Search Results (4,241)

The stability of nitrogen gas foam hinders its applicability in petroleum applications. Fly ash nanoparticles and clay improve the N₂ foam stability, and flue gas foams provide a cost-effective solution for carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS). This study examines the stability, volume, and bubble structure of foams formed using two anionic surfactants, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate (SDBS), along with the cationic surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), selected for their comparable interfacial tension properties. Analysis of foam stability and volume and bubble structure was conducted under different CO₂/N₂ mixtures, with half-life and initial foam volume serving as the evaluation criteria. The impact of fly ash and clay on SDS-N₂ foam was also evaluated. The results showed that foams created with CTAB, SDBS, and SDS exhibit the greatest stability in pure nitrogen, attributed to low solubility in water and limited gas diffusion. SDS showed the highest foam strength attributable to its comparatively low surface tension. The addition of fly ash and clay significantly improved foam stability by migrating to the gas–liquid interface, creating a protective barrier that reduced drainage. Both nano fly ash and clay improved the half-life of nitrogen foam by 11.25 times and increased the foam volume, with optimal concentrations identified as 5.0 wt% for fly ash and 3.0 wt% for clay. This research emphasizes the importance of fly ash nanoparticles in stabilizing foams, therefore optimizing a foam system for enhanced oil recovery (EOR). Full article

Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) have emerged as robust, cost-effective analogues of bioreceptors, offering high selectivity and stability. When applied in sensors, one key step is the integration of MIPs with the transducer, which critically affects sensor performance. Demanding challenges come when such integration involves nanoscaling processes, meaning that the transducer is nanostructured or the MIP itself is nanosized on a bulk transducer. In both cases, the integration results in the development of nanosensors, with advantages arising from the nanoscale, such as a high MIP surface-to-volume ratio, with surface-located, easily accessible binding sites, fast binding kinetics, and, thus, a rapid sensor response. Major advantages come also from nanostructured transducers, with nanoscale geometry enabling highly sensitive signal generation processes, not allowed on their bulk counterparts. In this review, we discuss advances in imprinting technologies, focusing on techniques that, enabling the nanoscale control of MIP synthesis, are conveniently applied to directly integrate MIPs with nanosensors in a one-step process. Two main approaches are reviewed, consisting in MIP nanostructuring on bulk transducers and in the direct growth of MIPs on nanotransducers, highlighting how different strategies achieve good conformity at the nanoscale and address spatial complexity to ensure stable and accurate signal acquisition. Finally, we consider future directions in MIP-based nanosensor development. Full article

Significant improvements in the forest-based industrial sector are expected due to increased digitalization; however, examples of practical implementations remain limited. This study explores the use of an automated algorithm to estimate truckload volumes based on 3D point cloud data acquired using two different LiDAR scanning platforms. This research compares the performance of a professional mobile laser scanning (MLS GeoSLAM) platform and a smartphone-based iPhone LiDAR system. A total of 48 truckloads were measured using a combination of manual, factory-based, and digital approaches. Accuracy was evaluated using standard error metrics, including the mean absolute error (MAE) and root mean square error (RMSE), with manual or factory references used as benchmarks. The results showed a strong correlation and no significant differences between the algorithmic and manual measurements when using the MLS platform (MAE = 2.06 m³; RMSE = 2.46 m³). For the iPhone platform, the results showed higher deviations and significant overestimation compared to the factory reference (MAE = 3.29 m³; RMSE = 3.60 m³). Despite these differences, the iPhone platform offers real-time acquisition and low-cost deployment. These findings highlight the trade-offs between precision and operational efficiency and support the adoption of automated measurement tools in timber supply chains. Full article

