bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS) in Brazil: A Review
Authors: Silveira Brenda H. M. , Costa Hirdan K. M. , Santos Edmilson M.
Published: February 2023

BECCS (bioenergy with carbon capture and storage) is an important technology to achieve international and Brazilian climatic goals, notably because it provides negative emissions. In addition, Brazil presents favorable conditions for the development of BECCS, given the country’s mature biofuel industry. Therefore, this research aims to provide a systematic literature review of the effective potential of and barriers to implementing bioenergy with carbon capture and storage in Brazil. The platforms chosen for this study are Science Direct and Integrated Search Portal, which is a search portal administered by the University of São Paulo. The search initially identified 667 articles, of which 24 were analyzed after selection and screening. The results show that technical factors are not a current barrier to the implementation of BECCS in Brazil, especially in ethanol production. However, the economic results vary among articles, but no BECCS plant has been shown to be economically feasible without enhanced oil recovery. In addition, the concentrations of most ethanol distilleries in the southeast region of Brazil point to them as long-hanging fruit for the country. Nevertheless, due to limitations in CO2 transportation, the costs of implementing BECCS increase significantly as CO2 capture is expanded away from the southeast region.
I2OT-EC: A Framework for Smart Real-Time Monitoring and Controlling Crude Oil Production Exploiting IIOT and Edge Computing
Authors: Ramzey Hazem , Badawy Mahmoud , Elhosseini Mostafa , A. Elbaset Adel
Published: February 2023

The oil and gas business has high operating costs and frequently has significant difficulties due to asset, process, and operational failures. Remote monitoring and management of the oil field operations are essential to ensure efficiency and safety. Oil field operations often use SCADA or wireless sensor network (WSN)-based monitoring and control systems; both have numerous drawbacks. WSN-based systems are not uniform or are incompatible. Additionally, they lack transparent communication and coordination. SCADA systems also cost a lot, are rigid, are not scalable, and deliver data slowly. Edge computing and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) help to overcome SCADA’s constraints by establishing an automated monitoring and control system for oil and gas operations that is effective, secure, affordable, and transparent. The main objective of this study is to exploit the IIOT and Edge Computing (EC). This study introduces an I2OT-EC framework with flowcharts, a simulator, and system architecture. The validity of the I2OT-EC framework is demonstrated by experimental findings and implementation with an application example to verify the research results as an additional verification and testing that proves the framework results were satisfactory. The significant increase of 12.14% in the runtime for the crude well using the proposed framework, coupled with other advantages, such as reduced operational costs, decentralization, and a dependable platform, highlights the benefits of this solution and its suitability for the automatic monitoring and control of oil field operations.
Mapping the Energy Sector from a Risk Management Research Perspective: A Bibliometric and Scientific Approach
Authors: Gorzeń-Mitka Iwona , Wieczorek-Kosmala Monika
Published: February 2023

This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of risk management research developments in the energy sector by using bibliometric analysis techniques. We apply the SciMAT bibliometric analysis software to understand how the intellectual base of this topic has evolved over time and what the major themes are that have contributed to this evolution. We analyse 679 publications referenced in the Web of Science Core Collection and Scopus to map the content of publications on risk management research in the energy sector over a period of 30 years (1993–2022), following the methodical rigour of PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic and Meta-Analyses). Our results identify and support the evolution of risk management research in the energy industry, its interactions, its stability, and changes in its research network. Our work contributes to the current debate on identifying trends and enhancing understanding of the evolution in the energy sector from the perspective of risk management research. It can also be a reference point for those interested in deepening their knowledge in this field.
Developing Feedforward Neural Networks as Benchmark for Load Forecasting: Methodology Presentation and Application to Hospital Heat Load Forecasting
Authors: Stienecker Malte , Hagemeier Anne
Published: February 2023

For load forecasting, numerous machine learning (ML) approaches have been published. Besides fully connected feedforward neural networks (FFNNs), also called multilayer perceptron, more advanced ML approaches like deep, recurrent or convolutional neural networks or ensemble methods have been applied. However, evaluating the added benefit by novel approaches is difficult. Statistical or rule-based methods constitute a too low benchmark. FFNNs need extensive tuning due to their manifold design choices. To address this issue, a structured, comprehensible five-step FFNN model creation methodology is presented, which constitutes of initial model creation, internal parameter selection, feature engineering, architecture tuning and final model creation. The methodology is then applied to forecast real world heat load data of a hospital in Germany. The forecast constitutes of 192 values (upcoming 48 h in 15 min resolution) and is composed of a multi-model univariate forecasting strategy, with three test models developed at first. As a result, the test models show great similarities which simplifies creation of the remaining models. A performance increase of up to 18% between initial and final models points out the importance of model tuning. As a conclusion, comprehensible model tuning is vital to use FFNN models as benchmark. The effort needed can be reduced by the experience gained through repeated application of the presented methodology.
Power Management in Three-Phase Grid-Integrated PV System with Hybrid Energy Storage System
Authors: Jena Chinmaya Jagdev , Ray Pravat Kumar
Published: February 2023

