bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of Microstructure, Crystallographic Phases and Setting Time Evolution over Time of Portland Cement, Coarse Silica Fume, and Limestone (PC-SF-LS) Ternary Portland Cements
Authors: Menéndez Esperanza , Sanjuán Miguel Ángel , Recino Hairon
Published: August 2023

The use of silica fume as a partial replacement for Ordinary Portland Cement provides a wide variety of benefits, such as reduced pressure on natural resources, reduced CO2 footprint, and improved mechanical and durability properties. The formation of more stable crystallographic phases in the hardened cement paste can promote resistance to concrete attacks. However, using coarse silica fume may result in lower expenses and shorter workdays. In this work, coarse silica fume was used as a partial replacement of cement, by weight, at 3%, 5%, and 7%, and it was used as limestone filler at different particle sizes. The size of coarse silica fume used was 238 μm. The microstructural, compositional analysis, and crystalline phase content of mixed cements at different ages were evaluated. The addition of coarse silica fume and limestone promoted pore refinement of the composites and increased the calcium and silica content. The filling effect of fine limestone and coarse silica fume particles, as well as the formation of CSH gel, was found to be the main reason for the densified microstructure. The contributions of combined coarse silica fume and limestone improve the stability of CSH gels and pozzolanic reaction.
Compositional Variation and Crystal-Chemical Characterization of a Watermelon Variety of Tourmaline from Anjanabonoina, Central Madagascar
Authors: Rizzo Floriana , Bosi Ferdinando , Tempesta Gioacchino , Agrosì Giovanna
Published: August 2023

A polychrome tourmaline crystal from Anjanabonoina pegmatite (Madagascar) was characterized using a multi-analytical approach. The sample showed a complex concentric zoning and a wide range of colors typical of the variety known as “watermelon”. The sample was cut perpendicularly to the c axis. The basal slice exhibits a rim characterized by narrow, differently colored layers parallel to the prism faces and a relatively homogeneous triangular core. Four main pronounced color zones were identified from the rim to core: a dark green rim (M1RVS); a pale green rim (M1RVC); a pale pink rim (M1CR); and a brownish yellow core (M1CG). Compositional variations in the basal slice were studied by scanning electron microscopy and electron microprobe analyses (WDS mode). The Li content was determined via micro-laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy. To deeply characterize the sample, single crystal structure refinement was also performed on fragments extracted from the four zones. The results show that the polychrome tourmaline sample consists of two different species: the three outer zones are Mn-rich fluor-liddicoatite, whereas the inner zone is Mn-rich fluor-elbaite. The structural and compositional characterization of the color zoning shows that each step of the tourmaline growth is related to a change in the geological environment.
NTCP Calculations of Five Different Irradiation Techniques for the Treatment of Thymoma
Authors: Mazonakis Michalis , Kachris Stefanos , Tolia Maria , Damilakis John
Published: August 2023

This study provided normal tissue complication probability (NTCP) calculations from photon radiotherapy techniques in eleven patients with thymoma. Five plans were created for each participant using three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT), five-field intensity modulated radiotherapy (5F-IMRT), seven-field IMRT (7F-IMRT), and volumetric modulated arc therapy with full arcs (FA-VMAT) and partial arcs (PA-VMAT). The target coverage, homogeneity index and conformation number for the planning target volume (PTV) and dosimetric parameters for the organs-at-risk (OARs) were taken from the fifty-five generated plans. The patient-specific NTCP of the lungs, heart and esophagus was calculated with an in-house software tool using differential dose-volume histograms and the equivalent uniform dose model. The PTV dose metrics from 3D-CRT were inferior to those from IMRT and VMAT plans. The dose constraints for the OARs were met in all treatment plans. The NTCP range of the lungs, heart and esophagus was 0.34–0.49%, 0.03–0.06% and 0.08–0.10%, respectively. The NTCPs of the heart for the incidence of peridarditis from IMRT and VMAT were significantly smaller than those from conformal treatment (p < 0.05). The 7F-IMRT was significantly superior to FA-VMAT in reducing the NTCP of the lungs and the risk of pneumonitis (p = 0.001). Similar superiority of 5F-IMRT over PA-VMAT for lung protection was found (p = 0.009). The presented results may be employed in the selection of the appropriate irradiation technique for restricting the complications in the adjacent OARs.
California Sea Cucumber (Apostichopus californicus) Abundance and Movement on a Commercial Shellfish Aquaculture Farm
Authors: Curtis Daniel L. , Pearce Christopher M. , van Dam-Bates Paul , Duprey Nicholas M. T. , Cross Stephen F. , Cowen Laura L. E.
Published: August 2023

