bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Boosting infrared absorption through surface plasmon resonance enhanced HgCdTe microcavity
Authors: Su Jingting , Li Chenyu , Xiao Jiahui , Kong Jincheng , Hu Pengyu , Lu Changgui , Zhu Li
Published: December 2023

As one of the most widely used infrared (IR) detectors, a mercury cadmium telluride (MCT) detector usually requires liquid nitrogen refrigeration to suppress thermally activated noise mechanisms that are inherent to its narrow bandgap, which limits its practical applications. Therefore, it is essential to develop strategies to suppress dark current with reduced cooling demand. In this work, a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) enhanced MCT microcavity was proposed to intensify optical absorption across a broadband while diminishing the thickness of the MCT layer to reduce intrinsic dark current proportional to the volume of the absorber. The microcavity is formed by sandwiching the MCT layer between a top well-designed hybrid golden-cross antenna array and a bottom golden reflector. The microcavity is employed to trap the incident light to amplify the absorption, and the golden-cross antenna array is introduced to not only significantly enhance the incident light field through the SPR effect but also to broaden the microcavity resonant mode. Numerical calculation indicated that an absorptance exceeding 95.3% can be attained at 3.4 μm with the full width at half maxima (FWHM) extending beyond 1.38 μm, which almost covers the absorption band of MCT in mid-wavelength IR (MWIR), all while the MCT layer is only 530 nm. Moreover, the prototype device unit was fabricated and tested. Measured peak absorption reached 98.7% @ 3.6 μm and FWHM was as broad as 1.12 μm. These results demonstrate that the high and wideband absorption in an ultrathin MCT layer is achieved based on the synergistic effects of SPR and microcavity resonance.
Four-dimensional flow field near a sphere settling in Newtonian fluid
Authors: Kluwe M. N. , Hardege R. , Schwarze R.
Published: December 2023

This paper presents time-resolved, three-dimensional measurements coupling particle trajectories with flow fields around settling spheres in Newtonian fluids. The experiments cover a range of particle Reynolds numbers (Re), spanning from 1.6 to 6. Our calculated drag coefficients, derived from sphere trajectories, closely align with values reported in the literature. Notably, our high spatial resolution reveals oscillations, potentially corresponding to the “streamwise oscillations” phenomenon discussed by Horowitz and Williamson [“The effect of Reynolds number on the dynamics and wakes of freely rising and falling spheres,” J. Fluid Mech. 651, 251 (2010)]. For a single sphere, we extract the three-dimensional flow field using particle tracking velocimetry. Discrete particle tracks are meticulously interpolated onto a regular grid using a fine-scale reconstruction based on the vortex-in-cell method. Leveraging the known sphere position, we introduce a sphere-centered coordinate system, enabling time-averaging of flow properties. Additionally, we interpolate and analyze the pressure field on the sphere's surface, employing proper orthogonal decomposition to unveil distinct pressure fluctuation modes.
Monolithic III-nitride photonic circuit on a single chip
Authors: Xie Mingyuan , Jiang Yan , Gao Xumin , Tang Xianwu , Yuan Jialei , Shi Zheng , Wang Yongjin
Published: December 2023

Inserting multiple quantum wells (MQWs) into a p–n junction, III-nitride MQW diodes can separately function as a light transmitter, modulator, and receiver under different bias conditions. Owing to the spectral overlap between the emission and responsivity spectra, the emitted light from the transmitter is able to be modulated and detected by the modulator and receiver, which have identical MQW structures. Here, we develop a compatible fabrication process to monolithically integrate an III-nitride light transmitter, waveguides, Y-splitter, modulators, Y-combiner, and receiver into a tiny chip. An on-chip 405 nm light communication system is established and exhibits a transmission rate of 260 Mbps in the non-return-to-zero on-off keying scheme. The results pave a feasible route to develop sophisticated monolithic photonic circuit on an III-nitride-on-silicon platform.
Spin–orbit torques and magnetization switching in Gd/Fe multilayers generated by current injection in NiCu alloys
Authors: Nasr Federica , Binda Federico , Lambert Charles-Henri , Sala Giacomo , Noël Paul , Gambardella Pietro
Published: December 2023

Light transition metals have recently emerged as a sustainable material class for efficient spin–charge interconversion. We report measurements of current-induced spin–orbit torques generated by Ni1−xCux alloys in perpendicularly magnetized ferrimagnetic Gd/Fe multilayers. We show that the spin–orbit torque efficiency of Ni1−xCux increases with the Ni/Cu atomic ratio, reaching values comparable to those of Pt for Ni55Cu45. Furthermore, we demonstrate magnetization switching of a 20-nm-thick Gd/Fe multilayer with a threshold current that decreases with increasing Ni concentration, similar to the spin–orbit torque efficiency. Our findings show that Ni1−xCux−based magnetic heterostructures allow for efficient control of the magnetization by electric currents.
Effective electrical conductivity of random resistor networks generated using a Poisson–Voronoi tessellation
Authors: Tarasevich Yuri Yu , Vodolazskaya Irina V. , Eserkepov Andrei V.
Published: December 2023

