bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeting the Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor (FGFR) in Advanced Cholangiocarcinoma: Clinical Trial Progress and Future Considerations
Authors: Lee Patrick C. , Hendifar Andrew , Osipov Arsen , Cho May , Li Daneng , Gong Jun
Published: April 2021

Landmark molecular profiling efforts have identified multiple targetable alterations in cholangiocarcinoma. Among the molecular-driven subsets of cholangiocarcinoma, targeting the fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) has shown promise and represents the first targeted therapy to be approved in treatment-refractory, advanced cholangiocarcinoma. In this review, we provide an up-to-date overview of the clinical development of FGFR inhibitors in advanced cholangiocarcinoma. We review the FGFR pathway and discuss emerging issues including resistance to FGFR inhibitors. We end with a discussion on future considerations to optimize the potential of this class of therapeutics in advanced cholangiocarcinoma.
Novel Long Noncoding RNA miR205HG Functions as an Esophageal Tumor-Suppressive Hedgehog Inhibitor
Authors: Song Jee Hoon , Tieu Alan H. , Cheng Yulan , Ma Ke , Akshintala Venkata S. , Simsek Cem , Prasath Vishnu , Shin Eun Ji , Ngamruengphong Saowanee , Khashab Mouen A. , Abraham John M. , Meltzer Stephen J.
Published: April 2021

Barrett’s esophagus (BE) is a precursor to esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). Recently, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been identified as key regulators of biological pathways. However, involvement of lncRNAs in the development of BE and EAC has not been well-studied. The aims of the current study were: (1) to study involvement of the lncRNA, miR205HG, in the development of BE and EAC; (2) to clarify the role of miR205HG in in vitro and in vivo experiments; and (3) to investigate the mechanism of miR205HG involving the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway. These experiments revealed that miR205HG was downregulated in EAC vs. normal esophageal epithelia (NE) as well as in EAC cell lines, and its forced overexpression inhibited EAC cell proliferation and cell cycle progression in vitro. Similarly, overexpression of miR205HG inhibited xenograft tumor growth in mice In vivo. Finally, we show that one mechanism of action of miR205HG involves the Hh signaling pathway: miR205HG and Hh expression levels were inversely correlated in both EAC (r = −0.73) and BE (r = −0.83) tissues, and in vitro studies revealed details of Hh signaling inhibition induced by miR205HG. In conclusion, these findings establish that lncRNA miR205HG functions as a tumor suppressor in the development of BE and EAC, at least in part through its effect on the Hh signaling pathway.
The Deoxygenation of Jatropha Oil to High Quality Fuel via the Synergistic Catalytic Effect of Ni, W2C and WC Species
Authors: Zhou Keyao , Du Xiangze , Zhou Linyuan , Yang Huiru , Lei Xiaomei , Zeng Yan , Li Dan , Hu Changwei
Published: April 2021

Tungsten carbide-based materials have good deoxygenation activity in the conversion of biomass. In this paper, catalysts with different nickel–tungsten carbide species were prepared by tuning the reduction temperature and Ni loading, and the effects of these different tungsten carbide species in the conversion of jatropha oil were studied. XRD, XPS, TEM, HRTEM, Raman, H2-TPR, ICP-AES were used to characterize the catalysts. The results suggested that metallic W was gradually carburized to W2C species, and W2C species was further carburized to WC species with the increase in reduction temperature and Ni loading. The obtained 10Ni10W/AC-700 catalyst exhibited outstanding catalytic performance with 99.7% deoxygenation rate and 94.5% C15-18 selectivity, which were attributed to the smallest particle size, the best dispersion, the most exposed active sites, and the synergistic effect of Ni, W2C and WC species.
Placental Glycoredox Dysregulation Associated with Disease Progression in an Animal Model of Superimposed Preeclampsia
Authors: Blois Sandra M. , Prince Paula D. , Borowski Sophia , Galleano Monica , Barrientos Gabriela
Published: April 2021

Pregnancies carried by women with chronic hypertension are at increased risk of superimposed preeclampsia, but the placental pathways involved in disease progression remain poorly understood. In this study, we used the stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHRSP) model to investigate the placental mechanisms promoting superimposed preeclampsia, with focus on cellular stress and its influence on galectin–glycan circuits. Our analysis revealed that SHRSP placentas are characterized by a sustained activation of the cellular stress response, displaying significantly increased levels of markers of lipid peroxidation (i.e., thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS)) and protein nitration and defective antioxidant enzyme expression as early as gestation day 14 (which marks disease onset). Further, lectin profiling showed that such redox imbalance was associated with marked alterations of the placental glycocode, including a prominent decrease of core 1 O-glycan expression in trophoblasts and increased decidual levels of sialylation in SHRSP placentas. We also observed significant changes in the expression of galectins 1, 3 and 9 with pregnancy progression, highlighting the important role of the galectin signature as dynamic interpreters of placental microenvironmental challenges. Collectively, our findings uncover a new role for the glycoredox balance in the pathogenesis of superimposed preeclampsia representing a promising target for interventions in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.
Maternal Vaginal Ureaplasma spp. Colonization in Early Pregnancy Is Associated with Adverse Short- and Long-Term Outcome of Very Preterm Infants
Authors: Rittenschober-Böhm Judith , Habermüller Tanja , Waldhoer Thomas , Fuiko Renate , Schulz Stefan M. , Pimpel Birgit , Goeral Katharina , Witt Armin , Berger Angelika , Pichler Karin
Published: April 2021

