bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial Distribution of Focal Lesions in Whole-Body MRI and Influence of MRI Protocol on Staging in Patients with Smoldering Multiple Myeloma According to the New SLiM-CRAB-Criteria
Authors: Wennmann Markus , Hielscher Thomas , Kintzelé Laurent , Menze Bjoern H. , Langs Georg , Merz Maximilian , Sauer Sandra , Kauczor Hans-Ulrich , Schlemmer Heinz-Peter , Delorme Stefan , Goldschmidt Hartmut , Weinhold Niels , Hillengass Jens , Weber Marc-André
Published: September 2020

The purpose of this study was to assess how different MRI protocols (spinal vs. spinal plus pelvic vs. whole-body (wb)-MRI) affect staging in patients with smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM), according to the SLiM-CRAB-criterion ‘>1 focal lesion (FL) in MRI’. In this retrospective study, a baseline cohort of 147 SMM patients with wb-MRI at initial diagnosis was investigated, including prognostic data regarding development of CRAB-criteria. Fifty-two patients formed a follow-up cohort with a median of three wb-MRIs. The locations of all FLs were determined and it was calculated how staging decisions regarding the criterion ‘>1 FL in MRI’ would have been made if only a limited anatomic area (spine vs. spine plus pelvis) would have been covered by the MRI protocol. Furthermore, subgroups of patients selected by different cutoff-protocol-combinations were compared regarding their prognosis for development of CRAB-criteria. With an MRI protocol limited to spine/spine plus pelvis, only 28%/64% of patients who actually had >1 FL in wb-MRI would have been rated correctly as having ‘>1 FL in MRI’. Fifty-four percent/36% of patients with exactly 1 FL in spine/spine plus pelvis revealed >1 FL when the entire wb-MRI was analyzed. During follow-up, four more patients developed >1 FL in wb-MRI; both limited MRI protocols would have detected only one of these four patients as having >1 FL at the correct timepoint. Having >1 FL in spine/in spine plus pelvis/in the whole body was associated with a 43%/57%/49% probability of developing CRAB-criteria within 2 years. Patients with >3 FL in spine plus pelvis and patients with >4 FL in the whole body had an 80% probability to develop CRAB-criteria within 2 years. MRI protocols limited to the spine or to spine plus pelvis lead to substantial underdiagnoses of patients who actually have >1 FL in wb-MRI at baseline and during follow-up, which influences staging and treatment decisions according to the current SLiM-CRAB criteria. However, given the spatial distribution of FLs and the analysis on clinical course of patients indicates that the cutoff for the number of FLs should be adopted according to the MRI protocol when using MRI for staging in SMM.
RASAL1 and ROS1 Gene Variants in Hereditary Breast Cancer
Authors: Isidori Federica , Bozzarelli Isotta , Ferrari Simona , Godino Lea , Innella Giovanni , Turchetti Daniela , Bonora Elena
Published: September 2020

Breast cancer (BC) is the second leading cause of death in women. BC patients with family history or clinical features suggestive of inherited predisposition are candidate to genetic testing to determine whether a hereditary cancer syndrome is present. We aimed to identify new predisposing variants in familial BC patients using next-generation sequencing approaches. We performed whole exome sequencing (WES) in first-degree cousin pairs affected by hereditary BC negative at the BRCA1/2 (BReast CAncer gene 1/2) testing. Targeted analysis, for the genes resulting mutated via WES, was performed in additional 131 independent patients with a suspected hereditary predisposition (negative at the BRCA1/2 testing). We retrieved sequencing data for the mutated genes from WES of 197 Italian unrelated controls to perform a case-controls collapsing analysis. We found damaging variants in NPL (N-Acetylneuraminate Pyruvate Lyase), POLN (DNA Polymerase Nu), RASAL1 (RAS Protein Activator Like 1) and ROS1 (ROS Proto-Oncogene 1, Receptor Tyrosine Kinase), shared by the corresponding cousin pairs. We demonstrated that the splice site alterations identified in NPL and ROS1 (in two different pairs, respectively) impaired the formation of the correct transcripts. Target analysis in additional patients identified novel and rare damaging variants in RASAL1 and ROS1, with a significant allele frequency increase in cases. Moreover, ROS1 achieved a significantly higher proportion of variants among cases in comparison to our internal control database of Italian subjects (p = 0.0401). Our findings indicate that germline variants in ROS1 and RASAL1 might confer susceptibility to BC.
Combination Treatment with GSK126 and Pomalidomide Induces B-Cell Differentiation in EZH2 Gain-of-Function Mutant Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Park Sungryul , Jo Seung-Hyun , Kim Jong-Hwan , Kim Seon-Young , Ha Jae Du , Hwang Jong Yeon , Lee Myeong Youl , Kang Jong Soon , Han Tae-Su , Park Sung Goo , Kim Sunhong , Park Byoung Chul , Kim Jeong-Hoon
Published: September 2020

