bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dissipation-Driven Selection under Finite Diffusion: Hints from Equilibrium and Separation of Time Scales
Authors: Liang Shiling , De Los Rios Paolo , Busiello Daniel Maria
Published: August 2021

When exposed to a thermal gradient, reaction networks can convert thermal energy into the chemical selection of states that would be unfavourable at equilibrium. The kinetics of reaction paths, and thus how fast they dissipate available energy, might be dominant in dictating the stationary populations of all chemical states out of equilibrium. This phenomenology has been theoretically explored mainly in the infinite diffusion limit. Here, we show that the regime in which the diffusion rate is finite, and also slower than some chemical reactions, might bring about interesting features, such as the maximisation of selection or the switch of the selected state at stationarity. We introduce a framework, rooted in a time-scale separation analysis, which is able to capture leading non-equilibrium features using only equilibrium arguments under well-defined conditions. In particular, it is possible to identify fast-dissipation sub-networks of reactions whose Boltzmann equilibrium dominates the steady-state of the entire system as a whole. Finally, we also show that the dissipated heat (and so the entropy production) can be estimated, under some approximations, through the heat capacity of fast-dissipation sub-networks. This work provides a tool to develop an intuitive equilibrium-based grasp on complex non-isothermal reaction networks, which are important paradigms to understand the emergence of complex structures from basic building blocks.
UWB Dual-Band-Notched Lanky-Leaf-Shaped Antenna with Loaded Half-Square-Like Slots for Communication System
Authors: Li Xue-Ping , Xu Gang , Ma Ming-Rong , Duan Chang-Jiao
Published: August 2021

A novel printed compact single-layer dual-band-notched antenna for the use of ultra-wide band (UWB) is proposed in this paper, and one lanky-leaf-like structure with a coplanar waveguide (CPW) feed is designed as the radiated element for a large operating bandwidth. To realize the dual-band-notched characteristics of microwave access (WiMAX) and wireless local area networks (WLAN), two half-square-like slots are etched on the metallic surface. The fabricated prototype of this proposed antenna has a compact size of 27 × 32 mm2 and operates at 2.8 GHz to 10 GHz, excepting for rejection bands at 3.06–3.83 GHz and 5.05–5.96 GHz. Nearly omnidirectional radiation patterns are obtained in the working band. Furthermore, one conformal design on cylinder and transfer characteristics are made to validate its potential application. These findings indicate that this antenna can be taken as a promising option for use in the UWB communication field.
Visual Navigation Using Inverse Reinforcement Learning and an Extreme Learning Machine
Authors: Fang Qiang , Zhang Wenzhuo , Wang Xitong
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we focus on the challenges of training efficiency, the designation of reward functions, and generalization in reinforcement learning for visual navigation and propose a regularized extreme learning machine-based inverse reinforcement learning approach (RELM-IRL) to improve the navigation performance. Our contributions are mainly three-fold: First, a framework combining extreme learning machine with inverse reinforcement learning is presented. This framework can improve the sample efficiency and obtain the reward function directly from the image information observed by the agent and improve the generation for the new target and the new environment. Second, the extreme learning machine is regularized by multi-response sparse regression and the leave-one-out method, which can further improve the generalization ability. Simulation experiments in the AI-THOR environment showed that the proposed approach outperformed previous end-to-end approaches, thus, demonstrating the effectiveness and efficiency of our approach.
A Hilbert–Huang Transform-Based Adaptive Fault Detection and Classification Method for Microgrids
Authors: Li Yijin , Lin Jianhua , Niu Geng , Wu Ming , Wei Xuteng
Published: August 2021

Fault detection in microgrids is of great significance for power systems’ safety and stability. Due to the high penetration of distributed generations, fault characteristics become different from those of traditional fault detection. Thus, we propose a new fault detection and classification method for microgrids. Only current information is needed for the method. Hilbert–Huang Transform and sliding window strategy are used in fault characteristic extraction. The instantaneous phase difference of current high-frequency component is obtained as the fault characteristic. A self-adaptive threshold is set to increase the detection sensitivity. A fault can be detected by comparing the fault characteristic and the threshold. Furthermore, the fault type is identified by the utilization of zero-sequence current. Simulations for both section and system have been completed. The instantaneous phase difference of the current high-frequency component is an effective fault characteristic for detecting ten kinds of faults. Using the proposed method, the maximum fault detection time is 13.8 ms and the maximum fault type identification time is 14.8 ms. No misjudgement happens under non-fault disturbance conditions. The simulations indicate that the proposed method can achieve fault detection and classification rapidly, accurately, and reliably.
Influence of Air Vents Management on Trombe Wall Temperature Fluctuations: An Experimental Analysis under Real Climate Conditions
Authors: Briga-Sá Ana , Paiva Anabela , Lanzinha João-Carlos , Boaventura-Cunha José , Fernandes Luís
Published: August 2021

