bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vitro Fermentation of Polysaccharides from Aloe vera and the Evaluation of Antioxidant Activity and Production of Short Chain Fatty Acids
Authors: Tornero-Martínez Antonio , Cruz-Ortiz Rubén , Jaramillo-Flores María Eugenia , Osorio-Díaz Perla , Ávila-Reyes Sandra Victoria , Alvarado-Jasso Guadalupe Monserrat , Mora-Escobedo Rosalva
Published: October 2019

Soluble or fermentable fibre has prebiotic effects that can be used in the food industry to modify the composition of microbiota species to benefit human health. Prebiotics mostly target Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strains, among others, which can fight against chronic diseases since colonic fermentation produces short chain fatty acids (SCFAs). The present work studied the changes produced in the fibre and polyphenolic compounds during in vitro digestion of gel (AV) and a polysaccharide extract (AP) from Aloe vera, after which, these fractions were subjected to in vitro colonic fermentation to evaluate the changes in antioxidant capacity and SCFAs production during the fermentation. The results showed that the phenolic compounds increased during digestion, but were reduced in fermentation, as a consequence, the antioxidant activity increased significantly in AV and AP after the digestion. On the other hand, during in vitro colon fermentation, the unfermented fibre of AV and AP responded as lactulose and the total volume of gas produced, which indicates the possible use of Aloe vera and polysaccharide extract as prebiotics.
In Silico and In Vitro Anti-Helicobacter Pylori Effects of Combinations of Phytochemicals and Antibiotics
Authors: Fong Pedro , Hao Chon-Hou , Io Chi-Cheng , Sin Pou-Io , Meng Li-Rong
Published: October 2019

Helicobacter pylori infection is a WHO class 1 carcinogenic factor of gastric adenocarcinoma. In the past decades, many studies have demonstrated the increasing trend of antibiotic resistance and pointed out the necessity of new effective treatment. This study was aimed at identifying phytochemicals that can inhibit H. pylori and possibly serve as adjuvant treatments. Here, in silico molecular docking and drug-like properties analyses were performed to identify potential inhibitors of urease, shikimate kinase and aspartate-semialdehyde dehydrogenase. These three enzymes are targets of the treatment of H. pylori. Susceptibility and synergistic testing were performed on the selected phytochemicals and the positive control antibiotic, amoxicillin. The in-silico study revealed that oroxindin, rosmarinic acid and verbascoside are inhibitors of urease, shikimate kinase and aspartate-semialdehyde dehydrogenase, respectively, in which, oroxindin has the highest potency against H. pylori, indicated by a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of 50 μg/mL. A combination of oroxindin and amoxicillin demonstrated additive effects against H. pylori, as indicated by a fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) value of 0.75. This study identified phytochemicals that deserve further investigation for the development of adjuvant therapeutic agents to current antibiotics against H. pylori.
Gold Nanoparticles as Boron Carriers for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy: Synthesis, Radiolabelling and In Vivo Evaluation
Authors: Pulagam Krishna R. , Gona Kiran B. , Gómez-Vallejo Vanessa , Meijer Jan , Zilberfain Carolin , Estrela-Lopis Irina , Baz Zuriñe , Cossío Unai , Llop Jordi
Published: October 2019

Background: Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) is a binary approach to cancer therapy that requires accumulation of boron atoms preferentially in tumour cells. This can be achieved by using nanoparticles as boron carriers and taking advantage of the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. Here, we present the preparation and characterization of size and shape-tuned gold NPs (AuNPs) stabilised with polyethylene glycol (PEG) and functionalized with the boron-rich anion cobalt bis(dicarbollide), commonly known as COSAN. The resulting NPs were radiolabelled with 124I both at the core and the shell, and were evaluated in vivo in a mouse model of human fibrosarcoma (HT1080 cells) using positron emission tomography (PET). Methods: The thiolated COSAN derivatives for subsequent attachment to the gold surface were synthesized by reaction of COSAN with tetrahydropyran (THP) followed by ring opening using potassium thioacetate (KSAc). Iodination on one of the boron atoms of the cluster was also carried out to enable subsequent radiolabelling of the boron cage. AuNPs grafted with mPEG-SH (5 Kda) and thiolated COSAN were prepared by ligand displacement. Radiolabelling was carried out both at the shell (isotopic exchange) and at the core (anionic absorption) of the NPs using 124I to enable PET imaging. Results: Stable gold nanoparticles simultaneously functionalised with PEG and COSAN (PEG-AuNPs@[4]−) with hydrodynamic diameter of 37.8 ± 0.5 nm, core diameter of 19.2 ± 1.4 nm and ξ-potential of −18.0 ± 0.7 mV were obtained. The presence of the COSAN on the surface of the NPs was confirmed by Raman Spectroscopy and UV-Vis spectrophotometry. PEG-AuNPs@[4]− could be efficiently labelled with 124I both at the core and the shell. Biodistribution studies in a xenograft mouse model of human fibrosarcoma showed major accumulation in liver, lungs and spleen, and poor accumulation in the tumour. The dual labelling approach confirmed the in vivo stability of the PEG-AuNPs@[4]−. Conclusions: PEG stabilized, COSAN-functionalised AuNPs could be synthesized, radiolabelled and evaluated in vivo using PET. The low tumour accumulation in the animal model assayed points to the need of tuning the size and geometry of the gold core for future studies.
Reorganize Your Blogs: Supporting Blog Re-visitation with Natural Language Processing and Visualization
Authors: Niu Shuo , McCrickard D. Scott , Stelter Timothy L. , Dix Alan , Taylor G. Don
Published: October 2019