The management of energy in distribution networks has been gathering attention in recent years. The simultaneous control of generation and demand is crucial for achieving energy savings and can further lower energy pricing. The work aims to develop a control scheme for a hybrid microgrid that can provide stability to the bus voltage and effectively manage the power flow. Solar energy is the current trend in renewable energy sources (RES). There is a surge in the installation of solar PV systems both on a large scale and on a small scale, such as rooftop PV systems. Installation of RES at residential premises has to be conducted with a proper power management scheme. The hybrid microgrid for this work consists of a PV system with a boost converter to extract maximum power, a DC-DC bi-directional converter to charge or discharge the hybrid energy-storing devices, and a three-phase AC-DC interlinking converter for exchange of energy with the utility grid. The control and power management scheme checks the voltage of each unit and maintains the power flow according to operating conditions. Disturbances are introduced in the form of load switching and irradiance variation to check the system performance. The system is tested on the MATLAB (R2021a) Simulink platform for varying its different modes of operations. An experimental set-up has been developed with hardware-in-the-loop to validate the simulation results.
Operation and Thermodynamic Modeling of a Novel Advanced Hydrothermal Reactor: Introduction of the Novel 3-Step Evolution Model
Authors: Vakalis Stergios , Ail Snehesh Shivananda , Moustakas Konstantinos , Castaldi Marco J.
Published: February 2023

Liquid biowaste represents more than 98% of the total municipal waste streams on wet basis and 4–5% on dry basis. Recent attention has been focused on how to manage it optimally, and several novel technologies are being developed to valorize it. Among the developing alternatives is a technology that operates continuously by integrating a hydrothermal reactor, a gasifier and condenser to recover hydrochar using any produced gases to power the system. This study introduces the “3-step evolution model” in order to simulate the hydrothermal reactor. The model has been developed in a MATLAB/Cantera environment and calculates the outputs as the products of a series of sub-stoichiometric char-gas reactions. Experiments with chicken manure slurry as feedstock were implemented for the validation of the model. Treatment of 32.16 kg/h of chicken manure produces 4.57 kg/h of hydrochar and 3.45 kg/h of syngas. The 3-step evolution model simulated the correct ratio of solid-to-gas, 57–43% (excluding the liquids). The experimentally measured carbon dioxide is used as a correction factor to calculate all the other parameters that cannot be assessed during the continuous operation of the hydrothermal reactor. The simulated compositions for carbon dioxide and methane were 94–96% and 0.5–0.8%, respectively. The values were close to the experimental results that ranged from 94.7% to 95.6% for the carbon dioxide and from 0.5% to 0.7% for the methane. The model predicts that higher temperatures of operation would increase carbon monoxide composition from 4–5% up to 7–8%.
Application of Machine Learning to Assist a Moisture Durability Tool
Authors: Salonvaara Mikael , Desjarlais Andre , Aldykiewicz Antonio J. , Iffa Emishaw , Boudreaux Philip , Dong Jin , Liu Boming , Accawi Gina , Hun Diana , Werling Eric , Mumme Sven
Published: February 2023

The design of moisture-durable building enclosures is complicated by the number of materials, exposure conditions, and performance requirements. Hygrothermal simulations are used to assess moisture durability, but these require in-depth knowledge to be properly implemented. Machine learning (ML) offers the opportunity to simplify the design process by eliminating the need to carry out hygrothermal simulations. ML was used to assess the moisture durability of a building enclosure design and simplify the design process. This work used ML to predict the mold index and maximum moisture content of layers in typical residential wall constructions. Results show that ML, within the constraints of the construction, including exposure conditions, does an excellent job in predicting performance compared to hygrothermal simulations with a coefficient of determination, R2, over 0.90. Furthermore, the results indicate that the material properties of the vapor barrier and continuous insulation layer are strongly correlated to performance.
Forecasting Long-Term Electricity Consumption in Saudi Arabia Based on Statistical and Machine Learning Algorithms to Enhance Electric Power Supply Management
Authors: Almuhaini Salma Hamad , Sultana Nahid
Published: February 2023