Vaginal colonization with Ureaplasma (U.) spp. has been shown to be associated with adverse pregnancy outcome; however, data on neonatal outcome are scarce. The aim of the study was to investigate whether maternal vaginal colonization with U. spp. in early pregnancy represents a risk factor for adverse short- or long-term outcome of preterm infants. Previously, 4330 pregnant women were enrolled in an observational multicenter study, analyzing the association between vaginal U. spp. colonization and spontaneous preterm birth. U. spp. colonization was diagnosed via PCR analysis from vaginal swabs. For this study, data on short-term outcome were collected from medical records and long-term outcome was examined via Bayley Scales of Infant Development at 24 months adjusted age. Two-hundred-and-thirty-eight children were born <33 weeks gestational age. After exclusion due to asphyxia, malformations, and lost-to-follow-up, data on short-term and long-term outcome were available from 222 and 92 infants, respectively. Results show a significant association between vaginal U. spp. colonization and severe intraventricular hemorrhage (10.4% vs. 2.6%, p = 0.03), retinopathy of prematurity (21.7% vs. 10.3%, p = 0.03), and adverse psychomotor outcome (24.3% vs. 1.8%, OR 13.154, 95%CI 1.6,110.2, p = 0.005). The data suggest an association between vaginal U. spp. colonization in early pregnancy and adverse short- and long-term outcome of very preterm infants.
Effects of Nutrition, and Physical Activity Habits and Perceptions on Body Mass Index (BMI) in Children Aged 12–15 Years: A Cross-Sectional Study Comparing Boys and Girls
Authors: Carayanni Vilelmine , Vlachopapadopoulou Elpis , Koutsouki Dimitra , Bogdanis Gregory C. , Psaltopoulou Theodora , Manios Yannis , Karachaliou Feneli , Hatzakis Angelos , Michalacos Stefanos
Published: April 2021

Background: The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of socioeconomic status, nutrition and physical activity lifestyle habits and perceptions on Body Mass Index (BMI) in children aged 12–15 years in Greece. Furthermore, to compare the difference between the two sexes. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted on a representative secondary school cohort that included 5144 subjects, aged 12 to 15 years. Students and their parents filled in validated questionnaires evaluating socioeconomic status, nutrition and physical activity. International Obesity Task Force cut offs were used to classify the children. Factor analysis of mixed data and partial proportional ordered logistic models were used to analyze ΒMΙ distributions. All analyses were stratified by gender. Results: Boys were 2.9 (95%CI: 2.592–3.328) times more likely to be overweight/obese than girls. Partial proportional ordinal models indicate significant associations between nutritional and physical habits and perceptions variables but also significant gender differences in socio-demographic, nutritional risk factors as well as physical activity habits and perceptions. Conclusions: A clear understanding of the factors that contribute to the sex differences in nutrition and physical activity habits and perceptions may guide intervention efforts.
Modeling Networked Telemetry
Authors: Zegeye Wondimu , Dean Richard , Dugda Mulugeta , Moazzami Farzad , Bezabih Andargachew
Published: April 2021

This paper presents the modeling of the networks supporting today’s telemetry. The incorporation of networking features has significantly enhanced the capability and performance of modern telemetry systems. The development of Integrated Network-Enhanced Telemetry protocols and the use of networked telemetry applications has introduced a host of potential cybersecurity risks inherent in modern networking. This paper will investigate how telemetry applications are uniquely structured with wide-, local-, and micro-area networks that represent modern telemetry solutions. The development of these models and the traffic on these networks will enable analysis into the unique threats and vulnerabilities of telemetry networks. The core of this paper is the notion that telemetry networks are unique, and modeling these networks is key to the current work. The core premise of this paper is also that telemetry networks look and function like Supervisory Command and Data Acquisition (SCADA) networks. By digging deeply into both of these structures, we have shown here that SCADA architectures can be adapted to telemetry networks. This approach opens the door to a wealth of analysis, strategies, and solutions for telemetry networks that are well developed in the SCADA realm.
Influence of Synthesis-Related Microstructural Features on the Electrocaloric Effect for 0.9Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–0.1PbTiO3 Ceramics
Authors: Uršič Hana , Vrabelj Marko , Otoničar Mojca , Fulanović Lovro , Rožič Brigita , Kutnjak Zdravko , Bobnar Vid , Malič Barbara
Published: April 2021