Enhancer of zeste 2 polycomb repressive complex 2 subunit (EZH2), the catalytic subunit of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), regulates genes involved in cell lineage and differentiation through methylating lysine 27 on histone H3 (H3K27me3). Recurrent gain-of-function mutations of EZH2 have been identified in various cancer types, in particular, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), through large-scale genome-wide association studies and EZH2 depletion or pharmacological inhibition has been shown to exert an antiproliferative effect on cancer cells, both in vitro and in vivo. In the current study, a combination of pomalidomide and GSK126 synergistically inhibited the growth of EZH2 gain-of-function mutant Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) cells. Furthermore, this synergistic effect appeared to be dependent on cereblon (CRBN), a cellular receptor of pomalidomide, but not degradation of IKAROS family zinc finger 1 (IKZF1) or IKAROS family zinc finger 3 (IKZF3). RNA sequencing analyses revealed that co-treatment with GSK126 and pomalidomide induced specific gene sets involved in B-cell differentiation and apoptosis. Synergistic growth inhibition and B-cell differentiation were further validated in xenograft mouse models. Our collective results provide a molecular basis for the mechanisms underlying the combined therapeutic effects of PRC2 inhibitors and pomalidomide on EZH2-mutated DLBCL.
Application of Heterogeneous Catalysts for Biodiesel Production from Microalgal Oil—A Review
Authors: Faruque Mohammed O. , Razzak Shaikh A. , Hossain Mohammad M.
Published: September 2020

The depletion of fossil fuel reserves and increased environmental concerns related to fossil fuel production and combustion has forced the global communities to search for renewable fuels. In this regard, microalgae-based biodiesel has been considered as one of the interesting alternatives. Biodiesel production from the cultivation of microalgae is eco-friendly and sustainable. Moreover, microalgae have several advantages over other bioenergy sources, including their good photosynthetic capacity and faster growth rates. The productivity of microalgae per unit land area is also significantly higher than that of terrestrial plants. The produced microalgae biomass is rich with high quality lipids, which can be converted into biodiesel by transesterification reactions. Generally, the transesterification reactions are carried out in the presence of a homogeneous or heterogeneous catalyst. The homogeneous catalysts have many disadvantages, including their single use, slow reaction rate and saponification issues due to the presence of fatty acids in the feedstock. The acidic nature of the homogeneous catalysts also causes equipment corrosion. On the other hand, the heterogeneous catalysts offer several advantages, including their reusability, higher reaction rate and selectivity, easy product/catalyst separation and low cost. Due to these facts, the development of solid phase transesterification catalysts have been receiving growing interest. The present review is focused on the use of heterogeneous catalysts for biodiesel production from microalgal oil as a reliable feedstock with a comparison to other available feedstocks. It also highlights optimal reaction conditions for maximum biodiesel yields, reusability of the solid catalysts, cost, and environmental impact. The superior lipid content of microalgae and the efficient concurrent esterification and transesterification of the solid acid−base catalysts can offer new advancements in biodiesel production.
“Repair Me if You Can”: Membrane Damage, Response, and Control from the Viral Perspective
Authors: Daussy Coralie F. , Wodrich Harald
Published: September 2020

Cells are constantly challenged by pathogens (bacteria, virus, and fungi), and protein aggregates or chemicals, which can provoke membrane damage at the plasma membrane or within the endo-lysosomal compartments. Detection of endo-lysosomal rupture depends on a family of sugar-binding lectins, known as galectins, which sense the abnormal exposure of glycans to the cytoplasm upon membrane damage. Galectins in conjunction with other factors orchestrate specific membrane damage responses such as the recruitment of the endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) machinery to either repair damaged membranes or the activation of autophagy to remove membrane remnants. If not controlled, membrane damage causes the release of harmful components including protons, reactive oxygen species, or cathepsins that will elicit inflammation. In this review, we provide an overview of current knowledge on membrane damage and cellular responses. In particular, we focus on the endo-lysosomal damage triggered by non-enveloped viruses (such as adenovirus) and discuss viral strategies to control the cellular membrane damage response. Finally, we debate the link between autophagy and inflammation in this context and discuss the possibility that virus induced autophagy upon entry limits inflammation.
Climate Change and Alpine Screes: No Future for Glacial Relict Papaver occidentale (Papaveraceae) in Western Prealps
Authors: Fragnière Yann , Pittet Loïc , Clément Benoît , Bétrisey Sébastien , Gerber Emanuel , Ronikier Michał , Parisod Christian , Kozlowski Gregor
Published: September 2020

