bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Many-Body Calculations of Excitons in Two-Dimensional GaN
Authors: Zhang Yachao
Published: July 2023

We present an ab initio study on quasiparticle (QP) excitations and excitonic effects in two-dimensional (2D) GaN based on density-functional theory and many-body perturbation theory. We calculate the QP band structure using GW approximation, which generates an indirect band gap of 4.83 eV (K→Γ) for 2D GaN, opening up 1.24 eV with respect to its bulk counterpart. It is shown that the success of plasmon-pole approximation in treating the 2D material benefits considerably from error cancellation. On the other hand, much better gaps, comparable to GW ones, could be obtained by correcting the Kohn–Sham gap with a derivative discontinuity of the exchange–correlation functional at much lower computational cost. To evaluate excitonic effects, we solve the Bethe–Salpeter equation (BSE) starting from Kohn–Sham eigenvalues with a scissors operator to open the single-particle gap. This approach yields an exciton binding energy of 1.23 eV in 2D GaN, which is in good agreement with the highly demanding GW-BSE results. The enhanced excitonic effects due to reduced dimensionality are discussed by comparing the optical spectra from BSE calculations with that by random-phase approximation (RPA) for both the monolayer and bulk GaN in wurtzite phase. Additionally, we find that the spin–orbit splitting of excitonic peaks is noticeable in 2D GaN but buried in the bulk crystal.
Strong Population Genetic Structure for the Endangered Micro-Trapdoor Spider Moggridgea rainbowi (Mygalomorphae, Migidae) in Unburnt Habitat after Catastrophic Bushfires
Authors: Marsh Jessica R. , Bradford Tessa M. , Cooper Steven J. B.
Published: July 2023

Catastrophic wildfires impacted large areas of western Kangaroo Island (KI), South Australia in 2019–2020, burning habitat for many species, including large proportions of the distributional range of the KI micro-trapdoor spider Moggridgea rainbowi, which led to it being listed as Endangered under Australia’s Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (EPBC Act). In order to assess population genetic structure in M. rainbowi and detect diagnosable lineages and their distributional patterns across KI, 28 individuals were genotyped for 2495 loci, sampling from all known populations of the species. Population genetic and phylogenetic analyses of nuclear and mitochondrial sequence data provided strong support for three Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESUs) within M. rainbowi; two populations on eastern KI and a heavily fire-impacted western population. High levels of divergence and fixed allelic differences between 5 and 16% indicate a lack of gene flow between ESUs and long periods of isolation. Distributional patterns of these lineages match likely locations of isolation events caused by successive changes to sea level during the Quaternary (2.58 million years ago to present), which led to KI being intermittently connected to the mainland or separated into one or more islands. Our findings have strong conservation implications for M. rainbowi and highlight the importance of inclusion of population genetic structure to inform conservation strategies and to conserve lineage biodiversity at the species level and below.
Molecular Taxonomy of South Africa’s Catsharks: How Far Have We Come?
Authors: van Staden Michaela , Ebert David A. , Gennari Enrico , Leslie Rob W. , McCord Meaghen E. , Parkinson Matthew , Watson Ralph G. A. , Wintner Sabine , da Silva Charlene , Bester-van der Merwe Aletta E.
Published: July 2023

The ability to correctly identify specimens at the species level is crucial for assessing and conserving biodiversity. Despite this, species-specific data are lacking for many of South Africa’s catsharks due to a high level of morphological stasis. As comprehensive and curated DNA reference libraries are required for the reliable identification of specimens from morphologically similar species, this study reviewed and contributed to the availability of cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and nicotinamide adenine dehydrogenase subunit 2 (NADH2) sequences for South Africa’s catsharks. A molecular taxonomic approach, implementing species delimitation and specimen assignment methods, was used to assess and highlight any taxonomic uncertainties and/or errors in public databases. The investigated species were summarised into 47 molecular operational taxonomic units (MOTUs), with some conflicting specimen assignments. Two Apristurus specimens sampled in this study remained unidentified, revealing the presence of previously undocumented genetic diversity. In contrast, haplotype sharing within Haploblepharus—attributed to nucleotide ambiguities—resulted in the delimitation of three congeners into a single MOTU. This study reveals that molecular taxonomy has the potential to flag undocumented species and/or misidentified specimens, and further highlights the need to implement integrated taxonomic assessments on catsharks that represent an irreplaceable component of biodiversity in the region.
Myxozoan Ceratomyxids Infecting the Gallbladder of Amazonian Ornamental Cichlid Fish: Description of Ellipsomyxa santarenensis n. sp. and Report of Ceratomyxa amazonensis in a New Host
Authors: Figueredo Rayline T. A. , Müller Maria I. , Long Paul F. , Adriano Edson A.
Published: July 2023