Despite having a very similar electrocaloric (EC) coefficient, i.e., the EC temperature change divided by the applied electric field, the 0.9Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–0.1PbTiO3 (PMN-10PT) ceramic prepared by mechanochemical synthesis exhibits a much higher EC temperature change than the columbite-derived version, i.e., 2.37 °C at 107 °C and 115 kV/cm. The difference is due to the almost two-times-higher breakdown field of the former material, 115 kV/cm, as opposed to 57 kV/cm in the latter. While both ceramic materials have similarly high relative densities and grain sizes (>96%, ≈5 μm) and an almost correct perovskite stoichiometry, the mechanochemical synthesis contributes to a lower level of compositional deviation. The peak permittivity and saturated polarization are slightly higher and the domain structure is finer in the mechanochemically derived ceramic. The secondary phases that result from each synthesis are identified and related to different interactions of the individual materials with the electric field: an intergranular lead-silicate-based phase in the columbite-derived PMN-10PT and MgO inclusions in the mechanochemically derived ceramic.
Efficacy and Safety of Nivolumab and Ipilimumab for Advanced or Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Iinuma Koji , Kameyama Koji , Kawada Kei , Fujimoto Shota , Takagi Kimiaki , Nagai Shingo , Ito Hiroki , Ishida Takashi , Kawase Makoto , Kawase Kota , Nakai Chie , Kato Daiki , Takai Manabu , Nakane Keita , Koie Takuya
Published: April 2021

We conducted a multicenter, retrospective study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of combination nivolumab plus ipilimumab (NIVO+IPI) in 35 patients with advanced or metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). In this study, we focused on patients who received NIVO+IPI and were stratified into intermediate- or poor-risk disease according to the International Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma Database Consortium model at five institutions in Japan. The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS). Secondary endpoints were disease control rate (DCR), best overall response (BOR), objective response rate (ORR), and progression-free survival (PFS). In addition, we evaluated the role of inflammatory cell ratios, namely neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), as predictive biomarkers in patients with mRCC. The median follow-up period was 1 year, and the 1-year OS rate was 95.8%. The ORR and DCR were 34.3% and 80.0%, respectively. According to BOR, four patients (11.4%) achieved complete response. According to NLR stratification, the 1-year PFS rates were 82.6% and 23.7% when the NLR was ≤4.6 and >4.6, respectively (p = 0.04). Based on PLR stratification, the 1-year PFS rates were 81.7% and 34.3% when the PLR was ≤188.1 and >188.1, respectively (p = 0.033). Although 71.4% of the patients experienced treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) with NIVO+IPI, only four patients discontinued NIVO+IPI due to grade 3/4 TRAEs. Patients treated with NIVO+IPI as a first-line therapy for advanced or mRCC achieved relatively better oncological outcomes. Therefore, NIVO+IPI may have potential advantages and may lead to a treatment effect compared to those receiving targeted therapies. In addition, PLR >188.1 may be a useful predictive marker for mRCC patients who received NIVO+IPI.
Role of CD123 (+) Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells in Etiologically Different Variants of Erythema Multiforme: A Monocentric Retrospective Study
Authors: Zengin Hatice B. , Pukhalskaya Tatsiana , Smoller Bruce R.
Published: April 2021

Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) constitute a subset of dendritic cells known to be the “professional” interferon type I (IFN-I) producers. pDCs play an important role in antiviral immunity, as well as linking innate and adaptive immunity. Under normal conditions pDCs are not present in skin. They are shown to be a part of the inflammatory infiltrate in different skin conditions including erythema multiforme (EM). This condition is considered to be a cell-mediated immune reaction to a wide variety of agents, most commonly herpes simplex virus. Nevertheless, the pathophysiology of EM still remains unclear. In this study, we grouped 32 biopsies from 30 patients diagnosed with EM, based on their etiology and analyzed the density and distribution of CD123 positive pDCs. In all cases we observed a greatly increased number of pDCs in the dermal inflammatory infiltrate. Virally-induced EM (by herpes simplex virus (HSV) and other viruses) was more likely to have a significantly higher number of pDCs compared to non-virally associated EM. Hence, we think that pDCs play a key role in the pathogenesis of EM independent of etiology and may play an increased role in virally-associated cases. Further studies on pDCs would clarify their importance in EM and improve our understanding of the pathophysiology of this disease.
Quantitative, Dynamic 18F-FDG PET/CT in Monitoring of Smoldering Myeloma: A Case Report
Authors: Sachpekidis Christos , Türk Matthias , Dimitrakopoulou-Strauss Antonia
Published: April 2021

We report on a 52-year-old patient with an initial diagnosis of smoldering myeloma (SMM), who was monitored by means of dynamic and static positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) with the radiotracer 1⁸F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG). Baseline PET/CT revealed no pathological signs. Six months later, a transition to symptomatic, multiple myeloma (MM) was diagnosed. The transition was not accompanied by focal, hypermetabolic lesions on PET/CT. However, a diffusely increased 18F-FDG uptake in the bone marrow, accompanied by a marked increase of semi-quantitative (standardized uptake value, SUV) and quantitative, pharmacokinetic 18F-FDG parameters, was demonstrated. After successful treatment, including tandem autologous transplantation, the diffuse uptake in the bone marrow as well as the semi-quantitative and quantitative parameters showed a marked remission. This response was also confirmed by the clinical follow-up of the patient. These findings suggest that in MM a diffuse 18F-FDG uptake in the bone marrow may indeed reflect an actual bone marrow infiltration by plasma cells. Moreover, SUV values and kinetic parameters, not only from myeloma lesions but also from random bone marrow samples, may be used for MM monitoring. This could be particularly helpful in the follow-up of myeloma patients negative for 18F-FDG-avid focal lesions.
A New Method for Improving Extraction Efficiency and Purity of Urine and Plasma Cell-Free DNA
Authors: Lin Selena Y. , Luo Yue , Marshall Matthew M. , Johnson Barbara J. , Park Sung R. , Wang Zhili , Su Ying-Hsiu
Published: April 2021

