tracing interest development in students, providing a more nuanced and objective measure of interest development.
The Challenge of Teacher Training in the 2030 Agenda Framework Using Geotechnologies
Authors: Puertas-Aguilar Miguel-Ángel , Álvarez-Otero Javier , de Lázaro-Torres María-Luisa
Published: July 2021

Social evolution, globalization, and advances in technology are making it increasingly necessary to offer complete and comprehensive teacher training. This training should produce citizens who are concerned about the planet and its future. These values are embedded in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the breadth of which allows them to be integrated into the secondary school curriculum for most subjects. To construct a complete teacher training model, the following have been considered: previous studies based on qualitative and quantitative methodologies (the Delphi method and questionnaires for ‘expert’ teachers), the teaching experience of the authors, the action research methodology, and validation by other teachers who use technologies and are concerned about sustainability issues. The result is a teacher training model that is in line with UNESCO’s sustainability competencies and based not only on technology, the scientific content of the subject to be taught, and didactics (pedagogy), but also on education in sustainability and the SDGs that need to be integrated. This approach is expected to produce changes in citizens’ attitudes that contribute to the achievement of the SDGs and lead to the teachers feeling positive about their teaching experiences. However, a systematic application of this approach in classrooms and an assessment of its learning results are still pending.
A Disposable Saliva Electrochemical MIP-Based Biosensor for Detection of the Stress Biomarker α-Amylase in Point-of-Care Applications
Authors: Rebelo Tânia S. C. R. , Miranda Inês M. , Brandão Ana T. S. C. , Sousa Laura I. G. , Ribeiro José A. , Silva António F. , Pereira Carlos M.
Published: July 2021

The design and synthesis of artificial receptors based on molecular imprinting (MI) technology for the development of a new MIP-based biosensor for detection of the stress biomarker α-amylase in human saliva in point-of-care (PoC) applications is described in this work. The portable electrochemical devices for monitoring α-amylase consists of cost-effective and disposable gold screen-printed electrodes (AuSPEs). To build the electrochemical device, the template biomolecule was firstly immobilized directly over the working area of the gold chip previously activated with a self-assembled monolayer (SAM) of cysteamine (CA). Then, pyrrole (Py) monomer was selected as building block of a polymeric network prepared by CV electropolymerization. After the electropolymerization process, the enzyme was removed from the polymer film in order to build the specific recognition sites for the target enzyme. The MIP biosensor showed a very wide linear concentration range (between 3.0 × 10−4 to 0.60 mg mL−1 in buffer solution and between 3.0 × 10−4 to 3.0 × 10−2 mg mL−1 in human saliva) and low detection levels were achieved (LOD < 3.0 × 10−4 mg mL−1) using square wave voltammetry (SWV) as the electroanalytical technique.
Compact and Simple High-Efficient Dual-Band RF-DC Rectifier for Wireless Electromagnetic Energy Harvesting
Authors: Mansour Mohamed M. , Torigoe Shota , Yamamoto Shuya , Kanaya Haruichi
Published: July 2021

(1) Background: This work presents a high-efficiency, high sensitivity, compact rectifier based on a dual-band impedance matching network that employs a simple and straightforward T-matching circuit, for sub-1 GHz license-free applications. The development of a low-cost RF energy harvester dedicated to the ISM bands is introduced. The proposed rectifier design is optimized to operate at the sub-GHz frequency bands (0.9 to 2.4 GHz), specifically those at the ISM 900 and 2400 MHz. The motivation for this band is due to the low attenuation, well-known fundamental electromagnetic theories and background, and several wireless communications are emitting at those bands, such as RFID (2). Methods: The rectifier design is based on a simple, balanced single-series diode connected with a T-matching circuit. The dual-band performance is achieved by deploying reactive elements in each branch. The full mathematical analysis and simulation results are discussed in the manuscript. (3) Results: The rectifier can achieve a 80 MHz bandwidth around 920 MHz frequency and 200 MHz around the higher band 2.4 GHz. The resultant conversion efficiency level is maintained above 45% at both bands with a peak efficiency reaches up to 70% at the higher band. The optimum terminal load attached to the circuit at which the peak efficiency is achieved, is given as 4.7 kΩ. (4) Conclusion: Due to the compactness and small footprint, simple design, and simple integration with microwave circuits, the proposed rectifier architecture might find several potential applications in wireless RF energy harvesting.
Practical Applications of Diffusive Realization of Fractional Integrator with SoftFrac
Authors: Baranowski Jerzy , Bauer Waldemar , Mularczyk Rafał
Published: July 2021

