bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adipose Tissue Paracrine-, Autocrine-, and Matrix-Dependent Signaling during the Development and Progression of Obesity
Authors: Johnston Elizabeth K. , Abbott Rosalyn D.
Published: January 2023

Obesity is an ever-increasing phenomenon, with 42% of Americans being considered obese (BMI ≥ 30) and 9.2% being considered morbidly obese (BMI ≥ 40) as of 2016. With obesity being characterized by an abundance of adipose tissue expansion, abnormal tissue remodeling is a typical consequence. Importantly, this pathological tissue expansion is associated with many alterations in the cellular populations and phenotypes within the tissue, lending to cellular, paracrine, mechanical, and metabolic alterations that have local and systemic effects, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. In particular, vascular dynamics shift during the progression of obesity, providing signaling cues that drive metabolic dysfunction. In this review, paracrine-, autocrine-, and matrix-dependent signaling between adipocytes and endothelial cells is discussed in the context of the development and progression of obesity and its consequential diseases, including adipose fibrosis, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
RUNX3 in Stem Cell and Cancer Biology
Authors: Chuang Linda Shyue Huey , Matsuo Junichi , Douchi Daisuke , Bte Mawan Nur Astiana , Ito Yoshiaki
Published: January 2023

The runt-related transcription factors (RUNX) play prominent roles in cell cycle progression, differentiation, apoptosis, immunity and epithelial–mesenchymal transition. There are three members in the mammalian RUNX family, each with distinct tissue expression profiles. RUNX genes play unique and redundant roles during development and adult tissue homeostasis. The ability of RUNX proteins to influence signaling pathways, such as Wnt, TGFβ and Hippo-YAP, suggests that they integrate signals from the environment to dictate cell fate decisions. All RUNX genes hold master regulator roles, albeit in different tissues, and all have been implicated in cancer. Paradoxically, RUNX genes exert tumor suppressive and oncogenic functions, depending on tumor type and stage. Unlike RUNX1 and 2, the role of RUNX3 in stem cells is poorly understood. A recent study using cancer-derived RUNX3 mutation R122C revealed a gatekeeper role for RUNX3 in gastric epithelial stem cell homeostasis. The corpora of RUNX3R122C/R122C mice showed a dramatic increase in proliferating stem cells as well as inhibition of differentiation. Tellingly, RUNX3R122C/R122C mice also exhibited a precancerous phenotype. This review focuses on the impact of RUNX3 dysregulation on (1) stem cell fate and (2) the molecular mechanisms underpinning early carcinogenesis.
Opposing Effects of ApoE2 and ApoE4 on Glycolytic Metabolism in Neuronal Aging Supports a Warburg Neuroprotective Cascade against Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Zhang Xin , Wu Long , Swerdlow Russell H. , Zhao Liqin
Published: January 2023

Apolipoprotein E4 (ApoE4) is the most recognized genetic risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (LOAD), whereas ApoE2 reduces the risk for LOAD. The underlying mechanisms are unclear but may include effects on brain energy metabolism. Here, we used neuro-2a (N2a) cells that stably express human ApoE isoforms (N2a-hApoE), differentiated N2a-hApoE neuronal cells, and humanized ApoE knock-in mouse models to investigate relationships among ApoE isoforms, glycolytic metabolism, and neuronal health and aging. ApoE2-expressing cells retained robust hexokinase (HK) expression and glycolytic activity, whereas these endpoints progressively declined with aging in ApoE4-expressing cells. These divergent ApoE2 and ApoE4 effects on glycolysis directly correlated with markers of cellular wellness. Moreover, ApoE4-expressing cells upregulated phosphofructokinase and pyruvate kinase with the apparent intent of compensating for the HK-dependent glycolysis reduction. The introduction of ApoE2 increased HK levels and glycolysis flux in ApoE4 cells. PI3K/Akt signaling was distinctively regulated by ApoE isoforms but was only partially responsible for the ApoE-mediated effects on HK. Collectively, our findings indicate that human ApoE isoforms differentially modulate neuronal glycolysis through HK regulation, with ApoE2 upregulating and ApoE4 downregulating, which markedly impacts neuronal health during aging. These findings lend compelling support to the emerging inverse-Warburg theory of AD and highlight a therapeutic opportunity for bolstering brain glycolytic resilience to prevent and treat AD.
A Lipidomics- and Transcriptomics-Based Analysis of the Intestine of Genetically Obese (ob/ob) and Diabetic (db/db) Mice: Links with Inflammation and Gut Microbiota
Authors: Suriano Francesco , Manca Claudia , Flamand Nicolas , Van Hul Matthias , Delzenne Nathalie M. , Silvestri Cristoforo , Cani Patrice D. , Di Marzo Vincenzo
Published: January 2023