This study assessed three commercially available cell-free DNA (cfDNA) extraction kits and the impact of a PEG-based DNA cleanup procedure (DNApure) on cfDNA quality and yield. Six normal donor urine and plasma samples and specimens from four pregnant (PG) women carrying male fetuses underwent extractions with the JBS cfDNA extraction kit (kit J), MagMAX Cell-Free DNA Extraction kit (kit M), and QIAamp Circulating Nucleic Acid Kit (kit Q). Recovery of a PCR product spike-in, endogenous TP53, and Y-chromosome DNA was used to assess kit performance. Nucleosomal-sized DNA profiles varied among the kits, with prominent multi-nucleosomal-sized peaks present in urine and plasma DNA isolated by kits J and M only. Kit J recovered significantly more spike-in DNA than did kits M or Q (p < 0.001) from urine, and similar amounts from plasma (p = 0.12). Applying DNApure to kit M- and Q-isolated DNA significantly improved the amplification efficiency of spike-in DNA from urine (p < 0.001) and plasma (p ≤ 0.013). Furthermore, kit J isolated significantly more Y-chromosome DNA from PG urine compared to kit Q (p = 0.05). We demonstrate that DNApure can provide an efficient means of improving the yield and purity of cfDNA and minimize the effects of pre-analytical biospecimen variability on liquid biopsy assay performance.
Complications of Outpatient and Inpatient Renal Biopsy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lin Shih-Yi , Chang Cherry Yin-Yi , Lin Cheng-Chieh , Hsu Wu-Huei , Liu I.-Wen , Lin Chia-Der , Kao Chia-Hung
Published: April 2021

Background: The evidence indicates that the optimal observation period following renal biopsy ranges between 6 and 8 h. This systematic review and meta-analysis explored whether differences exist in the complication rates of renal biopsies performed in outpatient and inpatient settings. Methods: We searched the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews from 1985 to February 2020. Two reviewers independently selected studies evaluating the bleeding risk from renal biopsies performed in outpatient and inpatient settings and reviewed their full texts. The primary and secondary outcomes were risks of bleeding and major events (including mortality) following the procedure, respectively. Subgroup analysis was conducted according to the original study design (i.e., prospective or retrospective). Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random effect meta-analysis. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 test. Results: Data from all 10 eligible studies, which included a total of 1801 patients and 203 bleeding events, were included for analysis. Renal biopsies in outpatient settings were not associated with a higher bleeding risk than those in inpatient settings (OR = 0.81; 95% CI, 0.59–1.11; I2 = 0%). The risk of major events was also comparable across both groups (OR = 0.45; 95% CI, 0.16–1.29; I2 = 4%). Conclusions: Similar rates of bleeding and major events following renal biopsy in outpatient and inpatient settings were observed.
Lung Ultrasound: Its Findings and New Applications in Neonatology and Pediatric Diseases
Authors: Iovine Elio , Nenna Raffaella , Bloise Silvia , La Regina Domenico Paolo , Pepino Daniela , Petrarca Laura , Frassanito Antonella , Lubrano Riccardo , Midulla Fabio
Published: April 2021

Lung ultrasound has become increasingly used in both adult and pediatric populations, allowing the rapid evaluation of many lung and pleura diseases. This popularity is due to several advantages of the method such as the low cost, rapidity, lack of ionizing radiation, availability of bedside and repeatability of the method. These features are even more important after the outbreak of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, given the possibility of recognizing through ultrasound the signs of interstitial lung syndrome typical of pneumonia caused by the virus. The purpose of this paper is to review the available evidence of lung ultrasound (LUS) in children and its main applications in pediatric diseases.
Optimization of Oxygen Plasma Treatment on Ohmic Contact for AlGaN/GaN HEMTs on High-Resistivity Si Substrate
Authors: Li Pengfei , Wei Shuhua , Kang Xuanwu , Zheng Yingkui , Zhang Jing , Wu Hao , Wei Ke , Yan Jiang , Liu Xinyu
Published: April 2021

The oxygen plasma surface treatment prior to ohmic metal deposition was developed to reduce the ohmic contact resistance (RC) for AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) on a high-resistive Si substrate. The oxygen plasma, which was produced by an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) etching system, has been optimized by varying the combination of radio frequency (RF) and ICP power. By using the transmission line method (TLM) measurement, an ohmic contact resistance of 0.34 Ω∙mm and a specific contact resistivity (ρC) of 3.29 × 10–6 Ω∙cm2 was obtained with the optimized oxygen plasma conditions (ICP power of 250 W, RF power of 75 W, 0.8 Pa, O2 flow of 30 cm3/min, 5 min), which was about 74% lower than that of the reference sample. Atomic force microscopy (AFM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and photoluminescence (PL) measurements revealed that a large nitrogen vacancy, which was induced near the surface by the oxygen plasma treatment, was the primary factor in the formation of low ohmic contact. Finally, this plasma treatment has been integrated into the HEMTs process, with a maximum drain saturation current of 0.77 A/mm obtained using gate bias at 2 V on AlGaN/GaN HEMTs. Oxygen plasma treatment is a simple and efficient approach, without the requirement of an additional mask or etch process, and shows promise to improve the Direct Current (DC) and RF performance for AlGaN/GaN HEMTs.
Impact of People’s Movement on Wi-Fi Link Throughput in Indoor Propagation Environments: An Empirical Study
Authors: Sarkar Nurul I , Mussa Osman , Gul Sonia
Published: April 2021

