bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Smart Appliances for Efficient Integration of Solar Energy: A Dutch Case Study of a Residential Smart Grid Pilot
Authors: Gercek Cihan , Reinders Angèle
Published: February 2019

This paper analyzes the use patterns of a residential smart grid pilot in the Netherlands, called PowerMatching City. The analysis is based on detailed monitoring data measured at 5-min intervals for the year 2012, originating from this pilot which was realized in 2007 in Groningen, Netherlands. In this pilot, smart appliances, heat pumps, micro-combined heat and power (µ-CHP), and solar photovoltaic (PV) systems have been installed to evaluate their efficiency, their ability to reduce peak electricity purchase, and their effects on self-sufficiency and on the local use of solar electricity. As a result of the evaluation, diverse yearly and weekly indicators have been determined, such as electricity purchase and delivery, solar production, flexible generation, and load. Depending on the household configuration, up to 40% of self-sufficiency is achieved on an annual average basis, and 14.4% of the total consumption were flexible. In general, we can conclude that micro-CHP contributed to keep purchase from the grid relatively constant throughout the seasons. Adding to that, smart appliances significantly contributed to load shifting in peak times. It is recommended that similar evaluations will be conducted in other smart grid pilots to statistically enhance insights in the functioning of residential smart grids.
Experimental Study on Mechanical Properties, Energy Dissipation Characteristics and Acoustic Emission Parameters of Compression Failure of Sandstone Specimens Containing En Echelon Flaws
Authors: Zhang Dongming , Li Shujian , Bai Xin , Yang Yushun , Chu Yapei
Published: February 2019

To further understand the fracture behavior of rock materials containing en echelon flaws and determine precursor information for the final collapse of damaged mineral assemblies under compression, a series of uniaxial compression experiments using a loading system, an acoustic emission system and a video camera was conducted on sandstone specimens containing en echelon flaws. The mechanical properties, energy dissipation characteristics and acoustic emission parameters of compression failure of selected specimens were successively analyzed. The results showed that crack initiation was accompanied by a stress drop, step-like characteristics on the energy consumption curve and increased crackling noises, which were used as early warning signals before the final collapse happened. In addition, we used the histogram statistics method and maximum likelihood method to analyze the distribution of acoustic emission energy and determined that the acoustic emission energy distributions of sandstone specimens containing en echelon flaws followed a power law. With the progress of the experiment, the optimum exponents changed in different stages and gradually decreased as failure was approached, which could also be used as an early warning signal before the final collapse happened. This paper may provide some theoretical basis for monitoring and warning about the collapse and instability of engineering rock masses containing en echelon flaws.
Response of Soil N2O Emissions to Soil Microbe and Enzyme Activities with Aeration at Two Irrigation Levels in Greenhouse Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) Fields
Authors: Chen Hui , Shang Zihui , Cai Huanjie , Zhu Yan
Published: February 2019

Aerated irrigation is proven to increase soil N2O emissions; however, the mechanisms of N2O release are still unknown. A field experiment for two consecutive greenhouse tomato-growing seasons, from August 2016 to July 2017, was carried out to examine (1) the differences of aeration and irrigation on soil N2O emissions with a static chamber GC technique, and on soil physical and biotic parameters, and (2) the response of soil N2O emissions to soil physical and biotic parameters. Two irrigation levels were included: 60% (low irrigation) and 100% (high irrigation) of the full irrigation amount. Each irrigation level contained aeration and control, totaling four treatments. During the two growing seasons, soil N2O emissions with aeration were 4.5% higher than the control (p > 0.05). Soil N2O emissions under the high irrigation were 13.8% greater than under the low irrigation, and the difference was significant in 2017 (p < 0.05). Aeration and irrigation had positive effects on the mean soil nitrifier abundance and mean soil urease activity, and the impact of irrigation on urease was significant in 2016 (p = 0.001). In addition, aeration negatively influenced the mean soil denitrifier abundance, while irrigation positively influenced the mean soil denitrifier abundance. Regression analysis showed that the soil water-filled pore space, temperature, and denitrifier abundance were primary factors influencing soil N2O fluxes. This study provides a further understanding of the processes affecting soil N2O emissions and N dynamics, which may assist in developing mitigation strategies to reduce N2O emissions.
Optimal Charging of Vanadium Redox Flow Battery with Time-Varying Input Power
Authors: Akter Md. Parvez , Li Yifeng , Bao Jie , Skyllas-Kazacos Maria , Rahman Muhammed Fazlur
Published: February 2019

The battery energy storage system has become an indispensable part of the current electricity network due to the vast integration of renewable energy sources (RESs). This paper proposes an optimal charging method of a vanadium redox flow battery (VRB)-based energy storage system, which ensures the maximum harvesting of the free energy from RESs by maintaining safe operations of the battery. The VRB has a deep discharging capability, long cycle life, and high energy efficiency with no issues of cell-balancing, which make it suitable for large-scale energy storage systems. The proposed approach determines the appropriate charging current and the optimal electrolyte flow rate based on the available time-varying input power. Moreover, the charging current is bounded by the limiting current, which prevents the gassing side-reactions and protects the VRB from overcharging. The proposed optimal charging method is investigated by simulation studies using MATLAB/Simulink.
Application of Metal Nanoparticle–Hydrogel Composites in Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Tan Hui-Li , Teow Sin-Yeang , Pushpamalar Janarthanan
Published: February 2019