Glacial relicts, especially those with very narrow habitat requirements, are particularly affected by global warming. We considered Papaver occidentale, a glacial relict endemic to the Western Prealps, belonging to the alpine poppy complex (P. alpinum aggr.), as a model taxon to study the actual status and potential future distribution of species restricted to particular microrefugia. For this study, all known localities were visited, each population was georeferenced and the number of individuals was estimated. Species Distribution Modelling (SDM) was used to evaluate the present and future potential distribution range and habitat suitability, taking into account the specificity of its habitat (calcareous screes). According to our study, there are globally 19 natural populations of P. occidentale, and a total of about 30,000 individuals. The taxon is a highly specialized alpine plant growing in the majority of natural sites between 1900 and 2100 m a.s.l. on north-facing screes. Predictions for the end of the 21st century indicate that a suitable area will significantly decrease (0–30% remaining). Under the most severe climatic scenarios (RCP 8.5), the species risks complete extinction. The long-term in situ conservation of P. occidentale, and all other taxa of the P. alpinum complex, is unlikely to be achieved without slowing global climate change. More generally, our fine-scale study shows that local environmental buffering of large-scale climate change in high-mountain flora may be very limited in specialised taxa of patchy environments such as screes.
Application of Cloud Model in Qualitative Forecasting for Stock Market Trends
Authors: Hassen Oday A. , Darwish Saad M. , Abu Nur A. , Abidin Zaheera Z.
Published: September 2020

Forecasting stock prices plays an important role in setting a trading strategy or determining the appropriate timing for buying or selling a stock. The use of technical analysis for financial forecasting has been successfully employed by many researchers. The existing qualitative based methods developed based on fuzzy reasoning techniques cannot describe the data comprehensively, which has greatly limited the objectivity of fuzzy time series in uncertain data forecasting. Extended fuzzy sets (e.g., fuzzy probabilistic set) study the fuzziness of the membership grade to a concept. The cloud model, based on probability measure space, automatically produces random membership grades of a concept through a cloud generator. In this paper, a cloud model-based approach was proposed to confirm accurate stock based on Japanese candlestick. By incorporating probability statistics and fuzzy set theories, the cloud model can aid the required transformation between the qualitative concepts and quantitative data. The degree of certainty associated with candlestick patterns can be calculated through repeated assessments by employing the normal cloud model. The hybrid weighting method comprising the fuzzy time series, and Heikin–Ashi candlestick was employed for determining the weights of the indicators in the multi-criteria decision-making process. Fuzzy membership functions are constructed by the cloud model to deal effectively with uncertainty and vagueness of the stock historical data with the aim to predict the next open, high, low, and close prices for the stock. The experimental results prove the feasibility and high forecasting accuracy of the proposed model.
A Novel Method Based on Multi-Island Genetic Algorithm Improved Variational Mode Decomposition and Multi-Features for Fault Diagnosis of Rolling Bearing
Authors: Liang Tao , Lu Hao
Published: September 2020

Aiming at the problem that it is difficult to extract fault features from the nonlinear and non-stationary vibration signals of wind turbine rolling bearings, which leads to the low diagnosis and recognition rate, a feature extraction method based on multi-island genetic algorithm (MIGA) improved variational mode decomposition (VMD) and multi-features is proposed. The decomposition effect of the VMD method is limited by the number of decompositions and the selection of penalty factors. This paper uses MIGA to optimize the parameters. The improved VMD method is used to decompose the vibration signal into a number of intrinsic mode functions (IMF), and a group of components containing the most information is selected through the Holder coefficient. For these components, multi-features based on Renyi entropy feature, singular value feature, and Hjorth parameter feature are extracted as the final feature vector, which is input to the classifier to realize the fault diagnosis of rolling bearing. The experimental results prove that the proposed method can more effectively extract the fault characteristics of rolling bearings. The fault diagnosis model based on this method can accurately identify bearing signals of 16 different fault types, severity, and damage points.
The Impact of Special Allocation Fund (DAK) for Health on Achievements of Health Development Performance in Indonesia
Authors: Apriliani Agnes Putri , Khoirunurrofik Khoirunurrofik
Published: September 2020

In the implementation of decentralization, the Special Allocation Fund (DAK) for health is given to certain areas of Indonesia to support health financing. The performance of this financing, along with national health development priorities’ achievements, is illustrated through the indicators of coverage of deliveries in health care facilities (PF) and coverage of first neonatal visits (KN1). Yearly increases in the health DAK budget have not been accompanied by increases in these coverages, and there are still significant disparities between regions. Using secondary data at the district/city level for 2014–2017, this study aims to investigate the impact of health DAK on coverage of PF and KN1. The analytical method deployed is linear regression of panel data using a fixed-effects model. The results show that in the short term, health DAK has a positive but insignificant effect on PF and KN1 coverage. However, health DAK has a positive and significant impact on PF coverage in the second year. Impact on KN1 coverage is unfeasible, even over a period of two years. These results indicate that the processes of planning, budgeting, and administering of health DAK require improvement so that benefits can be felt in the short term through better innovations in health programs. Nevertheless, given that our findings are based on a short period of study, the results from such analyses should consequently be treated with the utmost caution Therefore, future research should target a longer period of data collection to detect more trusty lagged effects and structural breaks of a policy intervention.
Soft and Transferable Skills Acquisition through Organizing a Doctoral Conference
Authors: Camarinha-Matos Luis M. , Goes João , Gomes Luis , Pereira Pedro
Published: September 2020