Obesity is associated with a cluster of metabolic disorders, chronic low-grade inflammation, altered gut microbiota, increased intestinal permeability, and alterations of the lipid mediators of the expanded endocannabinoid (eCB) signaling system, or endocannabinoidome (eCBome). In the present study, we characterized the profile of the eCBome and related oxylipins in the small and large intestines of genetically obese (ob/ob) and diabetic (db/db) mice to decipher possible correlations between these mediators and intestinal inflammation and gut microbiota composition. Basal lipid and gene expression profiles, measured by LC/MS-MS-based targeted lipidomics and qPCR transcriptomics, respectively, highlighted a differentially altered intestinal eCBome and oxylipin tone, possibly linked to increased mRNA levels of inflammatory markers in db/db mice. In particular, the duodenal levels of several 2-monoacylglycerols and N-acylethanolamines were increased and decreased, respectively, in db/db mice, which displayed more pronounced intestinal inflammation. To a little extent, these differences were explained by changes in the expression of the corresponding metabolic enzymes. Correlation analyses suggested possible interactions between eCBome/oxylipin mediators, cytokines, and bacterial components and bacterial taxa closely related to intestinal inflammation. Collectively, this study reveals that db/db mice present a higher inflammatory state in the intestine as compared to ob/ob mice, and that this difference is associated with profound and potentially adaptive or maladaptive, and partly intestinal segment-specific alterations in eCBome and oxylipin signaling. This study opens the way to future investigations on the biological role of several poorly investigated eCBome mediators and oxylipins in the context of obesity and diabetes-induced gut dysbiosis and inflammation.
Impact of Early Hemoglobin Levels on Neurodevelopment Outcomes of Two-Year-Olds in Very Preterm Children
Authors: Gire Catherine , Fournier Ninon , Pirrello Johanna , Marret Stéphane , Patural Hugues , Flamant Cyril , Pierrat Véronique , Kaminski Monique , Ancel Pierre-Yves , Tosello Barthélémy , Berbis Julie
Published: January 2023

Objective: To evaluate, in very preterm infants, the hemoglobin (Hb) levels during the first 24 h and the neurodevelopment outcomes at 24 months of corrected age. Design, setting, and patients: We conducted a secondary analysis of the French national prospective and population-based cohort EPIPAGE-2. The eligible study participants were live-born singletons who were born before 32 weeks of gestational age, with early Hb levels who were admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit. Main outcome measures: The early Hb levels for an outcome survival at 24 months of corrected age without neurodevelopmental impairment were measured. The secondary outcomes were survival at discharge and without severe neonatal morbidity. Results: Of the 2158 singletons of <32 weeks with mean early Hb levels of 15.4 (±2.4) g/dL, 1490 of the infants (69%) had a follow-up at two years of age. An early Hb of 15.2 g/dL is the minimum receiving operating characteristic curve at the 24 months risk-free level, but the area under the curve at 0.54 (close to 50%) indicates that this rate was not informative. In logistic regression, no association was found between early Hb levels and outcomes at two years of age (aOR 0.966; 95% CI [0.775–1.204]; p = 0.758) but rather there was a correlation found with severe morbidity (aOR 1.322; 95% CI [1.003–1.743]; p = 0.048). A risk stratification tree showed that male newborns of >26 weeks with Hb of <15.5 g/dL (n = 703) were associated with a poor outcome at 24 months (OR 1.9; CI: [1.5–2.4] p < 0.01). Conclusions: Early low Hb levels are associated with major neonatal morbidities in VP singletons, but not with neurodevelopment outcomes at two years of age, except in male infants of >26 Weeks GA.
Kindergarten Affordances for Physical Activity and Preschoolers’ Motor and Social-Emotional Competence
Authors: Moreira Mariana , Veiga Guida , Lopes Frederico , Hales Derek , Luz Carlos , Cordovil Rita
Published: January 2023