Challenges in organ transplantation such as high organ demand and biocompatibility issues have led scientists in the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine to work on the use of scaffolds as an alternative to transplantation. Among different types of scaffolds, polymeric hydrogel scaffolds have received considerable attention because of their biocompatibility and structural similarity to native tissues. However, hydrogel scaffolds have several limitations, such as weak mechanical property and a lack of bioactive property. On the other hand, noble metal particles, particularly gold (Au) and silver (Ag) nanoparticles (NPs), can be incorporated into the hydrogel matrix to form NP–hydrogel composite scaffolds with enhanced physical and biological properties. This review aims to highlight the potential of these hybrid materials in tissue engineering applications. Additionally, the main approaches that have been used for the synthesis of NP–hydrogel composites and the possible limitations and challenges associated with the application of these materials are discussed.
Evaluation of Physicians’ Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Biosimilars in Russia and Issues Associated with Their Prescribing
Authors: Karateev Dmitry , Belokoneva Natalia
Published: February 2019

Physician awareness and perceptions towards biosimilars are important factors in their adoption to clinical practice. Our objectives were to assess levels of knowledge and attitudes towards biosimilars and key policies on their use among Russian physicians, define the level of interest in new information on biosimilars, and determine what evidence drives treatment decisions in Russia. Physicians with awareness of biologics across different specialties and regions of Russia completed an online survey. A Likert and other rating scales were used to collect opinions, which were summarized descriptively. Responses of subgroups of respondents were compared using t-tests. Among 206 respondents (n = 51 rheumatologists; n = 53 gastroenterologists; n = 50 hematologists; n = 52 oncologists), 66% had positive impressions regarding the introduction of biosimilars in Russia. Overall, 80% lacked understanding of the differences between biosimilars and generics. In all, 67% supported prescribing biologics by distinguishable names and were negative about tender policies limiting choice of therapies for patients. The majority believed in mandatory publication of clinical trial results on biosimilars (94%), agreed biosimilars should be subject to rigorous post-marketing surveillance (98%), and expressed willingness to learn more about biosimilars (94%). Biosimilar education among Russian physicians is required, which may help shape balanced and evidence-based policies for biosimilars in Russia.
Synthesis and Characterization of Acetic Acid-Doped Polyaniline and Polyaniline–Chitosan Composite
Authors: Pasela Bianca Rae , Castillo Acelle Pearl , Simon Rhenish , Pulido Maria Teresa , Mana-ay Haidee , Abiquibil Ma. Roxan , Montecillo Rhys , Thumanu Kanjana , Tumacder Doebner von , Taaca Kathrina Lois
Published: February 2019

Polyaniline–chitosan (PAni–Cs) composite films were synthesized using a solution casting method with varying PAni concentrations. Polyaniline powders used in the composite synthesis were polymerized using acetic acid as the dopant media. Raman spectroscopy revealed that the PAni powders synthesized using hydrochloric acid and acetic acid did not exhibit significant difference to the chemical features of PAni, implying that PAni was formed in varying concentrations of the dopant media. The presence of agglomerated particles on the surface of the Cs composite, which may have been due to the presence of PAni powders, was observed with scanning electron microscope–energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDX). Ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy further showed the interaction of PAni with Cs where the Cs characteristic peak shifted to a higher wavelength. Cell viability assay also revealed that the synthesized PAni–Cs composites were nontoxic and may be utilized for future biomedical applications.
Working Memory, Cognitive Load and Cardiorespiratory Fitness: Testing the CRUNCH Model with Near-Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Agbangla Nounagnon , Audiffren Michel , Pylouster Jean , Albinet Cédric
Published: February 2019

The present study aimed to examine the effects of chronological age and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) on cognitive performance and prefrontal cortex activity, and to test the compensation-related utilization of neural circuits hypothesis (CRUNCH). A total of 19 young adults (18–22 years) and 37 older ones (60–77 years) with a high or low CRF level were recruited to perform a working memory updating task under three different cognitive load conditions. Prefrontal cortex hemodynamic responses were continuously recorded using functional near-infrared spectroscopy, and behavioral performances and perceived difficulty were measured. Results showed that chronological age had deleterious effects on both cognitive performance and prefrontal cortex activation under a higher cognitive load. In older adults, however, higher levels of CRF were related to increased bilateral prefrontal cortex activation patterns that allowed them to sustain better cognitive performances, especially under the highest cognitive load. These results are discussed in the light of the neurocognitive CRUNCH model.
Continuous Separation of Circulating Tumor Cells from Whole Blood Using a Slanted Weir Microfluidic Device
Authors: Yoon Yousang , Lee Jusin , Ra Moonsoo , Gwon Hyeokshin , Lee Seungwon , Kim Min Young , Yoo Ki-Chun , Sul Onejae , Kim Chul Geun , Kim Whoi-Yul , Park Jea-Gun , Lee Su-Jae , Lee Young Yiul , Choi Ho Soon , Lee Seung-Beck
Published: February 2019