The Trombe wall is a passive solar system that can improve buildings energy efficiency. Despite the studies already developed in this field, more research is needed to assess the possibility of its integration in buildings avoiding user intervention. In this study, the influence of air vent management and materials’ heat storage capacity upon its thermal performance, particularly in the temperature fluctuation and indoor conditions, was discussed. Comparing two days with similar solar radiation (SR) for non-ventilated (NVTW) and ventilated (VTW) Trombe walls, a differential of 43 °C between the external surface temperature and the one in the middle of the massive wall was verified for NVTW, while for VTW this value was 27 °C, reflecting the heat transfer by air convection, which reduced greenhouse effect, solar absorption and heat storage. A cooling capacity greater than 50% was verified for VTW compared to NVTW during night periods. An algorithm for the Trombe wall’s automation and control was proposed considering SR as variable. Air vents and external shading devices should be open when SR exceeds 100 W/m2 and closed for 50 W/m2 to obtain at least 20 °C inside the room. Closing for 50 W/m2 and opening for values lower that 20 W/m2 is suggested for summer periods.
Design of a Novel Remote Monitoring System for Smart Greenhouses Using the Internet of Things and Deep Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Mellit Adel , Benghanem Mohamed , Herrak Omar , Messalaoui Abdelaziz
Published: August 2021

To support farmers and improve the quality of crops production, designing of smart greenhouses is becoming indispensable. In this paper, a novel prototype for remote monitoring of a greenhouse is designed. The prototype allows creating an adequate artificial environment inside the greenhouse (e.g., water irrigation, ventilation, light intensity, and CO2 concentration). Thanks to the Internet of things technique, the parameters controlled (air temperature, relative humidity, capacitive soil moisture, light intensity, and CO2 concentration) were measured and uploaded to a designed webpage using appropriate sensors with a low-cost Wi-Fi module (NodeMCU V3). An Android mobile application was also developed using an A6 GSM module for notifying farmers (e.g., sending a warning message in case of any anomaly) regarding the state of the plants. A low-cost camera was used to collect and send images of the plants via the webpage for possible diseases identification and classification. In this context, a deep learning convolutional neural network was developed and implemented into a Raspberry Pi 4. To supply the prototype, a small-scale photovoltaic system was built. The experimental results showed the feasibility and demonstrated the ability of the prototype to monitor and control the greenhouse remotely, as well as to identify the state of the plants. The designed smart prototype can offer real-time remote measuring and sensing services to farmers.
State-of-the-Art Review of Positive Energy Building and Community Systems
Authors: Kumar Gokula Manikandan Senthil , Cao Sunliang
Published: August 2021

A positive energy system that produces more renewable energy than its demand while ensuring appropriate comfort levels is an excellent path towards increasing the portion of renewable energy, reducing carbon emission, and increasing the energy system’s overall performance. In particular, it has been believed as step forward towards zero energy systems. Recent progress in positive energy building and community levels is gaining interest among different stakeholders. However, an inadequate understanding of the positive energy system is widely noticed in many projects, and a shortage of standard details on the positive energy system still prevails in the research community. Therefore, a state-of-the-art review of positive energy building and community is conducted in this paper. Firstly, this paper begins with the definitions and concepts of positive energy buildings and communities. Secondly, it comprehensively describes the energy supplies, demands, indicators, storage, energy management, roles of stakeholders, and bottlenecks of positive energy systems. Thirdly, the main differences between positive energy buildings and communities are summarized. Fourthly, the impact of smart energy grids and new energy vehicles on the positive energy buildings and communities is derived. As a conclusion, this paper shows that even though all the energy-efficient buildings such as passive buildings, nearly zero energy buildings, zero energy buildings, positive energy buildings look like an up-trending scale of renewable penetration, considerable differences are visible among all, and the same thing applies to the community level. Furthermore, considerable differences exist when comparing between positive buildings and communities regarding both the technical and economic perspectives.
Evaluation of Communal Waste in Slovakia from the View of Chosen Economic Indicators
Authors: Stehlíková Beáta , Čulková Katarína , Taušová Marcela , Štrba Ľubomír , Mihaliková Eva
Published: August 2021

Waste treatment consists of activities required to make sure that waste has the least practical impact on the environment. In Slovakia, more than 50% of waste is in storage. Waste development depends on the economic situation of the state. In Slovakia, there is economic intolerance of waste treatment due to the weaker economic situation of the inhabitants. The goal of this contribution is to study the development of waste production in Slovakia in regard to economic indexes of households with the aim of improving waste management. The goal is achieved by searching for a relation between economic indexes and households by a correlation matrix and by verification of polynomial dependence. According to the results of the statistical importance, we found similarity of the regions in chosen indexes by using of cluster analysis. By this method a sustainable economy and healthy environment is guaranteed and waste is used to produce energy.
Assessing Potential Thermo-Mechanical Impacts on Caprock Due to CO2 Injection—A Case Study from Northern Lights CCS
Authors: Thompson Nicholas , Andrews Jamie Stuart , Bjørnarå Tore Ingvald
Published: August 2021