This study aims to develop statistical and machine learning methodologies for forecasting yearly electricity consumption in Saudi Arabia. The novelty of this study include (i) determining significant features that have a considerable influence on electricity consumption, (ii) utilizing a Bayesian optimization algorithm (BOA) to enhance the model’s hyperparameters, (iii) hybridizing the BOA with the machine learning algorithms, viz., support vector regression (SVR) and nonlinear autoregressive networks with exogenous inputs (NARX), for modeling individually the long-term electricity consumption, (iv) comparing their performances with the widely used classical time-series algorithm autoregressive integrated moving average with exogenous inputs (ARIMAX) with regard to the accuracy, computational efficiency, and generalizability, and (v) forecasting future yearly electricity consumption and validation. The population, gross domestic product (GDP), imports, and refined oil products were observed to be significant with the total yearly electricity consumption in Saudi Arabia. The coefficient of determination R2 values for all the developed models are >0.98, indicating an excellent fit of the models with historical data. However, among all three proposed models, the BOA–NARX has the best performance, improving the forecasting accuracy (root mean square error (RMSE)) by 71% and 80% compared to the ARIMAX and BOA–SVR models, respectively. The overall results of this study confirm the higher accuracy and reliability of the proposed methods in total electricity consumption forecasting that can be used by power system operators to more accurately forecast electricity consumption to ensure the sustainability of electric energy. This study can also provide significant guidance and helpful insights for researchers to enhance their understanding of crucial research, emerging trends, and new developments in future energy studies.
Prestack Seismic Velocity Ratio Evaluation of a Mixed Siliciclastic–Carbonate Formation: Case Study from the Strawn Group on the Eastern Shelf Texas
Authors: Ogiesoba Osareni C. , Bhattacharya Shuvajit , Karakaya Sarp , Cortez Trey
Published: February 2023

Although a mixed carbonate–siliciclastic system of the Strawn Group on the Eastern Shelf in King County, Texas, USA provides excellent hydrocarbon reservoirs, facies variability and reservoir properties within such systems are not well understood. We conducted prestack, simultaneous seismic inversion, and high-level petrophysical analysis to derive elastic properties of rocks to facilitate lithology identification and determination and distribution of the different carbonate facies. Our results show that (1) the Strawn Group in King County is dominated mostly by carbonates and (2) given the ratio of P- and S-wave velocity (Vp/Vs ratio), the carbonates can be separated into three facies: (a) high-Vp/Vs-ratio shelf-edge reef carbonates, in which the Vp/Vs ratio decreases linearly as porosity increases and the Vp/Vs ratio varies from ~2.1 to ≤2.6; (b) moderately low-Vp/Vs-ratio shelf (platform) carbonates, in which the Vp/Vs ratio also decreases as porosity increases and in which the Vp/Vs ratio ranges from ~1.75 to ≤2.15; (c) extremely low-Vp/Vs-ratio slope and basin carbonates, in which the Vp/Vs ratio, although appearing to be almost constant for a wide range of porosity, increases as porosity increases, and in which most Vp/Vs-ratio values appear to range from ~1.5 to ≤2. Results of a through c can be summarized thusly: the Vp/Vs ratio of reef carbonates >the Vp/Vs ratio of platform carbonates and >the Vp/Vs ratio of slope and basin carbonates in the study area.
The Mechanical Characteristics of the Neck Zone for a PEMFC Stack
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Zhou Fen , Zhan Zhigang , Tan Jinting , Pan Mu
Published: February 2023

Generally, the unit cell in a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) stack is divided into different zones according to the characteristics of the bipolar plate. There is a zone that has been neglected, which we define as the “neck zone” for the first time in this work. Uneven stress and deformation are prone to appearing in the neck zone due to its unique structure. A three-dimensional finite element model was applied to study the influence of the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) frame materials on the mechanical characteristics of the neck zone. In addition, the sealing and the water–gas transport performances of the neck zone were evaluated via the stress fluctuation and deformation. It was found that even with the commercial polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) frame, a leak point would be generated at the region with the lowest stress, reducing the performance and even causing safety hazards. The invasion rate was proposed to assess the water–gas transport ability. When an inappropriate frame material was adopted, the invasion rate went up to 32.4%, severely hindering the water and the air transport. It was concluded that MEA frames with a higher elastic modulus and thickness are preferred for the neck zone to obtain a high property of sealing and water–gas transport.
Impact of Terrigenous Organic Matter Input on Organic Matter Enrichment of Paleocene Source Rocks, Lishui Sag, East China Sea
Authors: Han Xu , Hou Dujie , Cheng Xiong , Li Yan
Published: February 2023

To clarify the organic matter (OM) enrichment of the Lishui Sag, the factors influencing the variable abundance of OM in the Lingfeng Formation are studied using organic geochemical data. The source rocks of the Lingfeng Formation have medium–high total organic carbon (TOC) values (0.53–3.56%). The main type of kerogen is II2-III. Compared to the shallow marine subfacies source rocks, the TOC of the delta front subfacies source rocks is higher. The distribution of biomarkers shows that the redox environment of the delta front subfacies source rock is the sub-oxidizing and oxic environment, and the source rock is mainly supplied by terrigenous higher plants; the redox environment of shallow marine subfacies source rocks is a sub-reducing and suboxic environment, and the OM mainly comes from algae. The link between OM input and OM abundance demonstrates that terrigenous OM (TOM) input has a considerable influence on OM abundance. However, there is no obvious relationship between preservation and OM abundance, which suggests that preservation is not the determining element in OM enrichment. The strong sediment flux decreases the amount of time that OM is exposed to oxygen. As a result, delta front subfacies with large TOM input have a huge number of excellent source rocks. This paper proposes a “delta front-OM input model” for excellent source rocks.
Computational Modelling of Airflow and Heat Transfer during Cooling of Stacked Tomatoes: Optimal Crate Design
Authors: Agyeman Emmanuel Kwadwo Kale , Duret Steven , Flick Denis , Laguerre Onrawee , Moureh Jean
Published: February 2023

