bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fed2A: Federated Learning Mechanism in Asynchronous and Adaptive Modes
Authors: Liu Sheng , Chen Qiyang , You Linlin
Published: April 2022

Driven by emerging technologies such as edge computing and Internet of Things (IoT), recent years have witnessed the increasing growth of data processing in a distributed way. Federated Learning (FL), a novel decentralized learning paradigm that can unify massive devices to train a global model without compromising privacy, is drawing much attention from both academics and industries. However, the performance dropping of FL running in a heterogeneous and asynchronous environment hinders its wide applications, such as in autonomous driving and assistive healthcare. Motivated by this, we propose a novel mechanism, called Fed2A: Federated learning mechanism in Asynchronous and Adaptive Modes. Fed2A supports FL by (1) allowing clients and the collaborator to work separately and asynchronously, (2) uploading shallow and deep layers of deep neural networks (DNNs) adaptively, and (3) aggregating local parameters by weighing on the freshness of information and representational consistency of model layers jointly. Moreover, the effectiveness and efficiency of Fed2A are also analyzed based on three standard datasets, i.e., FMNIST, CIFAR-10, and GermanTS. Compared with the best performance among three baselines, i.e., FedAvg, FedProx, and FedAsync, Fed2A can reduce the communication cost by over 77%, as well as improve model accuracy and learning speed by over 19% and 76%, respectively.
Design of Sensorless Speed Control System for Permanent Magnet Linear Synchronous Motor Based on Fuzzy Super-Twisted Sliding Mode Observer
Authors: Li Zheng , Wang Jinsong , Wang Shaohua , Feng Shengdi , Zhu Yiding , Sun Hexu
Published: April 2022

To improve the tracking capability and sensorless estimation accuracy of a permanent magnet linear synchronous motor (PMLSM) control system, a sensorless control system based on a continuous terminal sliding mode controller (CT-SMC) and fuzzy super-twisted sliding mode observer (F-ST-SMO) was designed. Compared with a conventional slide mode control, CT-SMC can reach the equilibrium point in limited time to ensure the continuity of control and achieve fast tracking of reference speed. Based on the PMLSM design of F-ST-SMO, a super-twisted sliding mode algorithm is used to replace the traditional first order sliding mode algorithm. Meanwhile, fuzzy rules are introduced to adjust the sliding mode gain adaptively, which replaces the fixed gain of traditional SMO and reduces chattering of the system. Finally, the effectiveness and superiority of the designed control system are proven by simulation and experiment.
Modeling of Large-Scale Thermal Power Plants for Performance Prediction in Deep Peak Shaving
Authors: Liu Sha , Shen Jiong
Published: April 2022

To integrate more renewable energy into the power grid, large-scale thermal power plants have to extend their operating ranges and participating in deep peak shaving. In order to improve the thermal economy of large-scale thermal power plants participating in deep peak shaving, and to determine the performance of a thermal system under different conditions, a method of modeling for the performance prediction of large-scale thermal power plants in deep peak shaving is proposed. In the algorithm design of the model, a three-layer iterative cycle logic is constructed, and the coupling relationship between the parameters of the thermal system is analyzed from the mechanism level. All of the steam water parameters and the correction values of the flow rate at all levels of the system after the parameter disturbance are obtained. The algorithm can simulate the response of a thermal power plant under load variation and operation parameter variation. Compare the error between the data given by the prediction model and the test, the accuracy of the proposed prediction model is verified. When the unit participates in deep peak shaving, the prediction model is used to analyze the relative deviation of the unit thermal efficiency caused by cycle parameters and energy efficiency of equipment. It provides a date basis for the performance evaluation and multi-parameter coupling optimization. The research results can be used to determine the operation mode and equipment transformation scheme.
Organizational Performance Evaluation of Coal-Fired Power Enterprises Using a Hybrid Model
Authors: Yu Shunkun , Song Yuqing
Published: April 2022

Carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals have proposed by many countries, including China. Meanwhile, China has also proposed the construction of a new-type electric power system with new energy as the main body, which will have great impacts on coal-fired power generation enterprises. The transformation of coal-fired power enterprises is imperative, and the evaluation of the organizational performance of coal-fired power enterprises is urgent, which can accurately determine the development status and even can find issues related to the transformation of coal-fired power enterprises. In this paper, a hybrid evaluation model is proposed based on the Variational Auto-Encoder algorithm and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method improved by a vague set to comprehensively evaluate the organizational performance of coal-fired power enterprises. Eight coal-fired power enterprises in North China are selected for empirical analysis. The results show that the YC coal-fired power enterprise has the best organizational performance, while the NK coal-fired power enterprise has the worst organizational performance. Moreover, sensitivity and comparative analyses are carried out to verify the robustness of the evaluation result using the proposed hybrid method in this paper. This paper focuses on the organizational performance evaluation of coal-fired power enterprises, which can provide a reference for the smooth transformation and sustainable development of coal-fired power enterprises in the context of “Dual-Carbon” goals.
Characteristics and Origins of the Difference between the Middle and High Rank Coal in Guizhou and Their Implication for the CBM Exploration and Development Strategy: A Case Study from Dahebian and Dafang Block
Authors: Zhao Fuping , Sang Shuxun , Han Sijie , Wu Zhangli , Zhang Jinchao , Xiang Wenxin , Xu Ang
Published: April 2022