There has been tremendous growth in the deployment of Wi-Fi 802.11-based networks in recent years. Many researchers have been investigating the performance of the Wi-Fi 802.11-based networks by exploring factors such as signal interference, radio propagation environments, and wireless protocols. However, exploring the effect of people’s movement on the Wi-Fi link throughout the performance is still a potential area yet to be explored. This paper investigates the impact of people’s movement on Wi-Fi link throughput. This is achieved by setting up experimental scenarios by using a pair of wireless laptops to file share where there is human movement between the two nodes. Wi-Fi link throughput is measured in an obstructed office block, laboratory, library, and suburban residential home environments. The collected data from the experimental study show that the performance difference between fixed and random human movement had an overall average of 2.21 ± 0.07 Mbps. Empirical results show that the impact of people’s movement (fixed and random people movements) on Wi-Fi link throughput is insignificant. The findings reported in this paper provide some insights into the effect of human movement on Wi-Fi throughputs that can help network planners for the deployment of next generation Wi-Fi systems.
Opto-Electronic Oscillators for Micro- and Millimeter Wave Signal Generation
Authors: Ilgaz Mehmet Alp , Batagelj Bostjan
Published: April 2021

High-frequency signal oscillators are devices needed for a variety of scientific disciplines. One of their fundamental requirements is low phase noise in the micro- and millimeter wave ranges. The opto-electronic oscillator (OEO) is a good candidate for this, as it is capable of generating a signal with very low phase noise in the micro- and millimeter wave ranges. The OEO consists of an optical resonator with electrical feedback components. The optical components form a delay line, which has the advantage that the phase noise is independent of the oscillator’s frequency. Furthermore, by using a long delay line, the phase noise characteristics of the oscillator are improved. This makes it possible to widen the range of possible OEO applications. In this paper we have reviewed the state of the art for OEOs and micro- and millimeter wave signal generation as well as new developments for OEOs and the use of OEOs in a variety of applications. In addition, a possible implementation of a centralized OEO signal distribution as a local oscillator for a 5G radio access network (RAN) is demonstrated.
An Intensification of Biomass and Waste Char Gasification in a Gasifier
Authors: Paulauskas Rolandas , Zakarauskas Kęstutis , Striūgas Nerijus
Published: April 2021

Gasification is considered a clean and effective way to convert low quality biomass to higher value gas and solve various waste utilization problems as well. However, only 80% of biomass is converted through thermal processes. The remaining part is char, which requires more time for conversion and in that case reduces the efficiency of gasifier. Seeking to optimize the process of gasification, this work focuses on the intensification of residual char gasification in a gasifier. For this purpose, three different types of char prepared from wood, sewage sludge and tire were examined under different conditions in a lab-scale gasification setup. Results showed that the air flux increase from 0.11 kg/(m2s) to 0.32 kg/(m2s) intensified the gasification process and the gasification rate increased from 0.8 to 2.61 g/min with the decrease of duration of wood char gasification by 72%. An additional introduction of pyrolysis gas into the char gasifier led to decreased bed temperatures, but the gasification rate increased from 0.8 to 1.25 g/min and from 2.61 g/min to 2.83 g/min, respectively, for the wood char and the sewage sludge char. Moreover, the use of pyrolysis gas coupled with air as the gasifying agent enhanced the composition of produced gas from char, and the CO2 concentration decreased by 1.68 vol% while the H2 concentration increased by 2.8 vol%.
Can the Application of Municipal Sewage Sludge Compost in the Aided Phytostabilization Technique Provide an Effective Waste Management Method?
Authors: Radziemska Maja , Gusiatin Zygmunt M. , Bęś Agnieszka , Czajkowska Justyna , Mazur Zbigniew , Hammerschmiedt Tereza , Sikorski Łukasz , Kobzova Eliska , Klik Barbara K. , Sas Wojciech , Liniauskienė Ernesta , Holatko Jiri , Brtnicky Martin
Published: April 2021

(1) Background: sewage sludge is a by-product of wastewater treatment, which needs to be managed appropriately, e.g., in composting processes. The application of municipal sewage sludge composts (MSSCs) as a soil amendment is a potential way to effectively manage sewage sludge. (2) Methods: this paper presents the results of a vegetation pot experiment undertaken to assess the suitability of Dactylis glomerata L. and MSSC in the aided phytostabilization technique when applied on soils from an area effected by industrial pressure; this is characterized by high levels of heavy metal (HM). The contents of HMs in the test plant (the roots and above-ground parts), as well as in the soil and MSSC, were determined via an atomic spectrometry method. (3) Results: the application of MSSC positively contributed to an increased production of plant biomass and an increase in the pH in the soil. Concentrations of Cu, Cd, Pb, Zn, and Cr were higher in the roots than in the above-ground parts of Dactylis glomerata L. The addition of MSSC contributed most significantly to the considerable reduction in Ni, Pb, and Zn contents in the soil after the experiment. (4) Conclusions: MSSC can support the phytostabilization of soils contaminated with high levels of HMs.
The Impact of Environmental Concern on Intention to Reduce Consumption of Single-Use Bottled Water
Authors: Borusiak Barbara , Szymkowiak Andrzej , Pierański Bartłomiej , Szalonka Katarzyna
Published: April 2021