Fractional calculus has found multiple applications around the world. It is especially prevalent in the domains of control and electronics. One of the key elements of fractional applications is the fractional integral (or integrator) which is a backbone of famous PIλD controller. It gives advantages of traditional PID with a limited phase lag. The are, however, issues with implementation, which will allow good low-frequency behavior. In this paper, we consider a diffusive realization of a fractional integrator with the use of quadratures. We implemented this method in numerical package SoftFrac, and we illustrate how different quadratures work for this purpose. We show superiority of bounded domain integration with logarithmic transformation and explain issues with behavior for extremely low frequencies.
An 18-Gb/s/pin Single-Ended PAM-4 Transmitter for Memory Interfaces with Adaptive Impedance Matching and Output Level Compensation
Authors: Hyun Changho , Jeong Yong-Un , Kim Suhwan , Chae Joo-Hyung
Published: July 2021

This paper presents a method for preventing output level distortion while matching the channel impedance in the single-ended PAM-4 transmitter for memory interfaces. ZQ codes for all four output signal levels were obtained through ZQ calibration and saved in the ZQ code table. The ZQ code generator then adaptively selected the appropriate codes depending on the data pattern and delivered them to the output driver; this can improve the level separation mismatch ratio (RLM) while matching the channel impedance. To validate the effectiveness of our approach, a prototype chip with an active area of 0.035 mm2 was fabricated in a 65 nm CMOS process. It achieved the energy efficiency of 3.09 pJ/bit/pin at 18 Gb/s/pin, and its RLM was 0.971 while matching the channel impedance.
Cooperative People Tracking by Distributed Cameras Network
Authors: Wu Yi-Chang , Chen Ching-Han , Chiu Yao-Te , Chen Pi-Wei
Published: July 2021

In the application of video surveillance, reliable people detection and tracking are always challenging tasks. The conventional single-camera surveillance system may encounter difficulties such as narrow-angle of view and dead space. In this paper, we proposed multi-cameras network architecture with an inter-camera hand-off protocol for cooperative people tracking. We use the YOLO model to detect multiple people in the video scene and incorporate the particle swarm optimization algorithm to track the person movement. When a person leaves the area covered by a camera and enters an area covered by another camera, these cameras can exchange relevant information for uninterrupted tracking. The motion smoothness (MS) metrics is proposed for evaluating the tracking quality of multi-camera networking system. We used a three-camera system for two persons tracking in overlapping scene for experimental evaluation. Most tracking person offsets at different frames were lower than 30 pixels. Only 0.15% of the frames showed abrupt increases in offsets pixel. The experiment results reveal that our multi-camera system achieves robust, smooth tracking performance.
State Estimation within IED Based Smart Grid Using Kalman Estimates
Authors: Rashed Muhammad , Gondal Iqbal , Kamruzzaman Joarder , Islam Syed
Published: July 2021

State Estimation is a traditional and reliable technique within power distribution and control systems. It is used for building a topology of the power grid network based on state measurements and current operational state of different nodes & buses. The protection of sensors and measurement units such as Intelligent Electronic Devices (IED) in Central Energy Management System (CEMS) against False Data Injection Attacks (FDIAs) is a big concern to grid operators. These are special kind of cyber-attacks that are directed towards the state & measurement data in such a way that mislead the CEMS into making incorrect decisions and create generation load imbalance. These are known to bypass the traditional bad data detection systems within central estimators. This paper presents the use of an additional novel state estimator based on Kalman filter along with traditional Distributed State Estimation (DSE) which is based on Weighted Least Square (WLS). Kalman filter is a feedback control mechanism that constantly updates itself based on state prediction and state correction technique and shows improvement in the estimates. The additional estimator output is compared with the results of DSE in order to identify anomalies and injection of false data. We evaluated our methodology by simulating proposed technique using MATPOWER over IEEE-14, IEEE-30, IEEE-118, IEEE-300 bus. The results clearly demonstrate the superiority of the proposed method over traditional state estimation.
An 87% Power-Efficiency Hybrid of Voltage- and Current-Mode Line Driver with an Adaptive Amplitude Tuning
Authors: Park Changjoo , Lee Minjae
Published: July 2021