A 3D computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model was developed to predict the airflow and heat transfer in half of a pallet layer of tomatoes. The numerical and experimental results were compared, and a good agreement was obtained between both results using the root-mean-square error (RMSE) and absolute relative deviation (ARD) values as criteria. The validated CFD model was then used to minimise the product temperature heterogeneity by optimising the airflow rate and the crate design. A downward flow of the air along the central parts of the crates and an upward flow close to the lateral walls of the crates were observed. Three different total ventilated areas (TVAs) were tested to study their influence on the product temperature uniformity and cooling rate. The MTD and ATD decreased from 6.8 to 3.5 °C and from 1.5 to 0.7 °C, respectively, when the TVA was increased from 11 to 15%.
Dynamic Response Difference of Hydraulic Support under Mechanical-Hydraulic Co-Simulation: Induced by Different Roof Rotation Position and Hysteresis Effect of Relief Valve
Authors: Zeng Qingliang , Ma Chen , Meng Zhaosheng , Wang Jiantao , Xu Penghui , Lei Xiaowan
Published: February 2023

As key supporting equipment in coal mining, hydraulic supports are vulnerable to impact pressure from roof movement and deformation. In this paper, a mechanical-hydraulic co-simulation platform for hydraulic supports is established. Moreover, the rationality of the simulation platform is verified. Based on this platform, the rigid-flexible coupling impact dynamics model of hydraulic support is built. Finally, by delaying the opening time of the relief valve, the energy dissipation problem of the relief valve hysteresis effect on the hydraulic support system under the rotary impact is discussed. The results indicate that the rotary load acting on the hydraulic support decreases gradually with the backward movement of the roof rotary position, which causes the peak pressure in the column to decrease (by 69 MPa). The hinge point load of different parts shows different load transfer laws. The hysteresis effect of the relief valve prolongs the energy release time of the system, increasing the pressure in the column by 23 MPa. The instantaneous opening speed of the relief valve spool reaches 15.7 m/s, and the hinge point between the top beam and the column is most sensitive to the hysteresis effect (impact coefficient increases by 0.63).
Media Coverage of Carbon Capture and Storage: An Analysis of Established and Emerging Themes in Dutch National Newspapers
Authors: ter Mors Emma , van Leeuwen Esther , Boomsma Christine , Meier Renate
Published: February 2023

Policymakers in several European countries are considering the implementation of carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology as part of a strategy to prevent further climate change. Successful CCS implementation requires societal support but planned CCS projects have encountered significant opposition. In this study, we examine the CCS coverage in Dutch national newspapers from 2017 to 2019, a period during which the Dutch CCS landscape underwent several substantial changes, and compare the results to those of earlier media analyses conducted between 1991 and 2011. Most of the 324 articles identified discussed CCS in a neutral (36.4%) or balanced (24.4%) manner, and more critical articles than supportive ones were found (23.1% vs. 16.0%). Consistent with the earlier media analyses, the potential of CCS to reduce carbon dioxide emissions was a major theme in the positive portrayal of CCS, while the argument that CCS implementation is needed for the prompt reduction in emissions gained prominence. High CCS deployment costs and the perception that CCS is an unproven technology have remained major themes in the negative portrayal of CCS. The availability of and preference for alternative solutions was a more prominent theme in the conversation compared to earlier years, whereas the subject of CCS safety was discussed less than before. The study illustrates how media coverage can shed light on the evolving relationships between society and CCS, and on the established and emerging themes in arguments used for and against the technology.
The Experimental Study of an R744 Heat Pump System for an Electric Vehicle for Cabin Cooling or Heating and Battery Fast Charging Cooling
Authors: Wang Xilong , Xu Keke , Huang Linjie , Cao Feng , Song Yulong
Published: February 2023

In this paper, a new R744 heat pump system is studied. The gas cooler, evaporator, indoor heat core, and indoor gas cooler are all micro-channel heat exchangers. The R744 high pressure system adopts a combination of an accumulator and internal heat exchanger (ACCU/IHX). In addition, an electronic reversible regulating valve is added before the outdoor gas cooler, making the outdoor heat exchanger able to be used as a gas cooler or evaporator. The water-cooled condenser can improve the performance in the cooling or heating mode. The research contents contain the performance and optimal pressure under extreme conditions as a result of the experiments. The results show that the cooling capacity can reach 8.2 kW with a COP of 1.87, under a 40 °C external circulation intake. The cooling capacity on the battery side can reach 11 kW under an ambient temperature of 40 °C, which can provide a sufficient cooling capacity. Under an ambient temperature of −20 °C, the maximum heating capacity can reach 6.86 kW with a COP of 1.67. Under an ambient temperature of −15 °C, the heating capacity reaches 5.07 kW with a COP of 1.78, when the indoor air volume flow rate is 200 m3/h. Obviously, R744 heat pumps show a huge advantage, compared with the traditional PTC heating or R134a heat pumps at extremely low temperatures.
Mental Health System Responsiveness during COVID-19 in People with Pre-Existing Psychiatric Disorders: Experiences from Iran
Authors: Poursaadati Maryam , Hosseinzadeh Samaneh , Maarefvand Masoomeh , Bolhari Jafar , Khubchandani Jagdish
Published: February 2023

