bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the Impact of Applying a Non-Factory Dual-Fuel (Diesel/Natural Gas) Installation on the Traction Properties and Emissions of Selected Exhaust Components of a Road Semi-Trailer Truck Unit
Authors: Karczewski Mirosław , Wieczorek Marcin
Published: December 2021

Problems such as global warming and rising oil prices are driving the implementation of ideas to reduce liquid fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. One of them is the use of natural gas as an energy source. It is a hydrocarbon fuel with properties that allow the reduction of CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) emissions during combustion. Solutions are being implemented that allow for the use of natural gas to means of transport, namely in trucks of various categories and intended use. These installations are used in new vehicles, but also in the form of conversion for used cars, usually several years old. The article presents the results of tests of an engine from a used semi-trailer truck with a mileage of approx. 800 thousand km, with the compressed natural gas supply system installed. This installation (hardware and software), depending on the engine operating conditions, enables the replacement of up to 80% of diesel (base fuel) with natural gas. The impact of changing the fuel supply method on the traction characteristics calculated with the use of external characteristics of both conventional and dual-fuel mode was assessed. The emissions of exhaust gas components were also determined under the conditions of the UNECE Regulation No. 49. The test results confirm that compared to conventional fueling, dual fueling allows for a significant reduction in CO2 emissions, even in a used vehicle with high mileage. The use of a non-factory installation did not significantly affect the traction properties of the vehicle, and engine wear is of greater importance in this case (comparison with factory data). The work is a valuable supplement to the results of the research in which the impact of the use of a non-factory CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) supply system on the performance of a semi-trailer truck unit equipped with such an installation was assessed compared to a semi-trailer truck unit powered in a classic way with diesel fuel.
A Dynamic Optimization Tool to Size and Operate Solar Thermal District Heating Networks Production Plants
Authors: Delubac Régis , Serra Sylvain , Sochard Sabine , Reneaume Jean-Michel
Published: December 2021

The aim of the ISORC/OPTIMISER project is to increase and improve the use of solar thermal energy in district heating networks. One of the main tasks of the project is to develop an optimization tool for the sizing and operation of a solar district heating network. This is the first optimization tool using an open-source interface (Julia, JuMP) and solver (Ipopt) to solve nonlinear problems. This paper presents the multi-period optimization problem which is implemented to consider the dynamic variations in a year, represented by four typical days, with an hourly resolution. The optimum is calculated for a total duration of 20 years. First, this paper presents the modeling of the different components of a solar district heating network production plant: district network demand, storage and three sources, i.e., a fossil (gas) and two renewable (solar and biomass) sources. In order to avoid prohibitive computational time, the modeling of sources and storage has to be fairly simple. The multi-period optimization problem was formulated. The chosen objective function is economic: The provided economic model is accurate and use nonlinear equations. Finally the formulated problem is a nonlinear Programming problem. Optimization of the studied case exhibits consistent operating profiles and design. A comparison is made of different types of storage connection at the production site, highlighting the relevance of placing the storage at the solar field outlet. The optimum configuration supplies 49% of demand using solar energy, achieving a renewable rate of 69% in combination with the biomass boiler.
Water Hammer Control Using Additional Branched HDPE Pipe
Authors: Kubrak Michał , Malesińska Agnieszka , Kodura Apoloniusz , Urbanowicz Kamil , Bury Paweł , Stosiak Michał
Published: December 2021

In pressurised pipeline systems, various water hammer events commonly occur. This phenomenon can cause extensive damage or even lead to a failure of the pumping system. The aim of this work is to experimentally re-examine the possibility of using an additional polymeric pipe, installed at the downstream end of the main pipeline, to control water hammer. A previous study on this topic investigated additional polymeric pipes connected to the hydraulic system with a short joint section of the same diameter as the main pipeline. In the current research, a different method of including an additional pipe was considered which involved connecting it with a pipe of a smaller diameter than the main pipeline. Three additional HDPE pipes, with different volumes, were investigated. The performance of the devices was studied for hydraulic transients induced by both rapid and slow, manual valve closures. Experimental results show that the additional polymeric pipe can provide significant pressure surge damping during rapid water hammer events. As the valve closing time lengthens, the influence of the additional pipe on the maximum pressure increase is reduced. The additional HDPE pipe does not provide notable protection against hydraulic transients induced by slow valve closure in terms of reducing the first pressure peak. No relationship between the volume of the additional pipe and the damping properties was noticed. The observed pressure oscillations were used to evaluate a one-dimensional numerical model, in which an additional pipe is described as a lumped parameter of the system. The viscoelastic properties of the device were included using the one element Kelvin–Voigt model. Transient flow equations were solved with the implicit method of characteristics. Calculation results demonstrate that this approach allows one to reasonably reproduce unsteady flow oscillations registered during experiments in terms of the maximum pressure increase and pressure wave oscillation period.
Energy Savings and Carbon Emission Mitigation Prospective of Building’s Glazing Variety, Window-to-Wall Ratio and Wall Thickness
Authors: Shaik Saboor , Gorantla Kirankumar , Ghosh Aritra , Arumugam Chelliah , Maduru Venkata Ramana
Published: December 2021