Due to significant temperature differences between the injected medium and in situ formation, injection of CO2 (as with water or other cold fluids) at depth induces thermal changes that must be accounted for a complete understanding of the mechanical integrity of the injection/storage system. Based on evaluations for the Northern Lights Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) project, we focus on thermal effects induced on the caprock via conduction from cooling in the storage sands below. We investigate, using both analytical and numerical approaches, how undrained effects within the low permeability caprock can lead to volumetric contraction differences between the rock framework and the pore fluid which induce both stress and pore pressure changes that must be properly quantified. We show that such undrained effects, while inducing a more complicated response in the stress changes in the caprock, do not necessarily lead to unfavourable tensile conditions, and may, in fact, lead to increases in effective stress. These observations build confidence in the integrity of the caprock/seal system. We also show, through conservative assumptions, that pressure communication between the caprock and storage sands may lead to a localised negative effective stress condition, challenging stability of the base caprock, which will be mitigated for in field development planning.
A Statistical Assessment of Blending Hydrogen into Gas Networks
Authors: Vaccariello Enrico , Trinchero Riccardo , Stievano Igor S. , Leone Pierluigi
Published: August 2021

The deployment of low-carbon hydrogen in gas grids comes with strategic benefits in terms of energy system integration and decarbonization. However, hydrogen thermophysical properties substantially differ from natural gas and pose concerns of technical and regulatory nature. The present study investigates the blending of hydrogen into distribution gas networks, focusing on the steady-state fluid dynamic response of the grids and gas quality compliance issues at increasing hydrogen admixture levels. Two blending strategies are analyzed, the first of which involves the supply of NG–H2 blends at the city gate, while the latter addresses the injection of pure hydrogen in internal grid locations. In contrast with traditional case-specific analyses, results are derived from simulations executed over a large number (i.e., one thousand) of synthetic models of gas networks. The responses of the grids are therefore analyzed in a statistical fashion. The results highlight that lower probabilities of violating fluid dynamic and quality restrictions are obtained when hydrogen injection occurs close to or in correspondence with the system city gate. When pure hydrogen is injected in internal grid locations, even very low volumes (1% vol of the total) may determine gas quality violations, while fluid dynamic issues arise only in rare cases of significant hydrogen injection volumes (30% vol of the total).
Optimizing the Size of Autonomous Hybrid Microgrids with Regard to Load Shifting
Authors: Lavrik Alexander , Zhukovskiy Yuri , Tcvetkov Pavel
Published: August 2021

The article proposes a method of multipurpose optimization of the size of an autonomous hybrid energy system consisting of photovoltaic, wind, diesel, and battery energy storage systems, and including a load-shifting system. The classical iterative Gauss–Seidel method was applied to optimize the size of a hybrid energy system in a remote settlement on Sakhalin Island. As a result of the optimization according to the minimum net present value criterion, several optimal configurations corresponding to different component combinations were obtained. Several optimal configurations were also found, subject to a payback period constraint of 5, 6, and 7 years. Optimizing the size of the hybrid power system with electric load shifting showed that the share of the load not covered by renewable energy sources decreases by 1.25% and 2.1%, depending on the parameters of the load shifting model. Net present cost and payback period also decreased, other technical and economic indicators improved; however, CO2 emissions increased due to the reduction in the energy storage system.
DYN3D and CTF Coupling within a Multiscale and Multiphysics Software Development (Part I)
Authors: Davies Sebastian , Litskevich Dzianis , Rohde Ulrich , Detkina Anna , Merk Bruno , Bryce Paul , Levers Andrew , Ravindra Venkata
Published: August 2021

Understanding and optimizing the relation between nuclear reactor components or physical phenomena allows us to improve the economics and safety of nuclear reactors, deliver new nuclear reactor designs, and educate nuclear staff. Such relation in the case of the reactor core is described by coupled reactor physics as heat transfer depends on energy production while energy production depends on heat transfer with almost none of the available codes providing full coupled reactor physics at the fuel pin level. A Multiscale and Multiphysics nuclear software development between NURESIM and CASL for LWRs has been proposed for the UK. Improved coupled reactor physics at the fuel pin level can be simulated through coupling nodal codes such as DYN3D as well as subchannel codes such as CTF. In this journal article, the first part of the DYN3D and CTF coupling within the Multiscale and Multiphysics software development is presented to evaluate all inner iterations within one outer iteration to provide partially verified improved coupled reactor physics at the fuel pin level. Such verification has proven that the DYN3D and CTF coupling provides improved feedback distributions over the DYN3D coupling as crossflow and turbulent mixing are present in the former.
Experimental Evaluation of Energy-Efficiency in a Holistically Designed Building
Authors: Buzatu Raluca , Ungureanu Viorel , Ciutina Adrian , Gireadă Mihăiţă , Vitan Daniel , Petran Ioan
Published: August 2021