The coalbed methane (CBM) geology in Guizhou is characterized by a high gas content, pressure and resource abundance, indicating superior CBM resource potential. However, there are also many unfavorable factors, such as complex structure geology, significant regional differences in CBM geology, the widespread development of tectonically deformed coal, and the unclear understanding of the configuration of geological factors for CBM enrichment and high yield, which restrict the increase in CBM production and a large-scale development. Taking the Dahebian Block in Liupanshui coal field and the Dafang Block in Qianbei coal field as examples, this study presented the CBM geological differences between middle- and high-rank coals; their origins were analyzed and the effect of depth on gas content and permeability was discussed. A CBM enrichment and high-yield model was illustrated, and the geologic fitness-related exploration and development methods for Guizhou CBM were finally proposed. The results show that (1) significant differences between the middle- and high-rank coals occur in coal occurrence and distribution, coal qualities, and coal reservoir properties. Compared to Dahebian coal, Dafang coal has a higher coal rank, vitrinite content, and gas content, but a lower number of coal layers and permeability. (2) The sedimentary–tectonic evolution of the Longtan coal-bearing sequence is the fundamental reason for CBM geological differences between the Dadebian Block and Dafang Block, consisting of coal occurrence, qualities, maceral, rank, structure, and their associated reservoir properties. (3) The coordinated variation of gas content and permeability contributes to a greater depth for CBM enrichment and a high yield of the middle-rank coal. It is suggested that the best depths for CBM enrichment and high yield in Guizhou are 600–800 m for the middle-rank coal and 500 m for the high-rank coal, respectively. (4) Considering the bottleneck of inefficient CBM development in Guizhou, we proposed three CBM assessment and development technologies, including the CBM optimization of the classification–hierarchical optimization–analytical hierarchy, multiple coal seams commingling production with the pressure relief of tectonically deformed coal, and surface–underground CBM three-dimensional drainage development. The aim of this study was to provide new insights into the efficient exploration and development of CBM in Guizhou.
Consensus-Based Distributed Secondary Frequency Control Method for AC Microgrid Using ADRC Technique
Authors: Li Wenguo , Zhang Mingmin , Deng Yaqi
Published: April 2022

To ensure safe and reliable operation, the ability to ride through various disturbances is vital for a microgrid with multi-inverters. As the voltage and frequency support comes from the power-electronic-based inverters, it is necessary to find a proper control strategy to improve the rejection ability of the DG inverter against disturbances. In this regard, this paper proposes a new distributed secondary frequency control approach for islanded microgrids, in which the main purpose is to remove the frequency deviation under droop control method with better disturbance rejection performance. Unlike many traditional approaches which rely on a detailed control model, the proposed one needs little model information thanks to the model-independent characteristic of active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) technique. A linear extended state observer is introduced to estimate the useless model dynamics (including unknown disturbances, unmodeled dynamics and nonlinear dynamics) which are then compensated in the control input. After the active compensation procedure, the nonlinear frequency control model can be converted into a quasi-linear model, based on which a proportional distributed control algorithm is established to restore the frequency and equalize the active power among the DGs. Simulation results based on a four-inverter-based microgrid show that the proposed approach achieves frequency restoration, active power sharing, as well as satisfactory disturbance rejection performance.
Technical Review of Traction Drive Systems for Light Railways
Authors: Polater Nursaid , Tricoli Pietro
Published: April 2022

Due to environmental concerns, governments around the world are taking measures to decarbonise railway transport by replacing diesel traction systems with cleaner alternatives. While the electrification of railway systems is spreading rapidly, it is unlikely that all routes will be electrified as the volume of passengers will not justify the high infrastructure costs. Therefore, it is expected that, for several lines, a combination of hydrogen and electric traction will be used, with the latter partly provided by fixed infrastructure and partly by batteries. Railway traction drives will then need to change to accommodate these new types of power supply. A detailed review of the available traction motors and drives is provided with this review, given application to the new hybrid-electric systems. In particular, permanent magnet synchronous motors with multiphase windings are evaluated in comparison with traditional three-phase machines. Additionally, low and medium-voltage multisource power converters have been reviewed, taking into account the introduction of wide band-gap semiconductor devices.
Appraisal Modeling for FSRU Greenfield Energy Projects
Authors: Dimitriou Dimitrios , Zeimpekis Panagiotis
Published: April 2022

Floating storage and regasification units (FSRU) provide a flexible and competitive energy distribution option when it comes to the regasification of liquefied natural gas (LNG). FSRU projects have become more and more popular, attracting the interest of investors, energy authorities, and governments; therefore, the project feasibility in terms of risks and profitability are a major concern. This paper deals with the appraisal of a greenfield LNG infrastructure project, where usually, decision complexity deals with the high number and different expectation of stakeholders, the capital-intensive financing nature, and the business risks in the project life cycle. Conventional wisdom is to provide a coherent, compact, and well-structured appraisal modelling framework, adjusted to FSRU technical, structural, and operational features on one hand; and business risks, long-term life cycle, and investment attractiveness on the other. Appraisal modelling structure and outputs are considered to provide key messages to the decisions involved and interested parties toward the project feasibility and the associated investment risks for the implementation of the FSRU project. The proposed modelling framework was applied to the Alexandroupolis FSRU project, where the first discussion was many years ago, but the existing conditions in the energy market are raising the interest for developing energy distribution facilities globally.
Comparison of Blind and Open Calculation Results for Top-Slot Break LOCA in Fourth ATLAS Domestic Standard Problem
Authors: Kim Jongrok , Bae Byoung-Uhn , Park Yusun , Lee Jae Bong , Choi Nam-Hyun , Cho Seok , Kang Kyoung-Ho
Published: April 2022