Temporally-connected personal blogs contain voluminous textual content, presenting challenges in re-visiting and reflecting on experiences. Other data repositories have benefited from natural language processing (NLP) and interactive visualizations (VIS) to support exploration, but little is known about how these techniques could be used with blogs to present experiences and support multimodal interaction with blogs, particularly for authors. This paper presents the effect of reorganization—reorganizing the large blog set with NLP and presenting abstract topics with VIS—to support novel re-visitation experiences to blogs. The BlogCloud tool, a blog re-visitation tool that reorganizes blog paragraphs around user-searched keywords, implements reorganization and similarity-based content grouping. Through a public use session with bloggers who wrote about extended hikes, we observed the effect of NLP-based reorganization in delivering novel re-visitation experiences. Findings suggest that the re-presented topics provide new reflection materials and re-visitation paths, enabling interaction with symbolic items in memory.
Transporters in the Mammary Gland—Contribution to Presence of Nutrients and Drugs into Milk
Authors: García-Lino Alba M. , Álvarez-Fernández Indira , Blanco-Paniagua Esther , Merino Gracia , Álvarez Ana I.
Published: October 2019

A large number of nutrients and bioactive ingredients found in milk play an important role in the nourishment of breast-fed infants and dairy consumers. Some of these ingredients include physiologically relevant compounds such as vitamins, peptides, neuroactive compounds and hormones. Conversely, milk may contain substances—drugs, pesticides, carcinogens, environmental pollutants—which have undesirable effects on health. The transfer of these compounds into milk is unavoidably linked to the function of transport proteins. Expression of transporters belonging to the ATP-binding cassette (ABC-) and Solute Carrier (SLC-) superfamilies varies with the lactation stages of the mammary gland. In particular, Organic Anion Transporting Polypeptides 1A2 (OATP1A2) and 2B1 (OATP2B1), Organic Cation Transporter 1 (OCT1), Novel Organic Cation Transporter 1 (OCTN1), Concentrative Nucleoside Transporters 1, 2 and 3 (CNT1, CNT2 and CNT3), Peptide Transporter 2 (PEPT2), Sodium-dependent Vitamin C Transporter 2 (SVCT2), Multidrug Resistance-associated Protein 5 (ABCC5) and Breast Cancer Resistance Protein (ABCG2) are highly induced during lactation. This review will focus on these transporters overexpressed during lactation and their role in the transfer of products into the milk, including both beneficial and harmful compounds. Furthermore, additional factors, such as regulation, polymorphisms or drug-drug interactions will be described.
The Metabolic Concept of Meal Sequence vs. Satiety: Glycemic and Oxidative Responses with Reference to Inflammation Risk, Protective Principles and Mediterranean Diet
Authors: Shapira Niva
Published: October 2019

With increasing exposure to eating opportunities and postprandial conditions becoming dominant states, acute effects of meals are garnering interest. In this narrative review, meal components, combinations and course sequence were questioned vis-à-vis resultant postprandial responses, including satiety, glycemic, oxidative and inflammatory risks/outcomes vs. protective principles, with reference to the Mediterranean diet. Representative scientific literature was reviewed and explained, and corresponding recommendations discussed and illustrated. Starting meals with foods, courses and/or preloads high in innate/added/incorporated water and/or fibre, followed by protein-based courses, delaying carbohydrates and fatty foods and minimizing highly-processed/sweetened hedonic foods, would increase satiety-per-calorie vs. obesogenic passive overconsumption. Similarly, starting with high-water/fibre dishes, followed by high-protein foods, oils/fats, and delayed/reduced slowly-digested whole/complex carbohydrate sources, optionally closing with simpler carbohydrates/sugars, would reduce glycaemic response. Likewise, starting with foods high in innate/added/incorporated water/fibre/antioxidants, high monounsaturated fatty acid foods/oils, light proteins and whole/complex carbohydrate foods, with foods/oils low in n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and n-6:n-3 PUFA ratios, and minimal-to-no red meat and highly/ultra-processed foods/lipids, would reduce oxidative/inflammatory response. Pyramids illustrating representative meal sequences, from most-to-least protective foods, visually communicate similarities between axes, suggesting potential unification for optimal meal sequence, consistent with anti-inflammatory nutrition and Mediterranean diet/meal principles, warranting application and outcome evaluation.
The Gut Microbiota in Celiac Disease and probiotics
Authors: Chibbar Richa , Dieleman Levinus A.
Published: October 2019

Celiac disease (CeD) is an immune-mediated enteropathy, and unique in that the specific trigger is known: gluten. The current mainstay of therapy is a gluten-free diet (GFD). As novel therapies are being developed, complementary strategies are also being studied, such as modulation of the gut microbiome. The gut microbiota is involved in the initiation and perpetuation of intestinal inflammation in several chronic diseases. Intestinal dysbiosis has been reported in CeD patients, untreated or treated with GFD, compared to healthy subjects. Several studies have identified differential bacterial populations associated with CeD patients and healthy subjects. However, it is still not clear if intestinal dysbiosis is the cause or effect of CeD. Probiotics have also been considered as a strategy to modulate the gut microbiome to an anti-inflammatory state. However, there is a paucity of data to support their use in treating CeD. Further studies are needed with therapeutic microbial formulations combined with human trials on the use of probiotics to treat CeD by restoring the gut microbiome to an anti-inflammatory state.
Curcumin and Cancer
Authors: Giordano Antonio , Tommonaro Giuseppina
Published: October 2019