Although most Myxozoa species of the genera Ceratomyxa and Ellipsomyxa have been described in marine hosts worldwide, an increasing diversity has been reported infecting South American freshwater fish, mainly in Amazonian waters. The present study deals with two species of myxozoan ceratomyxids parasitizing the gallbladder of Amazonian ornamental cichlids fish: Ceratomyxa amazonensis is identified from a new host—Geophagus altifrons; while Ellipsomyxa santarenensis n. sp. is described infecting Satanoperca jurupari. Morphological (light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy), molecular (small ribosomal subunit DNA—SSU-rDNA sequencing) and phylogenetic analyses were used to characterize both species. Ceratomyxa amazonensis showed a prevalence of 64.2%, with plasmodia showing a vermiform shape and motility. For E. santarenensis n. sp., the prevalence was 33.3%. Ultrastructural analysis revealed that the vermiform C. amazonensis plasmodia were composed of an outer cytoplasmic region and a large vacuole occupying the inner area. In E. santarenensis n. sp., cytoplasmic expansions were observed in pseudoplasmodia originating pseudopodia. SSU rDNA sequencing-based genetic distance analysis revealed a very small difference between C. amazonensis, parasite of G. altifrons, and C. amazonensis, parasite of S. discus—host of the original description, thus showing that they are the same species occurring in a new host. For Ellipsomyxa santarenensis n. sp., molecular data revealed a difference of 1.6% for Ellipsomyxa amazonensis and Ellipsomyxa paraensis. The phylogenetic analysis revealed the grouping of E. santarenensis n. sp. together with the other freshwater Ellipsomyxa species of the Amazonian region, and associated with the morphological data, it was possible to identify it as a new taxon within the genus Ellipsomyxa.
Population Scent Discrimination in Two Liolaemus Lizard Species: Exploring Ethological Isolation
Authors: Labra Antonieta
Published: July 2023

Reproductive isolating barriers are a crucial element in the speciation process. From these barriers, and among those acting early in the speciation process (premating), the ethological ones can play a pivotal role in isolating populations or closely related species. In fact, the high diversity of some taxa has been correlated with an elevated divergence in sexual signals, which facilitates isolation. The present study explored whether variation in chemical signals may contribute to the high diversity of Liolaemus lizards, a genus with more than 290 species. Specifically, population scent discrimination was investigated in two sympatric species, L. tenuis and L. lemniscatus, studying the response of closely located populations most likely from the same genetic lineages. Lizards of both species discriminated between scents of their own and different populations, and in some cases, scents from their own population were preferred. These results suggest a fast evolution of scents and/or of their discrimination, implying that the ethological barriers involving the chemical modality may evolve fast. The studied species, however, differed in the strength of the exhibited population scent discrimination, suggesting that the ethological barriers may evolve at different rates across species. It can be concluded that ethological barriers involving chemical modality may disrupt species’ cohesion, potentially contributing to Liolaemus diversification, in synergy or not with geographical barriers.
Testing White’s Floristic Impoverishment Hypothesis in the Forest-Savanna Transition Zones of Africa
Authors: Rees Mathew , Godlee John L. , Harris David J. , Ryan Casey M. , Dexter Kyle G.
Published: July 2023

In tropical Africa, forests and savannas are the two most widespread biomes and potentially represent alternative stable states with a divergent species composition. A classic, but untested, hypothesis posited by White (1983) suggests that the transition zones between forests and savannas contain a floristically impoverished assemblage, with few representatives from each biome. Further, the evolutionary dimension of diversity has received limited attention, despite its importance for understanding the biogeographic history of biomes. Here, we quantified species richness and several measures of evolutionary diversity in 1° grid cells, using c. 300,000 occurrence records of trees and shrubs combined with biome affiliation data for 3203 species. We found that assemblages in transition zones hold fewer woody species than assemblages in forest and savanna zones, as posited by White. However, transition zones hold more phylogenetic diversity than expected given their species richness, whether one considers forest and savanna assemblages separately or together. We also show that the Congo Basin forest has low levels of phylogenetic diversity, given the number of species, and highlight south-eastern African savannas as a centre of savanna woody species richness and phylogenetic diversity. Regions with high phylogenetic diversity, given the number of both forest and savanna species, were centred around the Dahomey Gap and Cameroon, mainly in transition zones. Overall, our study shows that even if floristically impoverished, transition zones hold unexpectedly high evolutionary diversity. This suggests that they are important centres of evolutionary innovation and diversification and/or serve as evolutionary crossroads, where lineages that diversified in contrasting environments coexist within a single area.
Research of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Autonomous Aerial Refueling Docking Method Based on Binocular Vision
Authors: Gong Kun , Liu Bo , Xu Xin , Xu Yuelei , He Yakun , Zhang Zhaoxiang , Rasol Jarhinbek
Published: July 2023

