bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Scenario development for safety assessment in deep geologic disposal of high‐level radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel: A review
Authors: Kuhlman Kristopher L. , Bartol Jeroen , Carter Alexander , Lommerzheim Andree , Wolf Jens 
Published: February 2024

AbstractRadiation and radioactive substances result in the production of radioactive wastes which require safe management and disposal to avoid risks to human health and the environment. To ensure permanent safe disposal, the performance of a deep geological repository for radioactive waste is assessed against internationally agreed risk‐based standards. Assessing postclosure safety of the future system's evolution includes screening of features, events, and processes (FEPs) relevant to the situation, their subsequent development into scenarios, and finally the development and execution of safety assessment (SA) models. Global FEP catalogs describe important natural and man‐made repository system features and identify events and processes that may affect these features into the future. By combining FEPs, many of which are uncertain, different possible future system evolution scenarios are derived. Repository licensing should consider both the reference or “base” evolution as well as alternative futures that may lead to radiation release, pollution, or exposures. Scenarios are used to derive and consider both base and alternative evolutions, often through production of scenario‐specific SA models and the recombination of their results into an assessment of the risk of harm. While the FEP‐based scenario development process outlined here has evolved somewhat since its development in the 1980s, the fundamental ideas remain unchanged. A spectrum of common approaches is given here (e.g., bottom–up vs. top–down scenario development, probabilistic vs. bounding handling of uncertainty), related to how individual numerical models for possible futures are converted into a determination as to whether the system is safe (i.e., how aleatoric uncertainty and scenarios are integrated through bounding or Monte Carlo approaches).
Eocene monsoon climate expansion in East Asia: Evidence from orbital‐cycle driven terrestrial successions in the Jianghan Basin, Central China
Authors: Cai Yuan , Kong Xiangxin 
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACTEast Asia experienced complex climatic changes during the Eocene. Due to the lack of a high‐precision time framework covering the Eocene, the characteristics of sedimentary and climate evolution in this period remain unclear. The Jianghan Basin (Central China) developed an Eocene continental succession, which is composed of lower red beds and upper salt‐lake deposits exhibiting clear sedimentary rhythms, making these strata an ideal target for astronomical cycle analysis. Based on the established floating astronomical timescale, the lower red beds in the basin formed during the early–middle Eocene and were dominated by eccentricity cycles. The upper salt‐lake deposits formed during the middle–late Eocene and recorded obliquity cycles. The change in facies indicates that the climate transitioned from continuously arid to less arid with periodic relative wetness, which was forced by orbital cycles. Significant obliquity signals recorded by salt rhythmites responded to Eocene global temperature changes and Tibetan region uplift, which can be important markers of a monsoon‐like climate. Comparing the sedimentary and climatic characteristics of other Eocene lake basins in East Asia, the extension of the Eocene East Asian monsoon may have initiated during ca 43.6 to 40.0 Ma. This study provides a new perspective for understanding the early evolution of the East Asian monsoon.
Effect of Bypass Duct on the Thrust Vectoring Performance of Dual Throat Nozzle in a Supersonic Aircraft
Authors: Afridi Saadia , Khan Tariq Amin , Shah Imran , Ali Yasir , Mumtaz Qadri Muhammad Nafees , Li Wei 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Due to its ability to maximize thrust vectoring performance, the bypass dual throat nozzle (BDTN) has an advantage over other fluidic vectoring controls. In this study, numerical simulation is performed to analyze the flow characteristics and performance parameters of an aircraft engine with three different nozzle configurations. The nozzle of a representative engine, i.e., an F100 engine was selected as a model geometry to test the efficiency obtained by BDTN. The present investigation has shown that implementing a bypass channel on a real geometry nozzle has no significant effects on thrust vectoring performance in vectored mode. Although the real geometry scheme has a higher thrust and a discharge coefficient, the smaller cavity length resulted in lower vectoring angles. Modifying the real geometry nozzle according to the BDTN configuration significantly improved the thrust vectoring performance. However, the V-shaped bypass passage flow in the modified geometry scheme imposed un-necessary total pressure losses in the nozzle. A geometry scheme that utilized an arc-shaped rather than a V-shaped bypass passage is considered in this research and found to present minimize pressure losses. A total increase of 2% and 3.5% is hereby reported, for thrust and discharge coefficients, respectively. A decrease of 6% is reported in the thrust vectoring angle under an improved geometrical scheme. Out of three geometries, the real geometry scheme reported negligible thrust vectoring performance, while modified and improved geometry schemes indicated improved thrust vectoring performance without substantially changing the engine states.