California sea cucumbers (Apostichopus californicus) are often abundant at oyster farms in British Columbia, Canada both on the suspended gear as juveniles and on the seafloor beneath them as a mixture of juveniles and adults. Their natural abundance, high value, and potential to mitigate benthic organic loading has led to an interest in their coculture with oysters. Whether farmed sea cucumbers ought to be contained to physically separate them from wild stocks is debated. The present three-year field study examined the movement of wild California sea cucumbers on/off an operational oyster farm (~3000 m2) to help inform future sea cucumber aquaculture development. Sea cucumber effects on organic loading, immigration to/emigration from the farm, and the efficacy of various containment-material mesh types and sizes were examined. Juvenile and adult sea cucumber densities on the farm steadily increased from the end of winter through the end of summer, likely due in large part to juveniles falling off the suspended oyster gear, which occurred at an average rate of ~780 ind d−1 (for the whole farm) in the summer months. The largest increase in abundance on the farm was observed between January and March/April, when the population increased by 100–350 ind d−1. Between late summer and early winter, sea cucumbers emigrated from the farm at a rate of 50–90 ind d−1, neither juvenile nor adult densities on the farm changing appreciably over the winter. The sea cucumber density showed a progressive decrease in the first 20 m from the farm, after which the animals were scarcely noticed. Apostichopus californicus did not significantly decrease sediment organics beneath the farm compared to a nearby control site, but such an effect may have been lost due to their seasonal feeding cycles and/or the presence of other benthic grazers that were not part of our exclusion trial. Overall, our findings suggest that the separation of farmed and wild California sea cucumbers on a shellfish farm can only be guaranteed through containment, given the dynamic immigration and emigration patterns of wild stocks. Through laboratory trials, we found that individuals of A. californicus were able to squeeze through mesh as small as 32% of their contracted width and could escape fenced areas (90 ± 4% escape from nylon fencing and 40 ± 8% escape from VexarTM fencing) unless the fencing extended above the water surface (where there was no escape from either type).
Polychaetes (Annelida) of Cyprus (Eastern Mediterranean Sea): An Updated and Annotated Checklist including New Distribution Records
Authors: Rousou Maria , Langeneck Joachim , Apserou Chara , Arvanitidis Christos , Charalambous Stephanos , Chrysanthou Kyproula , Constantinides George , Dimitriou Panagiotis D. , García Gómez Sergio Carlos , Hadjieftychiou Soteria Irene , Katsiaras Nikolaos , Kleitou Periklis , Kletou Demetris , Küpper Frithjof C. , Louizidou Paraskevi , Martins Roberto , Moraitis Manos L. , Papageorgiou Nafsika , Papatheodoulou Magdalene , Petrou Antonis , Xevgenos Dimitris , Vasiliades Lavrentios , Voultsiadou Eleni , Chintiroglou Chariton Charles , Castelli Alberto
Published: August 2023

The diversity and distribution of polychaetes in the coastal area and the EEZ of the Republic of Cyprus is presented based on both the literature records and new data acquired in a wide range of environmental monitoring programmes and research projects. A total of 585 polychaete species belonging to 49 families were reported in Cyprus waters; among them, 205 species (34%) were recorded based on the literature only, 149 (26%) were new records based on our own data, and a total of 231 spp. (40%) were recorded from both the literature and new data. A total of 51 polychaete species were identified as non-indigenous; among them, 32 were confirmed as alien species, 4 were considered cryptogenic, and 15 were considered questionable as there were doubts about their identity. The Indo-Pacific Schistomeringos loveni was reported for the first time in the Mediterranean Sea, while four species already reported in the literature, namely, Bispira melanostigma, Fimbriosthenelais longipinnis Leonnates aylaoberi, and Rhodopsis pusilla, were added to the list of non-indigenous polychaetes in the Mediterranean Sea. The current work highlights the importance of implementing environmental monitoring programmes and carrying out research surveys targeting benthic macrofauna assemblages.
Crimean–Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus: Progress in Vaccine Development
Authors: Ozdarendeli Aykut
Published: August 2023

Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV), a member of the Nairoviridae family and Bunyavirales order, is transmitted to humans via tick bites or contact with the blood of infected animals. It can cause severe symptoms, including hemorrhagic fever, with a mortality rate between 5 to 30%. CCHFV is classified as a high-priority pathogen by the World Health Organization (WHO) due to its high fatality rate and the absence of effective medical countermeasures. CCHFV is endemic in several regions across the world, including Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, and has the potential for global spread. The emergence of the disease in new areas, as well as the presence of the tick vector in countries without reported cases, emphasizes the need for preventive measures to be taken. In the past, the lack of a suitable animal model susceptible to CCHFV infection has been a major obstacle in the development of vaccines and treatments. However, recent advances in biotechnology and the availability of suitable animal models have significantly expedited the development of vaccines against CCHF. These advancements have not only contributed to an enhanced understanding of the pathogenesis of CCHF but have also facilitated the evaluation of potential vaccine candidates. This review outlines the immune response to CCHFV and animal models utilized for the study of CCHFV and highlights the progress made in CCHFV vaccine studies. Despite remarkable advancements in vaccine development for CCHFV, it remains crucial to prioritize continued research, collaboration, and investment in this field.
Variational Bayesian Algorithms for Maneuvering Target Tracking with Nonlinear Measurements in Sensor Networks
Authors: Hu Yumei , Pan Quan , Deng Bao , Guo Zhen , Li Menghua , Chen Lifeng
Published: August 2023