The advanced thermal-hydraulic test loop for accident simulation (ATLAS) was developed and operated at The Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute. The ATLAS is operated to simulate accidents in pressurized water reactors (PWRs). A domestic standard problem (DSP) using the ATLAS was proposed for transferring the database of the integral effect test to Korean nuclear researchers and developing the safety analysis methodology of PWRs. The fourth DSP (DSP-04) exercise was performed during 2015–2017 with 15 participants (13 organizations), that are universities, government, and nuclear industries. In DSP-04, a top-slot break at the cold leg was chosen as the target scenario to resolve an issue about the effect of loop seal clearing and the reformation on the peak cladding temperature during the cold leg top-slot break LOCA for APR1400. The participants performed a code calculation for the experimental simulation and sensitivity studies for the enhancement of the code. This paper includes brief information about the experimental and major code assessment results.
Past and Future of Permafrost Monitoring: Stability of Russian Energetic Infrastructure
Authors: Melnikov Vladimir P. , Osipov Victor I. , Brouchkov Anatoli V. , Badina Svetlana V. , Sadurtdinov Marat R. , Drozdov Dmitry S. , Malkova Galina V. , Zheleznyak Mikhail N. , Zhdaneev Oleg V. , Ostarkov Nikolay A. , Osokin Alexei B. , Sergeev Dmitrii O. , Dubrovin Vladimir A. , Kuznetsov Mikhail E. , Frolov Konstantin N. , Alekseev Andrey G. , Fedorov Roman Y.
Published: April 2022

This study is an attempt to suggest a new state system of permafrost monitoring, primarily for energetic infrastructure, based on past approaches and achievements in Russia for over a hundred years of Arctic studies. The methodology of this study is based on general theoretical methods of scientific research. Historical (retrospective analysis of the development of the monitoring system of long-term permafrost in Russia) and logical (inductive generalization) methods were applied. The structure and methods of permafrost monitoring in the Soviet Union and new technologies used nowadays to establish permafrost monitoring systems, taking into account modern Arctic energetic development, have been analyzed.
Correction: Talei et al. Smart Building Energy Inefficiencies Detection through Time Series Analysis and Unsupervised Machine Learning. Energies 2021, 14, 6042
Authors: Talei Hanaa , Benhaddou Driss , Gamarra Carlos , Benbrahim Houda , Essaaidi Mohamed
Published: April 2022

The authors wish to make the following correction to their paper [...]
Horizontal Vibration Characteristics of a Tapered Pile in Arbitrarily Layered Soil
Authors: Yang Xiaoyan , Jiang Guosheng , Liu Hao , Wu Wenbing , Mei Guoxiong , Yang Zijian
Published: April 2022

A tapered pile (TP) is a new type of pile with a good bearing capacity, and scholars have conducted in-depth research on its static bearing characteristics. However, there is relatively little research on its dynamic bearing characteristics. In this paper, the horizontal vibration behavior of a tapered pile in arbitrarily layered soil is studied. Utilizing the Winkler foundation model and Timoshenko beam model to simulate pile-surrounding soil (PSS) and a tapered pile, respectively, the horizontal vibration model of a tapered pile embedded in layered soil was built. The analytical solutions for the horizontal displacement (HD), bending moment (BM), and shear force (SF) of a tapered pile were derived, and then the solutions for the horizontal dynamic impedance (HDI), rocking dynamic impedance (RDI), and horizontal-rocking coupling dynamic impedance (HRDI) of pile head were obtained. Using the present solutions, the effects of soil and pile properties on the horizontal vibration characteristics of a tapered pile were systemically studied. The ability of a tapered pile–soil system to resist horizontal vibration can be improved by strengthening the upper soil, but this ability cannot be further improved by increasing the thickness of the strengthened upper soil if its thickness is greater than the critical influence thickness.
Flyback Converter Using a D-Mode GaN HEMT Synchronous Rectifier
Authors: Shieh Yueh-Tsung , Liu Ching-Yao , Wu Chih-Chiang , Chieng Wei-Hua , Chang Edward-Yi
Published: April 2022