Forest volume is an important information for assessing the economic value and carbon sequestration capacity of forest resources and serves as a key indicator for energy flow and biodiversity. Although remote sensing technology is applied to estimate volume, optical remote sensing data have limitations in capturing forest vertical height information and may suffer from reflectance saturation. While LiDAR data can provide more detailed vertical structural information, they come with high processing costs and limited observation range. Therefore, improving the accuracy of volume estimation through multi-source data fusion has become a crucial challenge and research focus in the field of forest remote sensing. In this study, we integrated Sentinel-2 multispectral data, Resource-3 stereoscopic imagery, UAV-based LiDAR data, and field survey data to quantitatively estimate the forest volume in Saihanwula Nature Reserve, located in Inner Mongolia, China, on the southern part of Daxing’anling Mountains. The study evaluated the performance of multi-source remote sensing features by using recursive feature elimination (RFE) to select the most relevant factors and applied four machine learning models—multiple linear regression (MLR), k-nearest neighbors (kNN), random forest (RF), and gradient boosting regression tree (GBRT)—to develop volume estimation models. The evaluation metrics include the coefficient of determination (R²), root mean square error (RMSE), and relative root mean square error (rRMSE). The results show that (1) forest Canopy Height Model (CHM) data were strongly correlated with forest volume, helping to alleviate the reflectance saturation issues inherent in spectral texture data. The fusion of CHM and spectral data resulted in an improved volume estimation model with R² = 0.75 and RMSE = 8.16 m³/hm², highlighting the importance of integrating multi-source canopy height information for more accurate volume estimation. (2) Volume estimation accuracy varied across different tree species. For Betula platyphylla, we obtained R² = 0.71 and RMSE = 6.96 m³/hm²; for Quercus mongolica, R² = 0.74 and RMSE = 6.90 m³/hm²; and for Populus davidiana, R² = 0.51 and RMSE = 9.29 m³/hm². The total forest volume in the Saihanwula Reserve ranges from 50 to 110 m³/hm². (3) Among the four machine learning models, GBRT consistently outperformed others in all evaluation metrics, achieving the highest R² of 0.86, lowest RMSE of 9.69 m³/hm², and lowest rRMSE of 24.57%, suggesting its potential for forest biomass estimation. In conclusion, accurate estimation of forest volume is critical for evaluating forest management practices and timber resources. While this integrated approach shows promise, its operational application requires further external validation and uncertainty analysis to support policy-relevant decisions. The integration of multi-source remote sensing data provides valuable support for forest resource accounting, economic value assessment, and monitoring dynamic changes in forest ecosystems. Full article

This mini-review emphasizes the potential of biomass-derived materials as sustainable components for next-generation electrochemical energy storage systems. Biomass obtained from abundant and renewable natural resources can be transformed into carbonaceous materials. These materials typically possess hierarchical porosities, adjustable surface functionalities, and inherent heteroatom doping. These physical and chemical characteristics provide the structural and chemical flexibility needed for various electrochemical applications. Additionally, biomass-derived materials offer a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to traditional components, promoting green chemistry and circular resource utilization. This review provides a systematic overview of synthesis methods, structural design strategies, and material engineering approaches for their use in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs), and supercapacitors (SCs). It also highlights key challenges in these systems, such as the severe volume expansion of anode materials in LIBs and the shuttle effect in LSBs and discusses how biomass-derived carbon can help address these issues. Full article

Coupled grey and green infrastructure (CGGI) offers a promising pathway toward sustainable stormwater management in historic urban environments. This study compares CGGI and conventional grey infrastructure (GREI)-only strategies across four degrees of layout centralization (0%, 33.3%, 66.7%, and 100%) in the Quanzhou West Street Historic Reserve, China. Using a multi-objective optimization framework integrating SWMM simulations, life-cycle cost (LCC) modeling, and resilience metrics, we found that the decentralized CGGI layouts reduced the total LCC by up to 29.6% and required 60.7% less green infrastructure (GI) area than centralized schemes. Under nine extreme rainfall scenarios, the GREI-only systems showed slightly higher technical resilience (Tech-R: max 99.6%) than CGGI (Tech-R: max 99.1%). However, the CGGI systems outperformed GREI in operational resilience (Oper-R), reducing overflow volume by up to 22.6% under 50% network failure. These findings demonstrate that decentralized CGGI provides a more resilient and cost-effective drainage solution, well-suited for heritage districts with spatial and cultural constraints. Full article

Some of nuclear power’s primary detractors are the unique environmental challenges and impacts of radioactive wastes generated during fuel cycle operations. Key benefits of spent fuel reprocessing (SFR) are reductions in primary high active waste (HAW) masses, volumes, and lengths of radiotoxicity at the expense of secondary waste generation and high capital and operational costs. By employing advanced waste management and resource recovery concepts in SFR beyond the existing standard PUREX process, such as minor actinide and fission product partitioning, these challenges could be mitigated, alongside further reductions in HAW volumes, masses, and duration of radiotoxicity. This work assesses various current and proposed SFR and fuel cycle options as base cases, with further options for fission product partitioning of the high heat radionuclides (HHRs), rare earths, and platinum group metals investigated. A focus on primary waste outputs and the additional energy that could be generated by the reprocessing of high-burnup PWR fuel from Gen III(+) reactors using a simple fuel cycle model is used; the effects of 5- and 10-year spent fuel cooling times before reprocessing are explored. We demonstrate that longer cooling times are preferable in all cases except where short-lived isotope recovery may be desired, and that the partitioning of high-heat fission products (Cs and Sr) could allow for the reclassification of traditional raffinates to intermediate level waste. Highly active waste volume reductions approaching 50% vs. PUREX raffinate could be achieved in single-target partitioning of the inactive and low-activity rare earth elements, and the need for geological disposal could potentially be mitigated completely if HHRs are separated and utilised. Full article