Mental health system responsiveness (MHSR) is one of the important indicators in measuring the performance of mental health systems. Recognizing this function can be effective in responding appropriately to the needs of People with Pre-Existing Psychiatric Disorders (PPEPD). This study aimed to investigate MHSR during the COVID-19 period in PPEPD in Iran. Using stratified random sampling, 142 PPEPD who were admitted to a Psychiatric Hospital in Iran one year before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic were recruited for this cross-sectional study. Participants completed a demographic and clinical characteristics questionnaire as well as a Mental Health System Responsiveness Questionnaire through telephone interviews. The results show that the indicators of prompt attention, autonomy, and access to care were reported as the worst-performing and the confidentiality indicator as the best-performing. The type of insurance affected the access to care and the quality of basic amenities. MHSR has been reported to be poor in Iran in general and this problem worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic. Considering the prevalence of psychiatric disorders in Iran and the degree of disability of these disorders, structural and functional changes are needed for adequate MHSR.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals the Central Role of the Transcription Factor MYB in Regulating Anthocyanin Accumulation in Economic Grape Species (Vitis vinifera)
Authors: Su Ling , Qi Meng , Meng Dong , Yang Qing , Wang Yongmei , Ren Fengshan , Yang Liying , Chen Yingchun , Liu Liyuan , Tang Meiling , Song Yangbo , Gong Lei
Published: February 2023

To cultivate different grape varieties according to market needs, it is necessary to study the regulation mechanism of color changes in different development stages of grapes. In this study, RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) technology was used to compare and analyze the transcriptome data of four grape varieties at the same development stage. Among the annotated differential genes, the anthocyanin synthesis pathway in the flavonoid pathway was mainly studied. Further RT-qPCR analysis of key enzyme genes, in the flavonoid synthesis pathway of the anthocyanin metabolism pathway, showed that the MYB transcription factor family had binding sites at the start of the four enzyme genes. The relative expression of the MYB transcription factor and enzyme gene in the transcriptome data was verified by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Subcellular localization and gene function verification of the transcription factor MYB2 confirmed its regulatory role in anthocyanins.
Mapping the Link between Climate Change and Mangrove Forest: A Global Overview of the Literature
Authors: Segaran Thirukanthan Chandra , Azra Mohamad Nor , Lananan Fathurrahman , Burlakovs Juris , Vincevica-Gaile Zane , Rudovica Vita , Grinfelde Inga , Rahim Nur Hannah Abd , Satyanarayana Behara
Published: February 2023

Mangroves play a crucial role in maintaining the stability of coastal regions, particularly in the face of climate change. To gain insight into associations between climate change and mangroves, we conducted bibliometric research on the global indexed database of the Web of Knowledge, Core Collection. A total of 4458 literature were analyzed based on bibliometric information and article metadata through a scientometric analysis of citation analysis as well as a cluster analysis. Results suggest that coastal countries such as the USA, Australia, China, India, and Brazil are showing the recent influential mangrove-related keywords such as blue carbon and carbon stock. Interestingly, the “carbon stock”, “Saudi Arabia”, “range expansion” and “nature-based flood risk mitigation” is among the top cluster networks in the field of climate change and mangrove forest. The present research is expected to attract potential leaders in research, government, civil society, and business to advance progress towards mangrove sustainability in the changing climate meaningfully.
Urban Parks—A Catalyst for Activities! The Effect of the Perceived Characteristics of the Urban Park Environment on Children’s Physical Activity Levels
Authors: Bao Yu , Gao Ming , Luo Dan , Zhou Xudan
Published: February 2023

The potential of urban parks to enhance social welfare and deliver health benefits has been recognized. However, it is still unclear which landscape characteristics in urban green spaces best improve the physical activity levels of users. Little is known about the relationship between the microenvironment of urban green spaces and the physical activity of children, particularly in the context of high levels of childhood obesity. Using the self-report method, we extracted the perceived environmental characteristics of the landscape and combined this with behavior observation to obtain the level of children’s physical activity in green spaces and to explore the influence of the characteristics of green spaces on these activities. Our results show that the highest levels of activity were found in the semiopen spaces of urban parks, which mainly consist of dense vegetation and a diverse range of recreation facilities. Play facilities were most closely related to the level of intensity of children’s activities, and perceived safety was the primary social perception factor affecting their activities. In addition, perceptions of the social environment were found to play a significant intermediary role in the impact of green space on children’s physical activity. The study results are intended to promote green space planning and design updates, improve the public health level of children, and provide a basis for the construction of child-friendly cities.
Hierarchical Task Analysis (HTA) for Application Research on Operator Work Practices and the Design of Training and Support Systems for Forestry Harvester
Authors: Dreger Felix A. , Englund Martin , Hartsch Florian , Wagner Thilo , Jaeger Dirk , Björheden Rolf , Rinkenauer Gerhard
Published: February 2023