In this paper, a visual navigation method based on binocular vision and a deep learning approach is proposed to solve the navigation problem of the unmanned aerial vehicle autonomous aerial refueling docking process. First, to meet the requirements of high accuracy and high frame rate in aerial refueling tasks, this paper proposes a single-stage lightweight drogue detection model, which greatly increases the inference speed of binocular images by introducing image alignment and depth-separable convolution and improves the feature extraction capability and scale adaptation performance of the model by using an efficient attention mechanism (ECA) and adaptive spatial feature fusion method (ASFF). Second, this paper proposes a novel method for estimating the pose of the drogue by spatial geometric modeling using optical markers, and further improves the accuracy and robustness of the algorithm by using visual reprojection. Moreover, this paper constructs a visual navigation vision simulation and semi-physical simulation experiments for the autonomous aerial refueling task, and the experimental results show the following: (1) the proposed drogue detection model has high accuracy and real-time performance, with a mean average precision (mAP) of 98.23% and a detection speed of 41.11 FPS in the embedded module; (2) the position estimation error of the proposed visual navigation algorithm is less than ±0.1 m, and the attitude estimation error of the pitch and yaw angle is less than ±0.5°; and (3) through comparison experiments with the existing advanced methods, the positioning accuracy of this method is improved by 1.18% compared with the current advanced methods.
Flight Test Analysis of UTM Conflict Detection Based on a Network Remote ID Using a Random Forest Algorithm
Authors: Ruseno Neno , Lin Chung-Yan , Guan Wen-Lin
Published: July 2023

In an area where unmanned aerial system (UAS) traffic is high, a conflict detection system is one of the important components for the safety of UAS operations. A novel UAS traffic management (UTM) monitoring application was developed, including a conflict detection system using the inverted teardrop area detection based on real-time flight data transmitted from the network remote identification (Remote ID) modules. This research aimed to analyze the performance of the UTM-monitoring application based on flight test data using statistical and machine learning approaches. The flight tests were conducted using several types of small fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) controlled by a human pilot using a Taiwan cellular communication network in suburban and rural areas. Two types of scenarios that involved a stationary, on-the-ground intruder and a flying intruder were used to simulate a conflict event. Besides the statistical method calculating the mean and standard deviation, the random forest algorithm, including regressor and classifier modules, was used to analyze the flight parameters and timing parameters of the flight tests. The result indicates that the processing time of the UTM application was the most significant parameter to the conflict warning parameter, besides the relative distance and height between UAVs. In addition, the latency time was higher for the flight in the rural area than the suburban area and also higher for data transmitted from the flying position than the ground position. The findings of our study can be used as a reference for aviation authorities and other stakeholders in the development of future UTM systems.
Multi-Branch Parallel Networks for Object Detection in High-Resolution UAV Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Wu Qihong , Zhang Bin , Guo Chang , Wang Lei
Published: July 2023

Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are instrumental in advancing the field of remote sensing. Nevertheless, the complexity of the background and the dense distribution of objects both present considerable challenges for object detection in UAV remote sensing images. This paper proposes a Multi-Branch Parallel Network (MBPN) based on the ViTDet (Visual Transformer for Object Detection) model, which aims to improve object detection accuracy in UAV remote sensing images. Initially, the discriminative ability of the input feature map of the Feature Pyramid Network (FPN) is improved by incorporating the Receptive Field Enhancement (RFE) and Convolutional Self-Attention (CSA) modules. Subsequently, to mitigate the loss of semantic information, the sampling process of the FPN is replaced by Multi-Branch Upsampling (MBUS) and Multi-Branch Downsampling (MBDS) modules. Lastly, a Feature-Concatenating Fusion (FCF) module is employed to merge feature maps of varying levels, thereby addressing the issue of semantic misalignment. This paper evaluates the performance of the proposed model on both a custom UAV-captured WCH dataset and the publicly available NWPU VHR10 dataset. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed model achieves an increase in APL of 2.4% and 0.7% on the WCH and NWPU VHR10 datasets, respectively, compared to the baseline model ViTDet-B.
A Many-Objective Evolutionary Algorithm Based on Dual Selection Strategy
Authors: Peng Cheng , Dai Cai , Xue Xingsi
Published: July 2023

In high-dimensional space, most multi-objective optimization algorithms encounter difficulties in solving many-objective optimization problems because they cannot balance convergence and diversity. As the number of objectives increases, the non-dominated solutions become difficult to distinguish while challenging the assessment of diversity in high-dimensional objective space. To reduce selection pressure and improve diversity, this article proposes a many-objective evolutionary algorithm based on dual selection strategy (MaOEA/DS). First, a new distance function is designed as an effective distance metric. Then, based distance function, a point crowding-degree (PC) strategy, is proposed to further enhance the algorithm’s ability to distinguish superior solutions in population. Finally, a dual selection strategy is proposed. In the first selection, the individuals with the best convergence are selected from the top few individuals with good diversity in the population, focusing on population convergence. In the second selection, the PC strategy is used to further select individuals with larger crowding distance values, emphasizing population diversity. To extensively evaluate the performance of the algorithm, this paper compares the proposed algorithm with several state-of-the-art algorithms. The experimental results show that MaOEA/DS outperforms other comparison algorithms in overall performance, indicating the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
An Algorithm for Sorting Staggered PRI Signals Based on the Congruence Transform
Authors: Dong Huixu , Wang Xiaofeng , Qi Xinglong , Wang Chunyu
Published: July 2023