The building sector continues to register a significant rise in energy demand and environmental impact, notably in developing countries. A considerable proportion of this energy is required during the operational phase of buildings for interior heating and cooling, leading to a necessity of building performance improvement. A holistic approach in building design and construction represents a step to moderate construction costs in conjunction with reduced long-term operating costs and a low impact on the environment. The present paper presents an experimental evaluation of the energy efficiency of a building under real climate conditions; the building, which represents a holistically designed modular laboratory, is located in a moderate continental temperate climate, characteristic of the south-eastern part of the Pannonian Depression, with some sub-Mediterranean influences. Considerations for the holistic design of the building, including multi-object optimization and integrated design with a high regard for technology and operational life are described. The paper provides a genuine overview of the energy efficiency response of the building during six months of operational use through a monitored energy management system. The energetic analysis presented in the paper represents an intermediary stage as not all the energetic users were installed nor all the energetic suppliers. However, the results showed a reliable thermal response in the behaviour of recycled-PET thermal wadding used as insulation material in the building and for the intermediary stage in which the building has only secondary energy users, the energetic balance proves its efficiency, keeping the buffer stock of energy high values over 90%.
Assessment of the Progress towards the Management of Renewable Energy Consumption in the Innovativeness Context—A Country Approach
Authors: Sipa Monika , Gorzeń-Mitka Iwona
Published: August 2021

The fact that European Union (EU) countries have adopted an ambitious plan to achieve zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 requires decisive action within the scope of innovation and of the level of energy consumption, especially of the energy from renewable sources. Being directed toward innovation within the scope of renewable energy technology, as well as the proper management of renewable energy consumption, are the main actions aimed at increasing the efficiency of using clean energy, and which also bring the EU closer to the implementation of the assumptions adopted in the European Green Deal. The aim of our study was to assess the progress toward the management of renewable energy consumption in the innovativeness context and the relationship between energy consumption and selected indicators of innovativeness in European Union countries. We present an original ranking assessment of the progress toward the management of renewable energy consumption and identify relationships between the energy consumption of selected energy sources (both renewable and non-renewable) and of selected innovation assessment indicators. The data used to develop the original rating were optimized using the procedures of the MULTIMOORA method, while the relationships between variables were identified through correlation analysis. Our findings provide evidence of significant relationships between the consumption of selected energy sources (in the group of non-renewable sources, e.g., peat and peat products and oil and petroleum products, and in the group of renewable sources, e.g., wind, biofuels, and renewable waste) and of selected indicators of innovation evaluation (e.g., human resources, finance, and support).
A Voltage Sag Severity Evaluation Method for the System Side Which Considers the Influence of the Voltage Tolerance Curve and Sag Type
Authors: Xu Yonghai , Fan Xingguan , Deng Siying , Niu Chunhao
Published: August 2021

Considering the influence of user equipment voltage tolerance characteristics and sag types on the evaluation results, this paper proposes a voltage sag severity evaluation method for the system side which considers the influence of the voltage tolerance curve and sag type. As such, a quantitative evaluation of the severity of voltage sag events can be achieved. Firstly, the user’s voltage tolerance curve is used to construct the comparison reference value of the energy index, in order to realize the rapid analysis of the severity of the sag event in the normal area and the abnormal area. Secondly, aiming at the problem of insufficient descriptions of the severity difference of sag events in uncertain areas, an improved energy index evaluation model combined with user tolerance characteristics is established through an interval division and interval weight calculation, so as to divide and evaluate the severity of sag events in uncertain areas. Considering the influence of the sag type on the voltage tolerance curve and user equipment, the energy index correction factor is then constructed, and the measurement function is used for an interval evaluation to obtain the ranking result of the voltage sag severity, which is more in line with the actual situation. Finally, the rationality and effectiveness of the proposed method are verified by analyzing 24 voltage sag events at a monitoring node.
Renewable Energy Sector in Bangladesh: The Current Scenario, Challenges and the Role of IoT in Building a Smart Distribution Grid
Authors: Siddique Abdul Hasib , Tasnim Sumaiya , Shahriyar Fahim , Hasan Mehedi , Rashid Khalid
Published: August 2021

Advancement in electricity is the key ingredient that can actively take part in alleviating poverty and drastically improve the socio-economic status of the people of Bangladesh. The incorporation of renewable energy sources would help the country meet the energy requirement as well as contribute positively towards building a sustainable planet. The paper has extensively discussed the potential aspects of renewable energy resources in Bangladesh and how the Internet of Things can facilitate the implementation of intermittent sources. The regulatory and socio-economic aspects of the renewable energy industry have been explored and sustainable solutions will be discussed to fast-track the process of integrating various renewable energy sources in the power grid to meet the energy demand. The paper discusses the challenges associated with the RE integration in Bangladesh’s power mix and tries to mitigate it through the IoT. Besides that, an RE map for Bangladesh along with prospective power network has also been discussed in this work.
Lightning Impulse Breakdown Voltage of Rice Bran Oil for Transformer Application
Authors: Abdul Hamid Mardhiah Hayati , Ishak Mohd Taufiq , Suhaimi Nur Sabrina , Adnan Jaafar , Makmor Nazrul Fariq , Katim Nurul Izzatul Akma , Abd Rahman Rahisham
Published: August 2021