The separation of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from the peripheral blood is an important issue that has been highlighted because of their high clinical potential. However, techniques that depend solely on tumor-specific surface molecules or just the larger size of CTCs are limited by tumor heterogeneity. Here, we present a slanted weir microfluidic device that utilizes the size and deformability of CTCs to separate them from the unprocessed whole blood. By testing its ability using a highly invasive breast cancer cell line, our device achieved a 97% separation efficiency, while showing an 8-log depletion of erythrocytes and 5.6-log depletion of leukocytes. We also developed an image analysis tool that was able to characterize the various morphologies and differing deformability of the separating cells. From the results, we believe our system possesses a high potential for liquid biopsy, aiding future cancer research.
Immune Profiling and Precision Medicine in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Nagafuchi Yasuo , Shoda Hirofumi , Fujio Keishi
Published: February 2019

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder with a wide range of clinical symptoms. Enormous progress has been made in the immunological and genetic understanding of SLE. However, the biology of disease heterogeneity in SLE has remained largely unexplored. Human immune profiling studies, helped by recent technological advances especially in single-cell and “omics” analyses, are now shedding light on the cellular and molecular basis of clinical symptoms and disease flares in individual patients. Peripheral blood immunophenotyping analysis with flow cytometry or mass cytometry are identifying responsible cell subsets and markers characteristic of disease heterogeneity. Transcriptome analysis is discovering molecular networks responsible for disease activity, disease subtype and future relapse. In this review, we summarize recent advances in the immune profiling analysis of SLE patients and discuss how they will be used for future precision medicine.
Cardiac Autophagy in Sepsis
Authors: Sun Yuxiao , Cai Ying , Zang Qun S.
Published: February 2019

Sepsis is a leading cause of death in intensive care units, and cardiac dysfunction is an identified serious component of the multi-organ failure associated with this critical condition. This review summarized the current discoveries and hypotheses of how autophagy changes in the heart during sepsis and the underlying mechanisms. Recent investigations suggest that specific activation of autophagy initiation factor Beclin-1 has a potential to protect cardiac mitochondria, attenuate inflammation, and improve cardiac function in sepsis. Accordingly, pharmacological interventions targeting this pathway have a potential to become an effective approach to control sepsis outcomes. The role of autophagy during sepsis pathogenesis has been under intensive investigation in recent years. It is expected that developing therapeutic approaches with specificities targeting at autophagy regulatory factors may provide new opportunities to alleviate organ dysfunction caused by maladaptive autophagy during sepsis.
Systematic Generation of Patient-Derived Tumor Models in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Ehrenberg Karl Roland , Gao Jianpeng , Oppel Felix , Frank Stephanie , Kang Na , Kindinger Tim , Dieter Sebastian M. , Herbst Friederike , Möhrmann Lino , Dubash Taronish D. , Schulz Erik R. , Strakerjahn Hendrik , Giessler Klara M. , Weber Sarah , Oberlack Ava , Rief Eva-Maria , Strobel Oliver , Bergmann Frank , Lasitschka Felix , Weitz Jürgen , Glimm Hanno , Ball Claudia R.
Published: February 2019

In highly aggressive malignancies like pancreatic cancer (PC), patient-derived tumor models can serve as disease-relevant models to understand disease-related biology as well as to guide clinical decision-making. In this study, we describe a two-step protocol allowing systematic establishment of patient-derived primary cultures from PC patient tumors. Initial xenotransplantation of surgically resected patient tumors (n = 134) into immunodeficient mice allows for efficient in vivo expansion of vital tumor cells and successful tumor expansion in 38% of patient tumors (51/134). Expansion xenografts closely recapitulate the histoarchitecture of their matching patients’ primary tumors. Digestion of xenograft tumors and subsequent in vitro cultivation resulted in the successful generation of semi-adherent PC cultures of pure epithelial cell origin in 43.1% of the cases. The established primary cultures include diverse pathological types of PC: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (86.3%, 19/22), adenosquamous carcinoma (9.1%, 2/22) and ductal adenocarcinoma with oncocytic IPMN (4.5%, 1/22). We here provide a protocol to establish quality-controlled PC patient-derived primary cell cultures from heterogeneous PC patient tumors. In vitro preclinical models provide the basis for the identification and preclinical assessment of novel therapeutic opportunities targeting pancreatic cancer.
Dynamics of Parkinson’s Disease Multimodal Complex Treatment in Germany from 2010–2016: Patient Characteristics, Access to Treatment, and Formation of Regional Centers
Authors: Richter Daniel , Bartig Dirk , Muhlack Siegfried , Hartelt Elke , Scherbaum Raphael , Katsanos Aristeides H. , Müller Thomas , Jost Wolfgang , Ebersbach Georg , Gold Ralf , Krogias Christos , Tönges Lars
Published: February 2019