The flyback converter with its active cell balancing topology for charging lithium-based batteries in Electrical Vehicles (EV) have been adopted recently into the industry. Electrical Vehicle battery charging requires high current operation in continuous current mode and hence, the power loss on the Schottky diode rectifier on the secondary side determines the power conversion efficiency. The depletion mode (D-mode) GaN HEMT synchronous rectifier proposed in this paper has been used to replace the Schottky diode on the secondary side of the flyback converter in order to improve the power conversion efficiency. This synchronous rectifier regulates the forward voltage drop of an external switch to about 100 mV per ampere of current flow with no concern to threshold voltage. The first challenge of converting the D-mode GaN HEMT as a synchronous rectifier is that the normally-on device must be off when the primary side inductor of the flyback converter is initially charging the magnetic energy. That is, the rectifier must behave as the normally-off device during its initialization stage. The second challenge is that the D-mode GaN HEMT must switch off as soon as the secondary current becomes zero. The third challenge is posing a fast recovery feature to reduce the drain-source voltage rise on the primary side switch, which suffices to be the main reason as to why the D-mode GaN HEMT is used instead of MOS devices. The proposed depletion mode GaN HEMT synchronous rectifier is verified to be able to overcome all challenges and in result becomes a candidate for the synchronous rectifier.
Fault Diagnosis of Tennessee Eastman Process with XGB-AVSSA-KELM Algorithm
Authors: Hu Mingfei , Hu Xinyi , Deng Zhenzhou , Tu Bing
Published: April 2022

In fault detection and the diagnosis of large industrial systems, whose chemical processes usually exhibit complex, high-dimensional, time-varying and non-Gaussian characteristics, the classification accuracy of traditional methods is low. In this paper, a kernel limit learning machine (KELM) based on an adaptive variation sparrow search algorithm (AVSSA) is proposed. Firstly, the dataset is optimized by removing redundant features using the eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBOOST) model. Secondly, a new optimization algorithm, AVSSA, is proposed to automatically adjust the network hyperparameters of KELM to improve the performance of the fault classifier. Finally, the optimized feature sequences are fed into the proposed classifier to obtain the final diagnosis results. The Tennessee Eastman (TE) chemical process is used to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method through multidimensional diagnostic metrics. The results show that our proposed diagnosis method can significantly improve the accuracy of TE process fault diagnosis compared with traditional optimization algorithms. The average diagnosis rate for 21 faults was 91.00%.
A New Adsorption Equation for Nano-Porous Shale Rocks and Its Application in Pore Size Distribution Analysis
Authors: Tian Yuanyuan , Chen Qing , Yan Changhui , Chen Hongde , He Yanqing , He Yufeng
Published: April 2022

Adsorption equations are important to analyze the pore size distribution (PSD) of shale and the adsorption behavior on it. However, the accurate description of nitrogen adsorption on shale by current adsorption equations is difficult to achieve due to the heterogeneous pore structure of shale. In our study, new adsorption isotherms that can properly depict the adsorbed amount of nitrogen were built for shale rocks considering both the processes of nitrogen adsorption and the cylindrical pore shape property of shale. When performing a regression analysis on five sets of experimental adsorption data using the developed adsorption equations, the R-square ranged from 0.739 to 0.987. Based on the pore shape determined by adsorption–desorption curves, the distinct R-square indicated that our equation is not valid for shale samples with ink-bottle pores and pores formed by schistose materials, but that it is suitable for shale samples with cylindrical pores and slit pores. Meanwhile, we precisely analyzed the PSDs of shale rocks based on the developed adsorption equations as capillary condensation volume is involved in the total adsorbed amount. Thus, the PSDs of shale rocks with cylindrical pore and slit pore were analyzed by the new adsorption equation.
Decarbonizing Vehicle Transportation with Hydrogen from Biomass Gasification: An Assessment in the Nigerian Urban Environment
Authors: Ukpanyang Donald , Terrados-Cepeda Julio
Published: April 2022

Tailpipe emissions from vehicles consist of CO2 and other greenhouse gases, which contribute immensely to the rise in global temperatures. Green hydrogen produced from the gasification of biomass can reduce the amount of CO2 emissions to zero. This study aims to provide a modelling framework to optimize the production of hydrogen from biomass waste obtained from different cities, for use in the road transport sector in Nigeria. A gasification model with post-treatment shift conversion and CO2 removal by adsorption is proposed. In this study, six cities are simulated based on technical and environmental considerations, using the Aspen Plus software package. The results revealed that Kaduna has the highest hydrogen generation potential of 0.148 million metric tons per year, which could reduce CO2 emissions to 1.60 and 1.524 million metric tons by the displacement of an equivalent volume of gasoline and diesel. This amounts to cost savings of NGN 116 and 161.8 billion for gasoline and diesel, respectively. In addition, the results of the sensitivity analysis revealed that the steam-to-biomass ratio and the temperature of gasification are positively correlated with the amount of avoided CO2 emissions, while the equivalence ratio shows a negative correlation.
A Solar Dually PVT Driven Direct Expansion Heat Pump One-Year Field Operation Results at Continental Climate
Authors: Sanz Asier , Martín Antonio J. , Pereda Ainhoa , Román Eduardo , Ibañez Pedro , Fuente Raquel
Published: April 2022