Transformer oil does not only serve as an insulating liquid, but also in removing heat from the windings and cores. Mineral oil (MO) has been widely used in transformers for more than 150 years. Recently, researchers have attempted to search for alternative insulating oils due to the possibility that MO will run out in the future together with the concern on fire safety and environmental pollution. Among the potential oils is rice bran oil (RBO). This work presents the studies of the lightning impulse (LI) of RBO behavior under various electric fields, gap distances and testing methods. The electrical performances of LI tests show that RBO and Palm Oil (PO) have lower LI breakdown voltage than MO under both uniform and non-uniform electric fields. However, the difference in LI breakdown voltages between RBO, PO and MO are slightly small which is less than 20%. In addition, there is no significant effect in the various testing methods under both uniform field and non-uniform field where the percentages of difference are less than 12% and 8% respectively. The data of LI breakdown voltage were statistically analysed to predict the withstand voltage and 50% breakdown voltage of oil samples by using Weibull distribution. The Weibull distribution of MO, PO and RBO has well fit with the fitting line. Finally, the relationship between LI voltages under a non-uniform field with various parameters of PO and RBO was obtained and proposed. From this work, it can be concluded that RBO shows promising results to be considered as an alternative to MO in transformer applications.
A New Model for Estimation of Energy Extraction from Bifacial Photovoltaic Modules
Authors: Sahu Preeti Kumari , Roy J. N. , Chakraborty Chandan , Sundaram Senthilarasu
Published: August 2021

The energy yield from bifacial solar photovoltaic (PV) systems can be enhanced by optimizing the tilt angle. Bifacial modules boost the energy yield by 4% to 15% depending on the module type and ground reflectivity with an average of 9%. The selection of tilt angle depends on several factors, including the geographical location, weather variation, etc. Compared to the variable tilt angle, a constant angle is preferred from the point of view of the cost of installation and the cost of maintenance. This paper proposes a new method for analysing bifacial modules. A simpler rear-side irradiance model is presented to estimate the energy yield of a bifacial solar photovoltaic module. The detailed analysis also explores the optimum tilt angle for the inclined south–north orientation to obtain the maximum possible yield from the module. Taking four regions into account, i.e., Kharagpur, Ahmedabad, Delhi, and Thiruvananthapuram, in the Indian climate, we studied several cases. The Kharagpur system showed a monthly rear irradiance gain of 13%, and the Delhi climate showed an average performance ratio of 19.5%. We studied the impact of albedo and GCR on the tilt angle. Finally, the estimated model was validated with the PVSyst version 6.7.6 as well as real field test measurements taken from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) located in the USA.
Buildings Energy Efficiency and Innovative Energy Systems
Authors: Leal Vítor
Published: August 2021

The use of energy in buildings is at the crossroads between comfort and productivity requirements, passive and active technological options, and health and environmental consequences [...]
Investigation of Energy Consumption and Associated CO2 Emissions for Wheat–Rice Crop Rotation Farming
Authors: Ashraf Muhammad N. , Mahmood Muhammad H. , Sultan Muhammad , Shamshiri Redmond R. , Ibrahim Sobhy M.
Published: August 2021

This study investigates the input–output energy-flow patterns and CO2 emissions from the wheat–rice crop rotation system. In this regard, an arid region of Punjab, Pakistan was selected as the study area, comprising 4150 km2. Farmers were interviewed to collect data and information on input/output sources during the 2020 work season. The total energy from these sources was calculated using appropriate energy equivalents. Three energy indices, including energy use efficiency (ηe), energy productivity (ηp), and net energy (ρ), were defined and calculated to investigate overall energy efficiency. Moreover, the data envelopment analysis (DEA) technique was used to optimize the input energy in wheat and rice production. Finally, CO2 emissions was calculated using emissions equivalents from peer-reviewed published literature. Results showed that the average total energy consumption in rice production was twice the energy consumed in wheat production. However, the values of ηe, ηp, and ρ were higher in wheat production and calculated as 5.68, 202.3 kg/GJ, and 100.12 GJ/ha, respectively. The DEA showed the highest reduction potential in machinery energy for both crops, calculated as −42.97% in rice production and −17.48% in wheat production. The highest CO2 emissions were found in rice production and calculated as 1762.5 kg-CO2/ha. Our conclusion indicates that energy consumption and CO2 emissions from wheat–rice cropping systems can be minimized using optimized energy inputs.
The New Sociology of Religion
Authors: Cipriani Roberto
Published: August 2021

The new sociology of religion differs from the classical and mainstream sociology, which was in force until the end of the last century, in that it no longer considers religion only as an independent variable, but places it together with other dependent variables, so that it becomes possible to investigate new themes, especially those that do not consider religious involvement—from atheism to the phenomenon of ‘nones’ (non-believers and non-practicing), from spirituality to forms of para-religions and quasi-religions and the varied set of multiple religions.
Small Mammals in Forests of Romania: Habitat Type Use and Additive Diversity Partitioning
Authors: Lazăr Anamaria , Benedek Ana Maria , Sîrbu Ioan
Published: August 2021