Strategic selection of glazing, its window-to-wall ratio, and wall thickness of building reduce the energy consumption in the built environment. This paper presents the experimental results of solar optical properties of five glasses: clear, tinted bronze, tinted green, bronze reflective, and polymer dispersed liquid crystal glasses. Laterite room models were modeled with four different thicknesses and four different glasses using Design Builder, and thermal simulation tests were carried out using Energy Plus. The energy savings and carbon emission mitigation prospective of a building’s glazing variety, window-to-wall ratio (WWR), and wall thickness were investigated. The results revealed that among the five window glasses studied, the polymer dispersed liquid crystal glazing window (PDLCGW) was found to be the most energy-efficient for low heat gain in laterite rooms. The laterite room with 0.23 m wall thickness and 40% PDLCGW WWR reduced 18.9% heat gain in comparison with the laterite room with 0.23 m wall thickness and 40% clear glass WWR. The laterite room of 0.23 m wall thickness with PDLCGW glazing of 40% WWR enhanced cooling cost savings up to USD 31.9 compared to the laterite room of 0.08 m wall thickness with 40% PDLCGW. The laterite room of 0.23 m wall thickness with PDLCGW glazing of 40% WWR also showed improved carbon mitigation of 516 kg of CO2/year compared to the 0.23 m wall thickness laterite room of 40% WWR with clear glass glazing. The results also showed that the laterite room with 0.23 m wall thickness and 100% clear glass WWR increased heat gain by 28.2% in comparison with the laterite room with 0.23 m wall thickness and 20% clear glass WWR. The results of this article are essential for the strategic design of buildings for energy saving and emission reduction.
Advanced Control to Improve the Ramp-Rate of a Gas Turbine: Optimization of Control Schedule
Authors: Park Young-Kwang , Moon Seong-Won , Kim Tong-Seop
Published: December 2021

As the proportion of power generation using renewable energy increases, it is important to improve the operational flexibility of gas turbines (GTs) for the stability of power grids. Increasing the ramp-rate of GTs is a general solution. However, a higher ramp-rate increases the turbine inlet temperature (TIT), its rate of change, and the fluctuation of the frequency of produced electricity, which are negative side effects. This study proposes a method to optimize the set-point schedule for a PID controller to improve the ramp-rate while decreasing the negative impacts. The set-point schedule was optimized for a 170-MW class GT using a genetic algorithm to minimize the difference between the value of the process variable and the set-point value of the conventional control. The advanced control reduced the fluctuation of the rotation speed by 20% at the reference ramp-rates (12 MW/min and 15 MW/min). The maximum TIT decreased by 6.3 °C, and its maximum rate of change decreased from 0.7 °C/s to 0.4 °C/s. The advantage of the advanced control becomes more marked as the ramp-rate increases. Even at a much higher ramp-rate (50 MW/min), the advanced control decreased the rotation speed fluctuation by 40% in comparison to the conventional control at the reference ramp-rate.
The Histone H3 K4me3, K27me3, and K27ac Genome-Wide Distributions Are Differently Influenced by Sex in Brain Cortexes and Gastrocnemius of the Alzheimer’s Disease PSAPP Mouse Model
Authors: Casciaro Francesca , Persico Giuseppe , Rusin Martina , Amatori Stefano , Montgomery Claire , Rutkowsky Jennifer , Ramsey Jon , Cortopassi Gino , Fanelli Mirco , Giorgio Marco
Published: December 2021

Background: Women represent the majority of Alzheimer’s disease patients and show typical symptoms. Genetic, hormonal, and behavioral mechanisms have been proposed to explain sex differences in dementia prevalence. However, whether sex differences exist in the epigenetic landscape of neuronal tissue during the progression of the disease is still unknown. Methods: To investigate the differences of histone H3 modifications involved in transcription, we determined the genome-wide profiles of H3K4me3, H3K27ac, and H3K27me3 in brain cortexes of an Alzheimer mouse model (PSAPP). Gastrocnemius muscles were also tested since they are known to be different in the two sexes and are affected during the disease progression. Results: Correlation analysis distinguished the samples based on sex for H3K4me3 and H3K27me3 but not for H3K27ac. The analysis of transcription starting sites (TSS) signal distribution, and analysis of bounding sites revealed that gastrocnemius is more influenced than brain by sex for the three histone modifications considered, exception made for H3K27me3 distribution on the X chromosome which showed sex-related differences in promoters belonging to behavior and cellular or neuronal spheres in mice cortexes. Conclusions: H3K4me3, H3K27ac, and H3K27me3 signals are slightly affected by sex in brain, with the exception of H3K27me3, while a higher number of differences can be found in gastrocnemius.
Tree Mortality following Thinning and Prescribed Burning in Central Oregon, U.S.
Authors: Fettig Christopher J. , Mortenson Leif A. , Audley Jackson P.
Published: December 2021

