bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of yttrium hydride formation on multi-isotopic hydrogen retention by a getter trap for the DONES lithium loop
Authors: Hendricks S.J. , Molla J. , Urgorri F.R. , Carella E. 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Compliance with imposed hydrogen concentration limits in the lithium loop of the DEMO-Oriented Neutron Source (DONES) requires the installation of an yttrium-based hydrogen trap. To determine an appropriate H-trap design, it is essential to have access to a numerical tool capable of simulating hydrogen transport in the DONES lithium loop connected to an yttrium pebble-bed. In the past, a simplified model was created that allows such calculations when hydrogen concentrations in the lithium are low. However, in certain DONES operating phases, the concentration in the lithium is high and in a range where yttrium dihydride (YH2) formation is likely. Due to the anticipated great impact of YH2 formation on the H-trap performance a new model is developed that includes the mechanism of hydride formation. It is based on a mathematical reproduction of complete pressure-composition isotherms of the Li–H and Y–H systems. Thus, the conditions that trigger YH2 formation are determined and the variation of hydrogen solubility in different yttrium hydride phases is deduced. An approximate concentration-dependent relationship of hydrogen diffusivity in yttrium is derived and incorporated into the model. Simulations are performed to analyze the dynamics of the concentration decrease during purification of the lithium circuit prior to the experimental DONES phase by varying design parameters of the trap. It is found that hydride formation greatly increases the hydrogen gettering capacity of the H-trap and limits the maximum concentration in the lithium. Indeed, YH2 formation may be purposefully triggered to exploit its beneficial properties for DONES. Simulations of the hydrogen purification process during the experimental phase of DONES show that the H-trap must be replaced at least every 28 days to meet tritium limits. This work sets the conditions for the required pebble-bed mass of the H-trap at a given temperature to comply with the DONES safety requirements. Finally, the model is validated by numerical reproduction of experimental results.
Transportation Oriented Development Method: literature review
Authors: Vega Julio , Balcázar Robinson , Guerra Xavier 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Cities are a wealth production system that attract more and more people in search of a better lifestyle. Migration to cities affects the demand for more housing, services and facilities that, in many cases, imply uncontrolled urban growth, an increase in the number of vehicles, processes of social segregation and effects on natural systems. Indeed, cities are responsible for 70% of greenhouse gas emissions, one of the causes of climate change. Transportation Oriented Development (TOD) is an urban planning model that considers higher density, mixed land use, promotion of public transportation and also promotes a walkable and cycleable environment. This study aims to identify the characteristics of TOD that, from various studies, contribute to the construction of a more efficient and equitable city. The objective is to identify and define the characteristics that build this urban planning approach. A review of the state of the art was carried out in two phases: the first consisted of a bibliometric review based on the Vosviewer software and in the second, 28 articles published in high-impact journals were reviewed according to the Scimago ranking. The results indicate that several of the characteristics of TOD overlap in several studies and that others are not considered at a general level and should be strengthened.
Citizen science as a tool for education: First Bioblitz in Quito, Ecuador