Curcumin, a polyphenol extracted from Curcuma longa in 1815, has gained attention from scientists worldwide for its biological activities (e.g., antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral), among which its anticancer potential has been the most described and still remains under investigation. The present review focuses on the cell signaling pathways involved in cancer development and proliferation, and which are targeted by curcumin. Curcumin has been reported to modulate growth factors, enzymes, transcription factors, kinase, inflammatory cytokines, and proapoptotic (by upregulation) and antiapoptotic (by downregulation) proteins. This polyphenol compound, alone or combined with other agents, could represent an effective drug for cancer therapy.
Optimal Assessment and Quantification of Iodine Nutrition in Pregnancy and Lactation: Laboratory and Clinical Methods, Controversies and Future Directions
Authors: Eastman Creswell J , Ma Gary , Li Mu
Published: October 2019

Iodine intake must be boosted during pregnancy to meet the demands for increased production and placental transfer of thyroid hormone essential for optimal foetal development. Failure to meet this challenge results in irreversible brain damage, manifested in severity from neurological cretinism to minor or subtle deficits of intelligence and behavioural disorders. Attention is now being focused on explaining observational studies of an association between insufficient iodine intake during pregnancy and mild degrees of intellectual impairment in the offspring and confirming a cause and effect relationship with impaired maternal thyroid function. The current qualitative categorisation of iodine deficiency into mild, moderate and severe by the measurement of the median urinary iodine concentration (MUIC) in a population of school-age children, as a proxy measure of dietary iodine intake, is inappropriate for defining the degree or severity of gestational iodine deficiency and needs to be replaced. This review examines progress in analytical techniques for the measurement of urinary iodine concentration and the application of this technology to epidemiological studies of iodine deficiency with a focus on gestational iodine deficiency. We recommend that more precise definitions and measurements of gestational iodine deficiency, beyond a spot UIC, need to be developed. We review the evidence for hypothyroxinaemia as the cause of intrauterine foetal brain damage in gestational iodine deficiency and discuss the many unanswered questions, from which we propose that further clinical studies need to be designed to address the pathogenesis of neurodevelopmental impairments in the foetus and infant. Agreement on the testing instruments and standardization of processes and procedures for Intelligence Quotient (IQ) and psychomotor tests needs to be reached by investigators, so that valid comparisons can be made among studies of gestational iodine deficiency and neurocognitive outcomes. Finally, the timing, safety and the efficacy of prophylactic iodine supplementation for pregnant and lactating women needs to be established and confirmation that excess intake of iodine during pregnancy is to be avoided.
Leptin and EGF Supplementation Enhance the Immune System Maturation in Preterm Suckling Rats
Authors: Grases-Pintó Blanca , Torres-Castro Paulina , Marín-Morote Lidia , Abril-Gil Mar , Castell Margarida , Rodríguez-Lagunas María J. , Pérez-Cano Francisco J. , Franch Àngels
Published: October 2019

In preterm newborns the immaturity of the immune system is remarkable, with reduced innate and adaptive immune responses. Many bioactive compounds in breast milk, such as growth factors and adipokines, contribute to the immune system’s maturation in early life. However, studies on the immunoregulatory activity in preterm neonates are practically nonexistent. The aim of the present study was to determine whether a nutritional supplementation in early life with leptin or epidermal growth factor (EGF) was able to promote the maturation of the systemic and intestinal immune system in preterm conditions. For this purpose, premature rats were daily supplemented by oral gavage with leptin or EGF. Term and Preterm groups receiving vehicle were used as controls. Preterm rats showed deficiencies compared to full-term ones, such as lower body weights, erythrocyte counts, plasma IgG and IgM concentrations and B cell percentages, and higher values of Th and Tc TCRαβ+ cells in mesenteric lymph nodes, and intestinal permeability, among others. However, leptin and EGF supplementation were able to revert some of these deficiencies and to improve the premature immune system’s development. These results suggest that leptin and EGF are involved in enhancing the maturation of the systemic and intestinal immune system in preterm conditions.
The Impact of Time of Day on Energy Expenditure: Implications for Long-Term Energy Balance
Authors: Shaw Emma , Leung Gloria K.W. , Jong Jessica , Coates Alison M. , Davis Rochelle , Blair Merran , Huggins Catherine E. , Dorrian Jillian , Banks Siobhan , Kellow Nicole J. , Bonham Maxine P.
Published: October 2019