Modernizing irrigation systems (ISs) from traditional gravity methods to sprinkler and drip technologies has significantly improved water use efficiency. However, it has simultaneously increased electricity demand and operational costs. Integrating photovoltaic generators into ISs represents a promising solution, as solar energy availability typically aligns with peak irrigation periods. Despite this potential, photovoltaic pumping systems (PVPSs) often face reliability issues due to fluctuations in solar irradiance, resulting in frequent start/stop cycles and premature equipment wear. The IEC 62253 standard establishes procedures for evaluating PVPS performance but primarily addresses steady-state conditions, neglecting transient regimes. As the main contribution, the current paper proposes a non-intrusive, high-resolution monitoring system and a methodology to assess the performance of an isolated, high-power PVPS, considering also transient regimes. The system records critical electrical, hydraulic and environmental parameters every second, enabling in-depth analysis under various weather conditions. Two performance indicators, pumped volume efficiency and equivalent operating time, were used to evaluate the system’s performance. The results indicate that near-optimal performance is only achievable under clear sky conditions. Under the appearance of clouds, control strategies designed to protect the system reduce overall efficiency. The proposed methodology enables detailed performance diagnostics and supports the development of more robust PVPSs. Full article

Background: Increasing regulatory pressure for maritime decarbonization (e.g., IMO CII, FuelEU) drives adoption of low-carbon fuels and prompts reassessment of regional ports’ competitiveness. This study aims to evaluate the economic and environmental viability of rerouting deep-sea container services to regional ports in a decarbonizing world. Methods: A scenario-based analysis is used to evaluate total costs and CO₂ emissions across the entire container shipping supply chain, incorporating deep-sea shipping, port operations, feeder services, and inland rail/road transport. The Port of Liverpool serves as the primary case study for rerouting Asia–Europe services from major ports. Results: Analysis indicates Liverpool’s competitiveness improves with shipping lines’ slow steaming, growth in hinterland shipment volume, reductions in the emission factors of alternative low-carbon fuels, and an increased modal shift to rail matching that of competitor ports (e.g., Southampton). A dual-port strategy, rerouting services to call at both Liverpool and Southampton, shows potential for both economic and environmental benefits. Conclusions: The study concludes that rerouting deep-sea services to regional ports can offer cost and emission advantages under specific operational and market conditions. Findings on factors and conditions influencing competitiveness and the dual-port strategy provide insights for shippers, ports, shipping lines, logistics agents, and policymakers navigating maritime decarbonization. Full article

The conventional manufacturing of refractory complex concentrated alloys (RCCAs) for high-temperature applications is complicated, particularly when material costs and high melting points of the materials processed are considered. Additive manufacturing (AM) could provide an effective alternative. However, the extreme temperatures involved represent significant challenges for manufacturing defect-free alloys using this approach. To address this issue, we investigated the preparation of a CrNbTiZr quaternary complex concentrated alloy from an equimolar blend of elemental powders using commercially available powder-blown L-DED technology. Initially, the alloys exhibited some defects owing to the internal stress caused by the temperature gradients. This was subsequently resolved by optimizing the deposition strategy. SEM, XRD and EDS were used to analyze the alloy in the as-deposited condition, revealing a BCC phase and a secondary Laves phase. Furthermore, Vickers hardness testing demonstrated a correlation between the hardness and the volume fraction of the Laves phase. Finally, successfully performed compression tests confirmed that the prepared material exhibits high-temperature strength and therefore is promising for high-temperature application under extreme conditions. Full article

Background/Objectives: Platelets play a role in bone metabolism and fracture healing. This study aimed to investigate the association between platelet indices and the derived systemic immune inflammation index (SII) with fracture risk in postmenopausal women. Methods: Platelet count, mean platelet volume, platelet distribution width (PDW), platelet crit, percentage of large platelets (P-LCR), platelet–lymphocyte ratio, and the SII, calculated as (NxP)/L, where N, P, and L represented neutrophils, platelets and lymphocytes counts, respectively, were evaluated. Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Results: A total of 124 women (mean age 68.4 ± 9 years) were stratified into two groups based on the median platelet count; the “lower platelet count group” (n = 58) had a count of 200,000 (174,000 to 226,000), while the “higher platelet count group” (n = 66) had a count of 281,500 (256,500 to 308,500). The higher platelet count group showed a higher hip fracture risk (7.4 vs. 4.5%, p = 0.08) and lower lumbar spine BMD (0.773 vs. 0.83 gr/cm², p = 0.03). By dividing the participants into two groups with higher SSI (950,848.6 ± 746,097.99) (n = 61) and lower SII (355,751.2 ± 88,662.6) (n = 63), the group with the higher SII showed the higher hip fracture risk (7.4 vs. 3.6%, p = 0.01). Univariate regression analysis revealed correlations between chronological age and PDW (r = 0.188, p = 0.047), and P-LCR (r = 0.208, p = 0.03), as well as associations between vitamin D status and P-LCR (r = −0.301, p = 0.034), and between SII and hip fracture risk (r = 0.12, p = 0.007). Conclusions: Platelet count and SII were associated with fracture risk in postmenopausal women undergoing osteoporosis assessment. Given their reproducibility and cost-effectiveness, these markers warrant further investigation in future prospective studies focused on bone fragility. Full article