We studied the effective electrical conductivity of dense random resistor networks (RRNs) produced using a Voronoi tessellation when its seeds are generated by means of a homogeneous Poisson point process in the two-dimensional Euclidean space. Such RRNs are isotropic and in average homogeneous; however, local fluctuations of the number of edges per unit area are inevitable. These RRNs may mimic, e.g., crack-template-based transparent conductive films. The RRNs were treated within a mean-field approach. We found an analytical dependency of the effective electrical conductivity on the number of conductive edges (resistors) per unit area, nE. The effective electrical conductivity is proportional to nE when nE≫1.
Research on the encounter motion of super-cavitating vehicles
Authors: Zhou Feng , Fan Chunyong , Tian Ying , Wang Min , Luan Hengxuan
Published: December 2023

In this paper, the super-cavitating phenomenon under the effect of two vehicles’ encounter motion processes is numerically studied. Particular attention is given to the influence of the vertical gaps between the vehicle, the cavitation number, and the slenderness ratio on the cavity profile and radial force of the object. Several numerical models are built to study the cavity evolution process and the force acting on the vehicle to explore the influence mechanism of two vehicles’ encounter motion on supercavitating flow. The study shows that the cavity around the vehicle is primarily affected by the vertical gaps and cavitation number, but is relatively weakly affected by the slenderness ratio. Several impact laws are acquired in the paper. The relationship between cavity fracture time and vertical gaps is approximately a power function and obeys the law of t = 5.433h0.3688. The concept of the time of the maximum radial force occurrence and the cavitation number follows the formula of t = 4.86e0.3688σ. The relationship between the maximum radial force occurrence position and the cavitation number is a function of Ln and consistent with the law n = −0.799ln(σ) + 8.427.
Contingency, repeatability, and predictability in the evolution of a prokaryotic pangenome
Authors: Beavan Alan J. S. , Domingo-Sananes Maria Rosa , McInerney James O.
Published: December 2023

Pangenomes exhibit remarkable variability in many prokaryotic species, much of which is maintained through the processes of horizontal gene transfer and gene loss. Repeated acquisitions of near-identical homologs can easily be observed across pangenomes, leading to the question of whether these parallel events potentiate similar evolutionary trajectories, or whether the remarkably different genetic backgrounds of the recipients mean that postacquisition evolutionary trajectories end up being quite different. In this study, we present a machine learning method that predicts the presence or absence of genes in the
Escherichia coli
pangenome based on complex patterns of the presence or absence of other accessory genes within a genome. Our analysis leverages the repeated transfer of genes through the
E. coli
pangenome to observe patterns of repeated evolution following similar events. We find that the presence or absence of a substantial set of genes is highly predictable from other genes alone, indicating that selection potentiates and maintains gene–gene co-occurrence and avoidance relationships deterministically over long-term bacterial evolution and is robust to differences in host evolutionary history. We propose that at least part of the pangenome can be understood as a set of genes with relationships that govern their likely cohabitants, analogous to an ecosystem’s set of interacting organisms. Our findings indicate that intragenomic gene fitness effects may be key drivers of prokaryotic evolution, influencing the repeated emergence of complex gene–gene relationships across the pangenome.
Identification of highly selective SIK1/2 inhibitors that modulate innate immune activation and suppress intestinal inflammation
Authors: Babbe Holger , Sundberg Thomas B. , Tichenor Mark , Seierstad Mark , Bacani Genesis , Berstler James , Chai Wenying , Chang Leon , Chung De Michael , Coe Kevin , Collins Bernard , Finley Michael , Guletsky Alexander , Lemke Christopher T. , Mak Puiying A. , Mathur Ashok , Mercado-Marin Eduardo V. , Metkar Shailesh , Raymond Donald D. , Rives Marie-Laure , Rizzolio Michele , Shaffer Paul L. , Smith Russell , Smith Jacqueline , Steele Ruth , Steffens Helena , Suarez Javier , Tian Gaochao , Majewski Nathan , Volak Laurie P. , Wei Jianmei , Desai Prerak T. , Ong Luvena L. , Koudriakova Tatiana , Goldberg Steven D. , Hirst Gavin , Kaushik Virendar K. , Ort Tatiana , Seth Nilufer , Graham Daniel B. , Plevy Scott , Venable Jennifer D. , Xavier Ramnik J. , Towne Jennifer E.
Published: December 2023

The salt-inducible kinases (SIK) 1–3 are key regulators of pro- versus anti-inflammatory cytokine responses during innate immune activation. The lack of highly SIK-family or SIK isoform-selective inhibitors suitable for repeat, oral dosing has limited the study of the optimal SIK isoform selectivity profile for suppressing inflammation in vivo. To overcome this challenge, we devised a structure-based design strategy for developing potent SIK inhibitors that are highly selective against other kinases by engaging two differentiating features of the SIK catalytic site. This effort resulted in SIK1/2-selective probes that inhibit key intracellular proximal signaling events including reducing phosphorylation of the SIK substrate cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) regulated transcription coactivator 3 (CRTC3) as detected with an internally generated phospho-Ser329-CRTC3-specific antibody. These inhibitors also suppress production of pro-inflammatory cytokines while inducing anti-inflammatory interleukin-10 in activated human and murine myeloid cells and in mice following a lipopolysaccharide challenge. Oral dosing of these compounds ameliorates disease in a murine colitis model. These findings define an approach to generate highly selective SIK1/2 inhibitors and establish that targeting these isoforms may be a useful strategy to suppress pathological inflammation.
Lysophagy protects against propagation of α-synuclein aggregation through ruptured lysosomal vesicles
Authors: Kakuda Keita , Ikenaka Kensuke , Kuma Akiko , Doi Junko , Aguirre César , Wang Nan , Ajiki Takahiro , Choong Chi-Jing , Kimura Yasuyoshi , Badawy Shaymaa Mohamed Mohamed , Shima Takayuki , Nakamura Shuhei , Baba Kousuke , Nagano Seiichi , Nagai Yoshitaka , Yoshimori Tamotsu , Mochizuki Hideki
Published: December 2023