This article presents a 10-year experience of soft and transferable skills acquisition through the involvement of PhD students in the organization of an international conference. Soft and transferable skills acquisition is currently perceived as a core component of doctoral studies. Examples include writing and communication, teamwork, time management, leadership, resource management, negotiation, problem solving, listening, planning, entrepreneurial spirit, mastering ethics awareness, etc. The need for such skills is due to the leading role that doctoral students are expected to play in society. As such, various organizations have issued recommendations for doctoral programs to include a formal component of soft skills training. In this article, an effective way of introducing soft and transferable skills acquisition in doctoral engineering education is introduced. Namely, a form of collaborative project-based learning is designed as a compulsory course. This includes a set of base lectures, a long period of parallel working groups focusing on the various aspects of organizing an international conference, running the actual conference, and performing a post-conference assessment. Results and lessons learned demonstrate the validity and effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Novel Frequency-Selective Rasorber with Ultrawide Absorption Bandwidth Covering Both the X- and Ku-Bands
Authors: Xiong Jie , Wu Yanjie , Mao Yu , Deng Feng , Chen Lijie , Lin Hai
Published: September 2020

A novel dual-polarized transmissive/absorptive frequency-selective rasorber (FSR) with an ultrawide absorption spectrum covering both the X- and Ku-bands is proposed in this paper. The FSR is constructed from a bottom lossless transmission layer and a top lossy absorption layer, in which a resistor-loaded incurved square loop strip line structure is utilized to obtain an ultrawide absorption band. To quantitatively analyze its operation principle, an accurate equivalent circuit model of the proposed FSR was developed. A 2D prototype was designed, assembled, fabricated, and measured. The FSR exhibits an absorption band that ranges from 8.1 to 19.1 GHz (81%) under normal incidence, whereas the passband insertion loss at 4.5 GHz is less than 0.45 dB. The total thickness of the FSR is only 5.1 mm, which keeps low profile characteristics. The simulation agrees well with the measured results.
Affordable and Faster Transradial Prosthetic Socket Production Using Photogrammetry and 3D Printing
Authors: Ismail Rifky , Taqriban Rilo Berdin , Ariyanto Mochammad , Atmaja Ali Tri , Sugiyanto  , Caesarendra Wahyu , Glowacz Adam , Irfan Muhammad , Glowacz Witold
Published: September 2020

This study aims to invent a new, low-cost, and faster method of prosthetic socket fabrication, especially in Indonesia. In this paper, the photogrammetry with the 3D printing method is introduced as the new applicative way for transradial prosthetic making. Photogrammetry is used to retrieve a 3D model of the amputated hand stump using a digital camera. A digital camera is used for photogrammetry technique and the resulting 3D model is printed using a circular 3D printer with Polylactic acid (PLA) material. The conventional casting socket fabrication method was also conducted in this study as a comparison. Both prosthetic sockets were analyzed for usability, and sectional area conformities to determine the size deviation using the image processing method. This study concludes that the manufacturing of transradial prosthetic sockets incorporating the photogrammetry technique reduces the total man-hour production. Based on the results, it can be implied that the photogrammetry technique is a more efficient and economical method compared to the conventional casting method. The 3D printed socket resulting from the photogrammetry method has a 5–19% area deviation to the casting socket but it is still preferable and adjustable for the transradial amputee when applied to the stump of the remaining hand.
Investigation of Pulverized Biomass and Coal Char Emissivity
Authors: Pörtner Lukas , Gu Ying , Schiemann Martin
Published: September 2020

Current work presents an optical setup, its calibration and reference process and the first results from single particle emissivity measurements of pulverized biomass and coal fuel particles. In contrast to earlier attempts, the setup offers the possibility of emissivity measurements during the whole particle burn-off. A laser ignites a single particle, placed in the center of the setup. Two photomultipliers observe the emitted particle radiation in the visible range (550 nm and 700 nm) for temperature calculation, using two-color pyrometry. An InSb-detector records the emitted particle radiation between 2.4 µm and 5.5 µm, which is later used to calculate particle emissivity in this range. The conclusion of multiple particle measurements lead to decreasing particle emissivity with increasing temperature. For coal particles the emissivity decreases from 0.45 at 2300 K to 0.03 at 3400 K. Biomass char shows a similar trend with a decrease from 0.18 (2100 K) to 0.03 (2900 K).
Non-Intrusive Identification of Load Patterns in Smart Homes Using Percentage Total Harmonic Distortion
Authors: Devarapalli Hari Prasad , Dhanikonda V. S. S. Siva Sarma , Gunturi Sitarama Brahmam
Published: September 2020