To address the problems of poor adaptability to pulse loss, susceptibility to interfered pulses, and the need of sub-PRI (Pulse Repetition Interval) ranking in the existing signal sorting algorithms, this paper proposes an algorithm for sorting staggered PRI signals based on the congruence transform. According to the analysis of the congruence characteristics of the staggered PRI signal, the proposed algorithm transforms the arrival time of the pulse to a fixed value, based on which the staggered PRI signal sorting and the sub-PRI sequence extraction can be achieved. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm can effectively sort the staggered PRI signals and obtain the sub-PRI sequence directly without sub-PRI ranking, and, compared to some typical algorithms, it is less affected by the interfered pulses and the pulse loss.
Perspectives of Biogas Plants as BECCS Facilities: A Comparative Analysis of Biomethane vs. Biohydrogen Production with Carbon Capture and Storage or Use (CCS/CCU)
Authors: Full Johannes , Hohmann Silja , Ziehn Sonja , Gamero Edgar , Schließ Tobias , Schmid Hans-Peter , Miehe Robert , Sauer Alexander
Published: July 2023

The transition to a carbon-neutral economy requires innovative solutions that reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and promote sustainable energy production. Additionally, carbon dioxide removal technologies are urgently needed. The production of biomethane or biohydrogen with carbon dioxide capture and storage are two promising BECCS approaches to achieve these goals. In this study, we compare the advantages and disadvantages of these two approaches regarding their technical, economic, and environmental performance. Our analysis shows that while both approaches have the potential to reduce GHG emissions and increase energy security, the hydrogen-production approach has several advantages, including up to five times higher carbon dioxide removal potential. However, the hydrogen bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (HyBECCS) approach also faces some challenges, such as higher capital costs, the need for additional infrastructure, and lower energy efficiency. Our results give valuable insights into the trade-offs between these two approaches. They can inform decision-makers regarding the most suitable method for reducing GHG emissions and provide renewable energy in different settings.
Water Splitting as an Alternative for Electrochemical Hydrogen and Oxygen Generation: Current Status, Trends, and Challenges
Authors: Sahin Nihat Ege , Pech-Rodríguez W. J. , Meléndez-González P. C. , Lopez Hernández Juan , Rocha-Rangel E.
Published: July 2023

Water splitting technology is an innovative strategy to face the dependency on fossil fuels and, at the same time, address environmental pollution issues. Electrocatalysts seem to be the better option to improve water separation efficiency and satisfy the commercial-scale demand for hydrogen. Therefore, the design and fabrication of heterostructures with a high affinity for achieving water splitting have been proposed. In this review, the application of several electrocatalysts for hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions is presented and discussed in detail. A review of the recent advances in water separation using noble metals such as Pt-, Ir-, and Ru-based electrodes is presented, followed by a highlighting of the current trends in noble-metal-free electrocatalysts and novel preparation methods. Furthermore, it contemplates some results of a hybrid organic molecule–water electrolysis and photoelectrochemical water splitting. This review intends to give insight into the main trends in water splitting and the barriers that need to be overcome to further boost the efficiency of the main hydrogen and oxygen generation systems that ultimately result in large-scale applications. Finally, future challenges and perspectives are addressed, considering all the novelties and the proposed pathways for water splitting.
Advances in CO2-Free Energy Technologies
Authors: Javaid Rahat , Qazi Umair Yaqub
Published: July 2023

In today’s world, energy demand is increasing, and meeting this demand in an environmentally benign and sustainable manner is the greatest challenge [...]
Modified Particle Swarm Optimization Based Powertrain Energy Management for Range Extended Electric Vehicle
Authors: Parkar Omkar , Snyder Benjamin , Rahi Adibuzzaman , Anwar Sohel
Published: July 2023

The efficiency of hybrid electric powertrains is heavily dependent on energy and power management strategies, which are sensitive to the dynamics of the powertrain components that they use. In this study, a Modified Particle Swarm Optimization (Modified PSO) methodology, which incorporates novel concepts such as the Vector Particle concept and the Seeded Particle concept, has been developed to minimize the fuel consumption and NOx emissions for an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV). An optimization problem is formulated such that the battery state of charge (SOC) trajectory over the entire driving cycle, a vector of size 50, is to be optimized via a control lever consisting of 50 engine/generator speed points spread over the same 2 h cycle. Thus, the vector particle consisted of the battery SOC trajectory, having 50 elements, and 50 engine/generator speed points, resulting in a 100-D optimization problem. To improve the convergence of the vector particle PSO, the concept of seeding the vector particles was introduced. Additionally, further improvements were accomplished by adapting the Time-Varying Acceleration Coefficients (TVAC) PSO and Frankenstein’s PSO features to the vector particles. The MATLAB/SIMULINK platform was used to validate the developed commercial vehicle hybrid powertrain model against a similar ADVISOR powertrain model using a standard rule-based PMS algorithm. The validated model was then used for the simulation of the developed, modified PSO algorithms through a multi-objective optimization strategy using a weighted sum fitness function. Simulation results show that a fuel consumption reduction of 12% and a NOx emission reduction of 35% were achieved individually by deploying the developed algorithms. When the multi-objective optimization was applied, a simultaneous reduction of 9.4% fuel consumption and 7.9% NOx emission was achieved when compared to the baseline model with the rule-based PMS algorithm.
Self-Sourced Unconventional Tight Marlstone Reservoir Potential from Evaporative Lagoon of Triassic Leikoupo Formation in the Central Sichuan Basin
Authors: Zhang Jianyong , Xin Yongguang , Zhang Hao , Tian Han , Chen Wei , Zhu Xinjian
Published: July 2023