The neuron-to-neuron propagation of misfolded α-synuclein (αSyn) aggregates is thought to be key to the pathogenesis of synucleinopathies. Recent studies have shown that extracellular αSyn aggregates taken up by the endosomal–lysosomal system can rupture the lysosomal vesicular membrane; however, it remains unclear whether lysosomal rupture leads to the transmission of αSyn aggregation. Here, we applied cell-based αSyn propagation models to show that ruptured lysosomes are the pathway through which exogenous αSyn aggregates transmit aggregation, and furthermore, this process was prevented by lysophagy, i.e., selective autophagy of damaged lysosomes. αSyn aggregates accumulated predominantly in lysosomes, causing their rupture, and seeded the aggregation of endogenous αSyn, initially around damaged lysosomes. Exogenous αSyn aggregates induced the accumulation of LC3 on lysosomes. This LC3 accumulation was not observed in cells in which a key regulator of autophagy, RB1CC1/FIP200, was knocked out and was confirmed as lysophagy by transmission electron microscopy. Importantly, RB1CC1/FIP200-deficient cells treated with αSyn aggregates had increased numbers of ruptured lysosomes and enhanced propagation of αSyn aggregation. Furthermore, various types of lysosomal damage induced using lysosomotropic reagents, depletion of lysosomal enzymes, or more toxic species of αSyn fibrils also exacerbated the propagation of αSyn aggregation, and impaired lysophagy and lysosomal membrane damage synergistically enhanced propagation. These results indicate that lysophagy prevents exogenous αSyn aggregates from escaping the endosomal–lysosomal system and transmitting aggregation to endogenous cytosolic αSyn via ruptured lysosomal vesicles. Our findings suggest that the progression and severity of synucleinopathies are associated with damage to lysosomal membranes and impaired lysophagy.
Development of broad modulus profile upon polymer–polymer interface formation between immiscible glassy–rubbery domains
Authors: Gagnon Yannic J. , Burton Justin C. , Roth Connie B.
Published: December 2023

Interfaces of glassy materials such as thin films, blends, and composites create strong unidirectional gradients to the local heterogeneous dynamics that can be used to elucidate the length scales and mechanisms associated with the dynamic heterogeneity of glasses. We focus on bilayer films of two different polymers with very different glass transition temperatures (

T

g

) where previous work has demonstrated a long-range (∼200 nm) profile in local

T

g

(
z
)

is established between immiscible glassy and rubbery polymer domains when the polymer–polymer interface is formed to equilibrium. Here, we demonstrate that an equally long-ranged gradient in local modulus

G
~

(
z
)

is established when the polymer–polymer interface (

≈

5 nm) is formed between domains of glassy polystyrene (PS) and rubbery poly(butadiene) (PB), consistent with previous reports of a broad

T

g

(
z
)

profile in this system. A continuum physics model for the shear wave propagation caused by a quartz crystal microbalance across a PB/PS bilayer film is used to measure the viscoelastic properties of the bilayer during the evolution of the PB/PS interface showing the development of a broad gradient in local modulus

G
~

(
z
)

spanning

≈

180 nm between the glassy and rubbery domains of PS and PB. We suggest these broad profiles in

T

g

(
z
)

and

G
~

(
z
)

arise from a coupling of the spectrum of vibrational modes across the polymer–polymer interface as a result of acoustic impedance matching of sound waves with

λ
∼
5

nm during interface broadening that can then trigger density fluctuations in the neighboring domain.
Social–ecological vulnerability and risk of China’s marine capture fisheries to climate change
Authors: Li Yunzhou , Sun Ming , Yang Xiangyan , Yang Molin , Kleisner Kristin M. , Mills Katherine E. , Tang Yi , Du Feiyan , Qiu Yongsong , Ren Yiping , Chen Yong
Published: December 2023

