bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electro-Chemical Energy Conversion and Storage Systems - Analytical Review
Authors: Nagpal Amandeep , Reddy Uma , Aswini Kilaru , Chandran Sumesh , Chandra Pradeep Kumar , Riad Al-Fatlawy Ramy , Shivani Singh
Published: May 2024

This study emphasises how crucial it is to implement clean energy technology, especially electro-chemical systems, in order to reduce the emission of green-house and fulfil the world's growing energy needs. The study highlights the significance of sustainable resources such as wind and solar electricity. It also examines the difficulties associated with their intermittent nature and proposes changes to consumer behaviour and power producing practices. It talks about current research on candidate materials at the fundamental level and emphasises the crucial role customised materials play in electro-chemical systems. The paper explores the several uses of electro-chemical energy technology, explaining the classifications and operation of fuel cells, batteries, and capacitors, among other devices. The paper concludes by arguing that further advancements in materials and technology are essential to securing a reliable and efficient energy supply in the future.
Algal Biofuels: Unveiling the Potential of Seaweed in Renewable Energy Production
Authors: Rajalakshmi B. , Lalitha G. , Gupta Manish , P K Jaleel , Parashar Ashish Kumar , Muhsen Muntadar , Yadav Dinesh Kumar
Published: May 2024

This study examines the numerous pre-processing techniques used to convert biomass into greater sustainable biofuels and commodities, highlighting the boom in productivity and the supply of a greater uniform, dry, and suitable feedstock. by using addressing the demanding situations associated with biomass size, layout, moisture content, and variability, this study delves into mechanical procedures, drying, torrefaction, palletization, hydrolysis, hydrothermal, and microwave-primarily based strategies as possible solutions. It explores the utilization of various biomass types, which include wood, woody biomass, herbaceous streams, and agricultural streams, and assesses their impact on bioenergy production and environmental sustainability. The study also considers the position of algae, specially microalgae, in offering bioactive materials with substantial health advantages and their ability in overcoming land-use concerns associated with traditional biomass. moreover, the paper evaluates the environmental affects and sustainability of biomass usage, advocating for microalgae as a promising feedstock for 1/3-technology biofuels. The research is grounded in the context of the increasing need to reduce reliance on fossil fuels due to urbanization and population enlargement, which make contributions to environmental degradation.
Sustainable water quality monitoring and innovative purification solutions
Authors: Lakshmi V. , Sai Hemanth Kusampudi , Settipalli Aditya , Nanda Abhishek , Ishtiyaq  , Jasim Laith
Published: May 2024

The goal of this project is to create a complete water quality monitoring system using web-based technology and pH sensors. The system’s real-time pH level analysis allows it to continuously evaluate the quality of the water. It classifies the state of the water quality and provides customized suggestions for enhancement. A user-friendly online interface that makes data visualization and interaction possible is at the heart of the system. The technology guarantees accurate readings and dependable solutions through extensive testing and validation, advancing water quality management techniques in a variety of fields.
Harmonizing Environmental Protection Integration of Monitoring and purification Systems
Authors: Lakshmi V. , Sai Hemanth Kusampudi , Settipalli Aditya , Nanda Abhishek , Ishtiyaq  , Jasim Laith H.
Published: May 2024

Real-time water quality monitoring has advanced significantly with the integration of IoT-enabled pH and temperature sensors and the creation of a mobile application. This initiative intends to improve environmental management efforts by regularly measuring the temperature and pH of water bodies and giving stakeholders access to data that can be used to make decisions. Real-time pH and temperature data is collected by the monitoring system using Internet of Things (IoT) technology, and it is then sent to a web-based interface for analysis and visualization. The web interface is complemented with a mobile application that gives stakeholders access to temperature and pH data in real time, lets them get warnings, and lets them submit observations from their mobile devices.In order to further improve water quality monitoring and management techniques, future additions will involve the integration of advanced analytics, remote calibration and maintenance capabilities, and community monitoring networks. All things considered, this initiative advances environmentally responsible water management techniques and environmental care.
Assessment and estimation of water quality using multi-linear regression
Authors: Lavanya C. , Nikitha M. , Swetha N. , Nikhitha K. , Hussein Laith
Published: May 2024

All living things require water in order to survive. Water that is drinkable for people should be safe and avoid of dangerous microorganisms. Therefore, water that has been purified should be made available to the general public before it can be utilized for human consumption. To ensure that the parameters are within allowable bounds, specific standards in the water must be investigated. Prior to use, the ground water must be evaluated and cleaned. The statistical method known as multiple linear regression makes use of two or more independent variables to forecast the value of a dependent variable. With the use of this method, we can ascertain the model’s variation as well as the proportionate contributions of each independent variable to the overall variance. The assessment of water quality can be done by conducting the pH, turbidity, conductivity, acidity, alkalinity, chloride, iron, total solids, dissolved oxygen tests. Multiple samples are collected from various locations for accuracy of the test results. The aim of the study is to assess the water quality parameters through laboratory experiments and to relate the water parameters to water quality index using the multilinear regression.
Design and Implementation of Arduino-based Intelligent Emergency Ambulance and Traffic Management System
Authors: Kar Rajib Kumar , Murugan A.S.S. , Gangikunta Manohar
Published: May 2024