Small mammals are key components of forest ecosystems, playing vital roles for numerous groups of forest organisms: they exert bottom-up and top-down regulatory effects on vertebrate and invertebrate populations, respectively; they are fungus- and seed-dispersers and bioturbators. Therefore, preserving or restoring the diversity of small mammal communities may help maintain the functions of these ecosystems. In Romania, a country with low-intensity forest management and a high percentage of natural forests compared to other European countries, an overview of forest small mammal diversity and habitat type use is lacking, and our study aimed to fill this gap. We also aimed to partition the total small mammal diversity of Romanian forests into the alpha (plot-level), beta, and delta (among forest types) diversities, as well as further partition beta diversity into its spatial (among plots) and temporal (among years) components. We surveyed small mammals by live trapping in eight types of forest across Romania. We found that small mammal abundance was significantly higher in lowland than in mountain forests, but species richness was similar, being associated with the diversity of tree canopy, with the highest values in mixed forests. In contrast, small mammal heterogeneity was related to overall habitat heterogeneity. As predicted, community composition was most distinct in poplar plantations, where forest specialists coexist with open habitat species. Most of the diversity was represented by alpha diversity. Because of strong fluctuations in population density of dominant rodents, the temporal component of beta heterogeneity was larger than the spatial component, but species richness also presented an important temporal turnover. Our results show the importance of the time dimension in the design of the surveys aiming at estimating the diversity of small mammal communities, both at the local and regional scales.
Intraoperative Use of Mixed Reality Technology in Median Neck and Branchial Cyst Excision
Authors: Ivanov Vladimir M. , Krivtsov Anton M. , Strelkov Sergey V. , Kalakutskiy Nikolay V. , Yaremenko Andrey I. , Petropavlovskaya Marina Yu. , Portnova Maria N. , Lukina Olga V. , Litvinov Andrey P.
Published: August 2021

The paper considers the possibilities, prospects, and drawbacks of the mixed reality (MR) technology application using mixed reality smartglasses Microsoft HoloLens 2. The main challenge was to find and develop an approach that would allow surgeons to conduct operations using mixed reality on a large scale, reducing the preparation time required for the procedure and without having to create custom solutions for each patient. Research was conducted in three clinical cases: two median neck and one branchial cyst excisions. In each case, we applied a unique approach of hologram positioning in space based on mixed reality markers. As a result, we listed a series of positive and negative aspects related to MR surgery, along with proposed solutions for using MR in surgery on a daily basis.
Special Cases of Using Visualization Technology for Analyzing the Dynamics of Gaseous Environment
Authors: Sotskiy Mikhail , Levin Denis , Selivanov Victor
Published: August 2021

A new visualization technology is presented, which was used in applied research when observing and modeling the dynamics of the flow of gaseous environments. In the process of developing and improving the technology, a set of experimental results was compiled to study the phenomenon of combustion and detonation of a hydrogen-oxygen mixture, as well as the phenomena of propagation, action, and interaction of shock waves and gas-dynamic structures. On the example of analyzing data on the dynamics of the formation of a vortex ring, the possibilities of verifying the computational model of the implemented physical process are shown. The presented results reflect the level of information content when using technology to carry out tests.
Functional Genomic Insights into Probiotic Bacillus siamensis Strain B28 from Traditional Korean Fermented Kimchi
Authors: Heo Sojeong , Kim Jong-Hoon , Kwak Mi-Sun , Jeong Do-Won , Sung Moon-Hee
Published: August 2021

Bacillus siamensis strain B28 was previously isolated from traditional Korean fermented kimchi and inhibited expression of the microphthalmia-associated transcription factor and β-catenin in human embryonic kidney 293 cells. Here, we determined the complete genome sequence of strain B28 and compared it with other strains to elucidate its potential probiotic properties. Strain B28 does not contain antibiotic resistance-, hemolysin- or enterotoxin-encoding genes. The genome includes genes related to survival in extreme conditions, adhesion in the gut, and synthesis of the bacteriocin. Considering the potential for enhancement of human health, the strain B28 genome encodes genes related to production of eight essential amino acids, γ-aminobutyric acid, branched-chain fatty acids, γ-glutamyltransferase, and subtilisin. There are genes for the synthesis of uracil, lipoteichoic acid, glutathione, and several reactive oxygen species-scavenging enzymes. Experimentally, strain B28 exhibited sensitivity to eight antibiotics and antibacterial activity against seven foodborne pathogens. B. siamensis B28 is a safe strain with potential for development as a probiotic.
Microsatellite Markers in Olives (Olea europaea L.): Utility in the Cataloging of Germplasm, Food Authenticity and Traceability Studies
Authors: Yadav Shambhavi , Carvalho Joana , Trujillo Isabel , Prado Marta
Published: August 2021