There is evidence to indicate that the central biological clock (i.e., our endogenous circadian system) plays a role in physiological processes in the body that impact energy regulation and metabolism. Cross-sectional data suggest that energy consumption later in the day and during the night is associated with weight gain. These findings have led to speculation that when, as well as what, we eat may be important for maintaining energy balance. Emerging literature suggests that prioritising energy intake to earlier during the day may help with body weight maintenance. Evidence from tightly controlled acute experimental studies indicates a disparity in the body’s ability to utilise (expend) energy equally across the day and night. Energy expenditure both at rest (resting metabolic rate) and after eating (thermic effect of food) is typically more efficient earlier during the day. In this review, we discuss the key evidence for a circadian pattern in energy utilisation and balance, which depends on meal timing. Whilst there is limited evidence that simply prioritising energy intake to earlier in the day is an effective strategy for weight loss, we highlight the potential benefits of considering the role of meal timing for improving metabolic health and energy balance. This review demonstrates that to advance our understanding of the contribution of the endogenous circadian system toward energy balance, targeted studies that utilise appropriate methodologies are required that focus on meal timing and frequency.
Participation in the School Milk Program Contributes to Increased Milk Consumption and Dietary Nutrient Intake by Middle School Students in South Korea
Authors: Lee Jee Hyun , Kim Woo Kyoung , Kim Sun Hyo
Published: October 2019

Milk is considered to be one of the main food sources of calcium for promoting growth and bone health in children and adolescents. This study investigated whether or not participation in a school milk program affected milk consumption and nutrient intake by middle school students in South Korea. In total, 692 middle school students aged 13–16 years old were enrolled in two groups: the school milk program participant group (n = 346) and the non-participant group (n = 346). The survey examined normal milk consumption status in both groups. The diet record method was applied to analyze the amount of nutrient intake levels. Milk/dairy product consumption was significantly higher in the school milk program participant group for both boys and girls (p < 0.001). The school milk program participant group also generally showed higher energy and dietary nutrient intake levels as compared to the non-participant group for both genders (p < 0.05). No differences were observed in milk consumption at home or outside school, and calcium intake from animal-derived foods was higher in the school milk program participant group (p < 0.001). Therefore, it can be assumed that participating in the school milk program directly resulted in higher calcium intake. Hence, we can report that participating in the school milk program contributes to increased milk consumption and improved the overall nutrient intake.
Bioactive Properties of Carotenoids in Human Health
Authors: Amengual Jaume
Published: October 2019

Research shows that certain bioactive compounds in our diet have beneficial effects on human health [...]
Heart Histopathology and Mitochondrial Ultrastructure in Aged Rats Fed for 24 Months on Different Unsaturated Fats (Virgin Olive Oil, Sunflower Oil or Fish Oil) and Affected by Different Longevity
Authors: Navarro-Hortal María D. , Ramírez-Tortosa César L. , Varela-López Alfonso , Romero-Márquez José M. , Ochoa Julio J. , Ramírez-Tortosa MCarmen , Forbes-Hernández Tamara Y. , Granados-Principal Sergio , Battino Maurizio , Quiles José L.
Published: October 2019

Diet plays a decisive role in heart physiology, with lipids having especial importance in pathology prevention and development. This study aimed to investigate how dietary lipids varying in lipid profile (virgin olive oil, sunflower oil or fish oil) affected the heart of rats during aging. Heart histopathology, mitochondrial morphometry, and oxidative status were assessed. Typical histopathological features associated with aging, such as valvular lesions, endomyocardical hyperplasia, or papillary muscle calcification, were found at a low extent in all the experimental groups. The most relevant finding was that inflammation registered by fish oil group was lower compared to the other treatments. At the ultrastructural level, heart mitochondrial area, perimeter, and aspect ratio were higher in fish oil-fed rats than in those fed on sunflower oil. Concerning oxidative stress markers, there were differences only in coenzyme Q levels and catalase activity, lower in sunflower oil-fed animals compared with those fed on fish oil. In summary, dietary intake for a long period on dietary fats with different fatty acids profile led to differences in some aspects associated with the aging process at the heart. Fish oil seems to be the fat most protective of heart during aging.
Proliferative Kidney Disease and Proliferative Darkening Syndrome are Linked with Brown Trout (Salmo trutta fario) Mortalities in the Pre-Alpine Isar River
Authors: Arndt Daniela , Fux Robert , Blutke Andreas , Schwaiger Julia , El-Matbouli Mansour , Sutter Gerd , Langenmayer Martin C.
Published: October 2019

For many years, brown trout (Salmo trutta fario) mortalities within the pre-alpine Isar River in Germany were reported by the Bavarian Fisheries Association (Landesfischereiverband Bayern e.V.) and local recreational anglers during August and September. Moribund fish seemed to be affected by proliferative darkening syndrome (PDS). In addition, proliferative kidney disease (PKD) caused by Tetracapsuloides bryosalmonae was discussed. To investigate this phenomenon, the present field study monitored brown trout mortalities by daily river inspection in 2017 and 2018. Moribund brown trout (n = 31) were collected and examined using histology, immunohistochemistry, qPCR, and quantitative stereology. Our investigations identified 29 (93.5%) brown trout affected by PKD. Four brown trout (12.9%) displayed combined hepatic and splenic lesions fitting the pathology of PDS. The piscine orthoreovirus 3, suspected as causative agent of PDS, was not detectable in any of the samples. Quantitative stereological analysis of the kidneys revealed a significant increase of the renal tissue volumes with interstitial inflammation and hematopoietic hyperplasia in PKD-affected fish as compared to healthy brown trout. The identified T. bryosalmonae strain was classified as part of the North American clade by phylogenetical analysis. This study highlights PKD and PDS as contributing factors to recurrent autumnal brown trout mortalities.
The Design and Manufacture of a Multilayer Low-Temperature Protective Composite Fabric Based on Active Heating Materials and Passive Insulating Materials
Authors: Sun Yanli , Wang Rui , Li Bo , Fan Wei
Published: October 2019