We examined causes and levels of tree mortality one year after thinning and prescribed burning was completed in ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa Dougl. ex Laws.) forests at Pringle Falls Experimental Forest, Oregon, U.S. Four blocks of five experimental units (N = 20) were established. One of each of five treatments was assigned to each experimental unit in each block. Treatments included thinning from below to the upper management zone (UMZ) for the dominant plant association based on stand density index values for ponderosa pine followed by mastication and prescribed burning: (1) 50% UMZ (low density stand), (2) 75% UMZ (medium density stand), (3) 75% UMZ Gap, which involved a regeneration cut, (4) 100% UMZ (high density stand), and (5) an untreated control (high density stand). Experimental units were thinned in 2011 (block 4), 2012 (block 2), and 2013 (blocks 1 and 3); masticated within one year; and prescribed burned two years after thinning (2013–2015). A total of 395,053 trees was inventoried, of which 1.1% (4436) died. Significantly higher levels of tree mortality occurred on 100 UMZ (3.1%) than the untreated control (0.05%). Mortality was attributed to prescribed fire (2706), several species of bark beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) (1592), unknown factors (136), windfall (1 tree), and western gall rust (1 tree). Among bark beetles, tree mortality was attributed to western pine beetle (Dendroctonus brevicomis LeConte) (881 trees), pine engraver (Ips pini (Say)) (385 trees), fir engraver (Scolytus ventralis LeConte) (304 trees), mountain pine beetle (D. ponderosae Hopkins) (20 trees), Ips emarginatus (LeConte) (1 tree), and Pityogenes spp. (1 tree).
Silage Fermentation: A Potential Microbial Approach for the Forage Utilization of Cyperus esculentus L. By-Product
Authors: Sun Jiahao , Wang Tianwei , Huang Fuqing , Liu Yayong , Shi Weixiong , Ma Cui , Zhong Jin
Published: December 2021

Cyperus esculentus L. leaves (CLL) are agricultural by-products produced from Cyperus esculentus L. harvesting, and can be used as livestock feed despite their low economic value for human consumption. This study aims to develop a favorable approach to processing Cyperus esculentus L. by-product as coarse fodder. The chopped CLL was pretreated by (1) mixing with canola straw at a 4:1 ratio, or (2) wilting it for 8 h, then it ensiling with or without compounded lactic acid bacteria (LAB) additives for 60 days. Our results demonstrated that compounded LAB additives: improved CLL silage fermentation quality by increasing acetic acid and lactic acid contents and decreasing ethanol and ammonia-N contents; preserved nutrients by raising the level of crude protein and water soluble carbohydrates; modified the bacterial community by increasing the relative abundance of Lactobacillus while decreasing the relative abundance of undesirable Enterococcus; and also might improve animal health by increasing the relative concentrations of antioxidant substances (such as 7-galloylcatechin) and antibacterial compounds (such as ferulic acid). This study provides strong evidence that Cyperus esculentus L. by-product can be a potential livestock feed after being ensiled with compounded LAB additives.
Biomethanation of Carbon Monoxide by Hyperthermophilic Artificial Archaeal Co-Cultures
Authors: Zipperle Aaron , Reischl Barbara , Schmider Tilman , Stadlbauer Michael , Kushkevych Ivan , Pruckner Christian , Vítězová Monika , Rittmann Simon K.-M. R.
Published: December 2021

Climate neutral and sustainable energy sources will play a key role in future energy production. Biomethanation by gas to gas conversion of flue gases is one option with regard to renewable energy production. Here, we performed the conversion of synthetic carbon monoxide (CO)-containing flue gases to methane (CH4) by artificial hyperthermophilic archaeal co-cultures, consisting of Thermococcus onnurineus and Methanocaldococcus jannaschii, Methanocaldococcus vulcanius, or Methanocaldococcus villosus. Experiments using both chemically defined and complex media were performed in closed batch setups. Up to 10 mol% CH4 was produced by converting pure CO or synthetic CO-containing industrial waste gases at a high rate using a co-culture of T. onnurineus and M. villosus. These findings are a proof of principle and advance the fields of Archaea Biotechnology, artificial microbial ecosystem design and engineering, industrial waste-gas recycling, and biomethanation.
Selection of Three Indigenous Lebanese Yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae with Physiological Traits from Grape Varieties in Western Semi-Desert and Pedoclimatic Conditions in the Bekaa Valley
Authors: El Dana Fatima , Hayar Salem , Colosio Marie-Charlotte
Published: December 2021

Wine production depends on the fermentation process performed by yeasts, especially (but not solely) strains of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which is a technique that has been practiced from the Middle Ages till modern days. Selecting indigenous starters offers a beneficial technique to manage alcoholic grape juice fermentation, conserving the particular sensory qualities of wine produced from specific regions. This paper investigated yeast biodiversity of four grape varieties (Carignan, Syrah, Grenache, and Aswad Karesh) grown in the pedoclimatic western semi-desert Bekaa Valley. Further research identified, characterized, and selected strains with the most industrial wine interest and economic value to Lebanon. By using molecular methods and by the ITS PCR analysis, the isolates belonging to the Saccharomyces and non-Saccharomyces genus were identified. These isolates taken from four varieties were further characterized by amplification with Interdelta and δ12/δ21 primer pairs, permitting the identification of 96 S. cerevisiae strains. Forty-five genomically homogenous groups were classified through the comparison between their mtDNA RFLP patterns. Based on physiological characterization analysis (H2S and SO2 production, killer phenotype, sugar consumption, malic and acetic acid, etc.), three strains (NL28629, NL28649, and NL28652) showed interesting features, where they were also vigorously fermented in a synthetic medium. These strains can be used as a convenient starter for typical wine production. In particular, Carignan and Syrah had the highest percentage of strains with the most desirable physiological parameters.
Artificial Neural Networks to Predict the Mechanical Properties of Natural Fibre-Reinforced Compressed Earth Blocks (CEBs)
Authors: Turco Chiara , Funari Marco Francesco , Teixeira Elisabete , Mateus Ricardo
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this study is to explore Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) to predict the compressive and tensile strengths of natural fibre-reinforced Compressed Earth Blocks (CEBs). To this end, a database was created by collecting data from the available literature. Data relating to 332 specimens (Database 1) were used for the prediction of the compressive strength (ANN1), and, due to the lack of some information, those relating to 130 specimens (Database 2) were used for the prediction of the tensile strength (ANN2). The developed tools showed high accuracy, i.e., correlation coefficients (R-value) equal to 0.97 for ANN1 and 0.91 for ANN2. Such promising results prompt their applicability for the design and orientation of experimental campaigns and support numerical investigations.
3D-Printed Mortars with Combined Steel and Polypropylene Fibers
Authors: Lesovik Valery , Fediuk Roman , Amran Mugahed , Alaskhanov Arbi , Volodchenko Aleksandr , Murali Gunasekaran , Uvarov Valery , Elistratkin Mikhail
Published: December 2021