The olive fruit, a symbol of Mediterranean diets, is a rich source of antioxidants and oleic acid (55–83%). Olive genetic resources, including cultivated olives (cultivars), wild olives as well as related subspecies, are distributed widely across the Mediterranean region and other countries. Certain cultivars have a high commercial demand and economical value due to the differentiating organoleptic characteristics. This might result in economically motivated fraudulent practices and adulteration. Hence, tools to ensure the authenticity of constituent olive cultivars are crucial, and this can be achieved accurately through DNA-based methods. The present review outlines the applications of microsatellite markers, one of the most extensively used types of molecular markers in olive species, particularly referring to the use of these DNA-based markers in cataloging the vast olive germplasm, leading to identification and authentication of the cultivars. Emphasis has been given on the need to adopt a uniform platform where global molecular information pertaining to the details of available markers, cultivar-specific genotyping profiles (their synonyms or homonyms) and the comparative profiles of oil and reference leaf samples is accessible to researchers. The challenges of working with microsatellite markers and efforts underway, mainly advancements in genotyping methods which can be effectively incorporated in olive oil varietal testing, are also provided. Such efforts will pave the way for the development of more robust microsatellite marker-based olive agri-food authentication platforms.
Physicochemical and Functional Properties of Snack Bars Enriched with Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) By-product Powders
Authors: Zulaikha Yasinta , Yao Shuai-Huei , Chang Yu-Wei
Published: August 2021

This research aimed to evaluate tilapia by-product powders as a novel food ingredient and the suitable cooking method for snack bar (SBs) production. Tilapia by-product powders were made by two processing methods; one powder was oven-dried as tilapia dry powder (TDP) and another was bromelain-hydrolyzed and then freeze-dried as tilapia hydrolysate powder (THP). SBs were prepared by incorporating tilapia dry powders (TDP or THP; 10%). SBs were further separated in two different cooking methods, namely unbaked and baked ones. The baked SBs had yellow and darker coloration (L* value ranged from 66.38 to 76.12) and more reddish color (a* value range from −1.26 to 1.06). Addition of tilapia by-product powders significantly (p < 0.05) increased the protein content of the original SB from 21.58 to 32.08% (SB + THP). Regarding DPPH scavenging activity, the control group showed the lowest activity, followed by SB + TDP and SB + THP with the highest activity (p < 0.05), with DPPH scavenging activity ranged from 12.40 to 26.04%. The baking process significantly (p < 0.05) increased the angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity of the SBs. In particular, the SB + THP group showed the highest activity (17.78%). All samples exhibited antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, and the SB + THP group showed the highest activity (15.08 ± 1.95 mm growth inhibition). Based on principal component analysis, four principal components (nutraceutical pigmentation, physical characteristics, nutrition value, and greater dehydration) were contributed towards the physicochemical and functional properties of the SBs. The overall results suggested that tilapia by-product powders can be potential ingredients for adding functional values to food products.
Development of Chrysin Loaded Oil-in-Water Nanoemulsion for Improving Bioaccessibility
Authors: Ting Pisamai , Srinuanchai Wanwisa , Suttisansanee Uthaiwan , Tuntipopipat Siriporn , Charoenkiatkul Somsri , Praengam Kemika , Chantong Boonrat , Temviriyanukul Piya , Nuchuchua Onanong
Published: August 2021

Chrysin (5,7-dihydroxyflavone) is a remarkable flavonoid exhibiting many health-promoting activities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Nevertheless, chrysin has been addressed regarding its limited applications, due to low bioaccessibility. Therefore, to improve chrysin bioaccessibility, a colloidal delivery system involving nanoemulsion was developed as chrysin nanoemulsion (chrysin-NE) using an oil-in-water system. Our results show that chrysin can be loaded by approximately 174.21 µg/g nanoemulsion (100.29 ± 0.53% w/w) when medium chain triglyceride (MCT) oil was used as an oil phase. The nanocolloidal size, polydispersity index, and surface charge of chrysin-NE were approximately 161 nm, 0.21, and −32 mV, respectively. These properties were stable for at least five weeks at room temperature. Furthermore, in vitro chrysin bioactivities regarding antioxidant and anti-AD were maintained as pure chrysin, suggesting that multistep formulation could not affect chrysin properties. Interestingly, the developed chrysin-NE was more tolerant of gastrointestinal digestion and significantly absorbed by the human intestinal cells (Caco-2) than pure chrysin. These findings demonstrate that the encapsulation of chrysin using oil-in-water nanoemulsion could enhance the bioaccessibility of chrysin, which might be subsequently applied to food and nutraceutical industries.
Anti-Obesity Effects of Morus alba L. and Aronia melanocarpa in a High-Fat Diet-Induced Obese C57BL/6J Mouse Model
Authors: Kim Na-Yeon , Thomas Shalom Sara , Hwang Dae-Il , Lee Ji-Hye , Kim Kyung-Ah , Cha Youn-Soo
Published: August 2021