This study examined the relationship between the quality of the kindergarten physical and social environment to promote physical activity (PA) and preschoolers’ motor and social-emotional competence. Two Portuguese kindergartens (Gondomar city) were selected from a pool of seventeen with an assessment of kindergarten PA best practices (one with high PA practices, the other with low). Thirty-six children (M = 4.42; SD = 1.00 years) without neuromotor disorders participated in this study. Motor and social-emotional competence were assessed with standardized motor skills tasks and parent report of child behaviors. Children from the kindergarten with higher compliance with PA best practices showed significantly better motor competence. No statistically significant differences were found for social-emotional competence scores. These findings emphasize the critical importance of kindergarten in promoting preschoolers’ motor competence by assuring a physical and social environment that enhances their PA practice. This is a particularly relevant concern for directors and teachers during the post-pandemic period, given the developmental delays and decreases in physical activity preschool children experienced across the pandemic period.
Neurosurgical Treatment and Outcome of Pediatric Skull Base Lesions: A Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Greuter Ladina , Hallenberger Tim , Guzman Raphael , Soleman Jehuda
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Pediatric skull base lesions occur rarely and are of various etiologies. Traditionally, open craniotomy has been the treatment of choice; however, nowadays, endoscopic approaches are increasingly applied. In this retrospective case series, we describe our experience in treating pediatric skull base lesions and provide a systematic overview of the literature on the treatment and outcome of pediatric skull base lesions. Methods: We conducted a retrospective data collection of all pediatric patients (<18 years) treated for a skull base lesion at the Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, University Children’s Hospital Basel, Switzerland, between 2015 and 2021. Descriptive statistics and a systematic review of the available literature were additionally conducted. Results: We included 17 patients with a mean age of 8.92 (±5.76) years and nine males (52.9%). The most common entity was sellar pathologies (n = 8 47.1%), with craniopharyngioma being the most common pathology (n = 4, 23.5%). Endoscopic approaches, either endonasal transsphenoidal or transventricular, were used in nine (52.9%) cases. Six patients (35.3%) suffered from transient postoperative complications, while in none of the patients these were permanent. Of the nine (52.9%) patients with preoperative deficits, two (11.8%) showed complete recovery and one (5.9%) partial recovery after surgery. After screening 363 articles, we included 16 studies with a total of 807 patients for the systematic review. The most common pathology reported in the literature confirmed our finding of craniopharyngioma (n = 142, 18.0%). The mean PFS amongst all the studies included was 37.73 (95% CI [36.2, 39.2]) months, and the overall weighted complication rate was 40% (95% CI [0.28 to 0.53] with a permanent complication rate of 15% (95% CI [0.08 to 0.27]. Only one study reported an overall survival of their cohort of 68% at five years. Conclusion: This study highlights the rarity and heterogeneity of skull base lesions in the pediatric population. While these pathologies are often benign, achieving GTR is challenging due to the deep localization of the lesions and eloquent adjacent structures, leading to high complication rates. Therefore, skull base lesions in children require an experienced multidisciplinary team to provide optimal care.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Current Issues in Molecular Biology in 2022
Authors:   CIMB Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Room Temperature Synthesis of Branched ZnO Nanowires Array with Tunable Morphology
Authors: Zhao Wei , Chang Hsiang-Shun , Yao Kefu , Shao Yang
Published: January 2023

Herein, a novel method is proposed to synthesize B-ZnO NWA by simply immersing the Zn NWA in NaOH solution at room temperature (25 °C). Based on the systematic investigation of various factors that affect the growth of B-ZnO NWA, the growth mechanism of B-ZnO NWA is clarified. Guided by the growth mechanism, the control of the morphology of B-ZnO NWA is achieved by adjusting the pore structure of anodized aluminum oxide templates, hot-pressing parameters, NaOH concentration, solution temperature, and immersion time. In contrast to previous reports, the prepared B-ZnO NWA has hollow trunks, which can further increase the specific area of B-ZnO NWA. Considering the facile, environmental, and low-cost synthesis, the prepared B-ZnO NWA with tunable morphology has great prospects in a wide range of applications, especially those related to the conversion and utilization of solar energy, which are gaining increasing interest nowadays.
High-Temperature Tensile Properties of a Cobalt-Based Co-20Cr-15W-10Ni Superalloy with a Bimodal Grain Structure
Authors: Lei Yan , Li Chenglin , Wan Liang
Published: January 2023

Cobalt-based superalloys are common materials for the manufacturing of various components used in aerospace applications. Conventional cobalt-based superalloys with a unimodal grain structure generally exhibit low strength and ductility at high temperatures. A bimodal grain structure of a cobalt-based superalloy, Co–20Cr–15W–10Ni (CCWN), was designed to achieve both high strength and ductility at high temperatures. The deformation behavior and tensile properties of a CCWN alloy with unimodal fine-grain (FG), coarse-grain (CG), and bimodal (FG/CG) structures were investigated at 900 °C. The microstructures and substructures after high-temperature deformation were examined via electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) and electron channeling contrast imaging (ECCI) to determine the deformation mechanisms. The microstructural observation showed that the bimodal grain structure consisted of FG and CG domains. During high-temperature deformation at 900 °C, the FG structure was mainly deformed by dynamic recrystallization (DRX), maintaining a similar FG structure. The CG structure was mainly deformed by DRV, resulting in a small amount of DRX grains and a large amount of dynamic recovery (DRV) grains. However, the bimodal grain structures were mainly softened via DRX and transformed into a new bimodal structure, ultrafine grain (UFG) and FG. The FG domains tended to deform via dislocations, and the CG domains via twinning. The high-temperature tensile tests revealed that the bimodal-structured alloy exhibited both higher strength and ductility than those of the alloy samples with unimodal FG or CG structure. This is associated with the newly developed UFG/FG structures in the bimodal grain-structured samples during high-temperature deformation. This work may provide new insight into the development of high-temperature alloys with bimodal grain structures.
Tumor Suppressor p53 Down-Regulates Programmed Cell Death Protein 4 (PDCD4) Expression
Authors: Yang William H. , George Andrew P. , Wang Chiung-Min , Yang Richard H. , Duncan Avery M. , Patel Darshti , Neil Zachery D. , Yang Wei-Hsiung
Published: January 2023