Highly mechanized forestry operations are essential for efficient timber harvesting. Therefore, the skills of harvester operators appear to be key to productive and sustainable use of the machines. Recent research has revealed a knowledge deficit regarding the work practices of forest machine operators. This urges systematic research into forestry machine handling and a corresponding refinement of analytical methods. Current analyses of operator tasks in forestry are less formalized and focus predominantly on machine efficiency and overall performance, but not so much on the human-related conditions of work performance and workload. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to introduce hierarchical task analysis (HTA) into forestry science. HTA is a versatile, formalized human-factors method that can be used to describe the work objectives of forest machine operators. HTA is suitable, for example, for describing (in)efficient work practices and thus as a basis for designing machine operator training and for systematically evaluating assistive technologies. The task analyses in this paper draw on a recently published empirical approach to analyzing work practices, workflows, and machine operator behavior for optimal human–machine collaboration in forestry application research. Specifically, the main work methods of clearcutting and thinning stand in European forestry were considered, with examples from Scandinavian and German method application. The process of HTA is described and a prototypical approach to HTA for both working methods provided. As a result, this work could show that a single work practice affects operator goals within different work elements and sets out how inefficient work practices can be described in terms of operator goals. With the introduction and exemplary application of HTA, a structured task definition in human-centered approaches is encouraged to analyze work practices, workflows, and machine operator behavior for optimal human–machine collaboration in forestry application research.
Response of Vegetation Coverage to Climate Changes in the Qinling-Daba Mountains of China
Authors: Ren Han , Chen Chaonan , Li Yanhong , Zhu Wenbo , Zhang Lijuan , Wang Liyuan , Zhu Lianqi
Published: February 2023

As a major component of the north–south transition zone in China, the vegetation ecosystem of the Qinling-Daba Mountains (QBM) is highly sensitive to climate change. However, the impact of sunshine duration, specifically, on regional vegetation remains unclear. By using linear trend, correlation, and multiple regression analyses, this study systematically analyzed the spatiotemporal characteristics and trend changes of the vegetation coverage in the QBM from 2000–2020. Changes in the main climate elements in different periods and the responses to them are also discussed. Over the past 21 years, the vegetation coverage on the east and west sides of the QBM has been lower than that in the central areas. However, it is showing a continuously improving trend, especially in winters and springs. The findings indicate that change of FVC in the QBM exhibited a positive correlation with temperature, a negative correlation with sunshine hours, and both positive and negative correlation with precipitation. On an annual scale, average temperature was the main controlling climatic factor. On a seasonal scale, the area dominated by precipitation in spring was larger. In summer, the relative importance of the three was weak. In autumn and winter, sunshine duration became the main factor affecting vegetation coverage in most areas.
Fine-Root Soil Stoichiometry of Picea schrenkiana Fisch. et Mey. and Its Correlation with Soil Environmental Factors under Different Nitrogen Input Levels in the Tianshan Mountains, Xinjiang
Authors: Zhang Han , Gong Lu , Ding Zhaolong , Wu Xue
Published: February 2023

Nitrogen enters the soil surface along with the deposition and destroys the element balance of an ecosystem, which has an important impact on underground ecological processes. As active interfaces with the environment, fine roots play a key role in the processes of underground ecosystems and nutrient cycles. Nitrogen in deposition is mainly in two forms, namely organic nitrogen and inorganic nitrogen, which may have different responses to the ecological balance of fine roots and the soil environment; however, in Picea schrenkiana Fisch. et Mey., as a dominant species in the Tianshan Mountains of Xinjiang, it is not clear how different proportions of nitrogen deposition affect the element balance and interactions between fine roots and soil. In this study, from May 2018 to October 2020, five groups of in situ control experiments with different proportions of exogenous nitrogen addition (different ratios of ON–IN, CK = 0:0, N1 = 10:0, N2 = 7:3, N3 = 5:5, N4 = 3:7, and N5 = 0:10, were mixed and then used with equal total amounts of 10 kg·N·ha−1·a−1) were conducted on Picea schrenkiana. The results showed that inorganic nitrogen had a stronger effect on the carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus contents of fine roots under different proportions of exogenous nitrogen addition, indicating that the fine roots of Picea schrenkiana had a greater response to inorganic nitrogen sources. In a mixed organic–inorganic nitrogen source with the same proportion of organic and inorganic nitrogen, the reaction between fine-root nitrogen (TN = 7.6 g·kg−1−10.8 g·kg −1) and soil phosphorus (TP = 0.99 g·kg−1−1.93 g·kg−1) was stronger, indicating that the Picea schrenkiana ecosystem may be a nitrogen-limited forest ecosystem. In addition, different proportions of nitrogen source inputs have an indirect impact on the fine-root stoichiometry and biomass of different root sequences through the impact on soil environmental factors and stoichiometry. Therefore, our research provides insights into the impact of increases in nitrogen on the nutrient cycling of mountain forests in arid areas and provides small-scale support for a research database of forest ecosystem responses to nitrogen deposition.
Inferring Vertical Tree Growth Direction of Samanea saman and Delonix regia Trees with the Pattern of Lateral Root Distribution Using the Root Detector
Authors: Rahman Mohamad Miftah , Fredisa Yoga , Nandika Dodi , Nugroho Naresworo , Siregar Iskandar Zulkanaen , Karlinasari Lina
Published: February 2023