The plastic bottles that are used for packaging water are harmful to the environment. The objective of this study was to examine the influence of consumers’ environmental concern on both their intention to reduce consumption of water sold in single-use plastic bottles and their actual behaviour. An extended version of the theory of planned behaviour is used as the main theoretical framework. Structural equation modelling is employed based on data gathered in 2020 from 1011 Polish respondents to test the study’s hypotheses. The results support the model, as all tested relations are statistically significant. More specifically, we confirm the indirect impact of environmental concern on both intention and behaviour concerning bottled water consumption (BWC): environmental concern is positively related to attitudes towards reducing BWC, subjective norms regarding reduction in BWC, perceived behavioural control over BWC, and perceived moral obligation to protect natural resources, all of which, in turn, are positively related to intention to reduce BWC. We also prove that intention to reduce BWC is positively related to consumption of non-bottled water. The results may serve to guide decision makers seeking to promote ecologically friendly behaviour.
Residential Photovoltaic Profitability with Storage under the New Spanish Regulation: A Multi-Scenario Analysis
Authors: Domenech Bruno , Calleja Gema , Olivella Jordi
Published: April 2021

In recent years, solar price drops and regulations have helped residential users to invest in grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) facilities. In Spain, a novel law promotes self-consumption by discounting electricity fed into the grid from the utility bill. However, the performance of PV-based facilities depends on diverse factors. The contribution of this paper is to evaluate the techno-economic performance of such installations for different considerations linked to the Spanish law. A simulation model is used to examine different representative cities, load profiles and alternative objectives: maximising profitability and self-sufficiency. For profit maximisation, results show that load profile variations entail PV size changes up to 5 kWp for the same location, together with huge economic and self-sufficiency differences. In contrast, the solar radiation and compensation rate have a more limited influence. For self-sufficiency maximisation, the economic performance drops close to EUR 0, as benefits are used to double the PV size, buy batteries and reach close to 70% self-sufficiency. Finally, a sensitivity analysis shows a limited impact of the utility tariff and the technology cost on the PV size, but a relevant influence on the benefits. These results can help investors and families to quantify the risks and benefits of domestic self-consumption facilities.
A Sizing Method for PV–Battery–Generator Systems for Off-Grid Applications Based on the LCOE
Authors: Kosmadakis Ioannis E. , Elmasides Costas
Published: April 2021

Electricity supply in nonelectrified areas can be covered by distributed renewable energy systems. The main disadvantage of these systems is the intermittent and often unpredictable nature of renewable energy sources. Moreover, the temporal distribution of renewable energy may not match that of energy demand. Systems that combine photovoltaic modules with electrical energy storage (EES) can eliminate the above disadvantages. However, the adoption of such solutions is often financially prohibitive. Therefore, all parameters that lead to a functionally reliable and self-sufficient power generation system should be carefully considered during the design phase of such systems. This study proposes a sizing method for off-grid electrification systems consisting of photovoltaics (PV), batteries, and a diesel generator set. The method is based on the optimal number of PV panels and battery energy capacity whilst minimizing the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) for a period of 25 years. Validations against a synthesized load profile produced grid-independent systems backed by different accumulator technologies, with LCOEs ranging from 0.34 EUR/kWh to 0.46 EUR/kWh. The applied algorithm emphasizes a parameter of useful energy as a key output parameter for which the solar harvest is maximized in parallel with the minimization of the LCOE.
Adaptive Online-Learning Volt-Var Control for Smart Inverters Using Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Beyer Kirstin , Beckmann Robert , Geißendörfer Stefan , von Maydell Karsten , Agert Carsten
Published: April 2021

The increasing penetration of the power grid with renewable distributed generation causes significant voltage fluctuations. Providing reactive power helps balancing the voltage in the grid. This paper proposes a novel adaptive volt-var control algorithm on the basis of deep reinforcement learning. The learning agent is an online-learning deep deterministic policy gradient that is applicable under real-time conditions in smart inverters for reactive power management. The algorithm only uses input data from the grid connection point of the inverter itself; thus, no additional communication devices are needed and it can be applied individually to any inverter in the grid. The proposed volt-var control is successfully simulated at various grid connection points in a 21-bus low-voltage distribution test feeder. The resulting voltage behavior is analyzed and a systematic voltage reduction is observed both in a static grid environment and a dynamic environment. The proposed algorithm enables flexible adaption to changing environments through continuous exploration during the learning process and, thus, contributes to a decentralized, automated voltage control in future power grids.
Transformers Improvement and Environment Conservation by Using Synthetic Esters in Egypt
Authors: Radwan Ali , Diab Ahmed , Elsayed Abo-Hashima , Mohamed Yehya , Haes Alhelou Hassan , Siano Pierluigi
Published: April 2021