The goal of the project is to construct a density-based traffic signal management system that can automatically modify the timing of the signal based on the volume of traffic at the crossing. Traffic signal regulation is becoming a major issue that causes congestion and has a major role in the delay of emergency vehicles because of the rise in automobiles on the road these days. The majority of urban areas in the world have serious traffic problems, thus it's time to switch from more human or fixed modes to automated systems with decision-making skills. The fixed-based traffic signalling system of today may become ineffective if only one lane is used at a time. In this work, Arduino-based intelligent traffic control system framework helps to reduce this issue.
Cutting Fluid pH Value Maintenance in CNC Machine by Arduino Nano
Authors: M A Omprakas , M Manikandan , S Balakrishnan , S Pavithran , S Sasikaran , S Venugopal , L Vishnuprasath
Published: May 2024

Cutting fluid plays an important role in machining operations like milling, drilling, reaming, etc. In production industry such as automobile industries, aerospace industries, etc., soluble cutting fluids are mainly used for machining operations. The maximum service life of the cutting fluid is about 3 to 4 months in that industry, when they mixed with water, the cutting fluid will get dried out or converted into vapour due to heat generation and due to friction between the cutting tool and the components. The repeated use of cutting fluid for machining operations, the chemical and physical property of the cutting fluid will be changed. The proper mixing ratio of cutting fluid can be done with the help of Arduino nano device and valves, sensors. Automatic cutting fluid filling process can be done by proper Arduino coding. In the present study, the pH sensor is used to detect the pH level of cutting fluid and the Solenoid valves are electromagnetic valves, these valves are used to maintain the proper flow of cutting fluid and water mixture ratio, whenever the cutting fluid pH value differs from the fixed value, the pH sensor will indicate in Arduino nano. The mixing of cutting fluid and water is carried out by stirrer mechanism, which is attached at just above the cutting fluid tank. Control valve is used to control the flow of cutting fluid during the machining operation. The electric signal from touch sensor will stops automatically, when the cutting fluid in the tank reaches its maximum limit. In this paper, cutting fluid pH value is maintained automatically by Arduino nano device for CNC Machine in industries is discussed.
Holistic Approach to Multipurpose Stadium Design: Advance Structural Analysis Strategies
Authors: Naresh Chappidi , Krishna PVVSSR , Satyanaryana G.V.V. , Alzubaidi Laith H.
Published: May 2024

The current paper discusses about the work made on the study to develop a highly adaptable and versatile stadium, departing from traditional single-purpose designs, with a focus on maximizing utility. With a substantial gross seating capacity of 61424, the stadium is intended to host various sports competitions and large public gatherings. The planning process relies on Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Building Information Modelling (BIM) software to ensure precise detailing in structural aspects. Advanced engineering software enhances structural analysis, allowing for comprehensive investigations into dynamic load responses. The design's reliability is ensured through a combination of manual calculations and engineering software outcomes.
Specific Object Picking Robotic Arm Using Haar Cascades
Authors: Junaid Malik Mohammad , Aditya Mathamsetti , Rohith Surya Teja Varma D. , Sidhartha Gandharla , Sohan P. , Govindha Rao S. , Mundher Adnan Myasar
Published: May 2024

This project shows a robotic arm that can pick up objects. It was made with accuracy and speed in mind for use in factories. The robotic arm is very good at picking up metal nuts. It uses cutting edge technologies, like Haar cascade to find objects and inverse kinematics to figure out angles very accurately, to make its moves more exact and dexterous. A powerful computer vision method called Haar cascade is used to find metal nuts in the robotic arm's working environment. To do this, positive and negative pictures are used to train a Haar cascade classifier, which makes a model that can recognize the unique traits of metal nuts. The object recognition process makes sure that the nuts are located correctly, which lets the robotic arm deal with them in a controlled and precise way. The robotic arm uses inverse kinematics along with Haar cascading to figure out the exact joint angles needed for smooth, controlled movement. Inverse kinematics is very important for figuring out the joint setups that are needed to place the robotic arm's end-effector exactly on top of the metal nuts that have been found. Haar cascading for finding objects and inverse kinematics for accurate angle estimates work together to make sure that the robotic arm can pick up metal nuts in a variety of space arrangements. This combined system is a high-tech way to automatethe picking of specific items in manufacturing and assembly lines. It shows how industrial automation can be used to improve accuracy, efficiency, and flexibility.
The health Loss Distribution of Coal-fired Power Plants and the relationship to Air Pollution Charges
Authors: Chen Sih-Ping , Wang Xiang Hou , Tseng Chao Heng
Published: May 2024