The programmed cell death protein 4 (PDCD4), a well-known tumor suppressor, inhibits translation initiation and cap-dependent translation by inhibiting the helicase activity of EIF4A. The EIF4A tends to target mRNAs with a structured 5′-UTR. In addition, PDCD4 can also prevent tumorigenesis by inhibiting tumor promoter-induced neoplastic transformation, and studies indicate that PDCD4 binding to certain mRNAs inhibits those mRNAs’ translation. A previous study demonstrated that PDCD4 inhibits the translation of p53 mRNA and that treatment with DNA-damaging agents down-regulates PDCD4 expression but activates p53 expression. The study further demonstrated that treatment with DNA-damaging agents resulted in the downregulation of PDCD4 expression and an increase in p53 expression, suggesting a potential mechanism by which p53 regulates the expression of PDCD4. However, whether p53 directly regulates PDCD4 remains unknown. Herein, we demonstrate for the first time that p53 regulates PDCD4 expression. Firstly, we found that overexpression of p53 in p53-null cells (H1299 and Saos2 cells) decreased the PDCD4 protein level. Secondly, p53 decreased PDCD4 promoter activity in gene reporter assays. Moreover, we demonstrated that mutations in p53 (R273H: contact hotspot mutation, and R175H: conformational hotspot mutation) abolished p53-mediated PDCD4 repression. Furthermore, mutations in the DNA-binding domain, but not in the C-terminal regulatory domain, of p53 disrupted p53-mediated PDCD4 repression. Finally, the C-terminal regulatory domain truncation study showed that the region between aa374 and aa370 is critical for p53-mediated PDCD4 repression. Taken together, our results suggest that p53 functions as a novel regulator of PDCD4, and the relationship between p53 and PDCD4 may be involved in tumor development and progression.
Percutaneous CT-Guided Microwave Ablation Combined with Pedicle Screw Fixation Followed by Vertebroplasty (MASFVA): Initial Experience of a Minimally Invasive Treatment of Vertebral Metastases with Extension to the Vertebral Pedicle
Authors: Pusceddu Claudio , Marsico Salvatore , Derudas Daniele , Ballicu Nicola , Melis Luca , de Felice Carlo , Calabrese Alessandro , Santucci Domiziana , Faiella Eliodoro
Published: January 2023

(1) Background: The aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the safety and efficacy of a combined CT-guided percutaneous microwave ablation (MWA) and pedicle screw fixation followed by vertebroplasty (MASFVA) for the treatment and stabilization of painful vertebral metastases with vertebral pedicle involvement. (2) Methods: from January 2013 to January 2017 11 patients with 16 vertebral metastatic lesions (7 men and 5 women; mean age, 65 ± 11 years) with vertebral metastases underwent CT-guided microwave ablation and screw fixation followed by vertebroplasty (MASFVA). Technical success, complication rate, pain evaluation using a visual analogue scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and local tumor control were examined. (3) Results: Technical success rate was 100%. No procedure-related major complications occurred. VAS score decreased from 6.8 ± 0.7 to 0.6 ± 0.6. ODI score decreased from 3.1 ± 0.7 to 1.2 ± 0.4. All patients could walk independently without neurological complication after one week from the procedure. No new bone fractures or local disease recurrence occurred during a median follow-up of 12 months. (4) Conclusions: Our results suggest that MWA and percutaneous pedicle screw fixation followed by vertebroplasty for the treatment of painful vertebral metastases is a safe and effective procedure for painful vertebral metastases with vertebral pedicle involvement, allowing pain relief and local tumor control.
Correlation between Thrombus Perviousness and Distal Embolization during Mechanical Thrombectomy in Acute Stroke
Authors: Pilato Fabio , Valente Iacopo , Alexandre Andrea M. , Calandrelli Rosalinda , Scarcia Luca , D’Argento Francesco , Lozupone Emilio , Arena Vincenzo , Pedicelli Alessandro
Published: January 2023

Purpose: Thrombus permeability has been related to clot composition and treatment outcomes in stroke patients undergoing reperfusion therapies. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether thrombus perviousness, evaluated by multiphase computed tomography angiography (mCTA), is associated with distal embolization risk. Methods: We interrogated our dataset of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients involving the M1 segment of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) who had undergone mechanical thrombectomy, and we calculated thrombus average attenuation measurement (dHU) on non-contrast CT (NCCT) and clot perviousness on mCTA. dHU was calculated as the difference between the thrombus HU average value (tHU) and the HU average value on the contralateral side (cHU), while perviousness was calculated as the difference in mean clot density on mCTA and NCCT both in arterial (Perviousness pre-post-1) and delayed (Perviousness pre-post 2) phases. Results: A total of 100 patients (53 females (53%), mean age 72.74 [± 2.31]) with M1 occlusion were available for analysis. Perviousness, calculated between baseline and arterial phase of mCTA (Perviousness pre-post1), was lower in patients with distal embolization (p = 0.05), revealing an association between reduced perviousness and distal embolization risk. Logistic regression showed that thrombus perviousness calculated on the arterial phase of mCTA (OR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.44–0.99] (p = 0.04)) and the contact aspiration technique (OR, 0.39; 95% CI, 0.15–1.02] (p = 0.05)) were protecting factors against distal embolization. Conclusion: Our study showed an association between reduced perviousness and distal embolization, suggesting that perviousness evaluation may be a useful neuroimaging biomarker in predicting distal embolization risk during mechanical thrombectomy.
Classifying Breast Cancer Metastasis Based on Imaging of Tumor Primary and Tumor Biology
Authors: Awad Barbara , Chandora Agni , Bassett Ben , Hermecz Brittany , Woodard Stefanie
Published: January 2023