Fibers of various origins are of great importance for the manufacture of new generation cement composites. The use of modified composite binders allows these highly efficient building materials to be used for 3D-printing of structures for various functional purposes. In this article, changes in building codes are proposed, in particular, the concept of the rheological technological index (RTI) mixtures is introduced, the hardware and method for determining which will reproduce the key features of real processes. An instrument was developed to determine a RTI value. The mixes based on composite binders and combined steel and polypropylene fibers were created. The optimally designed composition made it possible to obtain composites with a compressive strength of 93 MPa and a tensile strength of 11 MPa. At the same time, improved durability characteristics were achieved, such as water absorption of 2.5% and the F300 frost resistance grade. The obtained fine-grained fiber-reinforced concrete composite is characterized by high adhesion strength of the fiber with the cement paste. The microstructure of the developed composite, and especially the interfacial transition zone, has a denser structure compared to traditional concrete. The obtained materials, due to their high strength characteristics due to the use of a composite binder and combined fiber, can be recommended for use in high-rise construction.
Effects of Different Temperatures on the Antibacterial, Immune and Growth Performance of Crucian Carp Epidermal Mucus
Authors: Wang Bin , Ma Guoxin , Liu Yong , Wang Yafei , Du Xiaoxue , Shi Qiang , Mao Hanping
Published: December 2021

Fish is one of the important sources of energy and protein, and proper water temperature is key to successful fish breeding. The authors of this study evaluated crucian carp growth, mucus antibacterial properties, and immune indicators at 17, 21, 24, 27, and 31 °C. The results indicated that in the range of 17–31 °C, the resistance of epidermal mucus to Vibrio harveyi decreased with temperature rising. At 24 and 27 °C, the activities of lysozyme and catalase significantly increased; alkaline phosphatase activity, superoxide dismutase activity, and total protein concentration first increased and then decreased with rising temperature; the highest values were observed at 24 °C, with increases of 56.55%, 26.64%, and 44.52%, respectively, compared to those under the 17 °C treatment. When the treatment reached 27 °C, the temperature had an effect on the growth and antibacterial properties of crucian carp, and the activities of alkaline phosphatase and superoxide dismutase were significantly reduced. At temperatures of 17–24 °C, the survival rate of crucian carp could reach more than 93%, and at the temperature of 24 °C, the specific growth rate reached the highest value of 43.29%. Therefore, the most favorable temperature for the long-term breeding of crucian carp was found to be 24 °C. This study provides a favorable experimental basis for the establishment of intelligent aquaculture systems and the setting of water environment parameters.
Nutritional and Volatile Characterisation of Milk Inoculated with Thermo-Tolerant Lactobacillus bulgaricus through Adaptive Laboratory Evolution
Authors: Liang Jiahui , Yoo Michelle Ji Yeon , Seale Brent , Grazioli Gianpaolo
Published: December 2021

In this study, thermo-tolerant strain of Lactobacillus bulgaricus (L. bulgaricus) was developed using gradual increase in temperature to induce Adaptive Laboratory Evolution (ALE). Viable colony count of 1.87 ± 0.98 log cfu/mL was achieved at 52 °C, using MRS agar supplemented with 2% lactose. Changes in bacteria morphology were discovered, from rod (control) to filament (52 °C) to cocci after frozen storage (−80 °C). When milk was inoculated with thermo-tolerant L. bulgaricus, lactic acid production was absent, leaving pH at 6.84 ± 0.13. This has caused weakening of the protein network, resulting in high whey separation and lower water-holding capacity (37.1 ± 0.35%) compared to the control (98.10 ± 0.60%). Significantly higher proteolytic activity was observed through free amino acids analysis by LC-MS. Arginine and methionine (237.24 ± 5.94 and 98.83 ± 1.78 µg/100 g, respectively) were found to be 115- and 275-fold higher than the control, contributing to changing the aroma similar to cheese. Further volatile analysis through SPME-GC-MS has confirmed significant increase in cheese-aroma volatiles compared to the control, with increase in diacetyl formation. Further work on DNA profiling, metabolomics and peptidomics will help to answer mechanisms behind the observed changes made in the study.
Effects of Genetic Background and Altitude on Sugars, Malic Acid and Ascorbic Acid in Fruits of Wild and Cultivated Apples (Malus sp.)
Authors: Li Yajing , Sun Hongxia , Li Jindong , Qin Shu , Yang Wei , Ma Xueying , Qiao Xiongwu , Yang Baoru
Published: December 2021