Demand Response (DR) plays a vital role in a smart grid, helping consumers plan their usage patterns and optimize electricity consumption and also reduce harmonic pollution in a distribution grid without compromising on their needs. The first step of DR is the disaggregation of loads and identifying them individually. The literature suggests that this is accomplished through electric features. Present-day households are using modern power electronic-based nonlinear loads such as LED (Light Emitting Diode) lamps, electronic regulators and digital controllers to reduce the electricity consumption. Furthermore, usage of SMPS (Switched-Mode Power Supply) for computing and mobile phone chargers is increasing in every home. These nonlinear loads, while reducing electricity consumption, also introduce harmonic pollution into the distribution grid. This article presents a deterministic approach to the non-intrusive identification of load patterns using percentage Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) for DR management from a Power Quality perspective. The percentage THD of various combinations of loads is estimated by enhanced dual-spectrum line interpolated FFT (Fast Fourier Transform) with a four-term minimal side-lobe window using a LabVIEW-based hardware setup in real time. The results demonstrate that percentage THD identifies a different combination of loads effectively and advocates alternate load combinations for recommending to the consumer to reduce harmonic pollution in the distribution grid.
Double Linker Triphenylamine Dyes for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Holliman Peter J. , Mohsen Moneer , Connell Arthur , Kershaw Christopher P. , Meza-Rojas Diana , Jones Eurig W. , Geatches Dawn , Sen Kakali , Hsiao Ya-Wen
Published: September 2020

Most organic dyes synthesized for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSC) use a single linker group to bind to the metal oxide photo-anode. Here we describe the synthesis and testing of two new triphenylamine dyes containing either two carboxylic acids 5-[2-(4-diphenylamino-phenyl)-vinyl]-isophthalic acid (10) or two cyanoacrylic acids (2Z, 2′Z)-3, 3′-(5-((E)-4-(diphenylamino) styryl)-1, 3-phenylene) bis (2-cyanoacrylic acid) (8) as linker groups. Full characterization data are reported for these dyes and their synthetic intermediates. DSC devices have been prepared from these new dyes either by passive or fast dyeing and the dyes have also been tested in co-sensitized DSC devices leading to a PCE (η = 5.4%) for the double cyanoacrylate linker dye (8) co-sensitized with D149. The dye:TiO2 surface interactions and dye excitations are interpreted using three modelling methods: density functional theory (at 0 K); molecular dynamics (at 298 K); time dependent density functional theory. The modelling results show the preferred orientation of both dyes on an anatase (1 0 1) TiO2 surface to be horizontal, and both the simulated and experimental absorption spectra of the dye molecules indicate a red shifted band for (8) compared to (10). This is in line with broader light harvesting and Jsc for (8) compared to (10).
Cumulative Fatigue Damage Balancing for Modular Multilevel Converter
Authors: Wang Longjun , Ou Guoping , Zhou Zhenwei , Wang Gang , Yu Pengfei , Zhang Zheng
Published: September 2020

With many advantages, modular multilevel convert (MMC) has been extensively used in high and medium voltage power transmission projects. The thermal performance and reliability of components in MMC are key issues in system operation. However, in the current research on the reliability of MMC components, there are few methods to improve service lifetime expectancy of the components. This paper proposes a balance control algorithm, based on the cumulative fatigue damage of components, feedback to the control terminal for allocating the sub-module (SM) operating state and generating trigger pulses. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is verified and discussed in case studies. It is found that this algorithm is able to improve the aging degree of components in the meanwhile, the improvement in MMC reliability comes at the cost of slightly increasing capacitor voltage fluctuations and total harmonic distortion (THD). Due to the limitation of capacitor thermal performance, SM capacitor banks become a weak link in MMC reliability.
Data Driven Robust Energy and Reserve Dispatch Based on a Nonparametric Dirichlet Process Gaussian Mixture Model
Authors: Dai Li , You Dahai , Yin Xianggen
Published: September 2020

Traditional robust optimization methods use box uncertainty sets or gamma uncertainty sets to describe wind power uncertainty. However, these uncertainty sets fail to utilize wind forecast error probability information and assume that the wind forecast error is symmetrical and independent. This assumption is not reasonable and makes the optimization results conservative. To avoid such conservative results from traditional robust optimization methods, in this paper a novel data driven optimization method based on the nonparametric Dirichlet process Gaussian mixture model (DPGMM) was proposed to solve energy and reserve dispatch problems. First, we combined the DPGMM and variation inference algorithm to extract the GMM parameter information embedded within historical data. Based on the parameter information, a data driven polyhedral uncertainty set was proposed. After constructing the uncertainty set, we solved the robust energy and reserve problem. Finally, a column and constraint generation method was employed to solve the proposed data driven optimization method. We used real historical wind power forecast error data to test the performance of the proposed uncertainty set. The simulation results indicated that the proposed uncertainty set had a smaller volume than other data driven uncertainty sets with the same predefined coverage rate. Furthermore, the simulation was carried on PJM 5-bus and IEEE-118 bus systems to test the data driven optimization method. The simulation results demonstrated that the proposed optimization method was less conservative than traditional data driven robust optimization methods and distributionally robust optimization methods.
DC Current Interruption Based on Vacuum Arc Impacted by Ultra-Fast Transverse Magnetic Field
Authors: Hashemi Ehsan , Niayesh Kaveh
Published: September 2020