The molecular classification of breast cancer has allowed for a better understanding of both prognosis and treatment of breast cancer. Imaging of the different molecular subtypes has revealed that biologically different tumors often exhibit typical features in mammography, ultrasound, and MRI. Here, we introduce the molecular classification of breast cancer and review the typical imaging features of each subtype, examining the predictive value of imaging with respect to distant metastases.
Harmonic Phasor Estimation Method Considering Dense Interharmonic Interference
Authors: Xiao Xianyong , Zhou Runze , Ma Xiaoyang , Xu Rui
Published: January 2023

Due to the limitation of frequency resolution and the spectrum leakage caused by signal windowing, the spectrums of harmonic and interharmonic components with close frequencies overlap each other. When the dense interharmonic (DI) components are close to the harmonic spectrum peaks, the harmonic phasor estimation accuracy is seriously reduced. To address this problem, a harmonic phasor estimation method considering DI interference is proposed in this paper. Firstly, based on the spectral characteristics of the dense frequency signal, the phase and amplitude characteristics are used to determine whether DI interference exists in the signal. Secondly, an autoregressive model is established by using the autocorrelation of the signal. Data extrapolation is performed on the basis of the sampling sequence to improve the frequency resolution and eliminate the interharmonic interference. Finally, the estimated values of harmonic phasor, frequency and rate of change of frequency are obtained. The simulation and some experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method can accurately estimate the parameters of harmonic phasors when DIs exist in the signal, and has a certain anti-noise capability and dynamic performance.
Informativeness across Interpreting Types: Implications for Language Shifts under Cognitive Load
Authors: Lin Yumeng , Liang Junying
Published: January 2023

Previous quantitative studies discussing interpreting types have focused on various features of linguistic forms in outputs. However, none of them has examined their informativeness. Entropy, as a measure of the average information content and the uniformity of the probability distribution of language units, has been applied to quantitative linguistic research on different types of language texts. In the present study, entropy and repeat rate were used to investigate the difference of overall informativeness and concentration of output texts between simultaneous interpreting and consecutive interpreting. We intend to figure out the frequency distribution patterns of word and word category in two types of interpreting texts. Analyses of linear mixed-effects models showed that entropy and repeat rate can distinguish the informativeness of consecutive and simultaneous interpreting outputs, and consecutive interpreting outputs entail a higher word entropy value and a lower word repeat rate than simultaneous interpreting outputs. We propose that consecutive interpreting is a cognitive process which reaches an equilibrium between production economy for interpreters and comprehension sufficiency for listeners, especially in the case where input speeches are more complex. Our findings also shed lights on the selection of interpreting types in application scenarios. The current research is the first of its kind in examining informativeness across interpreting types, demonstrating a dynamic adaptation of language users to extreme cognitive load.
Quantum Bounds on the Generalized Lyapunov Exponents
Authors: Pappalardi Silvia , Kurchan Jorge
Published: January 2023

We discuss the generalized quantum Lyapunov exponents Lq, defined from the growth rate of the powers of the square commutator. They may be related to an appropriately defined thermodynamic limit of the spectrum of the commutator, which plays the role of a large deviation function, obtained from the exponents Lq via a Legendre transform. We show that such exponents obey a generalized bound to chaos due to the fluctuation–dissipation theorem, as already discussed in the literature. The bounds for larger q are actually stronger, placing a limit on the large deviations of chaotic properties. Our findings at infinite temperature are exemplified by a numerical study of the kicked top, a paradigmatic model of quantum chaos.
Social-Cognitive Theories to Explain Physical Activity
Authors: Rodrigues Filipe , Figueiredo Nuno , Jacinto Miguel , Monteiro Diogo , Morouço Pedro
Published: January 2023

Despite the widely recognized health benefits of physical activity, participation in regular physical activity falls far short of the Global Action Plan on Physical Activity 2018–2030. More than half of the population does not reach current recommendations, and around one-fourth is not sufficiently active at all. Understanding social-cognitive theories may aid in the creation of interventions to improve long-term physical activity maintenance. The current work covers theory and research on physical activity patterns. It specifically provides an overview of contemporary conceptualizations of motivational and cognitive theories, as well as reviews recent perspectives on how physical activity can be adopted and maintained. Key questions, such as whether physical activity can be executed purely based on cognitive functions, are also addressed. Furthermore, this review identifies possible and effective intervention strategies to promote physical activity.
Multiple-Network-Based Control System Design for Unmanned Surveillance Applications
Authors: Uhm Taeyoung , Bae Gideok , Kim Jongchan , Lee Hyojun , Lee Jongdeuk , Jung Joonyoung , Cho Sunghoon , Lee Kanghoon , Choi Youngho
Published: January 2023