Soluble sugars, malic acid, and ascorbic acid in 17 apple cultivars (Malus domestica Borkh.) and three wild forms (M. pumila ‘Saiwaihong’, M. prunifolia (Willd.) Borkh. and M. micromalus Makino) from three major apple cultivation regions in China were quantified using gas chromatography equipped with flame ionization detector (GC-FID). Fructose was the most abundant sugar, followed by sucrose, glucose, and sorbitol. Wild apples contain more sorbitol and less sucrose and were significantly more acidic than cultivated fruits. The total sugar content varied from 110 to 160 mg/g fresh fruits, total acid content from 2 to 6 mg/g, with a strong influence of genetic background and growth location. Overall, ‘Gala’, ‘Xiali’, ‘Liuyuehong’, ‘Lihong’, ‘Starking Delicious’, and ‘Starkrimson’ were characterized by higher sugar/acid ratio indicating sweeter taste compared to other cultivars. The wild apples had the highest content of ascorbic acid (0.6–0.96 mg/g). Compared to other cultivars, ‘Zhongqiuwang’, ‘Qinguan’, and ‘Nagafu No. 2′ were richer in ascorbic acid. The ascorbic acid content in the commercial cultivars was highly dependent on growth location. The content of malic acid and sucrose positively correlated to altitude, and that of glucose negatively. Malic acid positively correlated with ascorbic acid and sucrose, glucose content with ascorbic acid.
Paeonol Disrupts the Integrity of Aspergillus flavus Cell Walls via Releasing Surface Proteins, Inhibiting the Biosynthesis of β-1,3-Glucan and Promoting the Degradation of Chitin, and an Identification of Cell Surface Proteins
Authors: Li Qian , Zhao Ying , Xie Yanli
Published: December 2021

Paeonol can effectively inhibit Aspergillus flavus (A. flavus) via damaging cell walls. In this work, paeonol treatment remarkably destroyed both the outer amorphous layer and the inner fibrous layer of cell walls. Furthermore, FT-IR and XPS characterization showed that OH functional groups were altered and proteins in the outer layer were released. According to proteomic analysis, 605 proteins have been identified and annotated. The activities of β-1,3-glucan synthase and chitinase were prohibited and promoted, respectively, by paeonol treatment, however, the activities of β-1,3-glucanase and chitin synthase were not influenced. QRT-PCR results suggested that FKSP, CHIIII, and CHIV genes might be the antifungal targets of paeonol. In addition, paeonol can effectively restrain the pathogenicity of A. flavus on peanut butter. This study provided a new elucidation on the mode of action of paeonol against cell walls of A. flavus, facilitating the application of paeonol in the preservation of agricultural products.
Mixed Caputo Fractional Neutral Stochastic Differential Equations with Impulses and Variable Delay
Authors: Abouagwa Mahmoud , Bantan Rashad A. R. , Almutiry Waleed , Khalaf Anas D. , Elgarhy Mohammed
Published: December 2021

In this manuscript, a new class of impulsive fractional Caputo neutral stochastic differential equations with variable delay (IFNSDEs, in short) perturbed by fractional Brownain motion (fBm) and Poisson jumps was studied. We utilized the Carathéodory approximation approach and stochastic calculus to present the existence and uniqueness theorem of the stochastic system under Carathéodory-type conditions with Lipschitz and non-Lipschitz conditions as special cases. Some existing results are generalized and enhanced. Finally, an application is offered to illustrate the obtained theoretical results.
Complexity-Based Analysis of the Effect of Forming Parameters on the Surface Finish of Workpiece in Single Point Incremental Forming (SPIF)
Authors: Akhavan Farid Ali , Foong Shin Shen , Krejcar Ondrej , Namazi Hamidreza
Published: December 2021

Nowadays, the manufacturing industry is focused on newer modern manufacturing methods, such as single point incremental forming (SPIF). The popularity of the SPIF process in the manufacturing industry is increasing due to its capability for rapid prototyping, forming complex geometry with simple steps, and customizing products for customers. This study investigates the effect of forming parameters (feed rate and step size) on the surface structure of the aluminum AA6061 sheet. We employ fractal theory to investigate the complexity of deformed surfaces. Accordingly, we study the relationship between the complexity and roughness of the deformed surface. The results show that the complexity and roughness of the deformed surface vary due to the changes in forming parameters. Fractal analysis can be further employed in other manufacturing processes to investigate the relation between the complexity and roughness of processed surfaces.
Numerical Solutions of a Heat Transfer for Fractional Maxwell Fluid Flow with Water Based Clay Nanoparticles; A Finite Difference Approach
Authors: Ali Arfan , Asjad Muhammad Imran , Usman Muhammad , Inc Mustafa
Published: December 2021

Fractional-order mathematical modelling of physical phenomena is a hot topic among various researchers due to its many advantages over positive integer mathematical modelling. In this context, the appropriate solutions of such fractional-order physical modelling become a challenging task among scientists. This paper presents a study of unsteady free convection fluid flow and heat transfer of Maxwell fluids with the presence of Clay nanoparticle modelling using fractional calculus. The obtained model was transformed into a set of linear nondimensional, partial differential equations (PDEs). The finite difference scheme is proposed to discretize the obtained set of nondimensional PDEs. The Maple code was developed and executed against the physical parameters and fractional-order parameter to explain the behavior of the velocity and temperature profiles. Some limiting solutions were obtained and compared with the latest existing ones in literature. The comparative study witnesses that the proposed scheme is a very efficient tool to handle such a physical model and can be extended to other diversified problems of a complex nature.
Phenomenon of Scattering of Zeros of the (p,q)-Cosine Sigmoid Polynomials and (p,q)-Sine Sigmoid Polynomials
Authors: Ryoo Cheon Seoung , Kang Jung Yoog
Published: December 2021