A breakthrough was made in tight marlstone reservoirs from an evaporative lagoon in the second sub-member of the third member of the Leikoupo Formation (Lei3-2) in the Central Sichuan Basin. The source rock characteristics, reservoir characteristics of the marlstone and geochemical parameters of the oil and natural gas were investigated to evaluate the unconventional hydrocarbon exploration potential of the tight marlstone from the evaporative lagoon. The results revealed that the source rocks were deposited in evaporative lagoon environments, and the average total organic carbon (TOC) content value for the samples was 0.75 wt%. The thermal maturity of the organic matter was relatively high, with a calculated vitrinite reflectance (Rc) of 1.7%. The characteristics of marlstones suggest that the potential source rocks had fair to good hydrocarbon generative potential. The condensate samples had low densities, low viscosities and high thermal maturity, with a Rc value of 1.7%. For the natural gas, the dry coefficient was around 0.90, and the carbon isotopic compositions of methane and ethane was −41.3‰ and −28.4‰, respectively. According to the carbon isotopic compositions, thermal maturity and geological background, the oil and natural gas from Lei3-2 are comparable with the marlstone of Lei3-2. Thus, the oil and natural gas is self-sourced and originates from the marlstone in the Lei3-2. Micropores and microfractures are often detected in the marlstone from Lei3-2, and a gypsum layer is conducive to the hydrocarbon preservation. These results suggest that the evaporative lagoon facies in Lei3-2 have large, self-sourced, unconventional, tight marlstone reservoir potential. This study also enhances the prospects for further oil and gas exploration of evaporative lagoon facies in other basins.
Optimizing the Design of an Interior Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor for Electric Vehicles with a Hybrid ABC-SVM Algorithm
Authors: Park Jong-Woon , Koo Min-Mo , Seo Hyun-Uk , Lim Dong-Kuk
Published: July 2023

This paper presents a comprehensive investigation of the optimal design of an interior permanent magnet synchronous motor (IPMSM) for electric vehicles (EVs), utilizing the hybrid artificial bee colony algorithm–support vector machine (HAS) algorithm. The performance of the drive motor is a crucial determinant of the overall vehicle performance, particularly in EVs that rely solely on a motor for propulsion. In this context, interior permanent magnet synchronous motors (IPMSMs) offer a compelling choice due to their high torque density, wide speed range, superior efficiency, and robustness. However, accurate analysis of the nonlinear characteristics of IPMSMs necessitates finite element analysis, which can be time-consuming. Therefore, research into methods for deriving an optimal model with minimal computation is of significant importance. The HAS is a powerful multimodal optimization technique that is capable of exploring several optimal solutions. It enhances the navigation capability by combining the artificial bee colony algorithm (ABC) with the kernel support vector machine (KSVM). Specifically, the algorithm improves the search ability by optimizing the movement of bees in each region generated by the KSVM. Furthermore, hybridization with the Nelder–Mead method ensures accurate and quick convergence at pointers discovered in the ABC. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm, this study compared its performance with a conventional algorithm in two mathematical test functions, verifying its remarkable performance. Finally, the HAS algorithm was applied to the optimal design of the IPMSM for EVs. Overall, this paper provides a thorough investigation of the application of the HAS algorithm to the design of IPMSMs for electric vehicles, and its application is expected to benefit from the combination of machine-learning techniques with various other optimization algorithms.
Electricity Market Price Prediction Based on Quadratic Hybrid Decomposition and THPO Algorithm
Authors: Yan Laiqing , Yan Zutai , Li Zhenwen , Ma Ning , Li Ran , Qin Jian
Published: July 2023

Electricity price forecasting is a crucial aspect of spot trading in the electricity market and optimal scheduling of microgrids. However, the stochastic and periodic nature of electricity price sequences often results in low accuracy in electricity price forecasting. To address this issue, this study proposes a quadratic hybrid decomposition method based on ensemble empirical modal decomposition (EEMD) and wavelet packet decomposition (WPD), along with a deep extreme learning machine (DELM) optimized by a THPO algorithm to enhance the accuracy of electricity price prediction. To overcome the problem of the optimization algorithm falling into local optima, an improved optimization algorithm strategy is proposed to enhance the optimization-seeking ability of HPO. The electricity price series is decomposed into a series of components using EEMD decomposition and WPD decomposition, and the DELM model optimized by the THPO algorithm is built for each component separately. The predicted values of all the series are then superimposed to obtain the final electricity price prediction. The proposed prediction model is evaluated using electricity price data from an Australian electricity market. The results demonstrate that the proposed improved algorithm strategy significantly improves the convergence performance of the algorithm, and the proposed prediction model effectively enhances the accuracy and stability of electricity price prediction, as compared to several other prediction models.
Ionic Conductivity of the Li6PS5Cl0.5Br0.5 Argyrodite Electrolyte at Different Operating and Pelletizing Pressures and Temperatures
Authors: Dunham Joshua , Carfang Joshua , Yu Chan-Yeop , Ghahremani Raziyeh , Farahati Rashid , Farhad Siamak
Published: July 2023