In this study, the regional health loss due to the air pollution of a coal-fired power plant is analyzed by using the atmospheric dispersion model. AERMOD was used to simulate the increment concentration map of point source emission, and the GIS geographic information system was used to displace the distribution of air pollution concentration and regional health loss in grid receptors. The data of the continuous automatic monitoring facilities and the source of pollution sources were analyzed. Moreover, the effects of emissions, seasons, population, and distance on the simulated concentration were evaluated. The various influencing factors of air pollution concentration were evaluated.the R2 value of the empty product prediction map in summer has a better correlation with the concentration from monitor station, between 0.38 and 0.83, and the sulphur dioxide correlation has the best R2 value of 0.83. AERMOD was used to combined with pollutant emissions, weather, and terrain data, to simulate the distribution of rising concentration values due to coal-fired power plant emissions within the research area, and the study used the simulated rising concentration values to calculate the health loss. [1] The study used health loss of 25,647,291,161 NTD/year and medical loss of 319,153,198 NTD/year.
Toward Zero Agro-Waste: A Business Model for Sugarcane Leaves Management in Thailand
Authors: Borisoot Kanjanapon , Niltarach Pichai , Pajampa Kaittisak , Laloon Kittipong , Suksri Amnart , Wongwuttanasatian Tanakorn
Published: May 2024

Sugarcane is one of the oldest crops ever cultivated by humans and has a long history. Currently, the prevalent practice of burning sugarcane fields increases environmental concerns because many farmers frequently use this method to facilitate the harvest process and prepare the area for the next planting crop. Thus, the effective use of sugarcane leaves with proper management can overcome this problem. This paper represents sugarcane leaf management by developing a business model focused on collection, densification, and transportation, explicitly targeting the conversion of waste sugarcane leaves into fuel for a biomass power plant. The business model is categorized into two primary groups: the farmer group and the middleman group. Both groups are incentivized to invest in tools and equipment for collecting and densifying biomass, thereby facilitating the effective performance of the model. Furthermore, an economic analysis has been conducted encompassing an investment cost evaluation and the estimation of the payback period for this business model. The results indicate that the farmer group demonstrates a payback period of 1.72 years, while the middleman group reveals a longer payback period of 2.06 years. This strategic approach not only enhances the value of biomass waste but also significantly reduces the unwanted burn on farming fields, effectively mitigating air pollution.
Optimization of the cocoa shell, inoculum, and water mixture for biogas production with 40-70% methane concentrations
Authors: Matute Canales C. , Díaz Chinchilla J. , Villatoro Flores H.
Published: May 2024

Biomass has been a valuable source of energy over the years and its application includes many areas, whether for cooking, heating, or electricity generation. In Honduras, especially in the rural sector, biomass, mainly firewood, became the main source of energy, which has led to a high consumption of firewood and, consequently, to an increase in the rate of deforestation. In this study, we proposed to use a more specific biomass, cocoa husk, as feedstock for biogas generation. It is important to note that biogas does not only consist of methane; it also contains carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen (N2), hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and oxygen (O2). However, to be considered of quality, the concentration of methane in the biogas must range between 40% and 70%. The main objective of this research has been to optimize the mixture of raw materials, including cocoa husk, water and inoculum, with the purpose of obtaining a methane (CH4) concentration in the biogas produced, located in the range of 40%-70%. To achieve biogas production, several tests were carried out in four biodigesters, each with different proportions of water, inoculum, cocoa husk and grinding level. This made it possible to obtain varying amounts of biogas and to measure the methane gas concentration in each test. During the operation of the biodigesters, the temperature and pH of the mixture were constantly monitored. This was possible because methanogenic bacteria, responsible for methane generation, thrive at temperatures between 30 and 40 degrees Celsius and in a pH range of 6 to 8. The results obtained have the potential to demonstrate that cocoa shells can be a viable feedstock for biogas generation in Honduras. Furthermore, these findings could serve as a basis for future research in other cities around the world, thus contributing to the search for energy generation solutions.
Anaerobic digestion of distillery wastewater and napier grass: Characterization and process performance parameters
Authors: Avena Louise Grace , Almendrala Michelle , Rodriguez Rumina , Mojica Kristine Gayle
Published: May 2024

The BOD/COD ratio of napier grass (NG) + distillery wastewater (DWW) was found to be 0.4982, which reflected that the biodegradability of organic material is high and can be degraded and treated efficiently via biological processes. Moreover, further reductions in total solids (TS) and volatile solids (VS) were observed after thermal pretreatment at temperatures of 60°C and 100°C. VS/TS ratio also increased from 0.8767 to 0.9508 indicating a more significant proportion of organic matter are favorable for biogas production. This was evidenced by the resulting removal efficiencies ranging from 15% to 32% and 23% to 42%, for TS and VS, respectively. Overall, the study reported relevant effects of the application of thermochemical pretreatment in the process performance parameters in anaerobic digestion.
Medical Waste Classification Using Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Akkajit Pensiri , Sukkuea Arsanchai
Published: May 2024