The variational Bayesian method solves nonlinear estimation problems by iteratively computing the integral of the marginal density. Many researchers have demonstrated the fact its performance depends on the linear approximation in the computation of the variational density in the iteration and the degree of nonlinearity of the underlying scenario. In this paper, two methods for computing the variational density, namely, the natural gradient method and the simultaneous perturbation stochastic method, are used to implement a variational Bayesian Kalman filter for maneuvering target tracking using Doppler measurements. The latter are collected from a set of sensors subject to single-hop network constraints. We propose a distributed fusion variational Bayesian Kalman filter for a networked maneuvering target tracking scenario and both of the evidence lower bound and the posterior Cramér–Rao lower bound of the proposed methods are presented. The simulation results are compared with centralized fusion in terms of posterior Cramér–Rao lower bounds, root-mean-squared errors and the 3σ bound.
Synergetic Theory of Information Entropy Based on Failure Approach Index for Stability Analysis of Surrounding Rock System
Authors: Xiong Lijun , Yuan Haiping , Liu Gaoliang , Li Hengzhe , Zou Yangyao , Liu Xiaohu , Li Xiaoming
Published: August 2023

It is generally acknowledged that the stability evaluation of surrounding rock denotes nonlinear complex system engineering. In order to accurately and quantitatively assess the safety states of surrounding rock and provide a scientific basis for the prevention and control of surrounding rock stability, the analysis method of the synergetic theory of information entropy using the failure approach index has been proposed. By means of deriving the general relationship between the total two-dimensional plastic shear strain and the total three-dimensional plastic shear strain and obtaining the numerical limit analysis step of the plastic shear strain, the threshold value of the ultimate plastic shear strain can be determined, which has provided the key criterion for the calculation of the information entropy based on the failure approach index. In addition, combining with the synergetic theory of the principle of maximum information entropy, the evolution equation of the excavation step and information entropy based on the failure approach index of the surrounding rock system in underground mining space are established, and the equations of the general solution and particular solution as well as the expression of the destabilizing excavation step are given. To account for this, the method is applied to analyze the failure states of the floor surrounding rock after the mining of the 71 coal seam in Xutuan Coal Mine and involve the disturbance effect and stability control method of the underlying 72 coal seam roof from the macroscopic and microscopic aspects. Consequently, the validity of the analysis method of synergetic theory of information entropy based on the failure approach index has been verified, which presents an updated approach for the stability evaluation of surrounding rock systems that is of satisfactory capability and value in engineering applications.
A Maximum Entropy Resolution to the Wine/Water Paradox
Authors: Parker Michael C. , Jeynes Chris
Published: August 2023

The Principle of Indifference (‘PI’: the simplest non-informative prior in Bayesian probability) has been shown to lead to paradoxes since Bertrand (1889). Von Mises (1928) introduced the ‘Wine/Water Paradox’ as a resonant example of a ‘Bertrand paradox’, which has been presented as demonstrating that the PI must be rejected. We now resolve these paradoxes using a Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) treatment of the PI that also includes information provided by Benford’s ‘Law of Anomalous Numbers’ (1938). We show that the PI should be understood to represent a family of informationally identical MaxEnt solutions, each solution being identified with its own explicitly justified boundary condition. In particular, our solution to the Wine/Water Paradox exploits Benford’s Law to construct a non-uniform distribution representing the universal constraint of scale invariance, which is a physical consequence of the Second Law of Thermodynamics.
Estimation of Uncertainty for the Torque Transducer in MNm Range—Classical Approach and Fuzzy Sets
Authors: Fidelus Janusz D. , Puchalski Jacek , Trych-Wildner Anna , Urbański Michał K. , Weidinger Paula
Published: August 2023

The article provides an analysis of the metrological properties of a 5 MN·m torque transducer. The relative electrical signal (given in electrical units, mV/V) as a function of torque measured in both the clockwise and anticlockwise directions was monitored. To fit the data, the weighted method of least squares with both a straight-line and a cubic spline curve was used. The results of the analysis indicated that the straight-line fitting method produced smaller values of expanded uncertainty than the cubic spline fitting method. Additionally, the study confirmed the assumptions that the Monte Carlo method for propagating uncorrelated distributions was more accurate than the uncertainty propagation method, regardless of the type of curve fitting used. From the estimated uncertainty coverage corridor at selected measurement points, confidence intervals–expanded uncertainties were determined. Additionally, the fuzzy sets approach to the evaluation of uncertainty was presented, and the approximate value of the expanded uncertainty was calculated.
Thermophysical Properties of POLWAX LTP ST Paraffin Doped with or without Carbon Nanotubes or Silver Nanowires and Passive Cooling of a High-Power LED Panel
Authors: Zmywaczyk Janusz , Zbińkowski Piotr , Koniorczyk Piotr
Published: August 2023