Climate change is a new disrupter to global fisheries systems and their governance frameworks. It poses a pressing management challenge, particularly in China, which is renowned as the world’s largest fishing country and seafood producer. As climate change continues to intensify in the region and climate awareness grows within the country’s national policy, the need to understand China’s fisheries’ resilience to the escalating climate crisis becomes paramount. In this study, we conduct an interdisciplinary analysis to assess the vulnerability and risk of China’s marine capture fisheries in response to climate change. This study employs a spatially explicit, indicator-based approach with a coupled social–ecological framework, focusing on 67 species and 11 coastal regions. By integrating diverse sets of climatic, ecological, economic, societal, and governance indicators and information, we elucidate the factors that could hinder climate adaptation, including a limited understanding of fish early life stages, uncertainty in seafood production, unequal allocation and accessibility of resources, and inadequate consideration of inclusive governance and adaptive management. Our results show that species, which have managed to survive the stress of overfishing, demonstrate a remarkable ability to adapt to climate change. However, collapsing stocks such as large yellow croaker face a high risk due to the synergistic effects of inherent biological traits and external management interventions. We emphasize the imperative to build institutional, scientific, and social capacity to support fisheries adaptation. The scientific insights provided by this study can inform fisheries management decisions and promote the operationalization of climate-resilient fisheries in China and other regions.
Genome-wide and targeted CRISPR screens identify RNF213 as a mediator of interferon gamma–dependent pathogen restriction in human cells
Authors: Matta Sumit K. , Kohio Hinissan P. , Chandra Pallavi , Brown Adam , Doench John G. , Philips Jennifer A. , Ding Siyuan , Sibley L. David
Published: December 2023

To define cellular immunity to the intracellular pathogen
Toxoplasma gondii
, we performed a genome-wide CRISPR loss-of-function screen to identify genes important for (interferon gamma) IFN-γ-dependent growth restriction. We revealed a role for the tumor suppressor
NF2/Merlin
for maximum induction of Interferon Stimulated Genes (ISG), which are positively regulated by the transcription factor IRF-1. We then performed an ISG-targeted CRISPR screen that identified the host E3 ubiquitin ligase
RNF213
as necessary for IFN-γ-mediated control of
T. gondii
in multiple human cell types.
RNF213
was also important for control of bacterial (
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
) and viral (Vesicular Stomatitis Virus) pathogens in human cells. RNF213-mediated ubiquitination of the parasitophorous vacuole membrane (PVM) led to growth restriction of
T. gondii
in response to IFN-γ. Moreover, overexpression of RNF213 in naive cells also impaired growth of
T. gondii
. Surprisingly, growth inhibition did not require the autophagy protein ATG5, indicating that RNF213 initiates restriction independent of a previously described noncanonical autophagy pathway. Mutational analysis revealed that the ATPase domain of RNF213 was required for its recruitment to the PVM, while loss of a critical histidine in the RZ finger domain resulted in partial reduction of recruitment to the PVM and complete loss of ubiquitination. Both RNF213 mutants lost the ability to restrict growth of
T. gondii
, indicating that both recruitment and ubiquitination are required. Collectively, our findings establish RNF213 as a critical component of cell-autonomous immunity that is both necessary and sufficient for control of intracellular pathogens in human cells.
Genetic polymorphisms and expression of Rhesus blood group RHCE are associated with 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate in humans at high altitude
Authors: D’Alessandro Angelo , Earley Eric J. , Nemkov Travis , Stephenson Daniel , Dzieciatkowska Monika , Hansen Kirk C. , Minetti Giampaolo , Champigneulle Benoit , Stauffer Emeric , Pichon Aurélien , Furian Michael , Verges Samuel , Kleinman Steven , Norris Philip J. , Busch Michael P. , Page Grier P. , Kaestner Lars
Published: December 2023

Red blood cell (RBC) metabolic reprogramming upon exposure to high altitude contributes to physiological human adaptations to hypoxia, a multifaceted process critical to health and disease. To delve into the molecular underpinnings of this phenomenon, first, we performed a multi-omics analysis of RBCs from six lowlanders after exposure to high-altitude hypoxia, with longitudinal sampling at baseline, upon ascent to 5,100 m and descent to sea level. Results highlighted an association between erythrocyte levels of 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate (BPG), an allosteric regulator of hemoglobin that favors oxygen off-loading in the face of hypoxia, and expression levels of the Rhesus blood group RHCE protein. We then expanded on these findings by measuring BPG in RBCs from 13,091 blood donors from the Recipient Epidemiology and Donor Evaluation Study. These data informed a genome-wide association study using BPG levels as a quantitative trait, which identified genetic polymorphisms in the region coding for the Rhesus blood group RHCE as critical determinants of BPG levels in erythrocytes from healthy human volunteers. Mechanistically, we suggest that the Rh group complex, which participates in the exchange of ammonium with the extracellular compartment, may contribute to intracellular alkalinization, thus favoring BPG mutase activity.
Thermal suppression of charge disproportionation accelerates interface electron transfer of water electrolysis
Authors: Lu Mengfei , Du Yu , Yan Shicheng , Yu Tao , Zou Zhigang
Published: December 2023