All-solid-state lithium batteries (ASSLBs) using argyrodite electrolyte materials have shown promise for applications in electric vehicles (EVs). However, understanding the effects of processing parameters on the ionic conductivity of these electrolytes is crucial for optimizing battery performance and manufacturing methods. This study investigates the influence of electrolyte operating temperature, electrolyte operating pressure, electrolyte pelletization pressure, and electrolyte pelletizing temperature on the ionic conductivity of the Li6PS5Cl0.5Br0.5 argyrodite electrolyte (AmpceraTM, D50 = 10 µm). A specially designed test cell is employed for the experimental measurements, allowing for controlled pelletization and testing within the same tooling. The results demonstrate the significant impact of the four parameters on the ionic conductivity of the argyrodite electrolyte. The electrolyte operating temperature has a more pronounced effect than operating pressure, and pelletizing temperature exerts a greater influence than pelletizing pressure. This study provides graphs that aid in understanding the interplay between these parameters and achieving desired conductivity values. It also establishes a baseline for the maximum pelletizing temperature before undesirable degradation of the electrolyte occurs. By manipulating the pelletizing pressure, operating pressure, and pelletizing temperature, battery engineers can achieve the desired conductivity for specific applications. The findings emphasize the need to consider operating conditions to ensure satisfactory low-temperature performance, particularly for EVs. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into processing and operating conditions for ASSLBs utilizing the Li6PS5Cl0.5Br0.5 argyrodite electrolyte.
Investigation of Heat Transfer and Pressure Drop for R744 in a Horizontal Smooth Tube of R744/R404A Hybrid Cascade Refrigeration System—Part 2: Low-Temperature Region
Authors: Jeon Min-Ju
Published: July 2023

This paper studies the evaporative heat transfer characteristics of R744 at low temperatures in a horizontal smooth tube as a cascade refrigeration system (CRS) among hybrid cascade refrigeration systems (HCRSs). There is a lack of research on the low-temperature evaporative heat transfer characteristics of R744 under the operating conditions of evaporators used in actual CRSs used in supermarkets. Therefore, this study aims to provide basic data on the evaporative heat transfer characteristics of R744 in the evaporators of refrigerators used in supermarkets. The tube used in the evaporation experiment conducted herein was a smooth horizontal copper tube with an inner diameter and length of 11.46 mm and 8000 mm, respectively. The experimental parameters were as follows: heat fluxes of 11.8–21.3 kW/m2, mass fluxes of 76.3–175.1 kg/(m2·s), and saturation temperatures of −49.8–−30.2 °C. The main results are summarized as follows: the evaporative heat transfer coefficient of R744 can be predicted well by using the correlation formula of Chen at the evaporation temperature of −40 °C in the CRS.
Energy Storage Management of a Solar Photovoltaic–Biomass Hybrid Power System
Authors: Akinte Oluwaseun Olanrewaju , Plangklang Boonyang , Prasartkaew Boonrit , Aina Taiwo Samuel
Published: July 2023

Remote areas that are not within the maximum breakeven grid extension distance limit will not be economical or feasible for grid connections to provide electrical power to the community (remote area). An integrated autonomous sustainable energy system is a feasible option. We worked on a novel multi optimization electrical energy assessment/power management system of a microgrid network that adopted combined dispatch, load-following, and cycle-charging strategies (control system) that acted as a power interface module over the hybrid configuration of energy sources (grid network/downdraft biomass generator/solar photovoltaic), thermal load controller-boiler systems, and hybrid energy-storage technologies (lithium, iron flow, sodium sulfur, and flywheel) to enable the microgrid network to operate in the island (off grid), grid, and island-able (ability to isolate itself when it is connected to the grid network) modes efficiently and effectively. An optimal multitask control algorithm and the storage units of modeled power generation sources were executed with the HOMER software application to improve the energy system’s efficiency, promote effective storage management, minimize energy loss, and improve the lifespan of the microgrid network. The integrated energy system can work for both rural and urban areas.
Sensitivity of Eurasian Rear-Edge Birch Populations to Regional Climate and Local Hydrological Conditions
Authors: González de Andrés Ester , Colangelo Michele , Luelmo-Lautenschlaeger Reyes , López-Sáez José Antonio , Camarero Jesús Julio
Published: July 2023