The high energy-consuming building sector needs to meet both electricity and heat demands. In a nearly zero energy building scenario, most of the consumed energy would be generated locally by means of renewable solutions that nowadays seem not to provide an attractive performance or cost-competitiveness. Solar-based technologies tend to be the most promising ones, but for high densely populated areas, the usual photovoltaic or thermal single approaches may not be efficient enough. The current work is focused on the analysis of the dual use of the solar resource by means of hybrid PVT collectors and their smart combination with direct expansion heat pumps through predictive control strategies. To that end, a system was developed, installed in a real-use single-family house at a continental climate for domestic hot water application, operated and monitored for one entire year. The average day indicator results show 83% renewable energy share, 220% self-sufficiency ratio, 41% heat pump self-consumption and 46% of the solar fraction.
Comparative Study of Stability against Moisture for Solid Garnet Electrolytes with Different Dopants
Authors: Huang Li , Gao Jian , Bi Zhijie , Zhao Ning , Wu Jipeng , Fang Qiu , Wang Xuefeng , Wan Yong , Guo Xiangxin
Published: April 2022

The cubic garnet Li7La3Zr2O12 (c-LLZO) is one of the most promising solid electrolytes due to its high ionic conductivity and large electrochemical window. However, the critical issue of Li2CO3 formation on the c-LLZO surface when exposed to air is problematic, which is detrimental to the ionic conductivity and storage. Herein, comparative studies were carried out on the air stability of Al-doped Li7La3Zr2O12 (Al-LLZO), Al-Ta-doped Li7La3Zr2O12 (Al-LLZTO), and Al-Nb-doped Li7La3Zr2O12 (Al-LLZNO). It was found that Al-LLZTO and Al-LLZNO are less reactive with air than Al-LLZO. The morphology of Li2CO3 on Al-LLZTO micro-sized powders after air exposure was island-like with ~1.5 μm in thickness. The interfacial resistance of Li/Al-LLZTO was also a factor of ~3 smaller than that of Li/Al-LLZO, leading to the improved cycle stability of Li/Al-LLZTO/Li symmetric cells. The first-principles calculations based on density functional theory (DFT) verified that the decomposition energy of Al-LLZTO was larger than that of Al-LLZO, inhibiting the reaction product of Li2O and, thus, the next step product of Li2CO3 following the reactions of Li2O + H2O → LiOH and LiOH + CO2 → Li2CO3.
Optimal Participation of Heterogeneous, RES-Based Virtual Power Plants in Energy Markets
Authors: Oladimeji Oluwaseun , Ortega Álvaro , Sigrist Lukas , Rouco Luis , Sánchez-Martín Pedro , Lobato Enrique
Published: April 2022

In this work, the optimal participation of heterogeneous, Renewable Energy Source (RES)-based Virtual Power Plant (VPP) in Day-Ahead Market (DAM) and Intra-Day Market (IDM) is studied. For this purpose, a detailed model of the RES-based VPP and of the market operation is needed. The VPP includes both dispatchable and non-dispatchable RESs and flexible demand assets. This paper presents an improved, linear solar thermal plant model to consider its non-linear efficiency curve. A novel demand model with two flexibility levels that are associated with the different market sessions is also proposed. The market operation allows for updates of energy offers and this is used by the VPP to submit DAM auctions and to participate subsequently in IDM to correct for deviations. Finally, the optimal participation of the VPP in energy markets is assessed under different weather conditions.
Optimization of Pretreatment Conditions and Enzymatic Hydrolysis of Corn Cobs for Production of Microbial Lipids by Trichosporon oleaginosus
Authors: Grubišić Marina , Galić Perečinec Maja , Peremin Ines , Mihajlovski Katarina , Beluhan Sunčica , Šantek Božidar , Ivančić Šantek Mirela
Published: April 2022

Microbial lipids produced from lignocellulosic biomass are sustainable alternative feedstock for biodiesel production. In this study, corn cobs were used as a carbon source for lipid production and growth of oleaginous yeast Trichosporon oleaginosus. Lignocellulosic biomass was subjected to alkali and acid pretreatment using sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide under different temperatures, catalyst concentrations and treatment times. Pretreatment of corn cobs was followed by cellulase hydrolysis. Hydrolysis of alkali pretreated (2% NaOH at 50 °C for 6 h, 1% NaOH at 50 °C for 16 h, 2% NaOH at 121 °C for 1 h, 1% NaOH at 121 °C for 2 h) and acid pretreated (1% H2SO4 120 °C for 20 min, and 2% H2SO4 120 °C for 10 min) corn cobs resulted in more than 80% of the theoretical yield of glucose. The effect of substrate (5, 10, 15 and 20%, g g−1) and cellulase loading (15 and 30 Filter Paper Units per gram of glucan, FPU g−1) on fermentable sugar yield was also studied. The maximal glucose concentration of 81.64 g L−1 was obtained from alkali-pretreated corn cobs (2% NaOH at 50 °C for 6 h) at 20% substrate loading and 30 FPU of Cellic CTec2 g−1 of glucan. Enzymatic hydrolysates of pretreated biomasses and filtrates of lignocellulosic slurries obtained after pretreatment were used for growth and lipid synthesis by T. oleaginosus. The highest lipid concentration of 18.97 g L−1 was obtained on hydrolysate of alkali-pretreated corn cobs (with 1% NaOH at 50 °C for 16 h) using a 15% (g g−1) substrate loading and 15 FPU g−1 of cellulase loading. Significant lipid accumulation was also achieved using undetoxified filtrates of pretreated slurries as substrates. Results showed that pretreated corn cobs and undetoxified filtrates are suitable carbon sources for the growth and efficient accumulation of lipids in T. oleaginosus.
Two Manifestations of Market Premium in the Capitalization of Carbon Forest Estates
Authors: Kärenlampi Petri P.
Published: April 2022