In this paper, the effect of an external ultrafast transverse magnetic field (UFTMF) on a vacuum arc in the diffused mode has been studied. According to the results of studies, a novel approach for making a zero-crossing in a DC arc current has been presented. Plasma voltage fluctuations of the vacuum arc, which are caused by UFTMF, have been investigated via finite element simulation and two-fluid description of plasma physics. By making an appropriate UFTMF through an external circuit, the arc current can be commuted successfully from the vacuum interrupter (VI) to a parallel capacitor and charge it up. In this way, a zero-crossing in the arc current can be achieved, and the current will be interrupted by the VI. Simulation results, which are supporting physical backgrounds for this analysis, have been presented in this paper while technological issues for industrial implementation of this concept have been discussed in detail.
Study of the Effect of Movable Water Saturation on Gas Production in Tight Sandstone Gas Reservoirs
Authors: Zhang Jie , Li Xizhe , Shen Weijun , Gao Shusheng , Liu Huaxun , Ye Liyou , Fang Feifei
Published: September 2020

The movable water saturation of tight sandstone reservoirs is an important parameter in characterizing water production capacity, and there is a great need to understand the relationship between movable water saturation and water production characteristics. However, movable water behavior in this context remains unclear. In this study, four groups of tight sandstone cores from the Sulige gas field are measured to understand the movable water saturation characteristics. Then, the effects such as reservoir micropore throat, clay mineral and physical properties on movable water saturation are analyzed, and the movable water saturation and water production characteristics are discussed. The results show that higher movable water saturation will result in a greater amount of water in the gas drive. There is a critical pressure difference of the gas drive, and a large amount of movable water will flow out. Movable water saturation is independent of the porosity, permeability and initial water saturation, while it is closely related to the reservoir micropore throat and clay mineral content. Movable water is mainly distributed in the medium and large pores; the larger the proportion of such pores, the higher the degree of movable water saturation. A lower mineral content will lead to higher movable water saturation in tight sandstone gas reservoirs. These results provide clues for identifying gas–water bearing reservoirs and evaluating and predicting the water production characteristics in gas wells in tight sandstone gas reservoirs.
Testing System for the On-Site Checking of Magneto-Thermal Switches with Arc Fault Detection
Authors: Bucci Giovanni , Ciancetta Fabrizio , Fioravanti Andrea , Fiorucci Edoardo , Mari Simone , Prudenzi Alberto
Published: September 2020

Arcing is a harmful condition that can lead to electrical fires. The U.S. National Electrical Code requires the installation of electric arc breakers in all residential areas. However, such devices can fail, and therefore, may not work when needed. At present, there are no tests to confirm the correct operation of this type of device. This study aimed to propose an experimental test method to verify the proper functioning of magneto-thermal switches with an electric arc protection function for the occurrence of arc faults. The results show that the proposed method adequately detected the correct operations and tripping time by using different surge suppressors. The proposed system lays the foundations for a portable test system for the periodic checking of electrical systems in which arc fault detection devices (AFDDs) are installed.
Studies on the Efficiency of the Impact of Paraffin Inhibitors on Lowering the WAT Temperature and Reducing the Amount of Paraffin Deposit
Authors: Szuflita Sławomir , Pajda Michał , Kuśnierczyk Jerzy , Wojnicki Mirosław , Warnecki Marcin
Published: September 2020

This paper discusses the issues of the impact of pressure and temperature on the precipitation of paraffin deposits from reservoir fluids in the presence of previously prepared paraffin inhibitors. Using a properly modified PVT apparatus, the temperature of the beginning of paraffin precipitation (wax appearance temperature—WAT) has been determined, below which the solid paraffin phase was captured on a specialized filter in various temperatures. Based on the conducted experiments, a boundary has been established separating the paraffin area (the presence of paraffins as their solid phase) from an area without paraffin. Measurements of the amount of paraffin using the filter allowed the determination of the WPC (wax precipitation curve), due to which additional data is provided regarding the amount of precipitated paraffin deposit below the WAT. The developed methodology enables to conduct the measurements within a wide range of pressures using the sample saturated with reservoir gas, which can test the crude oil sample that corresponds to the actual production conditions. Most known research methods do not allow such preparation of a sample and conducting the measurements under pressurized conditions; therefore, the produced results are subject to errors. The paper describes also the studies of efficiency and differences in the action of various paraffin inhibitors. Based on the performed research, a comparison was made involving the action of agents under the pressureless conditions of dead oil and pressurized crude oil samples saturated with gas. The performed studies allowed the determination of equilibrium conditions (in a pressure–temperature system), under which deposition of the solid paraffin phase occurs during the use of three various inhibitors. Based on the performed experiments, an area with a paraffin hazard was determined, along with an area without paraffins. Due to the separation of the precipitated solid paraffin phase, an increase in the mass of the paraffin deposit associated with a temperature drop was determined (wax precipitation curve), as well as the impact of the applied inhibitors on its course.
A Real-Time Quantitative PCR Method Specific for Detection and Quantification of the First Commercialized Genome-Edited Plant
Authors: Chhalliyil Pradheep , Ilves Heini , Kazakov Sergei , Howard Stephanie , Johnston Brian , Fagan John
Published: September 2020