Utilization of Manipulator Redundancy for Torque Reduction During Force Interaction
Authors: Jadav Shail , Palanthandalam-Madapusi Harish J. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The integration of robots into environments shared by humans has been enhanced through the use of redundant robots capable of executing primary tasks and secondary objectives such as obstacle avoidance and null-space impedance control. A critical secondary objective involves optimizing manipulator configurations to reduce torque and prevent torque saturation, similar to how athletes distribute loads to minimize the risk of injury. This paper suggests employing robotic redundancy to evenly distribute joint loads, thereby improving performance and avoiding torque saturation. Prior studies primarily focused on either endpoint stiffness control or kinetic energy minimization, each having its drawbacks. This paper introduces a novel objective function that responds to all external disturbances at the end-effector, aiming to lower joint torques via redundancy for precise trajectory tracking amidst disturbances. This method, which provides an inverse kinematics solution adaptable to various controllers, demonstrated a 29.85% reduction in peak torque and a 14.69% decrease in cumulative torques in the KUKA LBR iiwa 14 R820 robot.
Inlet Air Filtration Effects on Degradation and Life Cycle Costs in Gas Turbine Combined Cycle Power Plants: A Comparative Study
Authors: Kamboj Pertik , Nandagopal Pugalenthi , Duerr Matthias , Fahrendorf Ole 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Gas turbine degradation significantly impacts the operation, maintenance, and lifecycle cost of gas turbines. Multiple components within the gas turbine contribute to the overall degradation of gas turbine-based combined cycles, with the compressor component being the primary contributor. The compressor degradation is predominantly influenced by the quality of the intake air. Airborne particles tend to deposit on the compressor blades and vanes, increase surface roughness and potentially alter the blade shape, which can result in additional aero losses.
Nowadays, customers are seeking gas turbines that exhibit less degradation, increased reliability, and greater availability. To meet these demands, many Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are focusing on improving the quality of intake air through the incorporation of highly efficient filters. Such filters reduce the deposition of air particles on the compressor blades, which leads to improved long-term compressor performance, increased gas turbine parts life, and reduced water wash cycles, thereby improving availability. However, the high cost of these filters and the increased compressor inlet pressure drop can reduce the overall performance of the Gas Turbine-based Combined Cycle (GTCC). Thus, it is essential to consider the impact on the overall lifecycle cost when selecting an appropriate filter class, which can guide the customer in making an informed decision.
The first section of this paper discusses various classes of filters, their efficiency, and the resulting pressure drop. It also examines the degradation of Gas Turbine-based Combined Cycle (GTCC) associated with different air intake filters. The second section of the paper conducts a life cycle cost analysis of different filters using Siemens Energy’s in-house cost analysis tool called the Power Value (PV) tool. Although currently exclusive to Siemens Energy, the tool will be available to third-party users in the future. The analysis includes Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE), calculations for a 25-year period of GTCC plant operation. The analysis takes into account appropriate capital, fuel, maintenance, and electricity costs.
This life cycle cost analysis provides valuable benefits to both customers and OEMs by comparing different air intake filter options and quantifying the total cost of each option, including capital, operational, and maintenance costs. This analysis enables customers and OEMs to identify the most cost-effective solutions during the project proposal and bidding phase. Additionally, this paper offers guidance on selecting suitable filters for various environments and highlights the impact of highly efficient filters on the decarbonization.
An Investigation of the Effect of Layer-Building Time on the Interlayer Adhesion Strength in Polymer Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Alzahrani Faisal J. , Noor Hussam , Coulter John P. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
This research investigated the effect of layer-building time on the interlayer adhesion strength of polymer additive manufacturing. Many methods have been developed for polymer additive manufacturing and Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is the most common type of polymer extrusion-based. FDM uses layer-by-layer building mechanisms to manufacture the products resulting in weak adhesion strength between layers in the building direction (z-axis). This causes mechanical performance variations in printed parts’ x, y, and z-axis. Longer layer-building time increases heat dissipation, making it more probable that large-scale products may be affected by weak interlayer adhesion issues. Small-scale 3D printing has advanced significantly, with researchers testing and applying the technology to various industrial sectors. Yet, a significant amount of work still has to be done on research into Big Area Additive Manufacturing BAAM intended for large-scale applications such as building and car manufacturing. This field needs further and extensive research to understand related challenges. Therefore, this work investigated the effect of layer-building time on interlayer adhesion strength. 2500 HP PLA was used in this investigation to print samples with four different layer-building times 30, 90, 150, and 210 seconds. Printed samples were prepared for flat-wise tensile testing (FTT) in a tensile machine. Results showed that interlayer adhesion strength weaken with increasing the layer-building time.