The sluggish electron transfer kinetics in electrode polarization driven oxygen evolution reaction (OER) result in big energy barriers of water electrolysis. Accelerating the electron transfer at the electrolyte/catalytic layer/catalyst bulk interfaces is an efficient way to improve electricity-to-hydrogen efficiency. Herein, the electron transfer at the Sr
3
Fe
2
O
7
@SrFeOOH bulk/catalytic layer interface is accelerated by heating to eliminate charge disproportionation from Fe
4+
to Fe
3+
and Fe
5+
in Sr
3
Fe
2
O
7
, a physical effect to thermally stabilize high-spin Fe
4+
(t
2g
3
e
g
1
), providing available orbitals as electron transfer channels without pairing energy. As a result of thermal-induced changes in electronic states via thermal comproportionation, a sudden increase in OER performances was achieved as heating to completely suppress charge disproportionation, breaking a linear Arrhenius relationship. The strategy of regulating electronic states by thermal field opens a broad avenue to overcome the electron transfer barriers in water splitting.
Negative magnetoresistance in the antiferromagnetic semimetal V1/3TaS2
Authors: Wang 王 Zi 子 , Peng 彭 Xin 馨 , Zhang 张 Shengnan 胜男 , Su 苏 Yahui 亚慧 , Lai 赖 Shaodong 少东 , Zhou 周 Xuan 旋 , Wu 吴 Chunxiang 春翔 , Zhou 周 Tingyu 霆宇 , Wang 王 Hangdong 杭栋 , Yang 杨 Jinhu 金虎 , Chen 陈 Bin 斌 , Zhai 翟 Huifei 会飞 , Wu 吴 Quansheng 泉生 , Du 杜 Jianhua 建华 , Jiao 焦 Zhiwei 志伟 , Fang 方 Minghu 明虎
Published: December 2023

Intercalated transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) attract much attention due to their rich properties and potential applications. In this article, we grew successfully high-quality V1/3TaS2 crystals by a vapor transport method. We measured the magnetization, longitudinal resistivity ρxx
(T, H), Hall resistivity ρxy
(T, H), as well as performed calculations of the electronic band structure. It was found that V1/3TaS2 is an A-type antiferromagnet with the Neel temperature T
N = 6.20 K, and exhibits a negative magnetoresistance (MR) near T
N. Both band structure calculations and Hall resistivity measurements demonstrated it is a magnetic semimetal.
Assessment of the energy consumption of indoor farming for different climates and lighting system intensity
Authors: Arcasi A , Mastrullo R , Mauro A W , Napoli G , Pantaleo A M , Tariello F
Published: December 2023

Nowadays, due to the energy, water, and arable land crises, as well as the constant global population growth and urbanization, water, energy, and food sources are strongly linked to each other, and a comprehensive analysis including all the influencing factors has to be carried out. In this context, the need to improve the energy performance of traditional cultivation systems, as well as to develop alternative and innovative ones, is causing a shift in interest from greenhouses to indoor farming methods (such as vertical farms) in the agricultural sector. In fact, they allow for completely controlled crop production without the use of chemical pesticides. Moreover, their productivity is independent of external conditions and improved compared to traditional systems. However, their energy consumption is larger than that of greenhouses. To evaluate the techno-economic feasibility of such systems, a comprehensive model of a vertical farm, including air conditioning, lighting systems, and plant evapotranspiration, has been developed to quantify the energy share for the different elements of the system (air conditioning and lighting) and to relate the energy consumption to the kilogram of produced crop, analysing exclusively the growth phase. The analysis is carried out for different cities and considers different scenarios in terms of lighting and electricity costs.
The potential of energy planning at Municipality scale: Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plans (SECAP) and local Energy Communities to meet the energy demand variability
Authors: Di Paolo Luca , Di Martino Alessandra , Di Battista Davide , Carapellucci Roberto , Cipollone Roberto
Published: December 2023

Energy planning tools play a key role in achieving sustainable development goals and in the energy transition toward a zero-carbon future. Energy security and decentralization are, as well, additional benefits from a rational energy planning applied to a territory. In particular, the relevance of territorial energy planning grows at the local scale, the peculiarities of a territory being a key point. This is especially true for Municipalities, which represent the smallest units with political responsibility. Cities are often the most unsustainable environments, being responsible for 75% of global energy use, 70% of global CO2 emissions, and considering that the percentage of the global population living in cities is expanding from 50% in 2022 to 70% in 2050. In this regard, the European Community has already designed a specific energy planning tool, called SECAPs (Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plans), an evolution of SEAPs (Sustainable Environmental Action Plans) that allows the quantification of energy flowing throughout the territory to support the local economy. The greenhouse gases emission commitments are, as well, considered and could be fulfilled being the cornerstone of the European deal on climate change. Waiting for a zero Carbon economy, the intention of the cited plans is to propose mitigation and adaptation actions to delay or to react to climate change manifestations. A formidable new planning tool is certainly “Energy Communities”, where cities, public and private companies, citizens, energy producers and consumers (so called prosumers) can share renewable energy in whatever form is locally available, improving energy security and partial independence from the grid. The paper presents, for a small/medium size Italian city located in the Apennine Mountain hinterland some criteria to design energy communities demonstrating how the potential energy generation based on renewable sources can fulfil energy demand when an Energy Community is organized. The starting point is the knowledge of thermal and electricity consumptions available from SEAPs. Hourly load profiles for them were reconstructed and coupled to renewable energy production availability which is a peculiarity of a territory. Thanks to a suitable diversification of energy production, the fulfilment of the energy needs can be achieved with only a residual grid assistance. Consistency is given to the concept of energy resilience.
The role of biomass in energy transition to net zero carbon emissions due to climate change: the Apulia case
Authors: Zagaria Lazzaro , Caramia Giovanni , Amirante Riccardo
Published: December 2023