Discussion regarding the regulatory status of genome-edited crops has focused on precision of editing and on doubts regarding the feasibility of analytical monitoring compliant with existing GMO regulations. Effective detection methods are important, both for regulatory enforcement and traceability in case of biosafety, environmental or socio-economic impacts. Here, we approach the analysis question for the first time in the laboratory and report the successful development of a quantitative PCR detection method for the first commercialized genome-edited crop, a canola with a single base pair edit conferring herbicide tolerance. The method is highly sensitive and specific (quantification limit, 0.05%), compatible with the standards of practice, equipment and expertise typical in GMO laboratories, and readily integrable into their analytical workflows, including use of the matrix approach. The method, validated by an independent laboratory, meets all legal requirements for GMO analytical methods in jurisdictions such as the EU, is consistent with ISO17025 accreditation standards and has been placed in the public domain. Having developed a qPCR method for the most challenging class of genome edits, single-nucleotide variants, this research suggests that qPCR-based method development may be applicable to virtually any genome-edited organism. This advance resolves doubts regarding the feasibility of extending the regulatory approach currently employed for recombinant DNA-based GMOs to genome-edited organisms.
Application of a High-Throughput Amplicon Sequencing Method to Chart the Bacterial Communities that Are Associated with European Fermented Meats from Different Origins
Authors: Van Reckem Emiel , Charmpi Christina , Van der Veken David , Borremans Wim , De Vuyst Luc , Weckx Stefan , Leroy Frédéric
Published: September 2020

Insight into the microbial species diversity of fermented meats is not only paramount to gain control over quality development, but also to better understand the link with processing technology and geographical origin. To study the composition of the microbial communities, the use of culture-independent methods is increasingly popular but often still suffers from drawbacks, such as a limited taxonomic resolution. This study aimed to apply a previously developed high-throughput amplicon sequencing (HTS) method targeting the 16S rRNA and tuf genes to characterize the bacterial communities in European fermented meats in greater detail. The data obtained broadened the view on the microbial communities that were associated with the various products examined, revealing the presence of previously underreported subdominant species. Moreover, the composition of these communities could be linked to the specificities of individual products, in particular pH, salt content, and geographical origin. In contrast, no clear links were found between the volatile organic compound profiles of the different products and the country of origin, distinct processing conditions, or microbial communities. Future application of the HTS method offers the potential to further unravel complex microbial communities in fermented meats, as well as to assess the impact of different processing conditions on microbial consortia.
Warning of Immortal Time Bias When Studying Drug Safety in Pregnancy: Application to Late Use of Antibiotics and Preterm Delivery
Authors: Corrao Giovanni , Rea Federico , Franchi Matteo , Beccalli Benedetta , Locatelli Anna , Cantarutti Anna
Published: September 2020

This study aimed to illustrate and account for immortal time bias in pregnancy observational investigations, using the relationship between late use of antibiotics and risk of preterm birth as an example. We conducted a population-based cohort study including 549,082 deliveries between 2007 and 2017 in Lombardy, Italy. We evaluated the risk of preterm births, low birth weight, small for gestational age, and low Apgar score associated with antibiotic dispensing during the third trimester of pregnancy. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of the outcomes, considering the use of antibiotics as time-fixed (with biased classification of exposure person-time) and time-varying (with proper classification of exposure person-time) exposure. There were 23,638 (4.3%) premature deliveries. There was no association between time-fixed exposure to antibiotics and preterm delivery (adjusted HR 0.96; 95% CI 0.92 to 1.01) but an increased risk of preterm birth when time-varying exposure to antibiotics was considered (1.27; 1.21 to 1.34). The same trend was found for low birth weight and low Apgar score. Immortal time bias is a common and sneaky trap in observational studies involving exposure in late pregnancy. This bias could be easily avoided with suitable design and analysis.
The Impact of Environmental and Social Responsibility on Customer Loyalty: A Multigroup Analysis among Generations X and Y
Authors: Moisescu Ovidiu-Ioan , Gică Oana-Adriana
Published: September 2020