This brief presents a hybrid of voltage- and current-mode line drivers for the turbo controller area network (CAN). The current-mode scheme prevents signal attenuation caused by source termination resistors, and it enhances signal power efficiency. On top of that, an adaptive amplitude tuning is implemented to mitigate non-linearity and closed-loop gain variations against load impedance variations. The proposed line driver achieves 87.0% power-efficiency and total harmonic distortion, plus noise (THD+N) of −49.0 dB at an input frequency of 40 MHz and output swing of 2.8 VPP differential. The adaptive amplitude tuning allows load impedance variations from 80 Ω to 160 Ω. The total power consumption is 37.6 mW with a 1.8 V supply voltage in 180 nm CMOS, and it occupies 0.377 mm2.
STHM: A Secured and Trusted Healthcare Monitoring Architecture Using SDN and Blockchain
Authors: Barka Ezedin , Dahmane Sofiane , Kerrache Chaker Abdelaziz , Khayat Mohamad , Sallabi Farag
Published: July 2021

Healthcare professionals and scholars have emphasized the need for IoT-based remote health monitoring services to track the health of the elderly. Such systems produce a large amount of data, necessitating the security and privacy of that data. On the other hand, Software Defined Networking (SDN) integration could be seen as a good solution to guarantee both flexibility and efficiency of the network which is even more important in the case of healthcare monitoring. Furthermore, Blockchain has recently been proposed as a game-changing tool that can be integrated into the Internet of Things (IoT) to have the optimal level of security and privacy. However, incorporating Blockchain into IoT networks, which rely heavily on patients’ health sensors, is extremely difficult. In this paper, a secure Healthcare Monitoring System (HMS) is proposed with a focus on trust management issues. The architecture seeks to protect multiple healthcare monitoring system components and preserves patient privacy by developing a security interface where separate security modules can be integrated to run side by side to ensure reliable HMS. The security framework architecture we propose takes advantage of the blockchain technology as a secure and timely information back-end. STHM is a proposal that uses Software-Defined Networking (SDN) as the communication medium that allows users to access SDN’s different functional and security technologies and services. Simulation results show that the use of Blockchain for the SDN-based healthcare monitoring can ensure the desired flexibility and security for a very lightweight additional overhead.
Multi-Objective Optimization of Autonomous Microgrids with Reliability Consideration
Authors: Riou Maël , Dupriez-Robin Florian , Grondin Dominique , Le Loup Christophe , Benne Michel , Tran Quoc T.
Published: July 2021

Microgrids operating on renewable energy resources have potential for powering rural areas located far from existing grid infrastructures. These small power systems typically host a hybrid energy system of diverse architecture and size. An effective integration of renewable energies resources requires careful design. Sizing methodologies often lack the consideration for reliability and this aspect is limited to power adequacy. There exists an inherent trade-off between renewable integration, cost, and reliability. To bridge this gap, a sizing methodology has been developed to perform multi-objective optimization, considering the three design objectives mentioned above. This method is based on the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA-II) that returns the set of optimal solutions under all objectives. This method aims to identify the trade-offs between renewable integration, reliability, and cost allowing to choose the adequate architecture and sizing accordingly. As a case study, we consider an autonomous microgrid, currently being installed in a rural area in Mali. The results show that increasing system reliability can be done at the least cost if carried out in the initial design stage.
Modification of Canola Oil Physicochemical Properties by Hexane and Ethanol with Regards of Its Application in Diesel Engine
Authors: Longwic Rafał , Sander Przemysław , Jańczuk Bronisław , Zdziennicka Anna , Szymczyk Katarzyna
Published: July 2021

A mixture of canola oil (Co), n-hexane (Hex), and ethyl alcohol (Et) was proposed as a new energy material for powering diesel engines. For this purpose, surface tension, density, and viscosity measurements, as well as engine tests, were performed for 88%Co10%Hex2%Et and 83%Co15%Hex2%Et mixtures at 20 °C. The adsorption and volumetric properties of these mixtures were compared to those of individual mixture components, as well as diesel fuel (Df) and oleic, linoleic, α-linolenic, palmitic, and stearic acids. It was revealed that the values of surface tension, viscosity, and density of Co were higher than those of the Co components. The addition of 10% Hex and 2% Et to Co caused a more than twofold decrease in its viscosity, while the addition of 15% Hex and 2% Et caused a more than fourfold reduction of Co viscosity. In addition, a mixture of Co with 2% Et and 10% Hex had a density similar to that of Df. In turn, theoretical calculations showed that the addition of n-hexane and ethanol to canola oil only slightly changed its heat of combustion. Engine tests were carried out at fixed engine rotational speeds, with a direct gearbox ratio (4th gear). The quick-changing parameters of the combustion process were registered using an AVL Indimicro system. In these tests it was found that the addition of Et to the mixture of Co and Hex did not significantly shorten the auto-ignition delay, but the kinetic phase during combustion disappeared, which had an impact on the combustion start angle.
Strategies for an Adaptive Control System to Improve Power Grid Resilience with Smart Buildings
Authors: Ahrens Mischa , Kern Fabian , Schmeck Hartmut
Published: July 2021