Biomass is a net zero carbon source of energy. On the way to reduce carbon emissions, although a few part of biomass is already used and energetically valorised, a large untapped potential remains. If high energy production comes from intermittent sources like solar panels and wind turbines, it becomes challenging to balance energy supply and demand. Therefore, the role of biomass is important for two main aspects: the full valorisation of this source of energy itself, and its stabilization role in new renewable energy scenario. The path towards a net zero carbon scenario cannot overlook the following three key factors. The first factor is the realization that energy demand is continuously rising. The second factor is the urgent need for immediate CO2 reduction. The third factor is the importance of maintaining the electric grid stable. Guided by these fundamental principles, this paper aims to analyse the role of full biomass valorisation in stabilizing the energy system and reducing CO2 emissions. As a part of a much wider work, this analysis encompasses the role of biomass in both a more ambitious scenario with a great amount of photovoltaics, as well as the current energy landscape. The methodology used is numerical simulation of the Apulia case through EnergyPLAN software, and the main findings reveal a significant reduction in CO2 emissions while keeping energy systems stable.
Detailed performance analysis of a novel small-scale biomethane liquefaction plant
Authors: Domenico Vincenzo Di , Tamburrano Paolo , Distaso Elia , Sciatti Francesco , Amirante Riccardo
Published: December 2023

In the current global energy scenario, an important role is played by the increasing production of biomethane, which is carbon-neutral when burned. In addition to production processes, it is paramount to increase the construction of liquefaction plants, in order to simplify the transportation and use of biomethane. However, biomethane liquefaction plants have limited diffusion because of the complexity of current biomethane liquefaction technologies, which have been adapted from natural gas liquefaction plants. Therefore, novel biomethane liquefaction plants are needed to assist the increasing demand of biomethane in the global market. In previous papers, an innovative biomethane liquefaction plant was proposed and studied; compared to current liquefaction technologies, the main advantage is given by the use of simplified heat exchangers. In this paper, the plant performance is explored in more detail by changing some operating parameters to study the efficiency of the whole process by means of a parametric analysis. The results confirm a high potential of the proposed plant, in terms of coefficient of performance and compactness of the heat exchangers.
Experimental investigation of chestnut shells gasification
Authors: Puglia M , Giuliani M , Morselli N , Ottani F , Allesina G , Pedrazzi S , Tartarini P
Published: December 2023

Fossil fuels substitution with renewable energy sources is necessary for an effective decarbonization. Biomass can represent a valid alternative to fossil fuels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, bioenergy generation avoids costs and problems related to biomass disposal. This study presents the energetic valorisation of chestnut shells, a byproduct of the chestnut transformation processes. Through a thermo-conversion system based on gasification, this material was considered not as a waste, but as a resource to be exploited to produce bioenergy and biochar. The fuel gas produced through the gasification process can partially replace the LPG currently used to meet the energy required for the brulage and steam peeling processes. Experimental gasification tests were carried out to evaluate this biomass by means of a laboratory scale micro-gasifier (Imbert downdraft type). Chestnut shells were pelletized with a pelletizer machine to avoid the bridging effect inside the gasifier and increase its energy density. The fuel gas obtained was sampled and analyzed to measure its composition and HHV. In addition, the gasification efficiency was calculated obtaining a value of 70%, a result in line with the ones obtained with higher quality biomasses.
Multi-obective performance analysis of a wind power plant equipped with a PAT system
Authors: Dambrosio Lorenzo
Published: December 2023

In conventional wind power plants, the wind turbine drives an electrical generator equipped with an AC/DC converter for battery charging purposes and with an inverter inverter to supply power to the grid / AC load. This approach exhibits some drawbacks like the energy losses associated to the power electronics and the cost and the waste management of the battery storage systems.

To overcome such drawbacks, this work proposes a new plant scheme, where the battery system has been removed (or strongly reduced) and the storage task is accomplished by a pumping system equipped with a reversible hydraulic machinery which can operate both as centrifugal pump and a hydraulic turbine (called Pump as Turbine). In this scenario, when the wind velocity is quite high, the reversible hydraulic machinery, working as centrifugal pump, will store energy in the form of potential energy pumping fluid to an elevated water reservoir. On the contrary, in low wind conditions, the Pump as Turbine will operate as a hydraulic turbine, helping the wind turbine to overcome the external mechanical load. This solution results in a number of advantages: lower plant costs, longer Pump as Turbine life with lesser maintenance and reduced waste costs.

The present work focuses on a multi-objective performance analysis of the proposed wind system power scheme. Specifically, this multi-objective sensitivity analysis will be addressed to the net potential energy stored by the reversible hydraulic machinery, the extracted wind energy and the torque supplied by the Pump as Turbine in hydraulic turbine mode. Such an analysis will considered as design variables the Pump as Turbine (centrifugal pump mode) specific speed (pump geometry), the gear box transmission ratio between the centrifugal pump and the wind turbine and the pump head. The aim of this analysis is to evaluate the design variables range which could lead to determine the set of the multi-objective wind systems optimal design.
Experimental investigation on the performance of a micro-ORC system for different operating conditions
Authors: Falbo Luigi , Algieri Angelo
Published: December 2023