The root system is important for supporting tree growth and stability. In this study, we analyzed the relationship between the main lateral root distribution pattern and vertical tree growth direction based on root detection and analysis of tree morphometry. Tree growth represented by morphometric data were measured directly, and the root distribution was identified using a sonic Root Detector. Sixteen targeted trees (eight Samanea saman and eight Delonix regia trees) in an urban area landscape were selected in this study. The Root Detector revealed that the average sonic velocity of lateral roots was 676.88 m∙s−1 for S. saman and 865.32 m∙s−1 for D. regia. For root distribution, Root Detector determined the average numbers of main lateral roots for S. saman and D. regia, which were 6 and 10, respectively. Based on correlation analysis, significant relationships were found between tree root sonic velocity and the degree of lean, height, and diameter of the tree; meanwhile the relationship between crown diameter and slenderness were not significant. Findings confirmed that, in relation to the root distribution and the growth direction of the trunk and crown, the lateral root is mainly distributed in the opposite direction of the tree lean rather than crown growth direction.
Physiological Responses of Chionanthus retusus Seedlings to Drought and Waterlogging Stresses
Authors: Niu Muge , Zhao Tianran , Xu Dong , Liu Cuishuang , Liu Yuan , Sun Maotong , Xie Huicheng , Li Jihong
Published: February 2023

Understanding the adaptability of Chionanthus retusus Lindl. et Paxt. to extreme water conditions will help in exploring the potential application of this species in barren mountains. Three-year-old Chionanthus retusus seedlings were used in a greenhouse pot experiment that analyzed the effect of different moisture gradients on growth, photosynthetic and fluorescence characteristics, protective enzyme system, osmotic substance regulation and cell membrane damage. The results indicated that C. retusus can effectively grow at a relative soil water content of 44.6% and above and can maintain growth for 20 days under flooded conditions. Under drought stress, net photosynthesis rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (Gs), transpiration rate (Tr), and intercellular carbon dioxide concentration (Ci) all showed a trend of gradual decrease. The trend of change was similar under waterlogging conditions. The maximal quantum yield of PSII photochemistry (Fv/Fm), actual photochemical efficiency of PSII (ΦPSII), photochemical quenching coefficient (qP), and electron transport rate (ETR) all decreased as drought deepened. Malondialdehyde (MDA) content decreased first and then increased. However, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity content, peroxidase (POD) activity content, and proline (Pro) activity content showed a trend of increasing and then decreasing. C. retusus had good adaptability in the slight drought treatment group and flooded treatment group but showed intolerance in the high drought group, which could still last for approximately 21 days. C. retusus was found to have a strong adaptability to water stress and can be used as an afforestation tree in barren mountains.
Pigment Production of Chlamydomonas Strains in Response to Norflurazon and ZnO Nanoparticles
Authors: Intha Thanaporn , Sirikhachornkit Anchalee
Published: February 2023

Numerous species of microalgae have been utilized for pigment production. More and more species are gaining popularity due to their ability to accumulate pigments with varying chemical compositions and the fact that some have distinctive byproducts that can be co-produced. Despite the fact that many of the species have unique by-products and traits, they are not being used economically due to high production costs. Utilizing agricultural and industrial wastewater for algae cultivation is one way to lower manufacturing costs. Herbicide-contaminated wastewater can result from agricultural contamination. Norflurazon is a popular pesticide frequently used for weed control. The presence of norflurazon in water renders that water unusable and requires proper treatment. Nanoparticles of ZnO (ZnO NPs), on the other hand, are utilized in a variety of industrial productions of numerous household goods. Water contaminated with ZnO NPs can present potential risks to human health and the environment. In this study, two field isolates of the green microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, a widely used model organism, were examined for their reaction to these two compounds in order to assess the responses of different natural strains to environmental stresses. Norflurazon at 10 µM had a higher inhibitory effect on growth and pigment production than ZnO NPs at 200 mg L−1. Although both norflurazon and ZnO NPs inhibit cell growth and pigmentation, they do so through distinct processes. Norflurazon induces oxidative stress in cells, resulting in photosystem damage. ZnO nanoparticles, on the other hand, did not cause photosystem damage but rather mechanical cell damage and disintegration. In addition, the physiological responses of the two Chlamydomonas strains were distinct, supporting the utilization of natural algal strains for specific types of environmental pollutants.
Development of a Vision-Based Unmanned Ground Vehicle for Mapping and Tennis Ball Collection: A Fuzzy Logic Approach
Authors: Latifinavid Masoud , Azizi Aydin
Published: February 2023