Analysis of Roll Dynamics With Computer Vision
Authors: Song Fei , Xu Liangyu , Zhang Haitao , Li Ke 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Logging is the process that enables operators to collect data about the formation through which they are drilling in oilfield drilling operations. Logging-while-drilling (LWD) technologies enable real-time data collection or in a recorded mode as the drilling operations are in process. The LWD tools belong to the bottomhole assembly (BHA) at the lowest part of the drillstring, often together with measurement-while-drilling (MWD), rotary steerable system (RSS), and other subs. Formation measurement techniques with LWD tools can include gamma ray logging, resistivity measurement, density and neutron porosity logging, sonic logging, fluid sampling, and many others. BHA whirl is featured by the eccentric rotation of the BHA about a point other than its geometric center. Due to increasingly aggressive drilling environment, BHA whirl is known to be an extremely destructive downhole phenomenon among all types of drill dynamics. The extreme shocks and vibrations generated from BHA whirl could cause premature failures of BHA components, measurement devices, or sensors. In addition, lateral motions induced by BHA whirl can be a concern for the LWD measurement quality. Therefore, understanding the lateral motion and dynamics of the drilling tool in the presence of whirling is significant for reducing the risks associated with the health condition and measurement quality of the tool.
This paper presents development of a roll test system (i.e., a tubular assembly rolling along the inner wall of an impact ring while being spun with a drive motor) instrumented with accelerometers and high-speed cameras to imitate lateral dynamics that the tool could undergo while drilling in a controlled laboratory environment. Modern computer vision algorithms such as Hough transform are applied to experimentally determine the motion trajectory and lateral dynamics characteristics of the tool on the videos recorded with the high-speed camera. The results obtained from video analysis are then compared to the alternative measurements collected from the accelerometer on a 4.75-inch tool. Favorable agreement is observed, which validates the computer vision approach. Once validated, the authors further demonstrate that the developed video analysis approach can be employed to characterize and understand the lateral motion dynamics of 6.75-inch and 8.25-inch tools as well. Artificial intelligence (AI) and computer vision techniques demonstrated in this study could open new possibilities for fit-for-basin virtual qualification of new drilling tools and for post-run root cause analysis of drilling tool failures.
Renewable Energy Resources in the Long-Term Sustainability of Water Desalination As a Freshwater Source
Authors: Oviroh Peter Ozaveshe , Ukoba Kingsley , Jen Tien Chien 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Due to growing populations, climate change, and water pollution, freshwater is becoming increasingly scarce. Managing the increasing water and energy demands requires addressing the relationship between energy production, which requires water, and water production, which uses energy. Desalination, as an option, is becoming a viable solution for meeting water demand in an increasing number of water-stressed areas. However, the increased demand for desalination to enhance the water supply and concerns about the environmental impact of fossil fuel use to power it are becoming issues. These have increased interest in renewable energy-powered desalination systems. As a result, there is an urgent need to advance sustainable and renewable energy technologies and water purification processes and technologies to meet the growing societal demand for water and energy. This review looks at some renewable energy sources, such as bioenergy, marine energy, and a hybrid of renewable energy sources, in meeting the energy demand. It highlighted the additional beneficial incorporation of other applications and possible energy source combinations. The primary goal of this study is to examine recent advances in the technical, economic, environmental, and social impacts of desalination systems. The second goal is to present an overview of the role of renewable energy technologies in the long-term sustainability of projected water systems that will rely increasingly on desalination.
Rules and Procedures in Academia: Do They Help or Hurt?
Authors: Das Shuvra , Kleinke Darrell , Pistrui David , Bonnstetter Ron 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
This article discusses the need to reevaluate traditional policies and rules governing engineering education programs, especially considering the changing student demographics and the push for inclusive learning styles. Many rules and procedures used in engineering education programs were established in a bygone era when the student population was different, but today, many of those same rules hinder student learning. The authors use three different tools to identify some of these rules. Harmful rules that emerged included the 12-credit full-time requirement, required attendance policies, minimum grade policies, rigid course sequencing, and standardized testing. The authors show that these rules, imposed for the benefit of the institution to ease administration, have negative impacts on two of three student learning typologies. The authors suggest alternatives such as allowing students to take fewer credits to focus on challenging courses, providing flexible attendance policies, eliminating minimum grade policies, allowing for more flexible course sequencing, and assessing students through multiple measures rather than relying on standardized testing. The goal of the article is to raise awareness of how rules that are taken for granted can be unnecessary obstacles for student learning and detrimental to their personal well-being across all socioeconomic groups. The authors claim that it is time to create more inclusive and personalized approaches to engineering education.