South rear-edge populations of widely distributed temperate and boreal tree species such as birches (Betula pubescens and Betula pendula) are considered particularly vulnerable to climate warming, and at the same time, they constitute genetic reservoirs of drought-adapted ecotypes. Here, we compared radial growth patterns and responses to climate, river, or reservoir flows and a drought index of rear-edge (southernmost) populations (Toledo Mountains, central-southern Spain) with populations located in northern Spain of B. pubescens and B. pendula. Then, we performed a comparative analysis across Europe of B. pendula populations. The main climatic constraint of birch growth was a high summer water deficit, although the effect of local hydrological conditions was particularly important in rear-edge populations. We found declining growth trends in rear-edge stands dating from the early 21st century, related to decreasing water availability and increasing aridity. Our results also suggested distinct growth patterns and climate-growth associations of B. pendula across Europe that show how populations further south and in warmer locations were more sensitive to drought stress. Drought-induced growth decline can be exacerbated by local human land uses, leading to reduced river inflow, thus endangering birch populations at their southern distribution limit. Protection of threatened rear-edge birch populations requires adequate management of local water resources.
pH and Heat Pretreatments with Zero-Valent Iron Addition to Enhance Biogas Production from Cassava Pulp Wastewater: Optimization and Comparison of Mathematical Models
Authors: Boontian Nittaya , Yingchon Usa , Padri Mohamad
Published: July 2023

Pretreatments of pH and heat with zero-valent iron (ZVI) additions enhance anaerobic digestion and increase reducing sugar availability for optimum biogas production. This study aimed to optimize the conditions of different pH and heat pretreatment with additional ZVI to yield higher biogas amounts from the anaerobic digestion (AD) of cassava wastewater. Thirteen pH conditions, ten ZVI concentrations, and eleven heating periods were varied and measured to optimize the standard conditions. Four mathematical models that are widely used to evaluate the cumulative biogas production were employed, namely, the Modified Gompertz, Logistic, Transference, and Exponential models. The pretreatment of pH 10 and 35 min of boiling time with a ZVI concentration of 60 g·kg·TVS−1 produced the highest cumulative biogas at the end of the AD process. The Logistic and Modified Gompertz models were better fitted with the experimental data than the other models. Interestingly, the optimized conditions altered the biogas production rate but prolonged the lag phase. A reasonably positive correlation was also found between the FeOOH amount and biogas production rate in the LF and MG models. These optimal fitted models, kinetics parameters, and possible correlations are novel findings that can help develop extensive scale developments for biogas generation from cassava wastewater.
Effects of Streptococcus thermophilus Fermentation on the Flavors and Antioxidant Properties of Barley Juice
Authors: Mao Bingyong , Guo Weiling , Chen Minxuan , Tang Xin , Zhang Qiuxiang , Zhao Jianxin , Zhang Hao , Cui Shumao
Published: July 2023

Lactic fermentation can improve the metabolic profile and functionality of juice, which is beneficial to human health. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Streptococcus thermophilus fermentation on the metabolic profiles and antioxidant activity of barley juice. The results demonstrated that S. thermophilus 7G10 dramatically increased the total titratable acidity and total phenolic and flavonoid contents in the barley juice after 24 h of fermentation. Only sixteen volatile compounds were detected in the fermented barley juice, including six acids, four ketones, three alcohols, and one aldehyde. In addition, based on non-targeted metabolomics, 30 important differential metabolites were screened among the 1460 non-volatile compounds. Notably, the barley juice fermented with S. thermophilus 7G10 had increased free radical (ABTS, DPPH, and O2−) scavenging activities. Furthermore, sensory evaluation showed that the barley juice fermented with S. thermophilus 7G10 was most attractive to consumers. These results show that LAB fermentation promotes the formation of volatile compounds and potentially enhances the antioxidant properties of barley juice.
miR-155 Regulates Photoperiod Induced Gonadal Development in Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) by Targeting Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor
Authors: Guo Teng , Wang Yanfeng , Jiang Ping , Li Jun , Liu Qinghua , Chi Liang
Published: July 2023

This study was designed to explore the impact of the photoperiod on the gonadal development and somatic growth of Atlantic salmon raised in recirculating aquaculture systems (RASs), with specific focus on the role that microRNA (miR)-155 plays as a regulator in the Atlantic salmon’s photoperiodic reproduction. These salmon were reared for 5 months under six different photoperiod regimens, including two with changing photoperiods (LL–SL = 24L:0D–8L:16D and SL–LL = 8L:16D–24L:0D) and four with constant photoperiods (24L:0D, 18L:6D, 12L:12D, and 8L:16D). The longer photoperiod groups (LL–SL and 24L:0D) were ultimately associated with higher gonadosomatic index (GSI) values and an increased proportion of mature fish relative to other exposure groups, indicating that the photoperiod positively impacted the Atlantic salmon’s gonadal development in RAS environments. Hypothalamic miR-155 expression in these Atlantic salmon was also found to be influenced by the photoperiod, showing a markedly decreased expression in salmon exposed to a long photoperiod and upregulation following rearing under a short photoperiod. Functionally, miR-155 was found to suppress the expression of gonadal axis-related genes, including FSH and GnRH, through its ability to target the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and to thereby regulate photoperiod reproduction. Overall, these results suggested that the photoperiod could regulate gonad development in Atlantic salmon with miRNA-155 being involved in this process by targeting the BDNF.
Changes in Abundance and Distribution of the Sea Pen, Funiculina quadrangularis, in the Central Adriatic Sea (Mediterranean Basin) in Response to Variations in Trawling Intensity
Authors: Martinelli Michela , Zacchetti Lorenzo , Belardinelli Andrea , Domenichetti Filippo , Scarpini Paolo , Penna Pierluigi , Medvešek Damir , Isajlović Igor , Vrgoč Nedo
Published: July 2023