The micro-ORC systems are widely considered a reliable solution for domestic power production from renewable sources. The investigation of the optimal operating conditions to maximize system efficiency is an interesting challenge. In this study, a preliminary experimental campaign has been carried out on a biomass-fired micro-ORC system. The system is designed for stationary applications for domestic users, with a gear pump, a scroll expander and R245fa as the working fluid. The performance characterization of the micro-ORC under steady-state conditions has been obtained varying the water flow rate in the condenser at constant pump and expander speeds. The temperature of the hot source (thermal oil) is the maximum achievable in each operating condition. The temperature at the expander inlet and the condenser and evaporator pressure strongly influence the system performance. The increase in water flow leads to a decrease in the condenser pressure and a reduction of the superheating degree of the organic fluid. The system reaches the maximum electric power output of approximately 2565 W with a water flow rate of about 20 l/min. The highest electrical efficiency increases as the refrigerant flow rate decreases and reaches the highest value of 8.1% for the minimum investigated water flow rate.
Energetic analysis of a magnetic gearbox for small wind turbine
Authors: Amoresano A. , Rizzo R. , Di Noia L. P. , Roscioli S.
Published: December 2023

In this paper an energetic analysis for the application of a concentric magnetic gearbox (MG) have been carried out. MGs are able to work without contact to minimize acoustic noise and frictions with the advantage of reducing maintenance and increasing the global efficiency of the system. Concentric MGs are useful to a wide range of industrial applications, including renewable energetic systems and electric vehicles. Preliminary studies about this kind of device have been performed by using Finite Element Method (FEM) 3-D and the resulting data have been applied to build a laboratory prototype able to give the first data in terms of power and torque transmitted. Experimental tests have been carried varying the rpm and obtaining the trend of the efficiency, power and torque transmitted. Moreover, the acquired data have been carried out to analyse the energetic and mechanical behaviour of the magnetic transmission.
Performance evaluation of transcritical CO2 desiccant heat pumps for electric vehicles
Authors: Wang H , Song Y , Cao F , Rossi di Schio E , Valdiserri P
Published: December 2023

Transcritical CO2 heat pump systems are eco-friendly and have excellent heating performance, which makes them suitable for electric vehicles. The recirculation mode can save energy but requires a dehumidification function to ensure driving safety. Therefore, this paper proposes a transcritical CO2 desiccant heat pump, which differs from the typical transcritical CO2 heat pump system by incorporating an indoor evaporator and a full-pass throttle valve. The flow area of the full-pass throttle valve can be adjusted to obtain the appropriate dehumidification rate. In addition, this study suggested using the desiccant heat pump coefficient of performance (DHCOP) to evaluate the overall energy efficiency of the heat pump system. We have investigated the dehumidification rate and optimal discharge pressure under different operating conditions. The results show that even under the harsh operating conditions at -10 °C, the HDCOP of the transcritical CO2 desiccant heat pump can still exceed 2.1, and reach 3.12 at a moderate condition of Ta=5 °C. The transcritical CO2 heat pump desiccant system demonstrates significant energy-saving potential.
Monitoring of public buildings via energy-efficient Z-Wave wireless sensors
Authors: Franco Alessandro , Crisostomi Emanuele , Hammoud Matilde
Published: December 2023

Simultaneously managing energy consumption and ensuring a health environment in public shared buildings presents significant challenges. This study explores the use of advanced monitoring techniques and specific Z-Wave sensors to optimize building management systems. The focus is on maintaining air quality, minimizing energy usage, and achieving significant energy savings. Various sensor types are employed, and data collection and processing are performed through a central gateway. The methodology is tested in university buildings, demonstrating the potential for energy savings by dynamically interacting with HVAC systems based on occupancy levels. Effective monitoring and control strategies can contribute to improved energy efficiency and occupant well-being. In specific cases, most notably when the occupancy of rooms is low, energy consumption can be reduced by up to 70%.
Assessment of the Capabilities of a Simplification Algorithm for Building Energy Modelling for the Evaluation of Control Strategies: a Case Study in Bolzano, Italy
Authors: El Hokayem A , Battini F , Pernigotto G , Gasparella A
Published: December 2023

The increase of the energy efficiency of the building stock is a national priority, especially in consideration of the recent energy crisis and of the 2050 decarbonisation goals of the European Union. Public buildings, in particular, are expected to lead the way and give examples of best practices and solutions for energy savings, some of them related to optimized controls of the building systems. In this context, however, many public administrations lack detailed technical competences, time, and resources to define and implement the best energy efficiency measures and controls for public buildings. To address these needs, fast and accurate simplified models for buildings energy simulation appear to be a promising solution. In this context, this research aims at evaluating the applicability and reliability of an approach previously proposed by the authors, i.e., the shoeboxing algorithm, for the study of operation control strategies. The analysis has been conducted on a public kindergarten, in Bolzano, Italy, comparing simplified and detailed building energy models. Results have shown a fairly good level of accuracy of the algorithm and consistency of energy savings, with a remarkably high simulation speedup.
Development of an Energy Community through semi-dynamic simulation of a urban social housing
Authors: Vallati A , Muzi F , Fiorini C V , di Matteo M , Sundararajan M.
Published: December 2023