In this study, the effect of capitalization premium in forest estate markets on forest management and climate change mitigation economics is investigated. It is shown that proportional goodwill in capitalization induces linear scaling of the financial return, without any contribution to sound management practices. However, there is a financial discontinuity, as harvesting deteriorates goodwill. Such deterioration might be partially avoided by entering the real estate market. Conversely, a capitalization premium set on bare land as a tangible asset would increase timber storage and carbon sequestration. Observations indicate that the proportional goodwill is closer to reality within the Nordic Region, resulting in continuity problems.
A Fast Matrix Compression Method for Large Scale Numerical Modelling of Rotationally Symmetric 3D Passive Structures in Fusion Devices
Authors: Cau Francesca , Chiariello Andrea Gaetano , Rubinacci Guglielmo , Scalera Valentino , Tamburrino Antonello , Ventre Salvatore , Villone Fabio
Published: April 2022

This paper illustrates the development of a recursive QR technique for the analysis of transient events, such as disruptions or scenario evolution, in fusion devices with three-dimensional conducting structures using an integral eddy current formulation. An integral formulation involves the solution, at each time step, of a large full linear system. For this reason, a direct solution is impractical in terms of time and memory consumption. Moreover, typical fusion devices show a symmetric/periodic structure. This can be properly exploited when the plasma and other sources possess the same symmetry/periodicity of the structure. Indeed, in this case, the computation can be reduced to only a single sector of the overall structure. In this work the periodicity and the symmetries are merged in the recursive QR technique, exhibiting a huge decrease in the computational cost. Finally, the proposed technique is applied to a realistic large-scale problem related to the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER).
Measuring Ethical Values with AI for Better Teamwork
Authors: Altuntas Erkin , Gloor Peter A. , Budner Pascal
Published: April 2022

Do employees with high ethical and moral values perform better? Comparing personality characteristics, moral values, and risk-taking behavior with individual and team performance has long been researched. Until now, these determinants of individual personality have been measured through surveys. However, individuals are notoriously bad at self-assessment. Combining machine learning (ML) with social network analysis (SNA) and natural language processing (NLP), this research draws on email conversations to predict the personal values of individuals. These values are then compared with the individual and team performance of employees. This prediction builds on a two-layered ML model. Building on features of social network structure, network dynamics, and network content derived from email conversations, we predict personality characteristics, moral values, and the risk-taking behavior of employees. In turn, we use these values to predict individual and team performance. Our results indicate that more conscientious and less extroverted team members increase the performance of their teams. Willingness to take social risks decreases the performance of innovation teams in a healthcare environment. Similarly, a focus on values such as power and self-enhancement increases the team performance of a global services provider. In sum, the contributions of this paper are twofold: it first introduces a novel approach to measuring personal values based on “honest signals” in emails. Second, these values are then used to build better teams by identifying ideal personality characteristics for a chosen task.
The Dynamics of Profitability among Salmon Farmers—A Highly Volatile and Highly Profitable Sector
Authors: Opstad Leiv , Idsø Johannes , Valenta Robin
Published: April 2022

Salmon farming stands out from many other industries with its very high profitability, but it is also highly volatile. The main question is whether the profit of individual firms is stable, or whether profitable firms change from year to year. The purpose of this article is to apply the theory of profit persistence to answer this question for salmon farming in Norway. By using panel data from 2010 to 2019, available from public statistics, we study the relative deviation from the average profits. We estimate the speed of adjustment to the profit norm by using a dynamic GMM estimator. We find a high degree of convergence to the average profit among salmon farmers. For companies belonging to the group with below-average profit, there is a positive correlation between growth and profitability and a negative link between debt ratio and deviation of profit rate. Our finding is that although the Norwegian aquaculture industry has large profits, there is large volatility in the profits of this industry. This is useful knowledge for investors, lenders, public authorities and others who need to know something about the risk in the aquaculture industry.
Evaluation of Different Black Mulberry Fruits (Morus nigra L.) Based on Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Wang Ri-Si , Dong Pan-Hao , Shuai Xi-Xiang , Chen Ming-Shun
Published: April 2022

This study evaluated thirteen different black mulberry fruits (Morus nigra L.) grown in the Guangdong region in order to select the best cultivar for health benefits and commercial applications. The phenolic compounds were identified and quantified using UPLC-ESI-MS/MS. The antioxidant activity was evaluated by three in vitro methods. Significant differences among samples were found regarding total soluble solids (6.20–15.83 °Brix), titratable acidity (5.82–48.49 mg CA/g), total phenolic contents (10.82–27.29 mg GAE/g), total flavonoid contents (1.21–2.86 mg RE/g) and total anthocyanin contents (2.91–11.86 mg CE/g). Fifty-five different phenolic compounds were identified, of which fifteen were reported in mulberry for the first time, but only forty-six of them were quantitated. The DPPH radical scavenging activity, ABTS radical scavenging activity and ferric ion-reducing antioxidant power varied significantly among the samples. Overall, cultivars with better combinations of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity were Qiong46 (M-2), Yuebanguo (M-4) and Heizhenzhu (M-10), which were recommended for commercial cultivation.
Determination of the Most Efficient Household Technique for the Reduction of Pesticide Residues from Raw Fish Muscles
Authors: Islam Md. , Amin S. , Brown Christopher , Juraimi Abdul , Uddin Md. , Arshad Aziz
Published: April 2022