Based on active heating materials (the phase change microcapsules (microPCMs)) and passive insulating materials (SiO2 aerogel), a new-type multilayer low temperature protective composite fabric (MPF) was designed and manufactured to meet the demands of protection and operation in a short time under a low-temperature environment. Results showed that the MPF consisted of three layers including the fabric layer, the microPCM function layer, and the SiO2 aerogel thermal insulation layer. The differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) results demonstrated that the phase transition enthalpy of the composite was 96.2 J/g during the cooling process. The low-temperature resistance and thermal insulation performance at −50 °C were investigated. The results also demonstrated that the low-temperature resistance time of the MPF was 660 s and the power consumption of the MPFs needed to maintain 37 °C for 10 and 20 min were 629 J and 1872 J, respectively. Compared with the microPCM function layer and the thermal insulation layer, which have the same thickness as the MPF, the low-temperature resistance time of the MPF was prolonged for about 2 and 3 min, respectively. The MPF could provide effective protection of the low-temperature work in a short time and could be applied as potential materials in low-temperature protection.
Electrospun 5-chloro-8-hydroxyquinoline-Loaded Cellulose Acetate/Polyethylene Glycol Antifungal Membranes Against Esca
Authors: Spasova Mariya , Manolova Nevena , Rashkov Iliya , Naydenov Mladen
Published: October 2019

Esca is one of the earliest described diseases in grapevines and causes trunk damage and the sudden wilting of the entire plant; it is caused mainly by the species Phaeomoniella chlamydospora (P. chlamydospora) and Phaeoacremonium aleophilum (P. aleophilum). In practice, there are no known curative approaches for fighting esca directly, which is a huge problem for preserving vineyards. Micro- and nanofibrous membranes from cellulose acetate (CA) and cellulose acetate/polyethylene glycol (CA/PEG) containing 5-chloro-8-hydroxyquinolinol (5-Cl8Q) were successfully prepared by electrospinning. The surface morphologies and optical and mechanical properties of the membranes were characterized by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), water contact angle measurements and mechanical tests. It was found that the bioactive compound release was facilitated by PEG. The antifungal activities of the obtained materials against P. chlamydospora and P. aleophilum were studied. We have demonstrated that 5-Cl8Q is an efficient and sustainable antifungal agent against P. chlamydospora and P. aleophilum. Moreover, for the first time, the present study reveals the possibility of using electrospun polymer membranes containing 5-Cl8Q which impede the penetration and growth of P. chlamydospora and P. aleophilum. Thus, the obtained fibrous materials can be suitable candidates for plant protection against diverse fungi.
Modeling and Analysis of Maximum Power Tracking of a 600 kW Hydraulic Energy Storage Wind Turbine Test Rig
Authors: Wei Liejiang , Zhan Peng , Liu Zengguang , Tao Yanhua , Yue Daling
Published: October 2019

An innovative wind turbine with a particular hydraulic transmission and energy storage system is proposed in this paper. The purpose of applying the hydraulic transmission is to remove the gearbox and power converter of traditional wind turbine and cooperate on wind resource storing with the energy storage system. To overcome the volatility and intermittence shortcomings of wind and improve the output power quality, hydraulic accumulators are used as the energy storage device for wind energy regulation. The original gearbox and generator in the nacelle of a Micon 600 wind turbine were removed and replaced with a hydraulic pump to make a test rig for the investigation into maximum power point tracking (MPPT) of this hydraulic wind turbine concept. The mathematical model of the entire test system is established according to the four function modules. The MPPT control strategy based on the tip speed ratio (TSR) is adopted and a control system containing three closed-loop controls is designed to achieve maximum wind power extracting and produce constant frequency power generation. Ultimately, the dynamic response of rotor speed control is revealed under step change of wind speed and the maximum power tracking performance of the 600 kW hydraulic energy storage wind turbine test bench is simulated and analysed by subjecting to turbulent speed condition. The simulation results demonstrate that the rotor of the wind turbine can run at the expected optimal speed depending on wind speed, and the wind power utilization coefficient of the unit is stabilized at about the maximum value.
Effect of Physical and Mechanical Activation on the Physicochemical Structure of Coal-Based Activated Carbons for SO2 Adsorption
Authors: Liu Dongdong , Hao Zhengkai , Zhao Xiaoman , Su Rui , Feng Weizhi , Li Song , Jia Boyin
Published: October 2019

