Proceedings, 2019, Stand Alone Papers 2019

The paper discusses the outcomes of the conference organized by the InDeal project. The conference took place on 12 December 2018 in Montpellier as part of the EnerGaia energy forum 2018. A holistic interdisciplinary approach for district heating and cooling (DHC) networks is presented that integrates heterogeneous innovative technologies from various scientific sectors. The solution is based on a multi-layer control and modelling framework that has been designed to minimize the total plant production costs and optimize heating/cooling distribution. Artificial intelligence tools are employed to model uncertainties associated with weather and energy demand forecasts, as well as quantify the energy storage capacity. Smart metering devices are utilized to collect information about all the crucial heat substations’ parameters, whereas a web-based platform offers a unique user environment for network operators. Three new technologies have been further developed to improve the efficiency of pipe design of DHC systems: (i) A new sustainable insulation material for reducing heat losses, (ii) a new quick-fit joint for an easy installation, and (iii) a new coating for reducing pressure head losses. The results of a study on the development and optimization of two energy harvesting systems are also provided. The assessment of the environmental, economic and social impact of the proposed holistic approach is performed through a life cycle analysis. The validation methodology of the integrated solution is also described, whereas conclusions and future work are finally given. Full article

The 42nd Annual Scientific Meeting of the Nutrition Society of Australia was held in Canberra, Australia from November 27 to 30, 2018. The theme of the meeting was Nutrition Science: The nexus between health policy and practice. Abstracts were submitted from 21 countries. Two-hundred-and-forty-four registrants attended the conference and 175 papers were presented consisting of 14 plenary, 77 oral and 84 poster presentations. This issue presents the proceedings of this meeting in the form of abstracts for papers presented at the conference. Full article