Authors: Páez-Vacas Mónica , Bustamante Martín R. , Baer Natasha , Oleas Nora H. , Adriana Argoti M. , Sandra Espinoza F , Lozano Zayda , Morales-Espín Belén , Mercedes Gavilanez María , Donoso David A. , Franco-Mena Daniela , Brito Jorge , Miguel Pinto C. , Salazar Laura , Endara María-José , Falconí-López Ana , Bravo-Vera Erick , Sánchez-Lara Enmily , Rivera-Albuja Jordi , Mena Liliana , Muñoz-Lara Kevin , Navas Daniel , Ortiz-Galarza Flor M. , Pamballo Tito , Pineda Doménica , Rivadeneira Jefferson , Segura Sebastián , Valencia Kevin , Vásquez-Barba Pamela , Salazar-Valenzuela David 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Bioblitz is a citizen global science initiative which aims to find and identify as many species of fauna and flora as possible in a specific area during a short period of time. This activity promotes the engagement of the public to learn about the biodiversity of a particular region, often in urban areas. The objective of this study was to do the first Bioblitz in Quito (Ecuador) to (1) survey the flora and fauna of Quito, specifically in the Guangüiltagua Metropolitan Park; and (2) engage citizens in such activity. This first Bioblitz, held on December 2, 2017, was organized by Universidad Tecnológica Indoamérica and Fundación Zoológica del Ecuador. The event was attended by 15 experts, 21 students, and 29 citizens, including two children under 10 years of age. Standard biological diversity assessment methods were used for amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals, insects, aquatic macroinvertebrates, and plants. A total of 18 species of birds, two of amphibians, one reptile, 21 terrestrial invertebrates, two macroinvertebrates, one mammal, and 26 plant species were identified. This experience allowed the engagement of citizens to learn about the local biodiversity in their city.
Perspectives of informal street waste pickers in Loja-Ecuador
Authors: Iñiguez-Gallardo Verónica , Romero Mejía Pablo. 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Waste pickers contribute to country environmental and sustainability goals, and yet they are a marginalised and precarious group that requires further research. Using a case study design of informal waste pickers in Loja-Ecuador, representatives from waste picker associations, recycling warehouses, and public agencies were interviewed about the dynamics of informal recycling in this city. In addition, street level waste pickers were interviewed to understand their difficulties. The data obtained were complemented by participant observation of the recycling work on the street. The results show that in the city of Loja, two types of waste pickers coexist —associated and non-associated—, those who are associated obtain higher profits although the main perceived benefit is to carry out the activity under the authority’s consent. Likewise, it was found that waste recovery is the main income source for most of the families engaged in this activity, however, the income generated varies by gender. Furthermore, the majority of waste pickers are women who, along with children and the elderly, are disadvantaged as compared with their male counterparts in performing this activity. Competition for recyclable material among waste pickers was cited as the main problem. The findings provide the basis for constructing an inclusive urban development process that considers the work of waste pickers within the framework of a popular and solidarity economy.
Storage Systems for Energy Harvesting Applications
Authors: Gordón Carlos , Salazar Fabián , Gallardo Cristina , Cuji Julio 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Currently, the use of energy from the environment to generate electricity has triggered applications like Energy Harvesting because it is an ecological and autonomous energy that can be used in countless applications, the disadvantage of these systems is the storage system so in this research, a literature review of the use of storage technologies for their implementation in energy Harvesting systems has been carried out. The main objective is to evaluate the performance of the soul-saving systems by making a comparison with existing batteries on the market, with an analysis of the modelling and simulation through Wolfram System Modeler where it allows to understand the behavior of the charging and unchanging processes from the results obtained in energy harvesting systems previously developed by students of the Technical University of Ambato obtaining parameters involved in them to test the Energy Harvesting system with different batteries and thus, achieve greater energy re-collection and storage. These results are very promising because it has been possible to demonstrate by simulation and measurement that the batteries contained in their composition are suitable for Energy Harvesting systems.
Effects of total dissolved solids and organic loadings on the chemical oxygen demand removal by yeast-activated sludge system.