In this paper, we define (p,q)-cosine and sine sigmoid polynomials. Based on this, the properties of each polynomial, and the structure and assumptions of its roots, can be identified. Properties can also be determined by the changes in p and q.
Impact of Bio-Ethanol, Bio-ETBE Addition on the Volatility of Gasoline with Oxygen Content at the Level of E10
Authors: Michalopoulou Dimitra-Panagiota , Komiotou Maria , Zannikou Ypatia , Karonis Dimitrios
Published: December 2021

This study examines the impact of the addition of bio-ethanol/bio-ETBE on the main volatility properties of gasoline. Although several studies have been published on the addition of ethanol or ETBE to gasoline, the simultaneous addition of these oxygenates has not been studied by taking the maximum oxygen content of 3.7% m/m into account. The EN 228:2012-A1:2017 standard specifies the requirements for marketed unleaded gasoline. This standard is able to determine, among other things, a gasoline type with a maximum oxygen content of 3.7% m/m and sets the maximum limits for ethanol content at 10% v/v and 22% v/v for ethers with a minimum five carbon atoms, such as ΕΤΒΕ. Five refinery fractions were mixed in various proportions and were used as base fuels. A total of 30 samples were prepared by blending the base fuels with bio-ethanol/bio-ETBE. In each of these base fuels, bio-ethanol was added in concentrations up to 10% v/v. Subsequently, bio-ETBE was added to each of these fuels in concentrations up to 20.8% v/v for use as a stabilizer. All of the samples were examined using the EN ISO 13016-1 and EN ISO 3405 test methods while considering the volatility requirements set by EN 228. The results showed that the addition of bio-ETBE has a beneficial effect on the volatility characteristics of the samples, as it reduces the vapor pressure of the final blend and sets all fuels in compliance with the required specification limits set by the EN 228 standard.
Mixotrophic Cultivation of Microalgae in Cassava Processing Wastewater for Simultaneous Treatment and Production of Lipid-Rich Biomass
Authors: Sorgatto Vanessa Ghiggi , Soccol Carlos Ricardo , Molina-Aulestia Denisse Tatiana , de Carvalho Marco Aurélio , de Melo Pereira Gilberto Vinícius , de Carvalho Júlio Cesar
Published: December 2021

Cassava processing wastewater (CPW) is a highly polluting, liquid residue of cassava processing, usually discarded or treated anaerobically. However, it can serve as a low-cost culture medium for microalgae. After a preliminary evaluation of the growth of 10 microalgal strains in diluted CPW, the microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis SAG 34−1b and Neochloris (Ettlia) oleoabundans UTEX 1185 were selected for cultivation in CPW without a supply of additional nutrients and evaluated for their growth, lipid production, and nutrients removal. Maximal biomass concentrations of 1.79 g·L−1 for H. pluvialis and 3.18 g·L−1 for N. oleoabundans were achieved with 25% CPW medium on the 13th day of growth. The algae H. pluvialis and N. oleoabundans removed 60.80 and 69.16% of the chemical oxygen demand, 51.06 and 58.19% of total nitrate, and 54.68 and 69.84% of phosphate, respectively. On average, lipid productivities reached 0.018 and 0.041 g·L−1 day−1 for H. pluvialis and N. oleoabundans, respectively. Therefore, cultivating these microalgae in diluted CPW is a promising treatment for cassava wastewater with simultaneous valuable biomass production.
Forecasting Delivery Pattern through Floating Car Data: Empirical Evidence
Authors: Comi Antonio , Polimeni Antonio
Published: December 2021

This paper investigates the opportunities offered by floating car data (FCD) to infer delivering activities. A discrete trip-chain order model (within the random utility theory) for light goods vehicles (laden weight less than 3.5 tons) is hence proposed, which characterizes delivery tours in terms of the number of stops/deliveries performed. Thus, the main goal of the study is to calibrate a discrete choice model to estimate the number of stops/deliveries per tour by using FCD, which can be incorporated in a planning procedure for obtaining a preliminary assessment of parking demand. The data used refer to light goods vehicles operating in the Veneto region. The database contains more than 8000 tours undertaken in 60 working days. Satisfactory results have been obtained in terms of tour estimation and model transferability.
Magnetogenesis and the Cosmic Web: A Joint Challenge for Radio Observations and Numerical Simulations
Authors: Vazza Franco , Locatelli Nicola , Rajpurohit Kamlesh , Banfi Serena , Domínguez-Fernández Paola , Wittor Denis , Angelinelli Matteo , Inchingolo Giannandrea , Brienza Marisa , Hackstein Stefan , Dallacasa Daniele , Gheller Claudio , Brüggen Marcus , Brunetti Gianfranco , Bonafede Annalisa , Ettori Stefano , Stuardi Chiara , Paoletti Daniela , Finelli Fabio
Published: December 2021