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is currently the world’s fastest-growing neurological disorder. It is characterized by motor and non-motor symptoms which progressively lead to significant clinical impairment, causing a high burden of disease. In addition to pharmacological therapies, various non-pharmacological treatment options are available. A well established and frequently used multiprofessional inpatient treatment concept in Germany is “Parkinson’s disease multimodal complex treatment” (PD-MCT) which involves physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and other specializations for the optimization of treatment in PD (ICD G20) and other Parkinsonian syndromes (ICD G21 and G23). In this study we analyze the PD-MCT characteristics of 55,141 PD inpatients who have been integrated into this therapy concept in Germany in the years 2010–2016. We demonstrate that PD-MCT is increasingly applied over this time period. Predominately, PD patients with advanced disease stage and motor fluctuations in age groups between 45 and 69 years were hospitalized. In terms of gender, more male than female patients were treated. PD-MCT is provided primarily in specialized hospitals with high patient numbers but a minor part of all therapies is performed in a rather large number of hospitals with each one treating only a few patients. Access to PD-MCT differs widely across regions, leading to significant migration of patients from underserved areas to PD-MCT centers–a development that should be considered when implementing such therapies in other countries. Furthermore, our data imply that despite the overall increase in PD-MCT treatments during the observational period, the restricted treatment accessibility may not adequately satisfy current patient’s need.
Transition Metal–Nitrogen–Carbon (M–N–C) Catalysts for Oxygen Reduction Reaction. Insights on Synthesis and Performance in Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells
Authors: Osmieri Luigi
Published: February 2019

Platinum group metal (PGM)-free catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) have attracted increasing interest as potential candidates to replace Pt, in the view of a future widespread commercialization of polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC) devices, especially for automotive applications. Among different types of PGM-free catalysts, M–N–C materials appear to be the most promising ones in terms of activity. These catalysts can be produced using a wide variety of precursors containing C, N, and one (or more) active transition metal (mostly Fe or Co). The catalysts synthesis methods can be very different, even though they usually involve at least one pyrolysis step. In this review, five different synthesis methods are proposed, and described in detail. Several catalysts, produced approximately in the last decade, were analyzed in terms of performance in rotating disc electrode (RDE), and in H2/O2 or H2/air PEFC. The catalysts are subdivided in five different categories corresponding to the five synthesis methods described, and the RDE and PEFC performance is put in relation with the synthesis method.
A Comparative Study of Ultrasound Biodiesel Production Using Different Homogeneous Catalysts
Authors: Shinde Kiran , Kaliaguine Serge
Published: February 2019

Biodiesel (BD) is a liquid fuel that consists of mono alkyl esters of long chain fatty acids derived from vegetable oil or fat. Recently, biodiesel has received additional attention and intense research has been performed in this field due to its favorable atmospheric CO2 balance compared with conventional fossil fuels (net energy balance of 3.0–4.0 MJ/MJ). In this work, a comparison of transesterification of Canola oil with methanol under ultrasound and under mechanical stirring is reported. The general aspects of the ultrasound transesterification process and a comparative study of different types of homogeneous catalysts (NaOH, KOH, CH3ONa, tetramethyl ammonium hydroxide and four guanidines) are described. Special attention is given to ultrasound transesterification reaction using guanidines as catalysts.
The Evolution of Risk Classification for Neuroblastoma
Authors: Sokol Elizabeth , Desai Ami
Published: February 2019

Neuroblastoma is a tumor with great clinical heterogeneity. Patients in North America are risk-stratified using a number of features including age at diagnosis, disease stage, tumor histology, MYCN status (amplified versus nonamplified), and tumor cell ploidy. In this paper, we review the evidence for utilizing these features in the risk classification of neuroblastic tumors. Additionally, we review the clinical and biologic criteria used by various cooperative groups to define low, intermediate, and high-risk disease populations in clinical trials, highlighting the differences in risk classification internationally. Finally, we discuss the development of the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group classification system, designed to begin worldwide standardization of neuroblastoma pretreatment risk classification and allow comparison of clinical trials conducted through different cooperative groups.
Structure, Mechanical and Tribological Properties of MoSN/MoS2 Multilayer Films
Authors: Fu Yanlong , He Tengfei , Yang Wu , Xu Jiao , Mu Bo , Pang Xianjuan , Wang Peng
Published: February 2019

MoSN/MoS2 multilayer films were deposited by a sputtering MoS2 target in alternate Ar and Ar/N2 mixed atmospheres with different nitrogen flow rates. The influence of nitrogen flow rates on the microstructure, mechanical and tribological properties of the prepared films were investigated. The multilayer film exhibited the preferred orientation of (002) plane for MoS2 sublayers and amorphous structure for MoSN sublayers. Introducing N2 into the source gas resulted in a much more compact structure for multilayer films due to the suppression of columnar growth of MoS2 film. With the increase of the nitrogen flow rate, the hardness of the multilayer film firstly increased from 2.3 to 10.5 GPa as the nitrogen flow rate increased from 4 to 10 sccm and then turned downwards to 6.5 GPa at 20 sccm. MoSN/MoS2 film deposited with an optimized microstructure exhibited low friction coefficients below 0.03 and a wear life higher than 1.8×105 revolutions in vacuum. Meanwhile, the optimized film showed an ultralow friction coefficient of 0.004~0.01 and wear rate of 4.7 × 10−7 mm3/N·m in an ultrahigh vacuum. Both the enhanced hardness by N-doping and sustainable formed MoS2 tribofilm contributed to the improved tribological property of MoSN/MoS2 multilayer film.
Terbium Substituted Lanthanum Orthoniobate: Electrical and Structural Properties
Authors: Dzierzgowski Kacper , Wachowski Sebastian , Gazda Maria , Mielewczyk-Gryń Aleksandra
Published: February 2019