The application of robotic systems is widespread in all fields of life and sport. Tennis ball collection robots have recently become popular because of their potential for saving time and energy and increasing the efficiency of training sessions. In this study, an unmanned and autonomous tennis ball collection robot was designed and produced that used LiDAR for 2D mapping of the environment and a single camera for detecting tennis balls. A novel method was used for the path planning and navigation of the robot. A fuzzy controller was designed for controlling the robot during the collection operation. The developed robot was tested, and it successfully detected 91% of the tennis balls and collected 83% of them.
Modern Kiln Burner Technology in the Current Energy Climate: Pushing the Limits of Alternative Fuel Substitution
Authors: Mateus Maria Margarida , Neuparth Teresa , Cecílio Duarte Morais
Published: February 2023

The current manuscript presents a review on existing kiln burner technologies for the cement production process, in the context of the current climate of energy transition and environmental remediation. Environmental legislation has become ever stricter in response to global climate change, and cement plants need to adapt to this new reality in order to remain competitive in the market and ensure their longevity. The cement production process is a well-established technology with more than a century of existence. There are several plants in operation whose process is outdated by modern standards, particularly considering the current industry decarbonization needs. The cement process requires tremendous amounts of energy, mainly recovered from the combustion of solid, liquid or gaseous fuels, which yields massive emissions of greenhouse gases. Thus, an important onus is placed upon the minimization of pollutant emission in the combustion system, as well as a substitution of fossil fuels with more sustainable alternatives. One of the sustainable alternative fuels comes in the form of refuse derived fuels (RDF). These high caloric fractions of municipal solid waste present a double advantage by reducing the amount of fossil fuels used and reducing the landfilling fraction of waste. However, their use in rotary kiln burners comes with important limitations for burner operation, namely that a high degree of control over primary air supply is needed to ensure complete combustion with minimal pollutant emission.
Exploring Spatial Distributions of Land Use and Land Cover Change in Fire-Affected Areas of Miombo Woodlands of the Beira Corridor, Central Mozambique
Authors: Buramuge Victorino Américo , Ribeiro Natasha Sofia , Olsson Lennart , Bandeira Romana Rombe
Published: February 2023

Miombo woodlands (MW) are increasingly experiencing widespread land use and land cover change (LULCC). This study explores the influence of fire, agriculture, and slope variability on LULCC in the miombo of the Beira Corridor. Land use and land cover data were derived from three Landsat images for 2001, 2008, and 2018. Slope attributes were derived from the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM). Monthly burned data of Moderate-Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) were used to map fire frequency. The derived data were then used to investigate the relationship between LULCC and fire, agriculture, and slope, based on geographically weighted regression (GWR). In addition, the relationship between LULCC and slope was assessed. Our findings indicate that fire frequency, agriculture, and slope were significantly spatially non-stationary. We found that LULCC was negatively correlated with agriculture in open miombo, but positively correlated in dense miombo. A positive relationship between LULCC and fire was found for dense and open miombo. Changes in agriculture, dense miombo, and open miombo increased towards high slopes. The study improves the understanding of the spatial effect of LULCC drivers. The development and implementation of effective fire management actions is required to promote sustainable forest management and preservation of critical ecosystem services.
Norwegian Aquaculture Firms’ Emphasis on Environmental and Social Sustainability Compared to Firms in Other Industries
Authors: Aarstad Jarle , Jakobsen Stig-Erik , Fløysand Arnt
Published: February 2023

Background: There has been a strong focus on environmental sustainability in the aquaculture industry, but we do not know how firms in this industry emphasize the issue compared to firms in other industries. Methods: Responding to this research gap, we compared survey data of Norwegian firms in the (1) aquaculture industry with those in the (2) manufacturing industry, (3) the consulting, finance and insurance industry, and (4) the hospitality, tourism and culture industry. Results: We found that firms in the aquaculture industry emphasize environmental sustainability more than those in the other industries do. Likewise, firms in the aquaculture industry emphasize social sustainability more than those in the other industries do, but the difference is less marked. Across industries, knowledge-intensive firms emphasize environmental sustainability and social sustainability to a lesser extent. Additionally, firms with local or regional major ownership emphasize social sustainability more than those with international major ownership do. Conclusion: Firms in the aquaculture industry have a relatively strong emphasis on environmental and social sustainability, which may be due to the industry’s environmental challenges. Similarly, aquaculture firms have a relatively strong emphasis on social sustainability, which may be due to the industry’s geographic and sociocultural proximity to numerous small local communities.