The detection of the radio signal from filaments in the cosmic web is crucial to distinguish possible magnetogenesis scenarios. We review the status of the different attempts to detect the cosmic web at radio wavelengths. This is put into the context of the advanced simulations of cosmic magnetism carried out in the last few years by our MAGCOW project. While first attempts of imaging the cosmic web with the MWA and LOFAR have been encouraging and could discard some magnetogenesis models, the complexity behind such observations makes a definitive answer still uncertain. A combination of total intensity and polarimetric data at low radio frequencies that the SKA and LOFAR2.0 will achieve is key to removing the existing uncertainties related to the contribution of many possible sources of signal along deep lines of sight. This will make it possible to isolate the contribution from filaments, and expose its deep physical connection with the origin of extragalactic magnetism.
Modelling the Energy Spectra of Radio Relics
Authors: Wittor Denis , Hoeft Matthias , Brüggen Marcus
Published: December 2021

Radio relics are diffuse synchrotron sources that illuminate shock waves in the intracluster medium. In recent years, radio telescopes have provided detailed observations about relics. Consequently, cosmological simulations of radio relics need to provide a similar amount of detail. In this methodological work, we include information on adiabatic compression and expansion, which have been neglected in the past in the modelling of relics. In a cosmological simulation of a merging galaxy cluster, we follow the energy spectra of shock accelerated cosmic-ray electrons using Lagrangian tracer particles. On board of each tracer particle, we compute the temporal evolution of the energy spectrum under the influence of synchrotron radiation, inverse Compton scattering, and adiabatic compression and expansion. Exploratory tests show that the total radio power and, hence, the integrated radio spectrum are not sensitive to the adiabatic processes. This is attributed to small changes in the compression ratio over time.
Modeling and Simulation of the Ion-Binding-Mediated Swelling Dynamics of Mucin-like Polyelectrolyte Gels
Authors: Du Jian , Lewis Owen L. , Keener James P. , Fogelson Aaron L.
Published: December 2021

Volume phase transitions in polyeletrolyte gels play important roles in many biophysical processes such as DNA packaging, nerve excitation, and cellular secretion. The swelling and deswelling of these charged polymer gels depend strongly on their ionic environment. In this paper, we present an extension to our previous two-fluid model for ion-binding-mediated gel swelling. The extended model eliminates the assumptions about the size similarity between the network and solvent particles, which makes it suitable for investigating of a large family of biologically relevant problems. The model treats the polyeletrolyte gel as a mixture of two materials, the network and the solvent. The dynamics of gel swelling is governed by the balance between the mechanical and chemical forces on each of these two materials. Simulations based on the model illustrate that the chemical forces are significantly influenced by the binding/unbinding reactions between the ions and the network, as well as the resulting distribution of charges within the gel. The dependence of the swelling rate on ionic bath concentrations is analyzed and this analysis highlights the importance of the electromigration of ions and the induced electric field in regulating gel swelling.
Automatic Unfolding of CityGML Buildings to Paper Models
Authors: Goebbels Steffen , Pohle-Fröhlich Regina
Published: December 2021

3D city models are mainly viewed on computer screens, but many municipalities also use 3D printing to make urban planning tangible. Since 3D color printing is still comparatively expensive and the colors often fade over time, many of these models are monochrome. Here, color textured paper models offer an inexpensive and under-appreciated alternative. In this paper, a greedy algorithm adapted to CityGML building models is presented, which creates print templates for such paper models. These 2D layouts consist of cut edges and fold edges that bound polygons of a building. The polygons can be textured or left blank depending on the existence of CityGML textures. Glue tabs are attached to cut edges. In addition to the haptic 3D visualization, the quality of the 3D models can sometimes be better assessed on the basis of the print templates than from a perspective projection. The unfolding procedure was applied to parts of the freely available CityGML model of Berlin as well as to parts of models of the cities of Dortmund and Krefeld.
The Relevance of Geotechnical-Unit Characterization for Landslide-Susceptibility Mapping with SHALSTAB
Authors: Melo Carla Moreira , Kobiyama Masato , Michel Gean Paulo , de Brito Mariana Madruga
Published: December 2021

Given the increasing occurrence of landslides worldwide, the improvement of predictive models for landslide mapping is needed. Despite the influence of geotechnical parameters on SHALSTAB model outputs, there is a lack of research on models’ performance when considering different variables. In particular, the role of geotechnical units (i.e., areas with common soil and lithology) is understudied. Indeed, the original SHALSTAB model considers that the whole basin has homogeneous soil. This can lead to the under-or-overestimation of landslide hazards. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the advantages of incorporating geotechnical units as a variable in contrast to the original model. By using locally sampled geotechnical data, 13 slope-instability scenarios were simulated for the Jaguar creek basin, Brazil. This allowed us to verify the sensitivity of the model to different input variables and assumptions. To evaluate the model performance, we used the Success Index, Error Index, ROC curve, and a new performance index: the Detective Performance Index of Unstable Areas. The best model performance was obtained in the scenario with discretized geotechnical units’ values and the largest sample size. Results indicate the importance of properly characterizing the geotechnical units when using SHALSTAB. Hence, future applications should consider this to improve models’ predictivity.
Measuring Similarity of Deforestation Patterns in Time and Space across Differences in Resolution
Authors: Suyamto Desi , Prasetyo Lilik , Setiawan Yudi , Wijaya Arief , Kustiyo Kustiyo , Kartika Tatik , Effendi Hefni , Permatasari Prita
Published: December 2021