Substantial quantities of pesticides are routinely applied to enhance agricultural crop production. Pesticides used in this way continuously accumulate in the environment and in foods. Harvested crops contain pesticide residues at various concentrations, with potential harmful impacts on human health. Hence, it is of value to identify techniques for the effective decontamination of tainted foods. However, cleaning with water or household agents, e.g., acetic acid and sodium bicarbonate, are recognized treatments for the efficient degradation of pesticides from vegetables and fruits. There is an apparent void of information about the decontamination treatments for raw fishes using household agents that are affordable for all classes of consumers. Hence, the present study was performed to determine the most efficient household technique for reducing pesticide residue levels from precooked raw fish to ensure the utmost food safety. Fish muscles of four species of fishes, viz., Clarias gariepinus, Channa striatus, Anabas testudineus and Trichogaster trichopterus, were treated with six treatments: washing with running tap water (T1), dipping in normal water (T2), dipping in 2% salt solution (T3), dipping in 2% vinegar (T4), dipping in 0.1% sodium bicarbonate solution (T5) as well as dipping in 0.1% sodium bicarbonate solution + 2% vinegar + 2% salt solution + lemon juice (T6), as fish muscle is the major consumable portion of fish. The current study demonstrated that the removal percentage of lindane, heptachlor, aldrin, endosulfan, dieldrin, endrin, DDT, methoxychlor and cypermethrin residues against the treated household treatments, in downward order, were soaking in 0.1% sodium bicarbonate solution + 2% vinegar + 2% salt solution + lemon juice solution (T6) > soaking in 2% vinegar (T4) solution > soaking in 0.1% sodium bicarbonate (T5) solution > soaking in 2% salt (T3) solution > washing with running tap water (T1) > soaking in stable normal water (T2). The treatment of raw fish muscle samples by soaking them in 0.1% sodium bicarbonate solution + 2% vinegar + 2% salt solution + lemon juice was found to be the most efficient household treatment, performing significant reductions (%) in pesticide concentration: 72–80% (p < 0.05) in Channa striata, 71–79% (p < 0.05) in Clarias gariepinus, 74–80% (p < 0.05) in Anabas testudineus as well as 78–81% (p < 0.05) in Trichogaster trichopterus before cooking.
Genomic Analysis of Two Representative Strains of Shewanella putrefaciens Isolated from Bigeye Tuna: Biofilm and Spoilage-Associated Behavior
Authors: Yi Zhengkai , Xie Jing
Published: April 2022

Shewanella putrefaciens can cause the spoilage of seafood and shorten its shelf life. In this study, both strains of S. putrefaciens (YZ08 and YZ-J) isolated from spoiled bigeye tuna were subjected to in-depth phenotypic and genotypic characterization to better understand their roles in seafood spoilage. The complete genome sequences of strains YZ08 and YZ-J were reported. Unique genes of the two S. putrefaciens strains were identified by pan-genomic analysis. In vitro experiments revealed that YZ08 and YZ-J could adapt to various environmental stresses, including cold-shock temperature, pH, NaCl, and nutrient stresses. YZ08 was better at adapting to NaCl stress, and its genome possessed more NaCl stress-related genes compared with the YZ-J strain. YZ-J was a higher biofilm and exopolysaccharide producer than YZ08 at 4 and 30 °C, while YZ08 showed greater motility and enhanced capacity for biogenic amine metabolism, trimethylamine metabolism, and sulfur metabolism compared with YZ-J at both temperatures. That YZ08 produced low biofilm and exopolysaccharide contents and displayed high motility may be associated with the presence of more a greater number of genes encoding chemotaxis-related proteins (cheX) and low expression of the bpfA operon. This study provided novel molecular targets for the development of new antiseptic antisepsis strategies.
Effect of Packaging and Salt Content and Type on Antioxidant and ACE-Inhibitory Activities in Requeson Cheese
Authors: Ramírez-Rivas Ivette Karina , Gutiérrez-Méndez Néstor , Rentería-Monterrubio Ana Luisa , Sánchez-Vega Rogelio , Tirado-Gallegos Juan Manuel , Santellano-Estrada Eduardo , Arevalos-Sánchez Martha María , Chávez-Martínez América
Published: April 2022