The SO2 adsorption efficiency of activated carbons (ACs) is clearly dependent on its physicochemical structure. Related to this, the effect of physical and mechanical activation on the physicochemical structure of coal-based ACs has been investigated in this work. In the stage of CO2 activation, the rapid decrease of the defective structure and the growth of aromatic layers accompanied by the dehydrogenation of aromatic rings result in the ordered conversion of the microstructure and severe carbon losses on the surfaces of Char-PA, while the oxygen content of Char-PA, including C=O (39.6%), C–O (27.3%), O–C=O (18.4%) and chemisorbed O (or H2O) (14.7%), is increased to 4.03%. Char-PA presents a relatively low SBET value (414.78 m2/g) owing to the high value of Non-Vmic (58.33%). In the subsequent mechanical activation from 12 to 48 h under N2 and dry ice, the strong mechanical collision caused by ball-milling can destroy the closely arranged crystalline layers and the collapse of mesopores and macropores, resulting in the disordered conversion of the microstructure and the formation of a defective structure, and a sustained increase in the SBET value from 715.89 to 1259.74 m2/g can be found with the prolonging of the ball-milling time. There is a gradual increase in the oxygen content from 6.79 to 9.48% for Char-PA-CO2-12/48 obtained by ball-milling under CO2. Remarkably, the varieties of physicochemical parameters of Char-PA-CO2-12/48 are more obvious than those of Char-PA-N2-12/48 under the same ball-milling time, which is related to the stronger solid-gas reactions caused by the mechanical collision under dry ice. Finally, the results of the SO2 adsorption test of typical samples indicate that Char-PA-CO2-48 with a desirable physicochemical structure can maintain 100% efficiency within 30 min and that its SO2 adsorption capacity can reach 138.5 mg/g at the end of the experiment. After the 10th cycle of thermal regeneration, Char-PA-CO2-48 still has a strong adsorptive capacity (81.2 mg/g).
A Techno-Economic Analysis of Off-Grid Solar PV System: A Case Study for Punjab Province in Pakistan
Authors: Irfan Muhammad , Zhao Zhen-yu , Ahmad Munir , Rehman Abdul
Published: October 2019

Fossil fuels are the primary sources of electricity generation in Pakistan. The energy demand and supply gap have intensified recently due to the massive population and fossil fuels are unable to meet the gigantic energy requirement of the country. Meanwhile, they also have adverse environmental impacts. Remote rural regions that are far away from the national grid do not have any means to fulfill their energy needs. The off-grid solar photovoltaic (PV) system has emerged to be the best energy option to electrify these remote regions. However, the strategic problem pertaining to local electricity generation is the absence of the area-specific generation capacity and economic feasibility data for solar energy. To address this problem, this study aims to assess the potential and economic viability of utilizing an off-grid solar PV system for rural electrification in the Punjab province of Pakistan. The research results reveal that there is an excellent solar irradiance in the rural areas of Punjab for electricity generation. In addition, suitable tilt angles have been calculated to increase the energy output of solar PV in the respective regions. Furthermore, this study has undertaken the economic viability for solar PV systems, and it was found that electricity generation from the solar PV costs Pakistani rupees (PKR) 7.15 per kWh and is much cheaper than conventional electricity, which costs PKR 20.7 per kWh. Besides, the system can reduce carbon emissions considerably. If 100% of the unelectrified households adopt solar PV system, then 617,020 metric tons of CO2 could be mitigated annually. Based on research findings, this study has suggested essential policy recommendations that would serve as a guideline for the government and stakeholders to maximum deploy the off-grid solar PV rural electrification programs in Punjab as well as on a national scale.
Chemically Enhanced Primary Sludge as an Anaerobic Co-Digestion Additive for Biogas Production from Food Waste
Authors: Kang Xiaorong , Liu Yali
Published: October 2019

In order to overcome process instability and buffer deficiency in the anaerobic digestion of mono food waste (FW), chemically enhanced primary sludge (CEPS) was selected as a co-substrate for FW treatment. In this study, batch tests were conducted to study the effects of CEPS/FW ratios on anaerobic co-digestion (coAD) performances. Both soluble chemical oxygen demand (SCOD) and protease activity were decreased, with the CEPS/FW mass ratio increasing from 0:5 to 5:0. However, it was also found that the accumulation of volatile fatty acids (VFAs) was eliminated by increasing the CEPS/FW ratio, and that corresponding VFAs concentrations decreased from 13,872.97 to 1789.98 mg chemical oxygen demand per L (mg COD/L). In addition, the maximum value of cumulative biogas yield (446.39 mL per g volatile solids removal (mL/g VSsremoval)) was observed at a CEPS/FW ratio of 4:1, and that the tendency of coenzyme F420 activity was similar to biogas production. The mechanism analysis indicated that Fe-based CEPS relived the VFAs accumulation caused by FW, and Fe(III) induced by Fe-based CEPS enhanced the activity of F420. Therefore, the addition of Fe-based CEPS provided an alternative method for FW treatment.
sUAS-Based Remote Sensing of River Discharge Using Thermal Particle Image Velocimetry and Bathymetric Lidar
Authors: Kinzel Paul , Legleiter Carl
Published: October 2019