The purpose of the current study was to comparatively estimate, for generation X and generation Y, the impact of corporate environmental and social responsibility on customer loyalty, via customer–company identification and customer satisfaction as mediators. For this, a survey was conducted among a sample of telecom customers, comprising 445 members of generation X, and 601 of generation Y. Data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling and multigroup analysis. Results revealed that the impact of corporate environmental responsibility on customer loyalty is significantly higher within generation Y, while the social facet of corporate responsibility is more relevant for customers from generation X. The current study contributes to the literature by developing and testing, within multiple generational groups, a theoretical model which outlines the links between environmental and social responsibility and customer outcomes. As these relationships have been scarcely analyzed in the context of age cohort membership as a moderator, our study fills an important literature gap, emphasizing significant differences between generations X and Y. The findings have relevant implications for the effective communication of corporate environmental and social responsibility activities, providing important insights on how messages and communication channels should be adapted to generations X and Y as target audiences.
Eating Behaviour and Physical Fitness in 10-Year-Old Children Attending General Education and Sports Classes
Authors: Ługowska Katarzyna , Kolanowski Wojciech , Trafialek Joanna
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the body mass index (BMI), selected eating behaviour and physical fitness of children aged 10 years attending general education and sports classes in Siedlce. Subject children were 272 girls and boys mean aged 10.8-years attending general education (GC) and sports classes (SC). Survey questionnaires consisted of 18 questions about eating behaviour and physical activity. The BMI was determined for each child and compared with reference percentile charts. Eurofit testing was used to measure physical fitness. Increased physical fitness was positively correlated with beneficial eating behaviour among children. SC children showed significantly more frequent dietary intakes of milk, dairy products, poultry, fish, wholegrain bread, groats and vegetables when compared to GC ones. However, significantly more GC children ate red meat more frequently along with snacking on confectionery and savouries than SC ones. Most subjects fell within correct BMI percentile ranges. Underweight was more frequent in SC children at 12.85% than in GC children 9.88%. Overweight and obesity was most often observed in GC children (respectively 19.73% and 5.51%) compared to SC ones (respectively 14.37% and 3.8%). SC children achieved significantly better results in the Eurofit tests. The highest levels of physical fitness and most favourable BMIs and eating behaviour were observed more often among SC children than GC ones. The results confirmed the beneficial health effects of physical fitness for children.
Changes in Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior in Response to COVID-19 and Their Associations with Mental Health in 3052 US Adults
Authors: Meyer Jacob , McDowell Cillian , Lansing Jeni , Brower Cassandra , Smith Lee , Tully Mark , Herring Matthew
Published: September 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic altered many facets of life. We aimed to evaluate the impact of COVID-19-related public health guidelines on physical activity (PA), sedentary behavior, mental health, and their interrelations. Cross-sectional data were collected from 3052 US adults 3–8 April 2020 (from all 50 states). Participants self-reported pre- and post-COVID-19 levels of moderate and vigorous PA, sitting, and screen time. Currently-followed public health guidelines, stress, loneliness, positive mental health (PMH), social connectedness, and depressive and anxiety symptoms were self-reported. Participants were grouped by meeting US PA guidelines, reporting ≥8 h/day of sitting, or ≥8 h/day of screen time, pre- and post-COVID-19. Overall, 62% of participants were female, with age ranging from 18–24 (16.6% of sample) to 75+ (9.3%). Self-reported PA was lower post-COVID among participants reporting being previously active (mean change: −32.3% [95% CI: −36.3%, −28.1%]) but largely unchanged among previously inactive participants (+2.3% [−3.5%, +8.1%]). No longer meeting PA guidelines and increased screen time were associated with worse depression, loneliness, stress, and PMH (p < 0.001). Self-isolation/quarantine was associated with higher depressive and anxiety symptoms compared to social distancing (p < 0.001). Maintaining and enhancing physical activity participation and limiting screen time increases during abrupt societal changes may mitigate the mental health consequences.
Incorrect Use of Face Masks during the Current COVID-19 Pandemic among the General Public in Japan
Authors: Machida Masaki , Nakamura Itaru , Saito Reiko , Nakaya Tomoki , Hanibuchi Tomoya , Takamiya Tomoko , Odagiri Yuko , Fukushima Noritoshi , Kikuchi Hiroyuki , Amagasa Shiho , Kojima Takako , Watanabe Hidehiro , Inoue Shigeru
Published: September 2020

Since the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of face masks by healthy individuals for prevention has been attracting public attention. However, efficacy depends on proper usage. We set out to determine the prevalence of wearing masks to prevent COVID-19 and compliance with appropriate measures for the correct use of face masks among the general public in Japan where wearing medical masks is a “cultural” normality. This cross-sectional study was based on an internet-based survey completed by 2141 people (50.8% men, aged 20–79 years) who were selected among registrants of an Internet research company between 1 April and 6 April 2020. Participants were asked to indicate how often they wore masks for prevention and to what extent they practiced appropriate measures suggested by the World Health Organization. The prevalence of wearing masks was 80.9% and compliance rates with appropriate measures ranged from 38.3% to 83.5%. Only 23.1% complied with all recommendations. Compliance rates were overall low in men and persons with low household incomes. Our results, hence show that many citizens implement inaccurate measures when using face masks. Therefore, providing guidance on correct usage is essential when encouraging the use of face masks to prevent COVID-19.