Networks are essential components in the surveillance applications of control systems. In unmanned surveillance applications, numerous agents are employed to provide unmanned services. These agents secure large areas and communicate with a control system, checks their status and sends/receives data via multiple networks. These networks need to assign roles based on the application characteristics. In this study, we propose the design of a multiple-network-based control system for large surveillance areas. To this end, an interface for transmitting mission commands to agents needs to be developed because it can allow users to monitor and assign tasks to all agents. The proposed system is developed as a test bed connected to fixed/mobile agents using LoRa, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and LTE communication methods; moreover, its usability was tested in a real environment.
Efficient Neural Network DPD Architecture for Hybrid Beamforming mMIMO
Authors: Muškatirović-Zekić Tamara , Nešković Nataša , Budimir Djuradj
Published: January 2023

This paper presents several different Neural Network based DPD architectures for hybrid beamforming (HBF) mMIMO applications. They are formulated, tested and compared based on their ability to compensate nonlinear distortion of power amplifiers in a single user (SU) and multiuser (MU) Fully-Connected (FC) HBF mMIMO transmitters. The proof-of-concept is provided with a 64 × 64 FC HBF mMIMO system, with 2 RF chains. The complexity of DPD solution is reduced by using a single Real-Valued Time-Delay Neural Network with two hidden layers (RVTDNN2L) instead of using as many different DPD blocks as there are RF chains in the HBF mMIMO transmitter and it is shown that the proposed architecture better compensates nonlinear distortion compared to the traditional memory polynomial DPD. Two RVTDNN2L DPD architectures are developed and tested for linearization of MU FC HBF mMIMO systems, and it is also shown that the proposed RVTDNN2L DPD architecture efficiently linearizes MU FC HBF mMIMO transmitters in terms of Normalized Mean-Squared Error (NMSE) and Error Vector Magnitude (EVM).
Research on Dynamic Response of Cold Rolling Mill with Dynamic Stiffness Compensation
Authors: Jia Xingdou , Wang Shen , Yan Xiaoqiang , Wang Lidong , Wang Haipeng
Published: January 2023

The vibration of the vertical system of a cold rolling mill is a major concern for factory production. In factory production, it is found that the thickness control system with dynamic stiffness compensation of the rolling mill has a significant impact on the rolling mill vibration. In this work, a mechanical hydraulic coupling vibration model of a cold rolling mill with a thickness control system with dynamic stiffness compensation was established. MATLAB/Simulink was used to simulate and analyze the vibration response characteristics of the mechanical structure of the rolling mill and mechanical hydraulic coupling system considering the dynamic stiffness compensation control mode and position control mode of the upper cylinder. We found that the control system changed the vibration response of the mechanical structure, and different control modes have different effects on the vibration response curve. When the rolling mill works in the vibration area, the thickness difference at the strip steel outlet would be larger. Considering the rolling mill vibration and strip surface quality, the excitation of the strip inlet thickness can be achieved by adjusting the dynamic stiffness compensation system and changing the rolling speed reasonably to achieve good vibration suppression and control effects.
Enhancing Software-Defined Networks with Intelligent Controllers to Improve First Packet Processing Period
Authors: Meena Ramesh Chand , Bhatia Surbhi , Jhaveri Rutvij H. , Shukla Piyush Kumar , Kumar Ankit , Varshney Neeraj , Malibari Areej A.
Published: January 2023

Software-Defined Networking (SDN) has a detailed central model that separates the data plane from the control plane. The SDN controller is in charge of monitoring network security and controlling data flow. OpenFlow-enabled routers and switches work as packet-forwarding devices in the network system. At first, OpenFlow forwarding devices like routers and switches do not know how to handle the data packets transmitted by the host. This is because they do not have any security controls, policies, or information. These packets are sent to their destination. In this situation, the OpenFlow forwarding device sends the first data packet of a host to the SDN controller, which checks the control packets for the data packet and creates flow entries in the switch flow table to act on the following categories of data packets coming from the host. These activities at the SDN controller and switch levels are time-intensive, and the first data packet from the host always takes a longer time to reach its destination. In this article, we suggest an SDN controller with instant flow entries (SDN-CIFE) to reduce the amount of time it takes for the host to transmit its first data packet. Before traffic comes from the host, our method adds the necessary flow entries to the flow table of the OpenFlow switch. The technique was made in Python and tested on a Mininet network emulator using the RYU controller. The results of the experiment show that the time it takes to process the first data packet is reduced by more than 83%.
Research Based on Improved CNN-SVM Fault Diagnosis of V2G Charging Pile
Authors: Yang Yuyi , Zhu Wu
Published: January 2023