Medical waste disposal is a significant issue in developing countries like Thailand. It poses a persistent public health challenge as it leads to contamination of the environment and the spread of infectious diseases. This study aims to address this challenge by using a deep learning model to categorize different types of medical waste, including vials, masks, syringes, gloves, cotton, bandages, and IV tubes. Transfer learning method was employed to enhance the classification process. The study utilized the EfficientNet_b7 model and evaluated its performance based on accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score. The results showed that with transfer learning, EfficientNet_b7 achieved a classification accuracy of 99% for both the training and testing datasets. Although there was a decline in accuracy, particularly for the syringe class, pretrained CNNs significantly improved the efficiency and accuracy of medical waste classification. Consequently, this proposed CNN model can serve as a viable alternative to conventional methods for classifying medical waste. By implementing these approaches, the efficiency of waste classification is improving, leading to a reduction in the costs associated with manual classification. This promotes sustainable waste management practices, which in turn contribute to the overall health of ecosystems and human well-being.
Cost-Benefit Analysis of Urban Green Infrastructures: A Case Study of the LiuChuan River Corridor, Taichung City, from Linsenliu Bridge to Minquanliu Bridge
Authors: Chao Jen-Chih , Lin Ji-Yuan
Published: May 2024

Green infrastructure has been shown to play the role of adaptation and adjustment under the effect of harsh climate. The creation of urban green infrastructure is an important indicator of sustainable urban development, and determining the cost-effectiveness of green infrastructure is a necessary step to help investment decisions. The whole economic worth of Taichung City’s Liuchuan pollution cleanup and environmental improvement project is examined using cost-benefit analysis from three perspectives: investment value, tangible value, and intangible value. The study findings demonstrate that green infrastructure has long-term development value and can help the sustainable development of cities.
Enhancing Photovoltaic Thermal System Efficiency Using Micro-Channel Container and Nanoparticle Composited Phase Change Material: Effect of Dimensionless Water Flow
Authors: Phukaokaew Wisanu , Suksri Amnart , Wongwuttanasatian Tanakorn
Published: May 2024

The photovoltaic thermal (PV/T) hybrid system has attracted significant interest from researchers in the solar field. These systems efficiently harness solar radiation, converting it into a usable source of energy and making use of any excess heat generated in the panel. In this study, PCM is utilized as a medium for combining with nanoparticles. Nanoparticle composited phase change materials (nc-PCMs) are created by mixing lauric acid (LA) with magnesium oxide (MgO) and containing them in a micro-channel container to enhance their thermal conductivity. The testing conducted on the water at various dimensionless Reynolds number (Re) of 1100, 2200, 3300, 4400, and 5500. Research studies have discovered that the presence of a water inlet reduces the temperature of the PV module, resulting in an enhancement of the overall efficiency. According to the results, it has been concluded that the best Re for a water system is Re = 5500. The enhanced photovoltaic (PV) modules boosted the electrical efficiency by 16.01% compared to the reference module, leading to an overall efficiency of 54.91%.
Fabrication and Performance Analysis of an S1046 H-Darrieus VAWT using Mahogany as Blades
Authors: Aquino Michelle Angeli Viktoria , Calibjo Mikhail Alexander , Nulada Christine Marie , Rodriguez Aira Crishel , Tayactac Reylina , Honra Jaime , Umali Ricky , Buenconcejo Jennifer
Published: May 2024

Wind turbines are systems that generate electricity from the wind. These turbines vary in design and performance. For this study, the goal is to design an H-Darrieus type Vertical Axis Turbine that utilizes mahogany for its blade material. Mahogany is a natural composite type of material which addresses pollution concerns when using nanocomposites and is known for its high strength, durability, and workability. The airfoil to be made will follow an S1046 profile which yields the best performance when it comes to Tip Speed Ratio (TSR). The wind tunnel is utilized for the testing process wherein it controls the wind speed from 4m/s to 10m/s. Data showed that the maximum rotational speed in rpm achieved by the designed turbine is 53.18 at 10 m/s wind speed. Based on the results, the performance would not surpass the original material used for the design which is fiberglass polyester. However, the maximum TSR generated is 0.1879, that is comparatively lower than the maximum value from the specified theoretical considerations, specifically TSR of four.
Efficient Risk Management for Distributed Clean Energy: Principal Component based Weather Derivatives
Authors: Matsumoto Takuji , Yamada Yuji
Published: May 2024

As global efforts to achieve net-zero emissions intensify, the integration of renewable energy has brought to the critical need for effective volumetric risk hedging strategies, particularly at the local level. However, existing financial instruments based on total power output, such as wind power futures, fall short in local hedging. This study introduces Principal Component (PC) derivatives designed for the solar power sector, using multi-regional solar radiation as the underlying to overcome data handling complexities. In particular, by incorporating our previous concept of prediction error derivatives, we provide a unique solution to complex pricing to help manage cash flow volatility risks. In addition, we propose PC derivatives based on solar radiation residuals to hedge volumetric risks. Empirical analysis shows that our PC derivatives outperform existing widearea derivatives in terms of hedge effectiveness, with a 20% increase over area-specific derivatives. Using as few as three or four PC derivatives can provide comprehensive coverage across different areas, enhancing market liquidity and creating an efficient transaction framework. Our results highlight the practical benefits of this approach, including the potential to reduce transaction costs by countertrading in different regions.
Evaluating Thermal Comfort in Ward Areas of the Public Hospital in the Tropical Climates
Authors: Chaloeytoy Kittiwoot , Dubsok Atima , Kittipongvises Suthirat
Published: May 2024