Energy communities (ECs) are instrumental in driving the transition to renewable energy in urban areas. This study focuses on implementing ECs in Rome’s Tor Bella Monaca district, with a particular focus on linear mass housing. Using the Urban Modeling Interface (UMI) and Simulink, four energy community scenarios were simulated to evaluate their potential outcomes. The scenarios involved integrating photovoltaics and heat pumps into the community’s infrastructure to assess their impact on renewable energy production and CO2 reduction. The results demonstrate that higher electrification within an energy community leads to increased self-consumption of renewable energy and reduced reliance on the grid. Furthermore, the integration of heat pumps enhances energy consumption efficiency. This research highlights the significant potential of energy communities and innovative technologies in managing local renewable energy resources effectively. It provides valuable insights for developing sustainable energy models in urban areas. It emphasizes the importance of carefully evaluating technology sizing, integration, and the inclusion of thermal and electrical storage to maximize self-consumption while minimizing CO2 emissions. The study’s findings offer practical guidance for policymakers, urban planners, and stakeholders involved in sustainable energy management. They underscore the need for a holistic approach that combines technological advancements, community engagement, and thoughtful integration of renewable energy systems. Ultimately, this research contributes to the adoption of energy communities as crucial elements of a resilient and environmentally-friendly future.
A Lumped-Parameter Model of a Smart Ventilation unit for nearly Zero Energy Buildings
Authors: Sedoni R , Cannistraci G , Santangelo P E , Angeli D , Romani M , Fioravanti L
Published: December 2023

In the present work, a simple model of a ventilation unit used for residential purposes is proposed, which was developed by means of MATLAB Simulink and the Simscape toolbox, also including the Moist Air and Two-Phase fluid libraries. This study falls in the realm of air conditioning in nearly Zero Energy Buildings. The model presented here is focused mostly on the aeraulic system. A parametric analysis of various installation conditions was conducted to assess and enhance the combined heat pump and the air distribution system performance, under various operating conditions. Therefore, the overall approach included several parameters, such as outdoor and indoor air temperature, humidity, static pressure, pressure drop in the intake and the distribution ducts, and filter fouling. The model serves as a predictive tool to evaluate the effectiveness of the whole system, in both design and off-design conditions; notably, critical conditions are emphasized, which are associated to severe fouling conditions, making the use of an additional fan ineffective.
Preliminary analysis of refilling cold-adsorbed hydrogen tanks
Authors: Melideo D. , Ferrari L. , Taddei Pardelli P.
Published: December 2023

The effective storage of hydrogen is a critical challenge that needs to be overcome for it to become a widely used and clean energy source. Various methods exist for storing hydrogen, including compression at high pressures, liquefaction through extreme cooling (i.e. -253 °C), and storage with chemical compounds. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages. MAST3RBoost (Maturing the Production Standards of Ultraporous Structures for High Density Hydrogen Storage Bank Operating on Swinging Temperatures and Low Compression) is a European funded Project aiming to establish a reliable benchmark for cold-adsorbed H2 storage (CAH2) at low compression levels (100 bar or below). This is achieved through the development of advanced ultraporous materials suitable for mobility applications, such as hydrogen-powered vehicles used in road, railway, air, and water transportation. The MAST3RBoost Project utilizes cutting-edge materials, including Activated Carbons (ACs) and high-density MOFs (Metal-organic Frameworks), which are enhanced by Machine Learning techniques. By harnessing these materials, the project seeks to create a groundbreaking path towards meeting industry goals. The project aims to develop the world’s first adsorption-based demonstrator at a significant kg-scale. To support the design of the storage tank, the project employs Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software, which allows for numerical investigations. In this paper, a preliminary analysis of the tank refilling process is presented, with a focus on the impact of the effect of the tank and hydrogen temperatures on quantity of hydrogen adsorbed.
Pumps as turbines for pumped hydro energy storage systems - A small-size case study
Authors: Licheri Fabio , Petrollese Mario , Cocco Daniele , Cambuli Francesco
Published: December 2023

Pumped Hydro Energy Storage (PHES) technology has been used since early 1890s and is, nowadays, a consolidated and commercially mature technology. PHES systems allow energy to be stored by pumping water from a lower-to a higher-level reservoir. Subsequently, this energy can be released through a turbine placed in a penstock, which connects the two reservoirs, to produce energy. Although these plants have historically been employed at large power scales (in the order of hundreds of MW), in recent years, micro- and small-scale plants are becoming more interesting, due to their possibility of being integrated with renewable energy systems (RES) used in autonomous island grids. Capital costs associated with hydraulic machines used in PHES systems represent the most critical economic factor, which can be mitigated by using commercial centrifugal pumps in reverse mode (Pumps as Turbines, PATs) in place of small hydro turbines. These expected economic benefits must be weighed in each specific case study, with some drawbacks related to the use of PATs, mainly associated to a lower round-trip efficiency with respect to specifically designed pumps and turbines.

In this work, a small-scale PHES plant has been studied coupled to an existent photovoltaic system for the integration in the electric grid of a small island in Southern Italy. Two different PHES outlines have been compared based on techno-economic considerations. The former is a typical PHES system composed of both pumps and a turbine, while the latter uses only an array of parallel pumps which work also in reverse mode. The analysis demonstrates the feasibility of integrating a photovoltaic and PHES plant, which results in a lower cost of electricity production, while PHES performance in the PAT-based outline results penalized by the lower efficiency of PATs with respect to the hydraulic turbine.