Low-voltage distribution grids face new challenges through the expansion of decentralized, renewable energy generation and the electrification of the heat and mobility sectors. We present a multi-agent system consisting of the energy management systems of smart buildings, a central grid controller, and the local controller of a transformer. It can coordinate the provision of ancillary services for the local grid in a centralized way, coordinated by the central controller, and in a decentralized way, where each building makes independent control decisions based on locally measurable data. The presented system and the different control strategies provide the foundation for a fully adaptive grid control system we plan to implement in the future, which does not only provide resilience against electricity outages but also against communication failures by appropriate switching of strategies. The decentralized strategy, meant to be used during communication failures, could also be used exclusively if communication infrastructure is generally unavailable. The strategies are evaluated in a simulated scenario designed to represent the most extreme load conditions that might occur in low-voltage grids in the future. In the tested scenario, they can substantially reduce voltage range deviations, transformer temperatures, and line congestions.
Significance and Directions of Energy Development in African Countries
Authors: Borowski Piotr F.
Published: July 2021

The development of energy networks and electrification is a major challenge in many African countries, which can contribute to reducing social inequalities. Energy, and above all electricity, is a decisive factor influencing the functioning of national governments. The power of governments in individual countries depends on the energy sector. Therefore, it is worth noting that during the presidential elections, candidates make many promises related to the improvement of the energy supply. The article shows, using the examples of Guinea, Ethiopia and Egypt, how politicians in the pre-election period use slogans related to the energy and development of the country. The innovative side of this article looks at how politicians keep their promises by using the energy sector and how they secure victory in the next election. The article linked the objective needs for the development of the energy sector resulting from the growing demand for energy with the motives of the decisions makers who want to maintain power through the implementation of new investments in the energy sector. The paper presents the results of research on the development of the energy sector and the motives for this development, explains how energy investments are realized, and discusses the environmental and social problems that arise when building huge hydropower stations.
Study on Adsorption Properties of Modified Corn Cob Activated Carbon for Mercury Ion
Authors: Liu Yuyingnan , Xu Xinrui , Qu Bin , Liu Xiaofeng , Yi Weiming , Zhang Hongqiong
Published: July 2021

In this study, corn cob was used as raw material and modified methods employing KOH and KMnO4 were used to prepare activated carbon with high adsorption capacity for mercury ions. Experiments on the effects of different influencing factors on the adsorption of mercury ions were undertaken. The results showed that when modified with KOH, the optimal adsorption time was 120 min, the optimum pH was 4; when modified with KMnO4, the optimal adsorption time was 60 min, the optimal pH was 3, and the optimal amount of adsorbent and the initial concentration were both 0.40 g/L and 100 mg/L under both modified conditions. The adsorption process conforms to the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Langmuir model. Scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Zeta potential characterization results showed that the adsorption process is mainly physical adsorption, surface complexation and ion exchange.
Time-Sensitive Networking Technologies for Industrial Automation in Wireless Communication Systems
Authors: Kang Yoohwa , Lee Sunwoo , Gwak Songi , Kim Taekyeong , An Donghyeok
Published: July 2021

The fourth industrial revolution is accelerating industrial automation. In industrial networks, manufacturing processes require hard real-time communication where the latency is less than 1ms. Time-sensitive networking (TSN) technology over Ethernet already supports deterministic delivery for real-time communication. However, TSN technologies over wireless networks are currently in their initial development stage. Therefore, this study presents an overview of TSN research trends in wireless communications. This paper focuses on 5G networks and IEEE 802.11. We summarize standardization trends for TSN in 5G networks and introduce the TSN technologies for 802.11-based WLAN. Then, we introduce the integration scenario of 5GS with WLAN. This study provides insights into wireless communication technologies for wireless TSN.
International Environmental Efficiency Trends and the Impact of the Paris Agreement
Authors: Yang Wen-Chi , Lu Wen-Min , Ramasamy Alagu Perumal
Published: July 2021