Thermal comfort in hospitals is a crucial element to provide appropriate indoor air quality for health and well-being. However, the airconditioning system usually has deficiencies to meet target criteria for the relevant thermal environmental factors. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate thermal comfort in ward areas of the newly built public hospital in Thailand during the operation phase to examine how the building maintain comfort. The measurement equipment was installed for 24 hours in ward areas for collecting data and evaluating thermal comfort using the predicted mean vote (PMV) model. The results indicated that achieving thermal comfort could be found among inpatients and medical staff, with differential considerations on personal factors. As a few studies in hospitals in Thailand has been done, the results from this study can act as evidence to develop building performance assessments and operation strategies to optimally enhance health and well-being of the occupants in a public healthcare facility in Thailand and tropical regions.
Knobloch Syndrome Type 1 with a Novel Pathogenic Variant in the COL18A1 Gene: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Yaneva Staykova Slavyana , Atanasoska Maya , Balabanski Lubomir , Aleksandrova Iliyana , Deneva Daniela , Bozhinova Veneta , Toncheva Draga , Vazharova Radoslava
Published: May 2024

Knobloch syndrome type 1 (KNO1) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by various ocular abnormalities, developmental delay, central nervous system, and urogenital tract abnormalities. KNO1 occurs phenotypically in the presence of at least two pathogenic variants of the COL18A1 gene in biallelic state, regardless of the individual's sex. We describe a novel nonsense variant in the COL18A1 gene, associated with KNO1 in a 2-year-old boy, born of a nonconsanguineous couple. This boy was referred for genetic analysis based on clinical evidence of bilateral frontal polymicrogyria of unknown etiology. Whole-exome sequencing and targeted analysis of genes associated with ataxia, polymicrogyria, and hereditary malformations of the brain was employed. One known pathogenic heterozygous splice acceptor variant (NM_001379500.1:c.929–2A > G) and one likely pathogenic novel nonsense heterozygous variant (NM_001379500.1:c.3083C > A) in the COL18A1 gene were identified. The c.929–2A > G substitution affects the splice acceptor sequence and causes impaired messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) maturation. The c.3083C > A variant affects the translated sequence and leads to the formation of a stop codon. Both variants are thought to result in a lack of protein product (as a result of nonsense-mediated mRNA decay) or in the production of truncated nonfunctional protein. KNO1 can go undiagnosed, thus, genetic testing can be a powerful tool for disease detection, specifically in cases in which retinal detachment and occipital encephalocele syndrome are present. Timely diagnosis not only ensures that patients are aware of the potential complications resulting from the condition such as lens subluxation, retinal detachment, and glaucoma, but can help plan appropriate disease prevention and therapy measures in affected families.
Atopic Dermatitis, Sleep, and the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Roth Priscila Vernizi , Drizlionoks Renata , Antunes Rafaela Cachiolo , Crippa Ana Chrystina Souza , Morgan Mariana Aparecida Pasa , Carvalho Vânia Oliveira de
Published: May 2024

Objective To investigate sleep disorders among children with atopic dermatitis (AD), before and during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Materials and Methods The present longitudinal, prospective study included 26 patients with AD, and the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children (SDSC) questionnaire and questions about sleep hygiene were used. The severity of AD was determined by the Patient-Oriented Eczema Measure (POEM). The first evaluation was conducted before the pandemic (in 2019) and the second, during the pandemic, from September to December 2020.

Results Sleep disorder was present in 17 (65.38%) patients in the 1st evaluation, and in 11 (42.30%) in the 2nd (p = 0.04). In the 1st evaluation, disorders of initiating and maintaining sleep (DIMSs) were more frequent in patients with moderate-to-severe AD (83.33%). During the pandemic, 6 patients (23.07%) reported improvement in sleep quality.