This article demonstrated an easily applicable method for measuring the similarity between a pair of point patterns, which applies to spatial or temporal data sets. Such a measurement was performed using similarity-based pattern analysis as an alternative to conventional approaches, which typically utilize straightforward point-to-point matching. Using our approach, in each point data set, two geometric features (i.e., the distance and angle from the centroid) were calculated and represented as probability density functions (PDFs). The PDF similarity of each geometric feature was measured using nine metrics, with values ranging from zero (very contrasting) to one (exactly the same). The overall similarity was defined as the average of the distance and angle similarities. In terms of sensibility, the method was shown to be capable of measuring, at a human visual sensing level, two pairs of hypothetical patterns, presenting reasonable results. Meanwhile, in terms of the method′s sensitivity to both spatial and temporal displacements from the hypothetical origin, the method is also capable of consistently measuring the similarity of spatial and temporal patterns. The application of the method to assess both spatial and temporal pattern similarities between two deforestation data sets with different resolutions was also discussed.
Geopolymers as Alternative Sustainable Binders for Stabilisation of Clays—A Review
Authors: Jeremiah Jeremiah J. , Abbey Samuel J. , Booth Colin A. , Kashyap Anil
Published: December 2021

The need to transit to greener options in soil stabilisation has revamped research on the use of industrial and agricultural by-products in order to cut down on the current carbon footprint from the use of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) and lime related binders for the treatment of problematic soils. This study is a review on the use of geopolymers constituted by alkali activation of several industrial wastes such as pulverised fuel ash (PFA), ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS), metakaolin (MK), glass powder (GP), palm oil fuel ash (POFA), silica fume (SF), rice husk ash (RHA), volcanic ash (VA), and marble powder (MP) for the stabilisation of weak clays. The performance of stabilised clays as subgrade and subbase materials for road pavement construction was evaluated by comparing the 7 day UCS of the treated clays with the strength requirement for stabilised materials as outlined in BS EN 16907-4. The result of the study shows that geopolymers can be employed in improving the engineering properties of problematic clays to meet practical applications. Strength improvement was observed in the stabilised clays with increased precursor content, molarity of alkaline activator, and curing period.
Effects of Colloidal Silica Grouting on Geotechnical Properties of Liquefiable Soils: A Review
Authors: Ciardi Giovanni , Vannucchi Giovanni , Madiai Claudia
Published: December 2021

Colloidal silica (CS) is a kind of nanomaterial used in soil/rock grouting techniques in different branches of civil engineering. Many studies have recently been performed to investigate the potential of CS in improving the mechanical behavior of cohesionless soils and mitigating the risk of seismic liquefaction in urbanized areas. CS grout is chemically and biologically inert and, when injected into a subsoil, it can form a silica gel and stabilize the desired soil layer, thus representing an attractive, environmentally friendly alternative to standard chemical grouting techniques. This paper firstly describes the characteristics of CS grout, the gelation process and the main features of the behavior of the pure gelled material. The grout delivery mechanisms through porous media are then explained, pointing out the crucial issues for practical application of CS grouting. All the grouting-induced effects on the soil behavior, which have been investigated by laboratory tests on small-sized soil elements, are reviewed, including the modifications to soil strength and stiffness under both static and seismic loading conditions, to soil compressibility and hydraulic conductivity. Published results from physical model tests and in situ applications are also presented. Finally, some aspects related to the mechanism of soil improvement are discussed. A critical discussion of each topic is presented, drawing particular attention to the controversial or not yet fully examined aspects to which future research on colloidal silica grouting should be directed.
How Do Geriatric Scores Predict 1-Year Mortality in Elderly Patients with Suspected Pneumonia?
Authors: Nascè Alberto , Malézieux-Picard Astrid , Hakiza Landry , Fassier Thomas , Zekry Dina , Stirnemann Jérôme , Garin Nicolas , Prendki Virginie , Roux Xavier
Published: December 2021

Background: Pneumonia has an impact on long-term mortality in elderly patients. The risk factors associated with poor long-term outcomes are understated. We aimed to assess the ability of scores that evaluate patients’ comorbidities (cumulative illness rating scale—geriatric, CIRS-G), malnutrition (mini nutritional assessment, MNA) and functionality (functional independence measure, FIM) to predict 1-year mortality in a cohort of older patients having a suspicion of pneumonia. Methods: Our prospective study included consecutive patients over 65 years old and hospitalized with a suspicion of pneumonia enrolled in a monocentric cohort from May 2015 to April 2016. Each score was analysed in univariate and multivariate models and logistic regressions were used to identify contributors to 1-year mortality. Results: 200 patients were included (51% male, mean age 83.8 ± 7.7). Their 1-year mortality rate was 30%. FIM (p < 0.01), CIRS-G (p < 0.001) and MNA (p < 0.001) were strongly associated with poorer long-term outcomes in univariate analysis. CIRS-G (p < 0.05) and MNA (p < 0.05) were significant predictors of 1-year mortality in multivariate analysis. Conclusion: Long-term prognosis of patients hospitalized for pneumonia was poor and we identified that scores assessing comorbidities and malnutrition seem to be important predictors of 1-year mortality. This should be taken into account for evaluating elderly patients’ prognosis, levels and goals of care.