Authors: Sinlapacheewa Peacharach , Sriariyanun Malinee , Pornwongthong Peerapong 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Typically, the soybean oil processing industry generates complex wastewater containing high total dissolved solids (TDS), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and fat oil and grease (FOG) contents with low pH. Therefore, treating this industrial wastewater with the conventional activated sludge (AS) wastewater treatment system is challenging. Yeast can be co-cultured with the activated sludge (AS) called yeast-activated sludge (YAS) to degrade high COD and salinity in the wastewater. However, little is known about the effects of TDS and organic loading (OLRs) on the performance of YAS system with the presence of both Rhodotorula mucilaginosa and Candida xylanilytica. In this study, we evaluated the effects of TDS and organic loading rates (OLRs) on the performances of the YAS system for soybean oil wastewater treatment. Four sequencing batch reactors (SBRs) were operated under aerobic conditions at different TDS concentrations 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% increasing rate. The results indicated that the TDS at the loading rate of 50% resulted in maximum biomass production. The overloading of the clarifier was observed and possibly caused by the accumulation of solids contained in the influent wastewater. At the OLR of 0.67 kg BOD5/m3-day and the TDS loading rate of 15.5 kg TDS/m3-day, the YAS system achieved the average COD removal efficiencies of 71±1%
Determination of GERR lifespan using RUSLE method and GIS integration
Authors: Shobary A S , Elsharkawy A S , El-Hanafy H E M , Moussa O M 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Soil erosion is a grave and ongoing matter that poses an intimidation to the ecosystem all around the world. On basins with enormous surface areas, sedimentation has a significant impact. The Blue Nile basin is considered one of these basins that would be exposed to erosion and sedimentation after construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), which will retain a large amount of sediments. The goal of this study is to calculate the lifespan of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Reservoir (GERR). In this research, the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) method, with the help of remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS), was utilized in order to determine soil erosion and sediment yield from the Blue Nile basin. Accordingly, lifespan of GERR could be estimated. The findings revealed that the total annual soil loss computed for Blue Nile basin is about 4.06*108 t. y−1, the total annual sediment yield equals about 1.21*108 t. y−1 and life span of GERR is estimated about 611 years. The approach presented in this study can be benefited from and applied in other basins that have the same conditions. Decision makers are able to use this approach to get reasonable results and control the problem of soil erosion and sedimentation.
Research on Scaling of Wastewater Transportation Pipes: A Review
Authors: Zhang L Z P , Yang C , Wang L , Wang X D 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
The pipes are prone to scaling and fouling during collection and transportation, mainly due to the complex and variable composition of industrial wastewater. It causes failure of the transmission system, shortens the life of the pipe, increases the operation cost, and poses potential risks to the ecological environment as well as human health. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to sort out the research progress on the factors influencing the scaling of wastewater transport pipes and the mechanism of action. To suggest scientific scale inhibition for wastewater transport pipes. The purpose of this paper is to ensure the safety stability along with the effectiveness of the transport pipeline and treatment structures. In addition to provide a reference for future research directions.
Utilization of Rice Straw Wastes as Aggregate in Lightweight Concrete Block Production by Using Cold Press Technique
Authors: Thongchua G , Suwan T , Jitsangiam P , Wattanachai P , Kamthai S , Thongchua H , Prom-u-thai C , Yamuangmorn S 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