With the increasing number of electric vehicles, V2G (vehicle to grid) charging piles which can realize the two-way flow of vehicle and electricity have been put into the market on a large scale, and the fault maintenance of charging piles has gradually become a problem. Aiming at the problems that convolutional neural networks (CNN) are easy to overfit and the low localization accuracy in fault diagnosis of V2G charging piles, an improved fault classification model based on convolutional neural networks (CNN-SVM) is proposed. Firstly, the hardware adaptation optimization is carried out for the CNN structure, the wavelet packet transformation is used to extract the fault current signal feature information into the CNN, and the CNN-SVM model is constructed by SVM (Support Vector Machine) instead of the SoftMax classifier in the CNN. The PSO (particle swarm algorithm) is used to optimize the parameters of the SVM model to obtain the optimal model. Finally, the superiority of the proposed method is verified by multi-working cases. The experimental results show that the fault classification accuracy of the CNN-SVM model is far higher than that of the traditional deep learning network and has practical significance for fault diagnosis of the switch module of the charging pile.
Biomass Polygeneration System for the Thermal Conversion of Softwood Waste into Hydrogen and Drop-In Biofuels
Authors: Bartolucci Lorenzo , Bocci Enrico , Cordiner Stefano , De Maina Emanuele , Lombardi Francesco , Marcantonio Vera , Mele Pietro , Mulone Vincenzo , Sorino Davide
Published: January 2023

In order to keep the +1.5 °C over-temperature, previously predicted with high confidence by IPPC Sixth Assessment, as minimal as feasible, it is more than vital to achieve a low-emission energy system. Polygeneration systems based on thermochemical processes involve biomass conversion in multi-output of bioenergy carriers and chemicals. Due to reduced energy input and input/output diversification, polygeneration energy systems are considered interesting pathways that can increase competitiveness of biomass-derived products. The proposed route of fast pyrolysis, sorption-enhanced biochar gasification and crude bio-oil hydrodeoxygenation to produce drop-in biofuel and hydrogen is examined. Both kinetic and equilibrium approaches were implemented in Aspen Plus to take into account the effect of the major operating parameters on the process performance and then validated against the literature data. Results show how the process integration leads to improved mass conversion yield and increases overall energy efficiency up to 10%-points, reaching the maximum value of 75%. Among the various parameters investigated, pyrolysis temperature influences mainly the products distribution while Steam/Biochar and Sorbent/Biochar affect the energy conversion efficiency.
Comparative Analysis of Ground Source and Air Source Heat Pump Systems under Different Conditions and Scenarios
Authors: Blázquez Cristina Sáez , Nieto Ignacio Martín , García Javier Carrasco , García Pedro Carrasco , Martín Arturo Farfán , González-Aguilera Diego
Published: January 2023

The current energy context demands the use of environmentally friendly solutions that contribute to the displacement of traditional fossil fuels. In this regard, heat pumps have become an important tool in the decarbonization of the heating and cooling energy system. With the aim of providing new information in the field, this research is conducted to analyze the suitability of a Ground Source Heat Pump (GSHP) and an Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) in two different scenarios. Systems are designed to cover the heating needs of a building placed in a cold climate area, characterized by being in a thermally and geologically favorable formation (Case 1), and in a mild climate location where the geology is not so appropriate for the thermal exchange with the ground (Case 2). Results highlight the need to perform an exhaustive study of the subsoil and the external conditions of the area for a reliable selection. In Case 1, the ASHP option is discarded due to the demanding outdoor air requirements that rocket the operating costs of the system. In Case 2, both solutions are viable, with the geothermal alternative preferred if the initial investment can be assumed, providing economic advantages from the 17th year of the system operation.
UAV Photogrammetry Application for Determining the Influence of Shading on Solar Photovoltaic Array Energy Efficiency
Authors: Bocullo Vytautas , Martišauskas Linas , Pupeikis Darius , Gatautis Ramūnas , Venčaitis Rytis , Bakas Rimantas
Published: January 2023

The field of solar photovoltaic (PV) plants has seen significant growth in recent years, with an increasing number of installations being developed worldwide. However, despite advancements in technology and design, the impact of shading on the performance of PV plants remains an area of concern. Accurate 3D models produced using unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) photogrammetry can provide aid to evaluate shading from nearby surroundings and to determine the potential of a site for electricity production via solar PV plants. The main objective of this paper is to address the problem of shadows significantly reducing energy yield in solar PV plants by proposing a methodology that aims at assessing the shading effects on PV systems and determining the optimal configuration for a PV module array using an accurate digital environment 3D model built using UAV photogrammetry. A high-level-of-detail 3D model allows us to evaluate possible obstacles for PV module array construction and accurately recreate the proximities that can cast shadows. The methodology was applied to grid-connected PV systems in Kaunas, Lithuania. The results of the case study show that electricity production in PV modules is highest at a 15° tilt angle when the distance between PV rows is 1.25 m. The proposed methodology gives an 11% difference in PV yield due to shading compared with other tools that do not include shading. This study also highlights that at least 30% financing support is necessary for solar PV plants to be economically attractive, resulting in a payback of 9 years and an internal rate of return of 8%. Additionally, this study can help optimize the design and layout of PV systems, making them more efficient and cost-effective.
A Critical Review of Current and Future Options for Wind Farm Participation in Ancillary Service Provision
Authors: Cole Matthew , Campos-Gaona David , Stock Adam , Nedd Marcel
Published: January 2023