Commercially available paraffin wax LTP ST, manufactured in Poland by POLWAX, was used as a phase change material (PCM) for passive cooling of an LED panel containing 28 high power light emitting diodes (LEDs). Paraffin wax LTP ST of density ρ = 930 kg·m−3 at room temperature (RT) was chosen over other POLWAX waxes (LUXOLINA, LUXOLINA-ST, and LTP 56-20) because of its melting point range (44.5–55.4 °C), relatively high latent heat of fusion ΔH = 218.8 J·g−1, high specific heat Cp = 2.11 J·g−1K−1 and thermal conductivity k = 0.233 Wm−1K−1 at 0 °C. The thermophysical properties were studied in samples of pure LTP ST paraffin and doped with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (1.99, 3.49, 5.35, and 10.49 wt%, MWCNTs) or silver nanowires (0.26, 0.32, 1.06, 2.10, and 7.35 wt%, SNWs). Analysis of the thermal effects of doped samples showed a relative increase in the degree of subcooling, averaging 100% for MWCNT and 46% for SNW, a relative 15÷25% decrease in enthalpy of melting for MWCNT and 14÷16% for SNW. A 44% increase in thermal conductivity was found for the sample containing 5.35 wt% MWCNTs and a 91% increase for 1.06 wt% SNW. The results of cooling efficiency tests for three types of developed heat sinks fabricated of AW-2017A aluminum alloy are presented, i.e., (a) full system without PCM filling, (b) system with PCM chamber without intracellular ribs, (c) and system with PCM chamber with intracellular fins.
Research on Load Forecasting of Novel Power System Based on Efficient Federated Transfer Learning
Authors: Wang Jian , Wei Baoquan , Zeng Jianjun , Deng Fangming
Published: August 2023

The load forecasting research for an NPS faces challenges including a high model accuracy, non-sharing of data, and a high communication cost. This paper proposes a load forecasting method for an NPS, based on efficient federated transfer learning (FTL). The adversarial feature extractor is added on the basis that FTL can effectively transfer the parameter features of the non-mask load to the local load data, and make up for the loss of mask load prediction accuracy. In order to improve the efficiency of the gradient compression of federated learning (FL), a depth dynamic threshold compression sensing method is proposed, which replaces the sparse signal in compressed sensing via the U-Net model and achieves an observation dimension reduction through a convolutional neural network (CNN). The experimental results show that the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) and the root-mean-square error (RMSE) of the load forecasting method proposed in this paper are reduced by 9.6% and 2.31 kW, on average, when the load data are covered up to different degrees. Compared with the traditional FL model, the proposed compression algorithm saves 23.5% of the communication cost, without changing the accuracy of the model. The proposed prediction framework is easily interpretable, and robust under different validation metrics.
Numerical Simulation and Experimental Investigation of Variable Mass Flow in Horizontal Wellbores: Single-Phase and Multiphase Analysis
Authors: Luo Wei , Ke Wenqi , Liao Ruiquan
Published: August 2023

Considering the current limitations and restricted scope of existing experiments, as well as the absence of corresponding numerical simulation verifications and comparisons, and the lack of actual case studies of variable mass flow calculation and comparison, this study focuses on high production oilfields in the Mideast and South China Sea. The objective is to investigate single-phase and multiphase variable mass flow through numerical and experimental simulations. The study develops linear regression equations to establish the relationship between the mixture pressure drop caused by side flow and the velocities of the main flow, as well as the ratio between side and main flow velocities. Actual calculations using these equations are provided. The comprehensive analysis reveals that, for a fixed total flow rate, an increase in the side versus main injection velocity ratio leads to an increase in pressure loss before and after the injection hole. In single-phase flow, the friction factor for side hole flow is generally higher than that for only axial main flow, with the same total flow rate. In multiphase flow, when the gas-liquid ratio (GLR) is relatively large, the side flow has minimal impact on pressure drop, while at lower GLR values, the side flow significantly increases the pressure drops. When predicting the pressure drop for single-phase variable mass flow in horizontal wellbores, it is appropriate to consider only the mixture pressure drop caused by the closest hole to the calculation section, assuming the injection hole flow rates are approximately equal. In terms of predicting the productivity of single-phase variable mass flow, it is crucial to consider the mixture pressure drop. Neglecting the mixture pressure drop can lead to relatively larger productivity prediction results, with potential production rate errors exceeding 50%. The accuracy of the prediction is influenced by the ratio of mixture pressure drop to production pressure differential, and the pressure along the external zone of the screen pipe is higher when considering the mixture pressure drop compared to when it is neglected. Additionally, the flow rate along the external zone of the screen pipe becomes more non-uniform when the mixture pressure drop is considered. Furthermore, the findings from the single-phase and multiphase flow experiments suggest that significant deviations in production rates may occur in scenarios with low gas-liquid ratio (GLR), highlighting the need for further investigation in this area.
Energy Inequality Indicators: A Comprehensive Review for Exploring Ways to Reduce Inequality
Authors: Volodzkiene Lina , Streimikiene Dalia
Published: August 2023

Society faces challenges in achieving a climate-neutral society due to deepening energy inequality. The pandemic led to reduced emissions but also caused an economic downturn. Geopolitical tensions since 2022 raised energy prices, affecting affordability. To address these issues, this research aims to conduct a systematic literature review to explore the content, conceptualization, and distinguishing factors of energy inequality compared to similar concepts as well as to identify energy inequality dimensions and its indicators and explore ways to reduce it. A systematic literature review explored recent publications on energy inequality from 2019 to 2023, encompassing both pre-pandemic and pandemic-affected periods. This review analyzed 203 articles, with 61 of them directly focusing on energy inequality indicators. This research is conducted in several stages. Firstly, this article clarifies the concept of energy inequality and highlights its differences from related terms. Secondly, this study investigates the effects of energy inequality taking into account its diverse dimensions, and it categorizes these dimensions and their respective indicators based on their specific contexts. Thirdly, recommendations are provided for potential approaches to reduce energy inequality. The methodology integrates an examination of macroeconomic energy inequality statistics. The resulting findings hold the potential to significantly contribute towards cultivating a more environmentally conscious trajectory. Moreover, these outcomes play a pivotal role in advancing energy justice and effectively tackling the multifaceted challenges posed by energy inequality.
Tackling Efficiency Challenges and Exploring Greenhouse-Integrated Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Ansari Muhammad Azhar , Ciampi Giovanni , Sibilio Sergio
Published: August 2023