The results of electrical conductivity studies, structural measurements and thermogravimetric analysis of La1−xTbxNbO4+δ (x = 0.00, 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2, 0.3) are presented and discussed. The phase transition temperatures, measured by high-temperature x-ray diffraction, were 480 °C, 500 °C, and 530 °C for La0.9Tb0.1NbO4+δ, La0.8Tb0.2NbO4+δ, and La0.7Tb0.3NbO4+δ, respectively. The impedance spectroscopy results suggest mixed conductivity of oxygen ions and electron holes in dry conditions and protons in wet. The water uptake has been analyzed by the means of thermogravimetry revealing a small mass increase in the order of 0.002% upon hydration, which is similar to the one achieved for undoped lanthanum orthoniobate.
A 1,6-Diphenylpyrene-Based, Photoluminescent Cyclophane Showing a Nematic Liquid-Crystalline Phase at Room Temperature
Authors: Sagara Yoshimitsu , Muramatsu Tatsuya , Tamaoki Nobuyuki
Published: February 2019

Photoluminescent nematic liquid crystals have been an attractive research target for decades, because of their potential applications in optoelectrical devices. Integration of luminescent motifs into cyclic structures is a promising approach to induce low-ordered liquid-crystalline phases, even though relatively large and rigid luminophores are used as emitters. Here, we demonstrate a 1,6-diphenylpyrene-based, unsymmetric cyclophane showing a stable nematic phase at room temperature and exhibiting strong photoluminescence from the condensed state. The observed sky-blue photoluminescence was dominated by the emission species ascribed to assembled luminophores rather than monomers.
Dysregulated Phosphate Metabolism, Periodontal Disease, and Cancer: Possible Global Health Implications
Authors: Brown Ronald B.
Published: February 2019

An association between periodontal disease and cancer has been established in recent studies, but no common etiology has been identified in the hopes of reducing the global burden of these non-communicable diseases. This perspective article hypothesizes that the determinant mediating the association of periodontal disease with cancer is dysregulated phosphate metabolism. Phosphate, an essential dietary micronutrient, is dysregulated in chronic kidney disease, and both cancer and periodontal disease are associated with chronic kidney disease. Reviewed evidence includes the association between phosphate toxicity and cancer development, and the association between periodontal disease and chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorder includes conditions such as ectopic calcification and bone resorption, which may be indirectly related to periodontal disease. Dental calculus in periodontal disease contains calcium phosphate crystals that are deposited from excess calcium and phosphate in saliva. Alveolar bone resorption may be linked systemically to release of parathyroid hormone in response to hypocalcemia induced by hyperphosphatemia. More research is needed to examine the role of dysregulated phosphate metabolism in periodontal disease.
Incentive Contract Design for the Water-Rail-Road Intermodal Transportation with Travel Time Uncertainty: A Stackelberg Game Approach
Authors: Zhang Wenying , Wang Xifu , Yang Kai
Published: February 2019

In the management of intermodal transportation, incentive contract design problem has significant impacts on the benefit of a multimodal transport operator (MTO). In this paper, we analyze a typical water-rail-road (WRR) intermodal transportation that is composed of three serial transportation stages: water, rail and road. In particular, the entire transportation process is planned, organized, and funded by an MTO that outsources the transportation task at each stage to independent carriers (subcontracts). Due to the variability of transportation conditions, the travel time of each transportation stage depending on the respective carrier’s effort level is unknown (asymmetric information) and characterized as an uncertain variable via the experts’ estimations. Considering the decentralized decision-making process, we interpret the incentive contract design problem for the WRR intermodal transportation as a Stackelberg game in which the risk-neutral MTO serves as the leader and the risk-averse carriers serve as the followers. Within the framework of uncertainty theory, we formulate an uncertain bi-level programming model for the incentive contract design problem under expectation and entropy decision criteria. Subsequently, we provide the analytical results of the proposed model and analyze the optimal time-based incentive contracts by developing a hybrid solution method which combines a decomposition approach and an iterative algorithm. Finally, we give a simulation example to investigate the impact of asymmetric information on the optimal time-based incentive contracts and to identify the value of information for WRR intermodal transportation.
Learning Entropy as a Learning-Based Information Concept
Authors: Bukovsky Ivo , Kinsner Witold , Homma Noriyasu
Published: February 2019