This paper describes a non-contact methodology for computing river discharge based on data collected from small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS). The approach is complete in that both surface velocity and channel geometry are measured directly under field conditions. The technique does not require introducing artificial tracer particles for computing surface velocity, nor does it rely upon the presence of naturally occurring floating material. Moreover, no prior knowledge of river bathymetry is necessary. Due to the weight of the sensors and limited payload capacities of the commercially available sUAS used in the study, two sUAS were required. The first sUAS included mid-wave thermal infrared and visible cameras. For the field evaluation described herein, a thermal image time series was acquired and a particle image velocimetry (PIV) algorithm used to track the motion of structures expressed at the water surface as small differences in temperature. The ability to detect these thermal features was significant because the water surface lacked floating material (e.g., foam, debris) that could have been detected with a visible camera and used to perform conventional Large-Scale Particle Image Velocimetry (LSPIV). The second sUAS was devoted to measuring bathymetry with a novel scanning polarizing lidar. We collected field measurements along two channel transects to assess the accuracy of the remotely sensed velocities, depths, and discharges. Thermal PIV provided velocities that agreed closely ( R 2 = 0.82 and 0.64) with in situ velocity measurements from an acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP). Depths inferred from the lidar closely matched those surveyed by wading in the shallower of the two cross sections ( R 2 = 0.95), but the agreement was not as strong for the transect with greater depths ( R 2 = 0.61). Incremental discharges computed with the remotely sensed velocities and depths were greater than corresponding ADCP measurements by 22% at the first cross section and <1% at the second.
An Attempt to Improve Snow Depth Retrieval Using Satellite Microwave Radiometry for Rough Antarctic Sea Ice
Authors: Kern Stefan , Ozsoy Burcu
Published: October 2019

Snow depth on sea ice is a major constituent of the marine cryosphere. It is a key parameter for the derivation of sea-ice thickness from satellite altimetry. One way to retrieve the basin-scale snow depth on sea ice is by satellite microwave radiometry. There is evidence from measurements and inter-comparison studies that current retrievals likely under-estimate the snow depth over deformed, rough sea ice. We follow up on an earlier study, where satellite passive microwave data were combined with information on the sea-ice topography from the satellite laser altimeter on board the Ice, Cloud and land Elevation Satellite (ICESat) in a hybrid approach. Such topography information is spatiotemporally limited because of ICESat’s operation mode. In this paper, we aim to derive a proxy for this topography information from satellite microwave radiometry. For this purpose, we co-locate parameters describing the sea-ice deformation taken from visual ship-based observations and the surface elevation standard deviation derived from ICESat laser altimetry with the microwave brightness temperatures (TB) measured via the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer aboard Earth Observation Satellite (AMSR-E) and aboard Global Change Observation Mission-Water 1 (GCOM-W1) (AMSR2). We find that the TB polarization ratio at 6.9 GHz and the TB gradient ratio between 10.7 GHz (horizontal polarization) and 6.9 GHz (vertical polarization), might be suited as such a proxy. Using this proxy, we modify the above-mentioned hybrid approach and compute the snow depths on sea ice from the AMSR-E and AMSR2 data. We compare our snow depths with those of the commonly used approach, the hybrid approach, with the ship-based observations for the years 2002 through 2015 and with the measurements made by drifting buoys for the period of 2014 through 2018. We find a convincing overall agreement with the hybrid approach and some improvement over the common approach. However, our approach is sensitive to the presence of thin ice—here, the retrieved snow depths are too large; and our approach performs sub-optimally over old ice—here, the retrieved snow depths are too small. More investigations and, in particular, more evaluations are required to optimize our approach so that the snow depths retrieved for the combined AMSR-E/AMSR2 period could serve as a data set for sea-ice thickness retrieval based on satellite altimetry.
A Convolutional Neural Network Classifier Identifies Tree Species in Mixed-Conifer Forest from Hyperspectral Imagery
Authors: Fricker Geoffrey A. , Ventura Jonathan D. , Wolf Jeffrey A. , North Malcolm P. , Davis Frank W. , Franklin Janet
Published: October 2019

In this study, we automate tree species classification and mapping using field-based training data, high spatial resolution airborne hyperspectral imagery, and a convolutional neural network classifier (CNN). We tested our methods by identifying seven dominant trees species as well as dead standing trees in a mixed-conifer forest in the Southern Sierra Nevada Mountains, CA (USA) using training, validation, and testing datasets composed of spatially-explicit transects and plots sampled across a single strip of imaging spectroscopy. We also used a three-band ‘Red-Green-Blue’ pseudo true-color subset of the hyperspectral imagery strip to test the classification accuracy of a CNN model without the additional non-visible spectral data provided in the hyperspectral imagery. Our classifier is pixel-based rather than object based, although we use three-dimensional structural information from airborne Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) to identify trees (points > 5 m above the ground) and the classifier was applied to image pixels that were thus identified as tree crowns. By training a CNN classifier using field data and hyperspectral imagery, we were able to accurately identify tree species and predict their distribution, as well as the distribution of tree mortality, across the landscape. Using a window size of 15 pixels and eight hidden convolutional layers, a CNN model classified the correct species of 713 individual trees from hyperspectral imagery with an average F-score of 0.87 and F-scores ranging from 0.67–0.95 depending on species. The CNN classification model performance increased from a combined F-score of 0.64 for the Red-Green-Blue model to a combined F-score of 0.87 for the hyperspectral model. The hyperspectral CNN model captures the species composition changes across ~700 meters (1935 to 2630 m) of elevation from a lower-elevation mixed oak conifer forest to a higher-elevation fir-dominated coniferous forest. High resolution tree species maps can support forest ecosystem monitoring and management, and identifying dead trees aids landscape assessment of forest mortality resulting from drought, insects and pathogens. We publicly provide our code to apply deep learning classifiers to tree species identification from geospatial imagery and field training data.
Pressure Signal Enhancement of Slowly Increasing Leaks Using Digital Compensator Based on Acoustic Sensor
Authors: Wang Fang , Lin Weiguo , Liu Zheng , Qiu Xianbo
Published: October 2019