The present study investigated the synergic effect of extracts of Morus alba (MA) and Aronia melanocarpa (Michx.) (AR) against high-fat diet induced obesity. Four-week-old male C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into five groups that were fed for 14 weeks with a normal diet (ND), high-fat diet (HD), HD with M. alba 400 mg/kg body weight (MA), HD with A. melanocarpa 400 mg/kg body weight (AR), or HD with a mixture (1:1, v/v) of M. alba and A. melanocarpa (400 mg/kg) (MA + AR). Treatment with MA, AR, and MA + AR for 14 weeks reduced high fat diet-induced weight gain and improved serum lipid levels, and histological analysis revealed that MA and AR treatment markedly decreased lipid accumulation in the liver and adipocyte size in epididymal fat. Furthermore, micro-CT images showed MA + AR significantly reduced abdominal fat volume. Expression levels of genes involved in lipid anabolism, such as SREBP-1c, PPAR-γ, CEBPα, FAS, and CD36 were decreased by MA + AR treatment whereas PPAR-α, ACOX1, and CPT-1a levels were increased by MA + AR treatment. Protein expression of p-AMPK and p-ACC were increased in the MA + AR group, indicating that MA + AR ameliorated obesity by upregulating AMPK signaling. Together, our findings indicate that MA and AR exert a synergistic effect against diet-induced obesity and are promising agents for managing obesity.
Invitation Games: An Experimental Approach to Coalition Formation
Authors: Abe Takaaki , Funaki Yukihiko , Shinoda Taro
Published: August 2021

This paper studies how to form an efficient coalition—a group of people. More specifically, we compare two mechanisms for forming a coalition by running a laboratory experiment and reveal which mechanism leads to higher social surplus. In one setting, we invite the subjects to join a meeting simultaneously, so they cannot know the other subjects’ decisions. In the other setting, we ask them sequentially, which allows each subject to know his or her predecessor’s choice. Those who decide to join the meeting form a coalition and earn payoffs according to their actions and individual preferences. As a result, we obtain the following findings. First, the sequential mechanism induces higher social surplus than the simultaneous mechanism. Second, most subjects make choices consistent with the subgame-perfect Nash equilibrium in the sequential setting and choose the dominant strategy in the simultaneous setting, when a dominant strategy exists. Finally, when the subjects need to look further ahead to make a theoretically rational choice, they are more likely to fail to choose rationally.
Colorimetry-Based Detection of Nitric Oxide from Exhaled Breath for Quantification of Oxidative Stress in Human Body
Authors: Maurya Muni Raj , Onthath Haseena , Morsy Hagar , Riyaz Najam-US-Sahar , Ibrahim Muna , Ahmed Alaa Elsafi , Abuznad Raghad , Alruwaili Aeshah , Alsaedi Fatimatulzahraa , Kasak Peter , Sadasivuni Kishor Kumar
Published: August 2021

Monitoring exhaled breath is a safe, noninvasive method for determining the health status of the human body. Most of the components in our exhaled breath can act as health biomarkers, and they help in providing information about various diseases. Nitric oxide (NO) is one such important biomarker in exhaled breath that indicates oxidative stress in our body. This work presents a simple and noninvasive quantitative analysis approach for detecting NO from exhaled breath. The sensing is based on the colorimetric assisted detection of NO by m-Cresol Purple, Bromophenol Blue, and Alizaringelb dye. The sensing performance of the dye was analyzed by ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy. The study covers various sampling conditions like the pH effect, temperature effect, concentration effect, and selective nature of the dye. The m-Cresol Purple dye exhibited a high sensitivity towards NO with a detection limit of ~0.082 ppm in the linear range of 0.002–0.5 ppm. Moreover, the dye apprehended a high degree of selectivity towards other biocompounds present in the breath, and no possible interfering cross-reaction from these species was observed. The dye offered a high sensitivity, selectivity, fast response, and stability, which benchmark its potential for NO sensing. Further, m-Cresol Purple dye is suitable for NO sensing from the exhaled breath and can assist in quantifying oxidative stress levels in the body for the possible detection of COVID-19.
The Impacts of Regional Regulatory Policies on the Prevention and Control of Chronic Diseases in China: A Mediation Analysis
Authors: Huangfu Huihui , Yu Qinwen , Shi Peiwu , Shen Qunhong , Zhang Zhaoyang , Chen Zheng , Pu Chuan , Xu Lingzhong , Hu Zhi , Ma Anning , Gong Zhaohui , Xu Tianqiang , Wang Panshi , Wang Hua , Hao Chao , Zhou Qingyu , Li Li , Li Chengyue , Hao Mo
Published: August 2021

Regional regulatory policies (RPs) are a major factor in the prevention and control of chronic diseases (PCCDs) through the implementation of various measures. This study aimed to explore the impacts of RPs on PCCDs, with a focus on the mediating roles of community service. The soundness of the regulatory mechanism (SORM) was used to measure the soundness of RPs based on 1095 policy documents (updated as of 2015). Coverage provided by community service institutions (CSIs) and community health centres (CHCs) was used to represent community service coverage derived from the China Statistical Yearbook (2015), while the number of chronic diseases (NCDs) was used to measure the effects of PCCDs based on data taken from the 2015 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study survey. To assess the relationship between SORM, NCDs and community service, a negative binomial regression model and mediation analysis with bootstrapping were conducted. Results revealed that there was a negative correlation between SORM and NCDs. CSIs had a major effect on the relationship between RPs and PCCDs, while CHCs had a partial mediating effect. RPs can effectively prevent and control chronic diseases. Increased effort should also be aimed at strengthening the roles of CSIs and CHCs.