Recently, a novel concept of a non-probabilistic novelty detection measure, based on a multi-scale quantification of unusually large learning efforts of machine learning systems, was introduced as learning entropy (LE). The key finding with LE is that the learning effort of learning systems is quantifiable as a novelty measure for each individually observed data point of otherwise complex dynamic systems, while the model accuracy is not a necessary requirement for novelty detection. This brief paper extends the explanation of LE from the point of an informatics approach towards a cognitive (learning-based) information measure emphasizing the distinction from Shannon’s concept of probabilistic information. Fundamental derivations of learning entropy and of its practical estimations are recalled and further extended. The potentials, limitations, and, thus, the current challenges of LE are discussed.
Control System in Open-Source FPGA for a Self-Balancing Robot
Authors: Ordóñez Cerezo Juan , Castillo Morales Encarnación , Cañas Plaza José María
Published: February 2019

Computing in technological applications is typically performed with software running on general-purpose microprocessors, such as the Computer Processing Unit (CPU), or specific ones, like the Graphical Processing Unit (GPU). Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) are an interesting option when speed and reliability are required, but development costs are usually high. Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGA) combine the flexibility of software with the high-speed operation of hardware, and can keep costs low. The dominant FPGA infrastructure is proprietary, but open tools have greatly improved and are a growing trend, from which robotics can benefit. This paper presents a robotics application that was fully developed using open FPGA tools. An inverted pendulum robot was designed, built, and programmed using open FPGA tools, such as IceStudio and the IceZum Alhambra board, which integrates the iCE40HX4K-TQ144 from Lattice. The perception from an inertial sensor is used in a PD control algorithm that commands two DC motors. All the modules were synthesized in an FPGA as a proof of concept. Its experimental validation shows good behavior and performance.
Self-Shattering Defect Detection of Glass Insulators Based on Spatial Features
Authors: Cheng Haiyan , Zhai Yongjie , Chen Rui , Wang Di , Dong Ze , Wang Yutao
Published: February 2019

During an automatic power transmission line inspection, a large number of images are collected by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to detect existing defects in transmission line components, especially insulators. However, with twin insulator strings in the inspection images, when the umbrella skirts of the rear string are obstructed by the front string, defect detection becomes difficult. To solve this problem, we propose a method to detect self-shattering defects of insulators based on spatial features contained in images. Firstly, the images are segmented according to the particular color features of glass insulators, and the main axes of insulator strings in the images are adjusted to the horizontal direction. Then, the connected regions of insulators in the images are marked. After that, the vertical lengths of the regions, the number of insulator pixels in the regions, as well as the horizontal distances between two adjacent connected regions are selected as spatial features, based on which defect discriminants are formulated. Finally, experiments are performed using the proposed formula to detect self-shattering defects in the insulators, using the spatial distribution of the connected regions to locate the defects. The experiment results indicate that the proposed method has good detection accuracy and localization precision.
Fast Processing Intelligent Wind Farm Controller for Production Maximisation
Authors: Ahmad Tanvir , Basit Abdul , Anwar Juveria , Coupiac Olivier , Kazemtabrizi Behzad , Matthews Peter C.
Published: February 2019

A practical wind farm controller for production maximisation based on coordinated control is presented. The farm controller emphasises computational efficiency without compromising accuracy. The controller combines particle swarm optimisation (PSO) with a turbulence intensity–based Jensen wake model (TI–JM) for exploiting the benefits of either curtailing upstream turbines using coefficient of power ( C P ) or deflecting wakes by applying yaw-offsets for maximising net farm production. Firstly, TI–JM is evaluated using convention control benchmarking WindPRO and real time SCADA data from three operating wind farms. Then the optimised strategies are evaluated using simulations based on TI–JM and PSO. The innovative control strategies can optimise a medium size wind farm, Lillgrund consisting of 48 wind turbines, requiring less than 50 s for a single simulation, increasing farm efficiency up to a maximum of 6% in full wake conditions.
Refrigerant Charge Fault Detection and Diagnosis Algorithm for Water-to-Water Heat Pump Unit
Authors: Boahen Samuel , Lee Kwang , Choi Jong
Published: February 2019

Refrigerant charge faults have a great adverse effect on the performance of heat pumps and must therefore be detected and diagnosed early in real time. In this study, the effect of refrigerant charge faults on a water-to-water heat pump is experimentally investigated in cooling mode and heating mode at various outdoor entering water temperature conditions. The study showed that refrigerant undercharge affects the performance of water-to-water heat pump more in heating mode than in cooling mode. Results from the study are used to develop a refrigerant charge fault detection and diagnosis (FDD) algorithm that works using correlations and rule-based refrigerant fault characteristic charts. The FDD algorithm is able to detect refrigerant charge faults in the water-to-water heat pump within an error threshold of ±4.5% and ±1.1% in cooling mode and heating mode respectively.
Bayesian Estimation on Load Model Coefficients of ZIP and Induction Motor Model
Authors: Li Haifeng , Chen Qing , Fu Chang , Yu Zhe , Shi Di , Wang Zhiwei
Published: February 2019