Pipeline leak detection technologies are critical for the safety protection of pipeline transportation. However, they are insensitive to slowly increasing leaks. Therefore, this study proposes an enhancement method for slowly increasing leak signals. By analyzing the characteristics of pressure signals of slowly increasing leaks, a digital compensator is developed to overcome the disadvantages of pressure signals and enhance the pressure signals. According to the frequency response analysis of the digital compensator, the enhancement principle is the parameter adjustment of the digital compensator. Therefore, this paper further proposes an adaptive adjustment method of the parameter to enhance different degrees of leak signals online in real-time, and the proposed method is evaluated using two field pipelines. The experimental results demonstrate that this method is suitable not only for enhancing slowly increasing leaks but also for enhancing abrupt leaks.
Experimental Research on Data Synchronous Acquisition Method of Subsidence Monitoring in Submarine Gas Hydrate Mining Area
Authors: Chen Jiawang , Cao Chen , Ge Yongqiang , Zhu Huangchao , Xu Chunying , Sheng Yan , Tian Lieyu , Zhang Hanquan
Published: October 2019

The data synchronous acquisition is crucial to the seafloor subsidence monitoring system for gas hydrate mining areas based on microelectromechanical sensors (MEMS). Because the independent and high-precision time reference sources on land cannot be used on the seafloor, especially in the deep sea, a relative time synchronization method based on input/output (I/O) and controller area network (CAN) bus was proposed to realize the internal time synchronization of the system. To demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed method, tests including the deformation test of the MEMS sensor array under high pressure, synchronous accuracy test, and landslide and collapse simulation tests were carried out. The synchronization method was performed once every 24 h, and the time drift was reduced to 0.38 ms from more than 30 ms, demonstrating that method can achieve consistent internal time of the system. The method does not require additional hardware devices and has adjustable accuracy.
Are Existing Monocular Computer Vision-Based 3D Motion Capture Approaches Ready for Deployment? A Methodological Study on the Example of Alpine Skiing
Authors: Ostrek Mirela , Rhodin Helge , Fua Pascal , Müller Erich , Spörri Jörg
Published: October 2019

In this study, we compared a monocular computer vision (MCV)-based approach with the golden standard for collecting kinematic data on ski tracks (i.e., video-based stereophotogrammetry) and assessed its deployment readiness for answering applied research questions in the context of alpine skiing. The investigated MCV-based approach predicted the three-dimensional human pose and ski orientation based on the image data from a single camera. The data set used for training and testing the underlying deep nets originated from a field experiment with six competitive alpine skiers. The normalized mean per joint position error of the MVC-based approach was found to be 0.08 ± 0.01 m. Knee flexion showed an accuracy and precision (in parenthesis) of 0.4 ± 7.1° (7.2 ± 1.5°) for the outside leg, and −0.2 ± 5.0° (6.7 ± 1.1°) for the inside leg. For hip flexion, the corresponding values were −0.4 ± 6.1° (4.4° ± 1.5°) and −0.7 ± 4.7° (3.7 ± 1.0°), respectively. The accuracy and precision of skiing-related metrics were revealed to be 0.03 ± 0.01 m (0.01 ± 0.00 m) for relative center of mass position, −0.1 ± 3.8° (3.4 ± 0.9) for lean angle, 0.01 ± 0.03 m (0.02 ± 0.01 m) for center of mass to outside ankle distance, 0.01 ± 0.05 m (0.03 ± 0.01 m) for fore/aft position, and 0.00 ± 0.01 m2 (0.01 ± 0.00 m2) for drag area. Such magnitudes can be considered acceptable for detecting relevant differences in the context of alpine skiing.
Developing a Neural–Kalman Filtering Approach for Estimating Traffic Stream Density Using Probe Vehicle Data
Authors: Aljamal Mohammad A. , Abdelghaffar Hossam M. , Rakha Hesham A.
Published: October 2019

This paper presents a novel model for estimating the number of vehicles along signalized approaches. The proposed estimation algorithm utilizes the adaptive Kalman filter (AKF) to produce reliable traffic vehicle count estimates, considering real-time estimates of the system noise characteristics. The AKF utilizes only real-time probe vehicle data. The AKF is demonstrated to outperform the traditional Kalman filter, reducing the prediction error by up to 29%. In addition, the paper introduces a novel approach that combines the AKF with a neural network (AKFNN) to enhance the vehicle count estimates, where the neural network is employed to estimate the probe vehicles’ market penetration rate. Results indicate that the accuracy of vehicle count estimates is significantly improved using the AKFNN approach (by up to 26%) over the AKF. Moreover, the paper investigates the sensitivity of the proposed AKF model to the initial conditions, such as the initial estimate of vehicle counts, initial mean estimate of the state system, and the initial covariance of the state estimate. The results demonstrate that the AKF is sensitive to the initial conditions. More accurate estimates could be achieved if the initial conditions are appropriately selected. In conclusion, the proposed AKF is more accurate than the traditional Kalman filter. Finally, the AKFNN approach is more accurate than the AKF and the traditional Kalman filter since the AKFNN uses more accurate values of the probe vehicle market penetration rate.