Organic solar cells offer benefits such as transparent characteristics, affordability in manufacturing, and the ability to tailor light absorption properties according to specific needs. This review discusses challenges and recent strategies to enhance the power conversion efficiency of organic solar cells, such as bandgap tuning, molecular orbital alignment, active layer morphology engineering, electron-donating and -withdrawing group incorporation, side chain length engineering, a third additive’s insertion, and control of the solubility of materials. The good transparency of organic solar cells makes them ideal for greenhouse-integrated photovoltaics applications. By efficiently absorbing sunlight for photosynthesis and clean energy production, transparent organic solar cells optimize light management, enhance energy efficiency, and minimize overheating risks, resulting in more sustainable and efficient greenhouse operations. This review also evaluates organic solar cell integration in the greenhouse. The implementation of the strategies explored in this review can significantly impact a wide range of performance parameters in organic solar cells. These parameters include the optoelectronic properties, absorption spectrum, open circuit voltage, exciton dissociation, charge transport, molecular packing, solubility, phase separation, crystallinity, nanoscale morphology, and device stability. An optimized organic solar cell design is particularly beneficial for greenhouse-integrated photovoltaics, as it ensures efficient energy conversion and energy management, which are crucial factors in maximizing the performance of the greenhouse.
Applications of Machine Learning in Subsurface Reservoir Simulation—A Review—Part I
Authors: Samnioti Anna , Gaganis Vassilis
Published: August 2023

In recent years, machine learning (ML) has become a buzzword in the petroleum industry with numerous applications that guide engineers toward better decision making. The most powerful tool that most production development decisions rely on is reservoir simulation with applications in numerous modeling procedures, such as individual simulation runs, history matching and production forecast and optimization. However, all these applications lead to considerable computational time- and resource-associated costs, and rendering reservoir simulators is not fast or robust, thus introducing the need for more time-efficient and smart tools like ML models which can adapt and provide fast and competent results that mimic simulators’ performance within an acceptable error margin. The first part of the present study (Part I) offers a detailed review of ML techniques in the petroleum industry, specifically in subsurface reservoir simulation, for cases of individual simulation runs and history matching, whereas ML-based production forecast and optimization applications are presented in Part II. This review can assist engineers as a complete source for applied ML techniques since, with the generation of large-scale data in everyday activities, ML is becoming a necessity for future and more efficient applications.
Numerical Simulation of the Cold-Start Process of Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell
Authors: Chen Yazhou , Li Sheng , Peng Jie , Zhuge Weilin , Zhang Yangjun
Published: August 2023

In this study, the cold-start process of a polymer electrolyte fuel cell has been numerically investigated under various ambient temperatures and operating currents, ranging from subzero to 283 K. The water desorbed from the electrolyte, when the cell temperature is below the freezing point, is assumed to exist in a state of either supercooled water or ice. The evolution of cell voltage, temperature, membrane water content, and the averaged volume fraction of supercooled water or ice in the catalyst layer and gas diffusion layer are presented. The results indicate that the cold-start process may fail due to ice blocking of the cathode catalyst layer when the desorbed water is in the form of ice and the ambient temperature is sufficiently low. However, when the desorbed water is in a supercooled state, it can diffuse from the cathode catalyst layer to the cathode gas diffusion layer, avoiding water clogging and enabling a successful cold-start process. During the cold-start process, as the ice undergoes a melting process, the membrane water content inside the membrane would increase rapidly, and a larger operation current with anode gas humidification is helpful to the cold-start process.
Electromobility Prospects in Greece by 2030: A Regional Perspective on Strategic Policy Analysis
Authors: Shaban Farida , Siskos Pelopidas , Tjortjis Christos
Published: August 2023

Electromobility represents a strong option for reducing carbon emissions in the road transport sector. This study presents a methodology and a simulation tool that project the evolution of the market share of electric vehicles (EVs) in the new car market. The analysis adopts a stylized regional resolution, which accounts for attributes on the NUTS-2 level, such as the population density, GDP/capita, education levels, and current EV charger distribution, to simulate the uptake of BEVs in different regions. The methodology applies discrete choice modelling techniques, considering tangible and intangible factors, including purchasing and operation costs, an estimated cost for range anxiety and public charging, and a market maturity index. The analysis is based on four different scenarios, referring to the updated Greek National Energy Climate Plan. The results reveal that regions with a higher average income, GDP/capita, and population density show a higher uptake of EVs. Overall, the tool implements a method of simulating the market evolution of EVs up to 2030 in reference to regional parameters and, hence, highlights the regions that require the most attention in order to achieve national targets. The results can inform policymakers in developing tailored strategies and financial support to accelerate the adoption of BEVs, particularly in regions where their uptake prospects are lower.
Numerical and Experimental Study of Heat Transfer in Pyrolysis Reactor Heat Exchange Channels with Different Hemispherical Protrusion Geometries
Authors: Kolenchukov Oleg A. , Bashmur Kirill A. , Kurashkin Sergei O. , Tsygankova Elena V. , Shepeta Natalia A. , Sergienko Roman B. , Pavlova Praskovya L. , Vaganov Roman A.
Published: August 2023