Parameter identification in load models is a critical factor for power system computation, simulation, and prediction, as well as stability and reliability analysis. Conventional point estimation based composite load modeling approaches suffer from disturbances and noises, and provide limited information of the system dynamics. In this work, a statistics (Bayesian Estimation) based distribution estimation approach is proposed for both static and dynamic load models. When dealing with multiple parameters, Gibbs sampling method is employed. The proposed method samples all parameters in each iteration and updates one parameter while others remain fixed. The proposed method provides a distribution estimation for load model coefficients and is robust for measuring errors. The proposed parameter identification approach is generic and can be applied to both transmission and distribution networks. Simulations using a 33-feeder system illustrated the efficiency and robustness of the proposal.
Hybrid ABC-BAT for Solving Short-Term Hydrothermal Scheduling Problems
Authors: Ghosh Smarajit , Kaur Manvir , Bhullar Suman , Karar Vinod
Published: February 2019

The main objective of short-term hydrothermal scheduling is the optimal allocation of the hydro and thermal generating units, so that the total cost of thermal plants can be minimized. The time of operation of the functioning units are considered to be 24 h. To achieve this objective, the hybrid algorithm combination of Artificial Bee Colony (ABC) and the BAT algorithm were applied. The swarming behavior of the algorithm searches the food source for which the objective function of the cost is to be considered; here, we have used two search algorithms, one to optimize the cost function, and another to improve the performance of the system. In the present work, the optimum scheduling of hydro and thermal units is proposed, where these units are acting as a relay unit. The short term hydrothermal scheduling problem was tested in a Chilean system, and confirmed by comparison with other hybrid techniques such as Artificial Bee Colony–Quantum Evolutionary and Artificial Bee Colony–Particle Swarm Optimization. The efficiency of the proposed hybrid algorithm is established by comparing it to these two hybrid algorithms.
Evaluation of the Impact of High Penetration Levels of PV Power Plants on the Capacity, Frequency and Voltage Stability of Egypt’s Unified Grid
Authors: Sultan Hamdy M. , Diab Ahmed A. Zaki , Kuznetsov Oleg N. , Ali Ziad M. , Abdalla Omer
Published: February 2019

In this paper, the impact of integrating photovoltaic plants (PVPs) with high penetration levels into the national utility grid of Egypt is demonstrated. Load flow analysis is used to examine the grid capacity in the case of integrating the desired PVPs and computer simulations are also used to assess the upgrading of the transmission network to increase its capacity. Furthermore, the impact of increasing the output power generated from PVPs, during normal conditions, on the static voltage stability was explored. During transient conditions of operation (three-phase short circuit and outage of a large generating station), the impact of high penetration levels of PVPs on the voltage and frequency stability has been presented. Professional DIgSILENT PowerFactory simulation package was used for implementation of all simulation studies. The results of frequency stability analysis proved that the national grid could be maintained stable even when the PVPs reached a penetration level up to 3000 MW of the total generation in Egypt. Transmission network upgrading to accommodate up to 3000 MW from the proposed PV power plants by 2025 is suggested. In addition, analysis of voltage stability manifests that the dynamic behavior of the voltage depends remarkably on the short circuit capacity of the grid at the point of integrating the PVPs.
Development Processes of Surface Trucking and Partial Discharge of Pressboards Immersed in Mineral Oil: Effect of Tip Curvatures
Authors: Gao Bo , Yu Rui , Hu Guangcai , Liu Cheng , Zhuang Xin , Zhou Peng
Published: February 2019

The pressboard surface is the electric weak link of the oil-paper insulation in transformers, and long-term partial discharge (PD) erosion is the dominant cause of degradation in pressboard. To explore the development processes of surface tracking under the effect of tip curvature, the typical needle-plate model was selected to initiate an electric field with a high tangential component on pressboard surface under needle tip curvature of 4~42 μm. With the help of a high-speed camera and a PD detecting system, the development processes of surface tracking and PD were recorded under a sustained AC voltage. A profound difference between surface tracking under different curvatures was discussed. Pressboard surfaces after tests were observed under a scanning electron microscope (SEM), and the damage degree of cellulose fibers was dependent on the tip curvature.
LiDAR-Based Wildfire Prevention in WUI: The Automatic Detection, Measurement and Evaluation of Forest Fuels
Authors: Fernández-Álvarez Marta , Armesto Julia , Picos Juan
Published: February 2019

This paper describes a methodology using LiDAR point clouds with an ultra-high resolution in the characterization of forest fuels for further wildfire prevention and management. Biomass management strips were defined in three case studies using a particular Spanish framework. The data were acquired through a UAV platform. The proposed methodology allows for the detection, measurement and characterization of individual trees, as well as the analysis of shrubs. The individual tree segmentation process employed a canopy height model, and shrub cover LiDAR-derived models were used to characterize the vegetation in the strips. This way, the verification of the geometric legal restrictions was performed automatically and objectively using decision trees and GIS tools. As a result, priority areas, where wildfire prevention efforts should be concentrated in order to control wildfires, can be identified.
Developing an Abundance Index of Skipjack Tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis) from a Coastal Drifting Gillnet Fishery in the Southern Waters of Indonesia
Authors: Novianto Dian , Ilham  , Nainggolan Chandara , Syamsuddin Syarif , Efendi Arief , Halim Sugianto , Krisnafi Yaser , Handri Muhamad , Basith Abdul , Yusrizal  , Nugraha Erick , Nugroho Suciadi Catur , Setyadji Bram
Published: February 2019