A massive rice straw waste was collected annually after the harvesting period. To reduce the air pollution/PM 2.5 during the burning season and to utilize those straw wastes, the development of rice straw based-lightweight cement block was studied. A Cold press method was selected for block manufacturing as it could gain terrific compressive strength with user-friendly operation. It was found that the saturated surface dry (SSD) condition of the straws achieved higher strength than that of the as-received (AR) condition. SSD of straw had softer and more flexibility to easily disperse in the cement matrix. Moreover, extra water in the wet SSD straws could also allow internal curing for more hydration reactions inside the specimens during their curing period. The optimal proportion for the production of rice straw based-lightweight cement block, achieving 6.43 MPa, is 0.30 of w/c ratio with 2% of straw addition in the SDD state. The outcomes could promote a value-added concept and achieve greener and cleaner production for the development of environmentally friendly alternative construction materials.
Development of Polymeric Binder from Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) Foam Waste as Construction Materials
Authors: Van Deursen C , Suwan T , Laosuwan S , Wongmatar P , Kaewmoracharoen M , Suwan P 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) foam wastes become a huge environmental issue as most of them are non-biodegradable materials and are disposed of inappropriately. It was reported that the amount of plastic and foam wastes for food containers and other packagings was evidently increased during the past 5 years, especially since the COVID19 pandemic. This work studied the development of the polymeric foam binder from the EPS foam waste for the production of green construction blocks or pavement tiles. The types of solvent (acetone and toluene) and the amount of additional EPS foam binder were investigated. The results show that the appropriate mixtures contained EPS foam binder from 15% to 30% to achieve maximum compressive strength at approximately 10 to 12 MPa with the optimal unit weight of 1,600 to 1,900 kg/m3. Those outcomes have equally passed the strength class of Thai Industrial Standard (TIS 57 and 77) for construction brick and block. This eco-friendly technique could facilitate value-added production and reduce the environmental impact of EPS wastes disposal. Moreover, it is one of the alternative approaches to promote greener and cleaner production for environmentally friendly construction materials.
The Substitution of Natural Zeolite with Agriculture Waste as Carbon Dioxide Adsorbent in Biogas Purification
Authors: Pertiwiningrum A , Wuri M A , Tontowi A E , Harto A W , Wicaksono P A 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Today, climate change is a global issue that must be resolved as soon as possible. Many governments take action to include renewable energy in energy mix policy. For Indonesia, biogas energy becomes one of many adopted alternative renewable energy sources. To increase the adoption of biogas in energy mix of Indonesia, biogas improvement should be enhanced. Biogas purification by adsorption is one of many methods of biogas improvement. To reduce the cost of biogas purification, we substitute natural zeolite with a local and waste-based adsorbent, the rice husk-based-biochar. In this study, we used five formulations with different ratios of zeolite and biochar: A1 (100% of natural zeolite), A2 (75%:25%), A3 (50%:50%), A4 (25%:75%), and A5 (100% of biochar) to decrease carbon dioxide composition and increase the calorific value of biogas. The substitution of 25% volume of zeolite with rice husk-based-biochar adsorbed 10.63% carbon dioxide. However, the substitution above 25% actually reduced the ability to adsorb carbon dioxide. The results showed that there is no correlation between carbon dioxide and the calorific value of biogas so further study needs to be developed to improve the biogas purification.
Theoretical prediction of novel two-dimensional MA2Z4 family for Li/Na battery anodes
Authors: Liu Yuyan , Ji Yujin , Ding Yi-Min , Li Youyong , Lee Shuit-Tong 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
The synthesized MoSi2N4 marks a new-born two-dimensional MA2Z4 family. In this work, we present a comprehensive study on the MA2Z4 family as anodes for Li- and Na-ion batteries (LIBs and SIBs) based on first-principle calculations. There exists a linear relationship between the ion adsorption energy