Requeson cheese is obtained from whey proteins. The production of this cheese is the most economical way to recover and concentrate whey proteins, which is why it is frequently made in some Latin American countries. Four requeson cheese treatments were prepared with different concentrations and combinations of salts (sodium chloride and/or potassium chloride) and were conventionally or vacuum packed. Proteolysis, peptide concentration, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory and antioxidant (DPPH and ABTS) activities were evaluated over time (one, seven and fourteen days). Requeson cheese presented antioxidant and ACE inhibitory activities, however, these values vary depending on salt addition, type of packaging and time of storage. The highest values of antioxidant activity (ABTS) were found in cheese added with 1.5% NaCl and 1.5% (NaCl/KCl, 1:1). Cheese without added salt and vacuum packed presented the highest ACE inhibition percentage at day seven. Therefore, it can be concluded that requeson cheese elaborated exclusively of sweet whey, presents antioxidant and ACE inhibition activity. However, for a cheese with ACE inhibitory capacity, it is recommended not to add salts or add at 1% (NaCl) and vacuum pack it. Additionally, for a cheese with antioxidant activity, it is recommended to add salt at 1.5% either NaCl or (1:1) NaCl/KCl and pack it either in a polyethylene bag or vacuum. In conclusion, requeson cheese elaborate with 100% sweet whey is a dairy product with antioxidant and ACE inhibition activity, being low in salt and fat.
Nutritional Quality, Antioxidant, Microstructural and Sensory Properties of Spontaneously Fermented Gluten-Free Finger Millet Biscuits
Authors: Mudau Masala , Mashau Mpho Edward , Ramashia Shonisani Eugenia
Published: April 2022

Finger millet (FM) is a nutritious and gluten-free cereal grain which is rich in dietary fibre, minerals and antioxidant properties, thereby making it an ideal raw material for preparing gluten-free foods for people suffering from celiac disease. Spontaneous fermentation of FM grains has shown improved nutritional and functional properties of its flour and can be used as a functional ingredient for gluten free biscuits. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of spontaneous fermentation (SF) on the nutritional quality, antioxidant, microstructural, and sensory characteristics of gluten-free FM biscuits obtained from light and dark brown FM flours. Results showed that SF decreased ash, crude fibre, and crude fat contents as well as total phenolic and flavonoids contents. Protein content, carbohydrates content, energy values, antioxidant activity (DPPH and FRAP), and mineral content of FM biscuits increased due to SF. The colour properties such as lightness (L*), showed a significant increase as SF period increased in light brown FM biscuits, however dark brown FM biscuits showed no significant difference. The hue angle and colour differences (ΔE) of FM biscuits increased with the increasing period of SF, ranging from 43.20 to 53.76° and from 0.67 to 7.96, respectively. Spontaneous fermentation also decreased physical properties of biscuits such as diameter (4.76 to 4.54 cm), weight (12.77 to 11.99 g), and spread ratio (7.25 to 6.05), while an increase in thickness and hardness was noted. Spontaneous fermentation also induced changes on the microstructure of FM biscuits. Among the fermented biscuits, panelists preferred 24 h gluten-free fermented FM biscuits since they had better sensory properties. Overall, SF enhanced the nutritional value and health promoting compounds of gluten-free FM biscuits.
Effect of Cold Shock Pretreatment Combined with Perforation-Mediated Passive Modified Atmosphere Packaging on Storage Quality of Cucumbers
Authors: Wang Fucheng , Mi Si , Chitrakar Bimal , Li Jinsong , Wang Xianghong
Published: April 2022

This study evaluated the application of cold shock combined with perforation-mediated passive modified atmosphere packaging technology (CS-PMAP) for cucumber preservation through physicochemical, sensory, and nutritional qualities. The effectiveness of CS-PMAP in maintaining the quality of fresh cucumbers was studied; cucumbers were pretreated with cold shock and then packed into perforated polyethylene bags (bag size of 20 × 30 cm; film thickness of 0.07 mm; and two holes in each bag with a diameter of 6 mm), while the cucumbers without cold shock were considered as the control. Storage of the samples was performed at (13 ± 2) °C for 20 days to determine the quality changes in terms of gas composition, weight loss, skin color, texture, total soluble solids (TSS), ascorbic acid, malondialdehyde (MDA), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The CS-PMAP showed a significant improvement in maintaining firmness, TSS, ascorbic acid, and flavor profile of cucumbers; the control samples without cold shock showed higher weight loss and MDA levels. Results of this study confirmed that CS-PMAP has potential use in the storage of cucumbers.
The Influence of Message Framing on Consumers’ Selection of Local Food
Authors: Carfora Valentina , Morandi Maria , Catellani Patrizia
Published: April 2022

Although local food purchasing provides several benefits to both consumers and producers, research on what recommendation messages can effectively promote the purchase of local food is still lacking. In the present study, 410 participants were involved in a 2-week intervention relying on prefactual (i.e., “If … then”) messages promoting the purchase of local food. All messages were sent through a research app to participants’ mobile phones and were focused on environmental consequences of purchasing (or not purchasing) local food. Four experimental conditions involving messages differing as to outcome sensitivity framing (i.e., gain, non-loss, non-gain and loss) were compared to a control condition. To test the effectiveness of the messages, before and after the 2-week intervention participants were involved in a choice task. They were asked to choose among fruits with different provenience, that is, from the participants’ municipality of residence or abroad. Results showed that all message frames increased the selection of local food, compared to control. Furthermore, pro-environmental consumers were more persuaded by messages formulated in terms of gains and non-gains, whereas healthy consumers were more persuaded by messages formulated in terms of losses or non-losses. Discussion focuses on the advantages of tailored communication to promote the purchase of local food.