Conclusion Sleep quality was negatively influenced by the severity of AD. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was improvement in sleep quality, despite the absence of changes in disease severity.
Relation exploration between clean and fossil energy markets when experiencing climate change uncertainties: substitutes or complements?
Authors: Chen Jin , Chen Yue , Zhou Wei
Published: May 2024

During the crucial stage of the energy transition for combating extreme climate changes, it has been frequently discussed: Whether clean and fossil energies are substitutes or complements? To answer this question, we first analyze the correlations of some main clean and fossil energy markets in 2015–2022. After identifying and measuring the volatility spillovers in these energy markets, the original sequence is decomposed into three subsequences in each time-frequency to accurately capture the temporal relations in the short or long term. Furthermore, we select three periods when global climate change issues occurred frequently for the event analysis, then explore the linkages between the energy markets when experiencing climate uncertainties from different time dimensions. We find that the close interactions between clean energy markets are mainly presented in the long term. Meanwhile, even though the spillover effects between the oil market and others are not obvious in the original sequence, significant spillovers could be observed in the selected periods. Therefore, we can infer that the frequently-occurred climate change issues could be one of the reasons that trigger the volatility spillovers between the oil and other energy markets. As climate uncertainties increase, different reactions between the energy markets can be seen in the short term, while a synchronized trend is also easily observed in the long term. Hence, we conclude that these energies could be substitutes in the short term, while complements in the long run. The above analytic results could be helpful for policymakers and investors to cope with the market fluctuations that are brought by climate issues.
Silk fibroin promotes H3K9me3 expression and chromatin reorganization to regulate endothelial cell proliferation
Authors: Gao Kaixiang , Xie Yafan , Xu Fangning , Peng Qin , Fu Li , Wang Guixue , Qiu Juhui
Published: May 2024

Silk fibroin (SF), which is extensively utilized in tissue engineering and vascular grafts for enhancing vascular regeneration, has not been thoroughly investigated for its epigenetic effects on endothelial cells (EC). This study employed RNA sequencing analysis to evaluate the activation of histone modification regulatory genes in EC treated with SF. Subsequent investigations revealed elevated H3K9me3 levels in SF-treated EC, as evidenced by immunofluorescence and western blot analysis. The study utilized H2B-eGFP endothelial cells to demonstrate that SF treatment results in the accumulation of H2B-marked chromatin in the nuclear inner cavities of EC. Inhibition of H3K9me3 levels by a histone deacetylase inhibitor TSA decreased cell proliferation. Furthermore, the activation of the MAPK signaling pathway using chromium picolinate decreased the proliferative activity and H3K9me3 level in SF-treated EC. SF also appeared to enhance cell growth and proliferation by modulating the H3K9me3 level and reorganizing chromatin, particularly after oxidative stress induced by H2O2 treatment. In summary, these findings indicate that SF promotes EC proliferation by increasing the H3K9me3 level even under stress conditions.
Numerical study on the influence of plugging rate on the performance of adjustable steam ejector
Authors: Gao Jianxiang , Yuan Zepeng , Hou Yuyan , Chen Weixiong
Published: May 2024

During the operation of thermal power plant systems, severe challenges to the quality and safety of the heat supply arise owing to the effects of peak regulation. Steam ejectors, widely employed in the district heating sector, often exhibit poorer performance under off-design conditions as a result of their fixed structure. This study analyzes the effects of varying plugging rate, primary pressure, and induced pressure on the performance of adjustable steam ejectors. As the plugging rate increases, the mass flow rate of the primary fluid decrease, potentially falling below 32%, and that of the induced fluid initially experiences a minor increase, followed by a rapid decrease. Concurrently, the critical back pressure also decreases with an increase in the plugging rate, potentially falling by up to 65%. By contrast, the entrainment ratio surges with increasing plugging rate, with the maximum increase reaching up to 4.75 times. Under the same primary steam pressure and induced steam pressure, there exists an optimal entrainment ratio. Furthermore, both the critical back pressure and the optimal entrainment ratio increase as the primary steam pressure and induced steam pressure increase.
Pretos que voam – An Afrocentric Collective Project to Promote the Access of Peripheral Black People to Airline Crew Jobs in Brazil
Authors: Amorim Laiara , Gabrielli Cassiana , Oliveira Natália , Santos Gabriela
Published: May 2024

This case analyses the “Pretos que Voam” (Blacks who Fly) project, which aids the training of socially vulnerable black people to become flight attendants in Brazil. Since 2020, this project has been carried out by the collective Quilombo Aéreo, which brings together black crew members to aid the elimination of racism in aviation. One of the goals of this collective is to increase the representation of black people in the airline industry. Quilombo Aéreo (
2022
) conducted a survey of air crew members, using online forms based on self-identification, and found that black people do not reach 5% of active airline crews. The project is supported by crowdfunding and social partnerships like Fundação Tide Setúbal, Fundo Baobá for racial equity Rede de Mulheres Negras, Odabá Associação de Afroempreendedorismo, Movimento Negro Unificado and others. This made it possible to provide a complete course to become a flight attendant, a basic English course, air crew licences and a passport, and mentorship. In 2021, in Porto Alegre (RS), ten black people graduated in the first class – four women among them have already been hired by airlines. In 2022, the project raised funds to provide the first Afro-focused flight school in a distance learning model in Brazil. In 2023, they are working to start the operation of the school and crowdfunded a campaign for the second class of Pretos que Voam. Facing several forms of racism in Brazilian society and its airline industry, the project also dialogues with other forms of violence common in the sector, such as sexism and
machismo
. The case study examines concrete actions to transform the pain of its pioneers into fuel for structural changes, having as a framework the Afro culture and, as a scenario, a relevant mode of tourism transportation such as air travel.