E

ads

and the energy level of the lowest unoccupied states

E

LUS

of MA2Z4, and a lower

E

LUS

leads to more energetically favorable electron occupation and hence stronger adsorption.

E

LUS

acts as a simple and useful descriptor, which allows for the straightforward prediction of ion adsorption based solely on the substrate electronic properties. Through evaluating the theoretical capacities and diffusion barriers, NbGe2N4 is predicted to be the most promising candidate for LIBs while VSi2P4 is better for SIBs, with maximum theoretical capacities of 547 mAh g−1 and 696 mAh g−1 and ion diffusion barriers of 0.34 eV and 0.10 eV, respectively. Moreover, NbGe2N4 and VSi2P4 show good phase stabilities by the analysis of their phase transformations. This study explores the application prospects of novel MA2Z4 in LIBs and SIBs and provides a deep understanding of intrinsic electronic mechanisms.
Combined estimation of B1 and T1 for dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI by accounting for incomplete spoiling of transverse magnetization
Authors: He J , Li Z F , Qi T F , Hou Z , Koh T S 
Published: March 2023

Abstract

Objective. The variable flip angle (VFA) method for longitudinal relaxation time (T
1) measurement is inherently sensitive to inaccuracies in the radiofRequency transmit field (B
1) and incomplete spoiling of transverse magnetization. The objective of this study is to devise a computational method that addresses the problems of incomplete spoiling and B
1 inhomogeneity in the estimation of T
1 using VFA method. Approach. Using an analytical expression of the gradient echo signal with account of incomplete spoiling, we first showed that ill-posedness in the simultaneous estimation of B
1 and T
1 can be lifted with the use of flip angles larger than the Ernst angle. We then devised a nonlinear optimization method based on this signal model of incomplete spoiling for simultaneous estimation of B
1 and T
1. Main results. We evaluated the proposed method on a graded-concentration phantom to show that the derived T
1 estimates offers an improvement over the regular VFA method and compares well with reference values measured by inversion recovery. Reduction of the number of flip angles from 17 to 5 yielded consistent results indicating that the proposed method is numerically stable. T
1 estimates derived from in-vivo brain imaging were consistent with literature values for gray and white matter tissues. Significance. Contrary to the common notion that B
1 correction in the VFA method for T
1 mapping should be performed separately, we show that combined estimation of B
1 and T
1 is feasible by the proposed method simply with the acquisition of 5 flip angles, as demonstrated on both phantom and in-vivo imaging data.
On the physics of ultrasound transmission for in-plane needle tracking in guided interventions
Authors: Malamal Gayathri , Panicker Mahesh Raveendranatha 
Published: March 2023

Abstract

Objective. In ultrasound (US) guided interventions, the accurate visualization and tracking of needles is a critical challenge, particularly during in-plane insertions. An inaccurate identification and localization of needles lead to severe inadvertent complications and increased procedure times. This is due to the inherent specular reflections from the needle with directivity depending on the angle of incidence of the US beam, and the needle inclination. Approach. Though several methods have been proposed for improved needle visualization, a detailed study emphasizing the physics of specular reflections resulting from the interaction of transmitted US beam with the needle remains to be explored. In this work, we discuss the properties of specular reflections from planar and spherical wave US transmissions respectively through multi-angle plane wave (PW) and synthetic transmit aperture (STA) techniques for in-plane needle insertion angles between 15°–50°. Main Results. The qualitative and quantitative results from simulations and experiments reveal that the spherical waves enable better visualization and characterization of needles than planar wavefronts. The needle visibility in PW transmissions is severely degraded by the receive aperture weighting during image reconstruction than STA due to greater deviation in reflection directivity. It is also observed that the spherical wave characteristics starts to alter to planar characteristics due to wave divergence at large needle insertion depths. Significance. The study highlights that synergistic transmit-receive imaging schemes addressing the physical properties of reflections from the transmit wavefronts are imperative for the precise imaging of needle interfaces and hence have strong potential in elevating the quality of outcomes from US guided interventional practices.
Explicit Upper Bound Of Impossible Differentials For AES-Like Ciphers: Application To uBlock And Midori
Authors: Zhang Li , Zhang Yu , Wu Wenling , Mao Yongxia , Zheng Yafei 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Whether a block cipher can resist impossible differential attack is an important basis to evaluate the security of a block cipher. However, the length of impossible differentials is important for the security evaluation of block ciphers. Most of the previous studies are based on structural cryptanalysis to find the impossible differential, and the structural cryptanalysis covers a lot of specific cryptanalytic vectors which are independent of the nonlinear S-boxes. In this paper, we study the maximum length of the impossible differential of an Advanced Encryption Standard-like cipher in the setting with the details of S-boxes. Inspired by the ‘Divide-and-Conquer’ technique, we propose a new technique called Reduced Block, which combines the details of the S-box. With this tool, the maximum length of impossible differentials can be proven under reasonable assumptions. As applications, we use this tool on uBlock and Midori. Consequently, we prove that for uBlock-128, uBlock-256 and Midori-64, there are no impossible five-round, six-round and seven-round differentials with one active input nibble and one active output nibble, even when considering the details of S-boxes. Furthermore, we reveal some properties of the uBlock S-box and linear layer and demonstrate theoretically that there are no impossible differentials longer than four rounds for uBlock-128 under the assumption that the round keys are independent and uniformly random. This study might provide some insight into the bounds of the length of impossible differentials.