Distribution transformer (DT) is a crucial component in power systems as it exchanges energies between different voltage levels or between utility grid and DC microgrids. Nevertheless, the operation of an oil-immersed DT is limited by the thermal and electrical capabilities of the internal insulating liquid. This paper aims to raise the efficiency of distribution transformers and preserve the environment by using a biodegradable insulating liquid instead of the conventional mineral insulating oil (MIO). This work examines the Egyptian case, where a real distribution network located in middle Egypt is selected as a pilot project. Study and analysis of the status que of the insulation system inside DTs are done with the aid of fault-tree analysis. The deficiency of the insulation system is confirmed by conducting an electronic survey of 100 expert participants. The most appropriate solution among three different alternatives is confirmed using the weighting and ranking method. The best choice suitable for the selected area is the substitution of MIO by synthetic ester (SE). The technical and environmental advantages achieved by the presented solution are discussed. The feasibility studies have proven that the solution is positively acceptable in all aspects. An execution plan is established for the application of proposed solution on the selected Egyptian distribution network.
Modelling the Effects of Climate Change on the Distribution of Endangered Cypripedium japonicum in China
Authors: Xu Yadong , Huang Yi , Zhao Huiru , Yang Meiling , Zhuang Yuqi , Ye Xinping
Published: April 2021

Cypripedium japonicum is an endangered terrestrial orchid species with high ornamental and medicinal value. As global warming continues to intensify, the survival of C. japonicum will be further challenged. Understanding the impact of climate change on its potential distribution is of great significance to conserve this species. In this study, we established an ensemble species distribution model based on occurrence records of C. japonicum and 13 environmental variables to predict its potential distribution under current and future climatic conditions. The results show that the true skill statistic (TSS), Cohen’s kappa statistic (Kappa), and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) values of the ensemble model were 0.968, 0.906, and 0.995, respectively, providing more robust predictions. The key environmental variables affecting the distribution of C. japonicum were the precipitation in the warmest quarter (Bio18) and the mean temperature in the driest quarter (Bio9). Under future climatic conditions, the total suitable habitat of C. japonicum will increase slightly and tend to migrate northwestward, but the highly suitable areas will be severely lost. By 2070, the loss of its highly suitable habitat area will reach 57.69–72.24% under representative concentration pathway (RCP) 4.5 and 8.5 respectively, and the highly suitable habitats in Zhejiang and Anhui will almost disappear. It is noteworthy that the highly suitable habitat of C. japonicum has never crossed the Qinba mountainous area during the migration process of the suitable habitat to the northwest. Meanwhile, as the best-preserved area of highly suitable habitat for C. japonicum in the future, the Qinba mountainous area is of great significance to protect the wild germplasm resources of C. japonicum. In addition, we found that most of the changes predicted for 2070 will already be seen in 2050; the problem of climate change may be more urgent than it is believed.
Establishment of Regional Phytoremediation Buffer Systems for Ecological Restoration in the Great Lakes Basin, USA. I. Genotype × Environment Interactions
Authors: Zalesny Ronald S. , Pilipović Andrej , Rogers Elizabeth R. , Burken Joel G. , Hallett Richard A. , Lin Chung-Ho , McMahon Bernard G. , Nelson Neil D. , Wiese Adam H. , Bauer Edmund O. , Buechel Larry , DeBauche Brent S. , Peterson Mike , Seegers Ray , Vinhal Ryan A.
Published: April 2021

Poplar remediation systems are ideal for reducing runoff, cleaning groundwater, and delivering ecosystem services to the North American Great Lakes and globally. We used phyto-recurrent selection (PRS) to establish sixteen phytoremediation buffer systems (phyto buffers) (buffer groups: 2017 × 6; 2018 × 5; 2019 × 5) throughout the Lake Superior and Lake Michigan watersheds comprised of twelve PRS-selected clones each year. We tested for differences in genotypes, environments, and their interactions for health, height, diameter, and volume from ages one to four years. All trees had optimal health. Mean first-, second-, and third-year volume ranged from 71 ± 26 to 132 ± 39 cm3; 1440 ± 575 to 5765 ± 1132 cm3; and 8826 ± 2646 to 10,530 ± 2110 cm3, respectively. Fourth-year mean annual increment of 2017 buffer group trees ranged from 1.1 ± 0.7 to 7.8 ± 0.5 Mg ha−1 yr−1. We identified generalist varieties with superior establishment across a broad range of buffers (‘DM114’, ‘NC14106’, ‘99038022’, ‘99059016’) and specialist clones uniquely adapted to local soil and climate conditions (‘7300502’, ‘DN5’, ‘DN34’, ‘DN177’, ‘NM2’, ‘NM5’, ‘NM6’). Using generalists and specialists enhances the potential for phytoremediation best management practices that are geographically robust, being regionally designed yet globally relevant.
Effects of Temperature on Anoplophora chinensis (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) Adult Survival, Reproduction, and Egg Hatch
Authors: Keena Melody A. , Moore Paul M. , Bradford Gregg
Published: April 2021