Information

This case study originated from research into empowerment and intersectionalities between racism and sexism through the Quilombo Aéreo (see Further Reading). Here we focus specifically on the Pretos que Voam project, one of the actions developed by the collective.

All authors are members of the research group
Gritus – Gender, Race and Intersectionalities in Tourism
, where this study was developed.

Information

© The Authors 2024
Reclaiming agency against the new world order: Beyond the coping mechanism frame in conspiracy theory studies
Authors: van der Tak Emma B. , Harambam Jaron
Published: May 2024

Conspiracy theories about evil globalist elites and their totalitarian agenda are widespread in Western societies. Some scholars attribute their popularity to the complexities of modernity: conspiracy narratives offer frightening yet reassuringly simplistic explanations of world events. This approach, that we call the coping mechanism frame, regards conspiracy believers are insecure, fearful, comfort-seeking individuals. This study examines whether this frame does justice to reality. Using an ethnographic approach, we centralise the emic perspectives of a Dutch conspiracy movement. Our analysis shows that its members are critical of certain societal developments, intentional in turning critique into action and social in organising themselves accordingly. We conclude that a look beyond the coping mechanism frame reveals that conspiracy theories can be an active response to, rather than a way to cope with globalisation. Studying conspiracy theorists as a social movement is essential to recognising the often-overlooked social and collective dimension of conspiracy culture.
Effect of global shrinkage parameter of horseshoe prior in compressed sensing
Authors: Nagano Yasushi , Hukushima Koji
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the effect of the global shrinkage parameter τ of a horseshoe prior, one of the global–local shrinkage priors, on linear regression in sparse signal processing. Statistical mechanics methods are employed to examine the accuracy of signal estimation. The phase diagram of the success and failure of signal recovery in noiseless compressed sensing with varying τ is discussed from the viewpoint of dynamic characterization of approximate message passing (AMP) as a solving algorithm and static characterization of the free-energy landscape. It is found that there exists a parameter region where the AMP algorithm can hardly recover the true signal, even though the true signal is locally stable. The analysis of the free-energy landscape also provides important insight into the optimal choice of τ.
Enhancement of induction heating capability of bioactive SiO2–CaO–Na2O–P2O5 glass-ceramics by selective substitution with magnetite nanoparticles
Authors: Nitu  , Fopase Rushikesh , Pandey Lalit Mohan , Borah Jyoti Prasad , Srinivasan Ananthakrishnan
Published: May 2024

Magnetic bioactive glass-ceramics with compositions of 37SiO2–24.5CaO–24.5Na2O–6P2O5–8Fe3O4 (MGCS), 45SiO2–16.5CaO–24.5Na2O–6P2O5–8Fe3O4 (MGCC) and 45SiO2–24.5CaO–16.5Na2O–6P2O5–8Fe3O4 (MGCN) were synthesized by sol–gel route. These compositions were derived by substituting 8 wt.% magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles for SiO2, CaO and Na2O, respectively, in the bioactive glass-ceramic of composition 45SiO2–24.5CaO–24.5Na2O–6P2O5. The sol–gel derived powders were heat treated at 550 °C for 1 h to ensure optimal amounts of magnetite, combeite and sodium nitrate phases. All the heat treated samples were found to be magnetic, bioactive and non-toxic to MG-63 osteoblast cells. However, the induction heating response of MGCC was better than that of MGCS and MGCN. Notably, MGCC outperformed the commercially available ferrofluid FluidMag-CT, thereby establishing itself as a superior thermoseed for magnetic hyperthermia treatment of cancer.
Integrable and superintegrable quantum mechanical systems with position dependent masses invariant with respect to one parametric Lie groups. 1. Systems with cylindric symmetry
Authors: Nikitin A G
Published: May 2024

Cylindrically symmetric quantum mechanical systems with position dependent masses admitting at least one second order integral of motion are classified. It is proved that there exist 68 such systems which are inequivalent. Among them there are thirty superintegrable and twelve maximally superintegrable ones. The arbitrary elements of the corresponding Hamiltonians (i.e.,masses and potentials) are presented explicitly.
Structural behaviour of single-deck floating roof tanks subject to seismic loading
Authors: Chiappelloni Luca , Belardi Valerio , Serraino Francesco , Trupiano Simone , Gaetani Luca , Vivio Francesco
Published: May 2024