This study estimates the environmental efficiency of 150 economies during the period of 2010–2017 to understand the environmental efficiency trend worldwide. This research adopts the meta-Malmquist approach to compare and capture the dynamic change in environmental efficiency among different income groups. The empirical results indicate that among the four income groups, only the low-income group suffers from regression in terms of environmental efficiency, while the high-income group achieves the greatest progress. For the high-income group, the source of improvement originates from the frontier shift rather than from efficiency change. By contrast, the improvement of the lower-income groups results from the catching-up effect. With regard to the effect of the Paris Agreement, only the lower middle-income group exhibits a statistical difference between the two periods, and environmental efficiency increases after the adoption of the Paris Agreement. The fight against global warming cannot succeed by relying only on specific countries. The whole world must cooperate and improve together, and thus, additional help must be devoted to the low-income group. The statistical results support that differences exist in terms of environmental efficiency among the four income groups. In particular, the low-income group is deteriorating.
Depuration Performance of Aerated Tanks Simulating Lagoons to Treat Olive Oil Mill Wastewater under Different Airflow Rates, and Concentrations of Polyphenols and Nitrogen
Authors: Andiloro Serafina , Bombino Giuseppe , Denisi Pietro , Folino Adele , Zema Demetrio Antonio , Zimbone Santo Marcello
Published: July 2021

The uncontrolled disposal of olive oil mill wastewater (OMW) is hazardous for the health of water and soil, since this wastewater shows low pH and high contents of organic matter and polyphenols (PP). Lagooning is one of the most common treatment systems for agro-industrial wastewater (such as OMW), due to its low cost and easy management. Aeration allows reducing the low depuration time, which is a constraint for this system. Despite this potential feasibility, literature about OMW lagooning is not abundant. Moreover, the effects of the aeration rates, concentration of polyphenols and nitrogen shortage on depuration performance of lagoons treating OMW have not been properly explored. This study analyzes the removal rates of COD and PP, and variations of pH in OMW treated in aerated tanks at the laboratory scale simulating lagooning systems. Compared to the non-aerated tanks, aeration of OMW increased the removal rates from 61% to 90% (for COD) and from 52% to 64% (for PP). Permanent aeration was more advisable compared to intermittent flow rates. Increasing concentrations of PP noticeably reduced the COD removal rates, which were halved at a 4-fold PP concentration. In contrast, the PP removal rate was constant at every concentration experimented. Compared to the COD:N value suggested by literature for aerobic processes (100:5), a shortage in nitrogen availability reduced both COD (by about 20–25%) and PP removal rates (by 25%), the latter only when COD:N was higher 400:5. The pH was less influenced by the variations in aeration rates, PP concentration and COD:N ratio compared to COD and PP removal. This investigation provides indications about the most suitable operation parameters (airflow rates, inhibiting PP concentration, and optimal COD:N) in aerated lagooning of OMW towards environmentally sound treatments of highly polluting wastewater.
Antimicrobial Activity of Se-Nanoparticles from Bacterial Biotransformation
Authors: Escobar-Ramírez Meyli Claudia , Castañeda-Ovando Araceli , Pérez-Escalante Emmanuel , Rodríguez-Serrano Gabriela Mariana , Ramírez-Moreno Esther , Quintero-Lira Aurora , Contreras-López Elizabeth , Añorve-Morga Javier , Jaimez-Ordaz Judith , González-Olivares Luis Guillermo
Published: July 2021

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) are gaining importance in the food and medical fields due to their antibacterial properties. The microbial inhibition of these kinds of particles has been tested in a wide range of Gram (+) and Gram (−) pathogenic bacteria. When SeNPs are synthesized by biological methods, they are called biogenic SeNPs, which have a negative charge caused by their interaction between surface and capping layer (bioorganic material), producing their high stability. This review is focused on SeNPs synthesis by bacteria and summarizes the main factors that influence their main characteristics: shape, size and surface charge, considering the bacteria growth conditions for their synthesis. The different mechanisms of antimicrobial activity are revised, and this review describes several biosynthesis hypotheses that have been proposed due to the fact that the biological mechanism of SeNP synthesis is not fully known.