Graphene Nanoparticle Modified Laser Engraved Kapton Sensor for Environmental Estrogen Detection
Authors: Ghosh Dipannita , Rahman Md Saydur , Ashraf Ali , Islam Nazmul 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
In this study, we developed a graphene-based flexible electrochemical immune sensor to rapidly detect 17β-estradiol in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) buffer solution. The irreversible oxidation of the molecule’s phenol group served as the basis for the electrochemical determination of 17β-estradiol. The calculated incubation time of the laser-engraved Kapton sensor with modified graphene polyaniline ink (LEK/G-PANI) is 30 minutes, and the optimum PH level is 7.4. The proposed immune sensor has impedance change with excellent linearity from 0.61 pg/ml to 156.3 pg/ml with a limit of detection (LOD) is 3.54 pg/ml(S/N = 3) when testing17β-estradiol in PBS (1x) buffer solution (pH = 7.4).
Large-Eddy Simulation of Separated Flows on Unconventionally Coarse Grids
Authors: Bin Yuanwei , Park George I. , Lv Yu , Yang Xiang I. A. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
We examine and benchmark the emerging idea of applying the large-eddy simulation (LES) formalism to unconventionally coarse grids where RANS would be considered more appropriate at first glance. We distinguish this idea from very-large-eddy-simulation (VLES) and detached-eddy-simulation (DES), which require switching between RANS and LES formalism. LES on RANS grid is appealing because first, it requires minimal changes to a production code; second, it is more cost-effective than LES; third, it converges to LES; and most importantly, it accurately predicts flows with separation. This work quantifies the benefit of LES on RANS-like grids as compared to RANS on the same grids. Three canonical cases are considered: periodic hill, backward-facing step, and jet in cross flow. We conduct direct numerical simulation (DNS), proper LES on LES grids, LES on RANS-quality grids, and RANS. We show that while the LES solutions on the RANS-quality grids are not grid converged, they are twice as accurate as the RANS on the same grids.
Genomic editing in
Burkholderia multivorans
by CRISPR/Cas9
Authors: Ferreira Mirela R. , Queiroga Vasco , Moreira Leonilde M. 
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT

Burkholderia cepacia
complex bacteria have emerged as opportunistic pathogens in patients with cystic fibrosis and immunocompromised individuals, causing life-threatening infections. Because of the relevance of these microorganisms, genetic manipulation is crucial for explaining the genetic mechanisms leading to pathogenesis. Despite the availability of allelic exchange tools to obtain unmarked gene deletions in
Burkholderia
, these require a step of merodiploid formation and another of merodiploid resolution through two independent homologous recombination events, making the procedure long-lasting. The CRISPR/Cas9-based system could ease this constraint, as only one step is needed for allelic exchange. Here, we report the modification of a two-plasmid system (pCasPA and pACRISPR) for genome editing in
Burkholderia multivorans
. Several modifications were implemented, including selection marker replacement, the optimization of
araB
promoter induction for the expression of Cas9 and λ-Red system encoding genes, and the establishment of plasmid curing procedures based on the
sacB
gene or growth at a sub-optimal temperature of 18°C–20°C with serial passages. We have shown the efficiency of this CRISPR/Cas9 method in the precise and unmarked deletion of different genes (
rpfR
,
bceF
,
cepR
, and
bcsB
) from two strains of
B. multivorans
, as well as its usefulness in the targeted insertion of the
gfp
gene encoding the green fluorescence protein into a precise genome location. As pCasPA was successfully introduced in other
Burkholderia cepacia
complex species, this study opens up the possibility of using CRISPR/Cas9-based systems as efficient tools for genome editing in these species, allowing faster and more cost-effective genetic manipulation.

IMPORTANCE

Burkholderia
encompasses different species of bacteria, some of them pathogenic to animals and plants, but others are beneficial by promoting plant growth through symbiosis or as biocontrol agents. Among these species,
Burkholderia multivorans
, a member of the
Burkholderia cepacia
complex, is one of the predominant species infecting the lungs of cystic fibrosis patients, often causing respiratory chronic infections that are very difficult to eradicate. Since the
B. multivorans
species is understudied, we have developed a genetic tool based on the CRISPR/Cas9 system to delete genes efficiently from the genomes of these strains. We could also insert foreign genes that can be precisely placed in a chosen genomic region. This method, faster than other conventional strategies based on allelic exchange, will have a major contribution to understanding the virulence mechanisms in
B. multivorans
, but it can likely be extended to other
Burkholderia
species.
mSphere of Influence: The discovery of a missing link in bacterial cell envelope biogenesis
Authors: Harrison Gregory A. 
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT

Gregory Harrison is a bacteriologist researching essential pathways in bacteria as potential therapeutic targets. In this mSphere of Influence article, he reflects on a series of studies that employ complementary genetic approaches to define the crucial role of AsmA-family proteins in transporting phospholipids between the inner and outer membranes of Gram-negative bacteria. The authors of these three studies identify this family of lipid transporters through the means of bacterial genetics, answering a long-standing question in bacterial physiology, and serving as a reminder that a well-designed genetic strategy can go a long way in uncovering new biology.