During a seismic event, fluid storage tanks are subject to sloshing phenomena; their effect on the structural components of the tanks is one of the main aspects to be considered during the design. The movement in successive modal forms of the roof-fluid system determined by the earthquake can cause severe damage to both the containment shell and the floating roof. The fluid-structure interaction imposes extremely complex out-of-plane deformation fields, mainly in the presence of floating roofs with lower flexible resistance. Such deformations can cause severe structural damage and subsequent catastrophic events such as those experienced in the past in Japan and Turkey. In fact, recently recorded earthquakes in Japan and Turkey, characterized by oscillation periods between 3 and 8 sec (long-period ground motion), compatible with the natural first and second slosh frequencies of the fluid-structure system, led to conspicuous problems of instability failure with the consequent sinking of the floating roof. These events dictated a new starting point for the research into the seismic behaviour of roof-fluid-tank systems.
The oxymoron of damage assessment in dynamics by static approach
Authors: Cianetti F. , Palmieri M. , Zucca G. , Braccesi C.
Published: May 2024

The evaluation of fatigue damage of structural components within dynamic systems subjected to random loads is typically addressed using multibody models wherein one or more components are modeled as flexible using the modal approach. While incorporating flexible elements allows for consideration of their influence on the overall dynamic behavior of the system, certain components are intentionally designed to function as rigid bodies. Consequently, in this case the incorporation of flexible elements within multibody models merely leads to complex and time-consuming analysis. Hence, it would be more pragmatic to realize rigid body multibody models, with components characterized solely by their inertial properties, and subsequently extract the dynamic forces applied to the components to be verified. The assessment of stress can then be carried out by exploiting the principle of superposition of effects in the time domain. In this context, the objective of the present study is to develop this methodology in the frequency domain. This approach not only capitalizes on the simplicity of rigid multibody models but also harnesses the computational capabilities of the frequency-domain method for evaluating fatigue damage in components subjected to random loading conditions. This work, therefore, provides a rapid, effective, and robust method for verifying and designing rigid mechanical components integrated into dynamic systems subjected to random loads.
True stress-strain identification accounting for anisotropy of sheet metals
Authors: Mirone Giuseppe , Barbagallo Raffaele , Bua Giuseppe , Caro Daniele De , Ferrea Matteo , Tedesco Michele M.
Published: May 2024

Sheet metals for the automotive industry are subjected to continuous research efforts aiming at ever increasing mechanical performance. A remarkable feature of modern high strength sheet metals is their anisotropy, intrinsic in the technologic process of their production. When the effect of anisotropy on the mechanical response of a material cannot be neglected, specimens along different directions are usually tested, possibly under different stress states, to assess the flow curves and the deforming ratios for each direction and each loading mode. Such data are then used to calibrate many possible plastic anisotropy models available in the literature. In this work, the experimental procedures for determining the stress-strain curve and the anisotropic straining ratio are studied in detail, referring to representative tensile tests along the rolling direction of two anisotropic sheet metals, respectively PHS-1800 steel and 6181 aluminium alloy. Both alloys are ductile and exhibit remarkably long post-necking phases in tension, revealing that, in such cases, the standard procedures for the experimental derivation of the hardening curves and of the anisotropic strain ratios are limited to the very early phases of the material life and miss to cover the major part of the strain range up to failure. Different alternative procedures for the derivation of experimental data and for their postprocessing are considered and compared to each other, identifying a set of guidelines for achieving a good engineering accuracy up to failure in deriving both the stress-strain curves and the anisotropic strains ratios. The above analyses are made on the results of tensile tests at static, intermediate and high strain rate, confirming the generality of the identified procedure.
Suitable solutions and EU regulatory framework of electric light mobility vehicles for last-mile delivery: an overview
Authors: Raimondi A , Savino G , Lagrimino J , Biagioni G , Baldanzini N
Published: May 2024

Due to current environmental European regulations in terms of pollutant emissions, electric cargo cycles are receiving growing interest compared to heavy-duty vehicles as a cheaper and healthier alternative for last-mile delivery of goods in urban and suburban areas. Within the PNRR Next Generation EU program, the Sustainable Mobility Center aims to design innovative e-cargo bikes considering technical features along with rider behaviour and infrastructure characteristics. The market offers plenty of solutions, which may differ in technical and design features. Nowadays a standardized terminology, widely shared among researchers for those light mobility vehicles does not exist. Several authors employ different terms or introduce classifications based upon the vehicle type of use or even on the vehicle layout (e.g., payload position or number of wheels). Concurrently, EU regulatory framework is undergoing rapid changes and appears unclear. Certain categories of light mobility vehicles might be ruled out from the type-approval system established by the regulation EU 168/2013. For those vehicles, harmonised standards are under drafting or approval. This situation requires a considerable effort among manufacturers in the identification of the proper product directives or regulations and the associated mandatory requirements and testing procedures for the introduction of a new vehicle model in the market. Within this context, an overview of the EU regulatory framework for these light mobility vehicles is presented. A literature evaluation with a structured and coded methodology of scientific databases, company websites and commercial reports is performed, evaluating commercial and prototype solutions of e-cargo bikes from a technical and legislative perspective. Furthermore, a case study is addressed, deepening the national legislation which rules the use of e-cargo bikes in Italy. The information provided in this work may be useful among manufacturers as a starting point for the design process of these types of vehicles. Moreover, this paper lays the foundations for a widely recognized taxonomy of e-cargo bikes based upon distinctive features.