Anoplophora chinensis (Forster) is an invasive species that can damage many tree species in orchard, urban, and forested habitats. Adult survival, reproduction, and egg hatch of A. chinensis from Italy and China are evaluated at eight constant temperatures (5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40 °C) under laboratory conditions. The estimated Tmax for longevity was 42 and 33 °C for females and 42 and 39 °C for males from China and Italy, respectively. The estimated Tmax, Tmin, and optimum temperature for fecundity were 35, 9, and 29 °C, respectively. Females laid eggs at 15–30 °C and eggs hatched at 15–35 °C. Days to first oviposition increased exponentially from 13 days at 30 °C to >300 days near 10 °C. The estimated Tmin for egg hatch was 13 °C, the Tmax at 38 °C, and the optimum 29 °C. Percentage hatch was estimated to be highest at 26 °C and have a Tmax of 31 °C and Tmin of 10 °C. These results indicate that summer temperatures over a wide range of latitudes should support beetle survival and reproduction, but at temperatures ≥35 °C, oviposition ceases, and adult survivorship declines. In addition, females may survive into the fall, but lay fewer eggs that may not hatch. These responses of A. chinensis to temperature can be used for developing phenological models to predict the timing of stages for management or eradication efforts.
Oleaginous Yeasts as Cell Factories for the Sustainable Production of Microbial Lipids by the Valorization of Agri-Food Wastes
Authors: Caporusso Antonio , Capece Angela , De Bari Isabella
Published: April 2021

The agri-food industry annually produces huge amounts of crops residues and wastes, the suitable management of these products is important to increase the sustainability of agro-industrial production by optimizing the entire value chain. This is also in line with the driving principles of the circular economy, according to which residues can become feedstocks for novel processes. Oleaginous yeasts represent a versatile tool to produce biobased chemicals and intermediates. They are flexible microbial factories able to grow on different side-stream carbon sources such as those deriving from agri-food wastes, and this characteristic makes them excellent candidates for integrated biorefinery processes through the production of microbial lipids, known as single cell oils (SCOs), for different applications. This review aims to present an extensive overview of research progress on the production and use of oleaginous yeasts and present discussions on the current bottlenecks and perspectives of their exploitation in different sectors, such as foods, biofuels and fine chemicals.
Microbiota of Chicken Breast and Thigh Fillets Stored under Different Refrigeration Temperatures Assessed by Next-Generation Sequencing
Authors: Dourou Dimitra , Spyrelli Evgenia D. , Doulgeraki Agapi I. , Argyri Anthoula A. , Grounta Athena , Nychas George-John E. , Chorianopoulos Nikos G. , Tassou Chrysoula C.
Published: April 2021

Chicken is one of the most widely consumed meats worldwide. The exploration of the bacterial diversity of chicken meat may provide new insights into the chicken-associated microbiome that will lead to moderation of food spoilage or safety. This study was undertaken to explore the bacterial communities of chicken breast and thigh fillets stored at refrigeration (0 °C and 5 °C) and slightly abuse (10 °C) temperatures for 5 days through conventional cultural methods along with next-generation sequencing (NGS) analysis. Total viable counts (TVC), Brochothrix thermosphacta, Pseudomonas spp., and lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were enumerated, while the bacterial communities were mapped through 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. Chicken breast and thigh fillets possessed a complex bacterial structure that incorporated a total of >200 Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs) at the genus level. The core microbiota of fresh samples consisted of Acinetobacter, Brochothrix, Flavobacterium, Pseudomonas, Psychrobacter, and Vibrionaceae (family). These genera persisted until the end of storage in >80% of samples, except Psychrobacter and Flavobacterium, while Photobacterium was also identified. Hierarchical clustering showed a distinction of samples based on storage time and chicken part. Conventional plate counting with growth media commonly used in spoilage studies did not always correspond to the microbial community profiles derived from NGS analysis, especially in Pseudomonas, Acinetobacter, Photobacterium, and Vibrionaceae. Results of the present study highlight Photobacterium and Vibrionaceae, in general, as potent chicken meat spoilers and suggest the necessity to combine classical microbiological methods along with NGS technologies to characterize chicken meat spoilage microbiota.
Possibilities of the Development of Edible Insect-Based Foods in Europe
Authors: Skotnicka Magdalena , Karwowska Kaja , Kłobukowski Filip , Borkowska Aleksandra , Pieszko Magdalena
Published: April 2021

All over the world, a large proportion of the population consume insects as part of their diet. In Western countries, however, the consumption of insects is perceived as a negative phenomenon. The consumption of insects worldwide can be considered in two ways: on the one hand, as a source of protein in countries affected by hunger, while, on the other, as an alternative protein in highly-developed regions, in response to the need for implementing policies of sustainable development. This review focused on both the regulations concerning the production and marketing of insects in Europe and the characteristics of edible insects that are most likely to establish a presence on the European market. The paper indicates numerous advantages of the consumption of insects, not only as a valuable source of protein but also as a raw material rich in valuable fatty acids, vitamins, and mineral salts. Attention was paid to the functional properties of proteins derived from insects, and to the possibility for using them in the production of functional food. The study also addresses the hazards which undoubtedly contribute to the mistrust and lowered acceptance of European consumers and points to the potential gaps in the knowledge concerning the breeding conditions, raw material processing and health safety. This set of analyzed data allows us to look optimistically at the possibilities for the development of edible insect-based foods, particularly in Europe.