Skipjack tuna is targeted by various types of fishing gear in coastal countries. Due to its resilience, it has withstood heavy fishing pressure in the past few decades. Coastal drifting gillnet fleets also mark skipjack as their main target, but it is often overlooked in terms of stock assessment. This study provides new information on an abundance index based on fishery-dependent data from 2010 to 2017. Generalized linear models (GLMs) were used to standardize the catch-per-unit-of-effort (CPUE) using year, quarter, and gross tonnage as the prediction variables. Model goodness-of-fit and model selection were based on the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), the pseudo coefficient of determination (R2), and model diagnostics with a residual analysis. The final estimation of the abundance index was calculated by least square means or marginal means. The results showed that the index was heavily influenced by the year and quarter, but it did not relate to the vessel’s capacity. While the CPUE series fluctuated greatly, it showed a declining trend over the years of observation.
Reference Expression Profile of Three FBN1 Transcript Isoforms and Their Association with Clinical Variability in Marfan Syndrome
Authors: Benarroch Louise , Aubart Mélodie , Gross Marie-Sylvie , Arnaud Pauline , Hanna Nadine , Jondeau Guillaume , Boileau Catherine
Published: February 2019

Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a rare connective tissue disorder mainly due to mutations in the FBN1 gene. Great phenotypic variability is notable for age of onset, the presence and absence, and the number and the severity of the symptoms. Our team showed that FBN1 gene expression level was a good surrogate endpoint for severity of some MFS clinical features. Eight alternative transcripts are referenced for the FBN1 gene. We hypothesized that MFS clinical variability could be related to specific FBN1 isoforms. Isoform expression profiles were investigated in skin and adventitial fibroblasts from controls and MFS patients. The results of the study showed that, in skin and adventitial fibroblasts, only three isoforms were found: FBN1_001, FBN1_004, and FBN1_009. The main isoform was FBN1_001 and it was significantly reduced in skin and adventitial fibroblasts of MFS patients. The expressions of FBN1_004 and FBN1_009 isoforms were similar between controls and MFS patients. However, the expression of the three isoforms was correlated only in patients. Furthermore, their expression levels were associated with the presence of ectopia lentis in MFS patients. Therefore, our results highlight that the two minor alternatively spliced FBN1 isoforms play a possible role in the pathogenesis of the disease.
Transcriptome Analysis of Diurnal Gene Expression in Chinese Cabbage
Authors: Kim Jin A. , Shim Donghwan , Kumari Shipra , Jung Ha-eun , Jung Ki-Hong , Jeong Heesu , Kim Woe-Yeon , Lee Soo In , Jeong Mi-Jeong
Published: February 2019

Plants have developed timing mechanisms that enable them to maintain synchrony with daily environmental events. These timing mechanisms, i.e., circadian clocks, include transcriptional/translational feedback loops that drive 24 h transcriptional rhythms, which underlie oscillations in protein abundance, thus mediating circadian rhythms of behavior, physiology, and metabolism. Circadian clock genes have been investigated in the diploid model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. Crop plants with polyploid genomes—such as Brassica species—have multiple copies of some clock-related genes. Over the last decade, numerous studies have been aimed at identifying and understanding the function of paralogous genes with conserved sequences, or those that diverged during evolution. Brassica rapa’s triplicate genomes retain sequence-level collinearity with Arabidopsis. In this study, we used RNA sequencing (RNAseq) to profile the diurnal transcriptome of Brassica rapa seedlings. We identified candidate paralogs of circadian clock-related genes and assessed their expression levels. These genes and their related traits that modulate the diurnal rhythm of gene expression contribute to the adaptation of crop cultivars. Our findings will contribute to the mechanistic study of circadian clock regulation inherent in polyploidy genome crops, which differ from those of model plants, and thus will be useful for future breeding studies using clock genes.
Evolution and Identification of the WRKY Gene Family in Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa)
Authors: Yue Hong , Chang Xi , Zhi Yongqiang , Wang Lan , Xing Guangwei , Song Weining , Nie Xiaojun
Published: February 2019

The WRKY gene family plays a unique role in plant stress tolerance. Quinoa is a cultivated crop worldwide that is known for its high stress tolerance. The WRKY gene family in quinoa has not yet been studied. Using a genome-wide search method, we identified 1226 WRKY genes in 15 plant species, seven animal species, and seven fungi species. WRKY proteins were not found in animal species and five fungi species, but were, however, widespread in land plants. A total of 92 CqWRKY genes were identified in quinoa. Based on the phylogenetic analysis, these CqWRKY genes were classified into three groups. The CqWRKY proteins have a highly conserved heptapeptide WRKYGQK with 15 conserved elements. Furthermore, a total of 25 CqWRKY genes were involved in the co-expression pathway of organ development and osmotic stress. The expression level of more than half of these CqWRKY genes showed significant variation under salt or drought stress. This study reports, for the first time, the findings of the CqWRKY gene family in quinoa at the genome-wide level. This information will be beneficial for our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of stress tolerance in crops, such as quinoa.