One of the most effective technologies for recycling organic waste is its thermal destruction by pyrolysis methods to produce valuable products such as hydrogen and mixtures containing hydrogen. Increasing the thermal power of the flow helps to reduce the formation of secondary reactions, making the non-condensable hydrocarbon gas in the pyrolysis process cleaner, which simplifies further technology for the production of hydrogen and hydrogen-containing mixtures. In addition, the economic viability of pyrolysis depends on the energy costs required to decompose the organic feedstock. Using passive intensifiers in the form of discrete rough surfaces in heat exchanging channels is a widely used method of increasing heat transfer. This paper presents the results of numerical and experimental studies of heat transfer and hydraulic resistance in a channel with and without hemispherical protrusions applied to the heat transfer surface. The investigations were carried out for a reactor channel 150 mm long and 31 mm in diameter, with a constant pitch of the protrusions along the channels of 20 mm and protrusion heights h of 1 to 4 mm for 419 ≤ Re ≤ 2795. Compared to a smooth channel, a channel with protrusions increases heat transfer by an average of 2.23 times. By comparing the heat exchange parameters and the hydraulic resistance of the heat exchange channels, it was determined that h = 2 mm and 838 < Re < 1223 is the combination of parameters providing the best energetic mode of reactor operation. In general, an increase in h and coolant flow rate resulted in an uneven increase in heat transfer intensity. However, as h increases, the dead zone effect behind the protrusions increases and the rough channel working area decreases. Furthermore, increasing Re > 1223 is not advisable due to the increased cost of maintaining high coolant velocity and the reduced heat transfer capacity of the channel.
Minimization of Economic Losses in Photovoltaic System Cleaning Schedules Based on a Novel Methodological Framework for Performance Ratio Forecast and Cost Analysis
Authors: Zuñiga-Cortes Fabian , Garcia-Racines Juan D. , Caicedo-Bravo Eduardo , Moncada-Vega Hernan
Published: August 2023

The growing interest in deploying photovoltaic systems and achieving their benefits as sustainable energy supplier raises the need to seek reliable medium-term and long-term operations with optimal performance and efficient use of economic resources. Cleaning scheduling is one of the activities that can positively impact performance. This work proposes a methodological framework to define the optimal scheduling of the cleaning activities of photovoltaic systems. The framework integrates a forecast model of the performance ratio, including the environmental variables’ effect. In addition, an economic analysis involving the economic losses and maintenance costs of cleaning is used. This framework is applied to a case study of a photovoltaic system located in Yumbo, Colombia. Based on the historical data on irradiance, active energy, temperature, rainfall, and wind speed, the obtained forecast model of the photovoltaic system’s performance ratio in a 60-day horizon has a mean absolute percentage error lesser of than 11%. The next cleaning date is forecasted to be beyond the horizon in a 19-day range, which will decrease as time goes by. This framework was applied to historical data and compared to actual cleaning dates performed by the utility company. The results show a loss of USD 33.616 due to unnecessary, early, or late cleaning activities.
Computational Analysis on Combustion Control of Diesel Engines Fueled with Ester Alcohol Diesel
Authors: Zhou Jianbo , Zhang Rui , Xi Wenxiong , Zhao Weidong
Published: August 2023

As the urgency for environmental sustainability escalates globally, the exploration of alternative fuels for diesel engines becomes a crucial endeavor. By combining chemical reaction kinetics and three-dimensional simulation software, the combustion and emission characteristics of a diesel engine fueled with two oxygenated fuels, hydrogenated biodiesel and ethanol, and adopting a multi-stage injection strategy were studied. The combustion mechanism of hydrogenated biodiesel ethanol diesel hybrid fuel was established, and the reaction activity of ester alcohol diesel with different mixing ratios was studied through reaction flow analysis at high and low OH temperatures. The established mechanism was coupled with CFD 2021 three-dimensional simulation software to compare the combustion and emission performance of diesel engines fueled with different ratios of ester alcohol diesel. The results show that as the proportion of ester alcohol mixture increases, at low temperatures, the OH generation rate decreases, the consumption rate increases, and the reaction activity decreases, which is not conducive to the promotion of combustion reaction; at high temperatures, the generation rate of OH increases, the consumption rate decreases, and the reaction activity increases, which is conducive to the promotion of combustion reactions. Compared to diesel, the reaction system activity of mixed fuel is enhanced, and the main peak values of cylinder pressure and instantaneous heat release rate are higher than that of diesel. The diffusion of oil and gas in the cylinder is improved. As the proportion of ester alcohol diesel mixture increases, the oxygen content increases, nitrogen oxides emissions increase compared to diesel, and soot emissions decrease compared to diesel. Soot emissions are mainly distributed in areas with a high equivalence ratio and high temperature, which is consistent with the distribution area of C2H2, the precursor of soot generation.
Leaf Plasticity of the Subtropical Evergreen Tree Phoebe bournei Increases with Ontogeny in Response to Sun and Shade
Authors: Li Xin-Bei , Liu Cheng-Cheng , Chen Jia-Xin , Zhang Meng-Meng , Zhang Jun-Hong , Tong Zai-Kang , Yang Qi
Published: August 2023

