Two-stage optimization algorithm for short-term reactive power planning based on zonal approach

There are various methods for procurement of reactive power as an ancillary service in deregulated market environment. Reactive power market model based on voltage control zones and two-step optimal power flow algorithm is proposed in this paper. Zones are formed by splitting the power system or a control area of an interconnected power system into autonomous voltage sub-areas with sufficient reactive power reserves using the electrical distance method. Every zone formes a single reactive power market. First step of an optimization algorithm determines zonal reactive power prices based on generator's cost functions for reactive power production. Total cost minimization is the goal of the second optimization step where the final dispatching decision is made according to transmission losses and zonal reactive power prices respecting power system planned conditions and security constraints. Proposed algorithm is tested on IEEE 39 bus test system ensuring the system operator's minimal payment for reactive power and transmission losses, without jeopardizing power system security.     

Synthesis of Functionalized Polytriazoles via One-Pot Sequential Copper-Catalyzed Azide–Alkyne [3+2] Cycloaddition and Atom Transfer Radical Addition (ATRA)

As a continuing effort of expanding the scope of catalyst regeneration in the presence of environmentally benign reducing agents, one-pot sequential azide–alkyne [3+2] cycloaddition and atom transfer radical addition (ATRA) reactions were performed via in situ reduction of copper(II) by ascorbic acid. The formation of functionalized triazoles was achieved utilizing a ligand-free catalytic system for the cycloaddition between tripropargylamine and vinylbenzyl azide and subsequent addition of tris(2-pyridyl)methylamine (TPMA) ligand in the ATRA step. With this strategy, reactions with carbon tetrachloride and carbon tetrabromide proceeded efficiently providing the desired triazoles in nearly quantitative yields (>90 %) using 10 mol % of copper. Sequential azide–alkyne [3+2] cycloaddition and ATRA reactions were also extended to less active alkyl halides such as methyl trichloroacetate, methyl dichloroacetate and dichloroacetonitrile. The corresponding products were obtained in modest yields (50–80 %). The presented methodology enables efficient synthesis of functionalized polytriazoles, which could have a potential use as chelating agents for a variety of transition metals.     

Bacterial population in counter flow and parallel flow water chilling of poultry meat

In this study, a survey was carried out to determine the hygiene aspects of counter flow and parallel flow water chilling of poultry meat. Samples were taken in five sectors: in the sector subsequent to evisceration of the poultry, in the sector after water chilling, and in the sector after final washing. At the same time, the samples of water were taken from the pre-chilling sector and in the chilling sector. Bacterial detection of the inherence of various bacteria, their isolation, identification and determination was carried out. The results showed higher numbers of positive samples obtained from the section of water chilling in comparison to other sections, as well as a higher number of positive samples in the process of parallel flow water chilling in comparison to the results from counter flow chilling.     

Service innovation in Hong Kong organizations: Enablers and challenges to design thinking practices

East-Asian practitioners aspiring to engage in the design thinking (DT) practice—a human-centred approach to innovation developed and primarily used in Western cultures—may experience a “cultural clash” or “cultural misfit” that may inhibit the acceptance of DT logic. To tap into this still underexplored terrain, this qualitative study explores the enablers and challenges of effective DT practice in achieving service innovation in Hong Kong organizations. Based on a dozen in-depth interviews, we identified numerous sociocultural and institutional enablers and challenges, which we interpreted based on the postulates of structuration theory proposed by Giddens. Our conceptualization and empirical investigation of DT through a practice lens offers a new perspective when studying the contextual antecedents of DT. Specifically, the findings show that the choice to engage in DT practice is shaped by cultural specifics in the plurality of influences that move beyond the Western perspective and previous DT studies. From a practical point of view, our research informs policymakers and managers about the importance of being culturally sensitive and humanizing digital transformation when organizing service innovation.     

Effect of grey component replacement processing and varnishing on the light fastness of colours on cardboard prints

The visual appearance of packaging is one of its most important features. Electromagnetic irradiation causes a change in colour and often leads to colour fading (ie, to diminished visual appearance of a printed product). This research study aimed to determine the combined effect of grey component replacement image processing and varnishing on the protection of prints' appearance when exposed to accelerated ageing. For that purpose, two test charts were printed in a lithographic press and coated with water-based and ultraviolet-curable varnish before exposing them to xenon light. The prepared prints were evaluated by determining the tone values and colour difference, as well as the rub and abrasion resistance. In addition, Fourier Transform–infrared-attenuated total reflectance spectra were recorded to detect possible chemical changes caused by the (AcA). The results showed that the investigated period of (AcA) caused significant differences in the tone values of yellow, while the other primary colours proved to be more resistant. The water-based varnish provided better protection than the ultraviolet-curable varnish. The grey component replacement image processing diminished the colour difference caused by (AcA) on all the prepared print samples, and was particularly detected in tertiary colours containing the mid-range tone values of yellow (34%-68%). Both varnishes improved the rub resistance of aged prints, but only ultraviolet-curable varnish improved the abrasion resistance of both the unaged and the aged prints. In conclusion, applying varnish to prints ensured enhanced rub and abrasion resistance and diminished the colour change caused by (AcA). Finally, improved resistance to colour change was achieved by processing images with the grey component replacement method.