Marine resources exploitation through bottom trawling affects marine ecosystems; thus, management should consider the presence of sensitive species as ecosystem health indicators. Epibenthic organisms such as sea pens are widely used to assess benthic conditions, as their populations are declining where trawling is intense. The Pomo/Jabuka Pits fishing ground in the Adriatic Sea, subject to various management measures over the years, is a nursery for European hake and hosts a small, but dense, population of Norway lobster and a remarkable abundance of pink shrimp. The sea pen Funiculina quadrangularis shares its habitat (sandy-muddy bottoms) with these crustaceans. Through UnderWater TeleVision surveys conducted from 2012 to 2019, F. quadrangularis abundance and distribution were quantified in relation to changes in the spatiotemporal distribution of fishing efforts. The average density (n/m2) of colonies was calculated for three periods: BEFORE implementation of measures (before 1 July 2015), during an INTERMEDIATE period in which limitations changed (2 July 2015 to 31 August 2017), and AFTER the implementation of a Fishery Restricted Area (from 1 September 2017). F. quadrangularis revealed an increase in density where fisheries were closed, even after a short period. This showed how management measures can positively influence epibenthic communities and that sea pens can be indicators of impact and/or recovery of habitats.
Advancements and Applications of Injectable Hydrogel Composites in Biomedical Research and Therapy
Authors: Omidian Hossein , Chowdhury Sumana Dey
Published: July 2023

Injectable hydrogels have gained popularity for their controlled release, targeted delivery, and enhanced mechanical properties. They hold promise in cardiac regeneration, joint diseases, postoperative analgesia, and ocular disorder treatment. Hydrogels enriched with nano-hydroxyapatite show potential in bone regeneration, addressing challenges of bone defects, osteoporosis, and tumor-associated regeneration. In wound management and cancer therapy, they enable controlled release, accelerated wound closure, and targeted drug delivery. Injectable hydrogels also find applications in ischemic brain injury, tissue regeneration, cardiovascular diseases, and personalized cancer immunotherapy. This manuscript highlights the versatility and potential of injectable hydrogel nanocomposites in biomedical research. Moreover, it includes a perspective section that explores future prospects, emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, and underscores the promising future potential of injectable hydrogel nanocomposites in biomedical research and applications.
The State of Squamate Genomics: Past, Present, and Future of Genome Research in the Most Speciose Terrestrial Vertebrate Order
Authors: Gable Simone M. , Mendez Jasmine M. , Bushroe Nicholas A. , Wilson Adam , Byars Michael I. , Tollis Marc
Published: July 2023

Squamates include more than 11,000 extant species of lizards, snakes, and amphisbaenians, and display a dazzling diversity of phenotypes across their over 200-million-year evolutionary history on Earth. Here, we introduce and define squamates (Order Squamata) and review the history and promise of genomic investigations into the patterns and processes governing squamate evolution, given recent technological advances in DNA sequencing, genome assembly, and evolutionary analysis. We survey the most recently available whole genome assemblies for squamates, including the taxonomic distribution of available squamate genomes, and assess their quality metrics and usefulness for research. We then focus on disagreements in squamate phylogenetic inference, how methods of high-throughput phylogenomics affect these inferences, and demonstrate the promise of whole genomes to settle or sustain persistent phylogenetic arguments for squamates. We review the role transposable elements play in vertebrate evolution, methods of transposable element annotation and analysis, and further demonstrate that through the understanding of the diversity, abundance, and activity of transposable elements in squamate genomes, squamates can be an ideal model for the evolution of genome size and structure in vertebrates. We discuss how squamate genomes can contribute to other areas of biological research such as venom systems, studies of phenotypic evolution, and sex determination. Because they represent more than 30% of the living species of amniote, squamates deserve a genome consortium on par with recent efforts for other amniotes (i.e., mammals and birds) that aim to sequence most of the extant families in a clade.
The Current State of Charcot–Marie–Tooth Disease Treatment
Authors: Okamoto Yuji , Takashima Hiroshi
Published: July 2023

Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease (CMT) and associated neuropathies are the most predominant genetically transmitted neuromuscular conditions; however, effective pharmacological treatments have not established. The extensive genetic heterogeneity of CMT, which impacts the peripheral nerves and causes lifelong disability, presents a significant barrier to the development of comprehensive treatments. An estimated 100 loci within the human genome are linked to various forms of CMT and its related inherited neuropathies. This review delves into prospective therapeutic strategies used for the most frequently encountered CMT variants, namely CMT1A, CMT1B, CMTX1, and CMT2A. Compounds such as PXT3003, which are being clinically and preclinically investigated, and a broad array of therapeutic agents and their corresponding mechanisms are discussed. Furthermore, the progress in established gene therapy techniques, including gene replacement via viral vectors, exon skipping using antisense oligonucleotides, splicing modification, and gene knockdown, are appraised. Each of these gene therapies has the potential for substantial advancements in future research.