Variation in shade tolerance is a primary mechanism driving succession in subtropical forests. However, little attention has been given to ontogenetic variation in light tolerance of late succession tree species such as Phoebe bournei. To investigate the differences in adaptive strategies between seedlings and saplings in response to sun and shade, we systematically studied the physiological and morphological leaf plasticity of P. bournei and how these variables are influenced by ontogeny. This study provided experimental evidence that leaf plasticity increases with the ontogeny of juvenile P. bournei adapting to the changing light resources. Investment in leaf construction increased with age and light resources in the evergreen P. bournei, as shown by leaf mass per unit area (LMA). Six-month-old seedlings lacked the adjustment of stomatal conductance (gs) and stomatal density responding to sun and shade. For seedlings, maintaining high gs under sun conditions increased stress risk instead of carbon gain. However, the leaves of 2-year-old saplings accumulated more soluble sugars and showed lower stomatal conductance and higher stomatal density under the sun than under shade conditions. The nonphotochemical quenching of sun leaves increased with plant age, indicating that the photoprotective capacity was enhanced with ontogeny. The leaf plasticity increasing along the ontogeny of juvenile P. bournei may contribute to the adaptation from shade to sun. Our study provides new insights into understanding the influence of ontogeny on shade responses of late succession trees in subtropical forests.
Cluster-Based Data Aggregation in Flying Sensor Networks Enabled Internet of Things
Authors: Salam Abdu , Javaid Qaisar , Ahmad Masood , Wahid Ishtiaq , Arafat Muhammad Yeasir
Published: August 2023

Multiple unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are organized into clusters in a flying sensor network (FSNet) to achieve scalability and prolong the network lifetime. There are a variety of optimization schemes that can be adapted to determine the cluster head (CH) and to form stable and balanced clusters. Similarly, in FSNet, duplicated data may be transmitted to the CHs when multiple UAVs monitor activities in the vicinity where an event of interest occurs. The communication of duplicate data may consume more energy and bandwidth than computation for data aggregation. This paper proposes a honey-bee algorithm (HBA) to select the optimal CH set and form stable and balanced clusters. The modified HBA determines CHs based on the residual energy, UAV degree, and relative mobility. To transmit data, the UAV joins the nearest CH. The re-affiliation rate decreases with the proposed stable clustering procedure. Once the cluster is formed, ordinary UAVs transmit data to their UAVs-CH. An aggregation method based on dynamic programming is proposed to save energy consumption and bandwidth. The data aggregation procedure is applied at the cluster level to minimize communication and save bandwidth and energy. Simulation experiments validated the proposed scheme. The simulation results are compared with recent cluster-based data aggregation schemes. The results show that our proposed scheme outperforms state-of-the-art cluster-based data aggregation schemes in FSNet.
A Vaporization Model for Continuous Surface Force Approaches and Subcooled Configurations
Authors: Brissot Charles , Cailly-Brandstäter Léa , Hachem Elie , Valette Rudy
Published: August 2023

The integration of phase change phenomena through an interface is a numerical challenge that requires proper attention. Solutions to properly ensure mass and energy conservation were developed for finite difference and finite volume methods, but not for Finite Element methods. We propose a Finite Element phase change model based on an Eulerian framework with a Continuous Surface Force (CSF) approach. It handles both momentum and energy conservation at the interface for anisotropic meshes in a light an efficient way. To do so, a model based on the Level Set method is developed. A thick interface is considered to fit with the CSF approach. To properly compute the energy conservation, heat fluxes are extended through this interface thanks to the resolution of a transport equation. A dedicated pseudo compressible Navier–Stokes solver is added to compute velocity jumps with a source term at the interface in the velocity divergence equation. Several 1D and 2D benchmarks are considered with increasing complexity to highlight the performances of each feature of the framework. This stresses the capacity of the model to properly tackle phase change problems.
Finding an Appropriate Mouse Model to Study the Impact of a Treatment for Friedreich Ataxia on the Behavioral Phenotype
Authors: Bouchard Camille , Gérard Catherine , Yanyabé Solange Gni-fiene , Majeau Nathalie , Aloui Malek , Buisson Gabrielle , Yameogo Pouiré , Couture Vanessa , Tremblay Jacques P.
Published: August 2023

Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease caused by a GAA repeat in the intron 1 of the frataxin gene (FXN) leading to a lower expression of the frataxin protein. The YG8sR mice are Knock-Out (KO) for their murine frataxin gene but contain a human frataxin transgene derived from an FRDA patient with 300 GAA repeats. These mice are used as a FRDA model but even with a low frataxin concentration, their phenotype is mild. We aimed to find an optimized mouse model with a phenotype comparable to the human patients to study the impact of therapy on the phenotype. We compared two mouse models: the YG8sR injected with an AAV. PHP.B coding for a shRNA targeting the human frataxin gene and the YG8-800, a new mouse model with a human transgene containing 800 GAA repeats. Both mouse models were compared to Y47R mice containing nine GAA repeats that were considered healthy mice. Behavior tests (parallel rod floor apparatus, hanging test, inverted T beam, and notched beam test) were carried out from 2 to 11 months and significant differences were noticed for both YG8sR mice injected with an anti-FXN shRNA and the YG8-800 mice compared to healthy mice. In conclusion, YG8sR mice have a slight phenotype, and injecting them with an AAV-PHP.B expressing an shRNA targeting frataxin does increase their phenotype. The YG8-800 mice have a phenotype comparable to the human ataxic phenotype.
Diverse Clinical Phenotypes of CASK-Related Disorders and Multiple Functional Domains of CASK Protein
Authors: Mori Takuma , Zhou Mengyun , Tabuchi Katsuhiko
Published: August 2023

CASK-related disorders are a form of rare X-linked neurological diseases and most of the patients are females. They are characterized by several symptoms, including microcephaly with pontine and cerebellar hypoplasia (MICPCH), epilepsy, congenital nystagmus, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Whole-genome sequencing has identified various mutations, including nonsense and missense mutations, from patients with CASK-related disorders, revealing correlations between specific mutations and clinical phenotypes. Notably, missense mutations associated with epilepsy and intellectual disability were found throughout the whole region of the CASK protein, while missense mutations related to microcephaly and MICPCH were restricted in certain domains. To investigate the pathophysiology of CASK-related disorders, research groups have employed diverse methods, including the generation of CASK knockout mice and the supplementation of CASK to rescue the phenotypes. These approaches have yielded valuable insights into the identification of functional domains of the CASK protein associated with a specific phenotype. Additionally, recent advancements in the AI-based prediction of protein structure, such as AlphaFold2, and the application of genome-editing techniques to generate CASK mutant mice carrying missense mutations from patients with CASK-related disorders, allow us to understand the pathophysiology of CASK-related disorders in more depth and to develop novel therapeutic methods for the fundamental treatment of CASK-related disorders.
Genomic Distribution of ushA-like Genes in Bacteria: Comparison to cpdB-like Genes
Authors: Ribeiro João Meireles , Cameselle José Carlos
Published: August 2023

UshA and CpdB are nucleotidases of the periplasm of several Gram-negative bacteria, while several Gram-positives contain cell wall-bound variants. UshA is a 5′-nucleotidase, a UDP-sugar hydrolase, and a CDP-alcohol hydrolase. CpdB acts as a 3′-nucleotidase and as a phosphodiesterase of 2′,3′-cyclic nucleotides and 3′,5′-linear and cyclic dinucleotides. Both proteins are pro-virulent for the pathogens producing them and facilitate escape from the innate immunity of the infected host. Recently, the genomic distribution of cpdB-like genes in Bacteria was found to be non-homogeneous among different taxa, and differences occur within single taxa, even at species level. Similitudes and differences between UshA-like and CpdB-like proteins prompted parallel analysis of their genomic distributions in Bacteria. The presence of ushA-like and cpdB-like genes was tested by TBlastN analysis using seven protein probes to query the NCBI Complete Genomes Database. It is concluded that the distribution of ushA-like genes, like that of cpdB-like genes, is non-homogeneous. There is a partial correlation between both gene kinds: in some taxa, both are present or absent, while in others, only one is present. The result is an extensive catalog of the genomic distribution of these genes at different levels, from phylum to species, constituting a starting point for research using other in silico or experimental approaches.
Neuroinflammatory Pathways in the ALS-FTD Continuum: A Focus on Genetic Variants
Authors: De Marchi Fabiola , Tondo Giacomo , Corrado Lucia , Menegon Federico , Aprile Davide , Anselmi Matteo , D’Alfonso Sandra , Comi Cristoforo , Mazzini Letizia
Published: August 2023

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Frontotemporal dementia (FDT) are progressive neurodegenerative disorders that, in several cases, overlap in clinical presentation, and genetic and pathological disease mechanisms. About 10–15% of ALS cases and up to 40% of FTD are familial, usually with dominant traits. ALS and FTD, in several cases, share common gene mutations, such as in C9ORF72, TARDBP, SQSTM-1, FUS, VCP, CHCHD10, and TBK-1. Also, several mechanisms are involved in ALS and FTD pathogenesis, such as protein misfolding, oxidative stress, and impaired axonal transport. In addition, neuroinflammation and neuroinflammatory cells, such as astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglia, and lymphocytes and, overall, the cellular microenvironment, have been proposed as pivotal players in the pathogenesis the ALS-FTD spectrum disorders. This review overviews the current evidence regarding neuroinflammatory markers in the ALS/FTD continuum, focusing on the neuroinflammatory pathways involved in the genetic cases, moving from post-mortem reports to in vivo biofluid and neuroimaging data. We further discuss the potential link between genetic and autoimmune disorders and potential therapeutic implications.