This paper presents a critical review, from a wind farm control perspective, of different methodologies in the open literature that enable wind farms to participate in ancillary service provision. Firstly, it considers the services currently provided in power systems with high levels of wind generation (specifically, Denmark, Ireland, and Great Britain), reviewing current regulatory frameworks and recommendations. Secondly, it reviews the ancillary service markets that wind farms do not currently participate in, considering the barriers to entry and discussing potential solutions using a proper control-enabled framework. Thirdly, it also considers the future perspective for wind farm participation in ancillary service provision, including a review of the body of published academic research on wind farm participation in ancillary service provision. Finally, this review concludes by suggesting where the gaps are in the academic literature, and subsequently suggests future work. Two examples are the disconnect between the mechanical and farm side approaches with power-system-based modelling, and how much wind farm modelling is very-low-fidelity-omittedkey aspects such as wake effects and component fatigue analysis.
Assessing the Level of Energy Poverty Using a Synthetic Multidimensional Energy Poverty Index in EU Countries
Authors: Kryk Barbara , Guzowska Malgorzata K.
Published: January 2023

The purpose of the article is to analyse the level of energy poverty in the EU member states for the period 2010–2020. The research was carried out on the basis of the author’s Synthetic Multidimensional Energy Poverty Index created on the basis of the zero-unitarization method. The proposed index allowed for the integration of 4 out of 13 indicators provided for the study of energy poverty in the Recommendation of the European Commission 2020, and 1 selected by the authors. The assessment of changes in the level of energy poverty over time in 24 EU countries using the method used adds value compared to the assessment methods used so far in this area. Previous studies of energy poverty levels have focused on individual countries or small groups of countries. Rarely have such studies covered the majority of EU countries, and even more rarely have they been conducted over a long period of time. The study carried out showed significant differences in energy poverty levels among EU members. Results obtained not only reflect the progress of member countries in reducing energy poverty, but also allow for a discussion on future approaches regarding its reduction.
A Common-Ground Bidirectional Hybrid Switched-Capacitor DC–DC Converter with a High Voltage Conversion Ratio
Authors: Gireadă Mihaiță , Hulea Dan , Muntean Nicolae , Cornea Octavian
Published: January 2023

Electrical energy conversion and storage in DC systems, with increasing importance in industry, requires DC–DC power electronic converters with performances adapted to today’s requirements. In recent years, the applications of DC–DC converters have expanded, including energy storage management strategies, due to the use of supercapacitors for energy storage instead of—or together with—rechargeable batteries, in order to improve overall performance. This article presents a non-isolated, common-ground, bidirectional hybrid switched-capacitor DC–DC converter, which can be efficiently used for supercapacitor charging/discharging, due to its high voltage conversion ratio. The hybrid converter was obtained from the conventional bidirectional buck topology, inserting an “active” switched-capacitor cell. In addition to the high voltage conversion ratio, the switched-capacitor cell brings another important advantage: decreasing the values of all passive components without interrupting the input to the output ground path. All of these positive features were revealed through theoretical analysis and confirmed through digital simulations and experiments, proving that the hybrid converter performs well in both operating modes, with a smooth transition between them.
Active Damping Stabilization Techniques for Cascaded Systems in DC Microgrids: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Kumar Ranjan , Bhende Chandrashekhar N.
Published: January 2023

Microgrids have arisen as an alternate solution to the problem of power generation in distributed energy. Compared to ac microgrids, dc microgrids (DC MGs) are superior in terms of system efficiency, power quality, affordability, and ease of control. For the integration of renewable energy generation into microgrids, power electronic converters are required. When power electronics converters are tightly regulated, they behave as a constant power load (CPL) which exhibits a negative incremental impedance characteristic. As a result, oscillations occur in voltage response at a DC bus. To suppress the voltage oscillations in DC MGs, various damping stabilization techniques are proposed by researchers. This paper provides a comprehensive review on active damping stabilization techniques. To improve the system’s stability, active damping can be implemented in three distinct zones: source-side, load side or CPL side, and intermediate level. After analyzing each zone, their merits and drawbacks have been presented. Moreover, CPL modelling, performance of cascaded DC-DC systems, the effect of the load on the source subsystem, the effect of the source on the load converter, and stability analysis are discussed. Finally, concluding remarks and future research directions are highlighted.
Research on the Relationship between CO2 Emissions, Road Transport, Economic Growth and Energy Consumption on the Example of the Visegrad Group Countries
Authors: Suproń Błażej , Łącka Irena
Published: January 2023

This study examines the cointegration and short- and long-run causal relationships between economic growth and CO2 emissions, fuel consumption and the amount of freight transported by road transport in the Visegrad Group countries between 1990 and 2019. The autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) bound testing methodology was used to develop the results for each tested dependent variable. The results confirmed a long-run cointegration between economic growth and fuel consumption by road transport in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. In addition, a long-run relationship between economic growth and freight volume and CO2 emissions by transport was demonstrated for Slovakia. For Poland, there was only a long-run relationship between energy consumption by road freight transport and CO2 emissions. In the short run, relationships were shown between the volume of freight transported by the road freight transport sector and CO2 emissions for Hungary and Poland. Short-run relationships between economic growth and the volume of freight transported in Poland, the Czech Republic and Hungary are also interesting observations. The obtained results expand the information resources needed to make decisions on the direction of change in road transport. Additionally, the results can be used to prepare a proper environmental policy for road freight transport within the framework of the European Green Deal.