The sugarcane industry plays a crucial economic role worldwide, with sucrose and ethanol as its main products. However, its processing generates large volumes of by-products—such as bagasse, molasses, vinasse, and straw—that contain valuable components for biotechnological valorization. This review integrates approximately 100 original research articles published in JCR-indexed journals between 2015 and 2025, of which over 50% focus specifically on sugarcane-derived agroindustrial residues. The biotechnological approaches discussed include submerged fermentation, solid-state fermentation, enzymatic biocatalysis, and anaerobic digestion, highlighting their potential for the production of biofuels, enzymes, and high-value bioproducts. In addition to identifying current advances, this review addresses key technical challenges such as (i) the need for efficient pretreatment to release fermentable sugars from lignocellulosic biomass; (ii) the compositional variability of by-products like vinasse and molasses; (iii) the generation of metabolic inhibitors—such as furfural and hydroxymethylfurfural—during thermochemical processes; and (iv) the high costs related to inputs like hydrolytic enzymes. Special attention is given to detoxification strategies for inhibitory compounds and to the integration of multifunctional processes to improve overall system efficiency. The final section outlines emerging trends (2024–2025) such as the use of CRISPR-engineered microbial consortia, advanced pretreatments, and immobilization systems to enhance the productivity and sustainability of bioprocesses. In conclusion, the valorization of sugarcane by-products through biotechnology not only contributes to waste reduction but also supports circular economy principles and the development of sustainable production models. Full article

Nasal irrigation (NI) is an effective, safe, low-cost strategy for treating and preventing upper respiratory tract diseases. High-volume, low-pressure saline irrigations are the most efficient method for removing infectious agents, allergens, and inflammatory mediators. This article reviews clinical evidence supporting NI use in various conditions: nasal congestion in infants, recurrent respiratory infections, acute and chronic rhinosinusitis, allergic and gestational rhinitis, empty nose syndrome, and post-endoscopic sinus surgery care. NI improves symptoms, reduces recurrence, enhances the efficacy of topical drugs, and decreases the need for antibiotics and decongestants. During the COVID-19 pandemic, NI has also been explored as a complementary measure to reduce viral load. Due to the safe profile and mechanical cleansing action on inflammatory mucus, nasal irrigations represent a valuable adjunctive treatment across a wide range of sinonasal conditions. Full article

Microfluidic platforms offer a powerful approach for ultimately replicating vascularization in vitro, enabling precise microscale control and manipulation of physical parameters. Despite these advances, the real-time ability to monitor and quantify mechanical forces—particularly pressure—within microfluidic environments remains constrained by limitations in cost and compatibility across diverse device architectures. Our work presents an advanced experimental module for quantifying pressure within a vascularizing microfluidic platform. Equipped with an integrated Arduino microcontroller and image monitoring, the system facilitates real-time remote monitoring to access temporal pressure and flow dynamics within the device. This setup provides actionable insights into the hemodynamic parameters driving vascularization in vitro. In-line pressure sensors, interfaced through I2C communication, are employed to precisely record inlet and outlet pressures during critical stages of microvasculature tubulogenesis. Flow measurements are obtained by analyzing changes in reservoir volume over time (dV/dt), correlated with the change in pressure over time (dP/dt). This quantitative assessment of various pressure conditions in a microfluidic platform offers insights into their impact on microvasculature perfusion kinetics. Data acquisition can help inform and finetune functional vessel network formation and potentially enhance the durability, stability, and reproducibility of engineered in vitro platforms for organoid vascularization in regenerative medicine. Full article

This study synthesizes the rapidly expanding evidence on how digital technologies reshape international trade, with a particular focus on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Guided by two research questions—(RQ1) How do digital tools influence the volume and composition of cross-border trade? and (RQ2) How do these effects vary by countries’ development level and firm size?—we conducted a PRISMA-compliant systematic literature review covering 2010–2024. Searches across eight major databases yielded 1857 records; after duplicate removal, title/abstract screening, full-text assessment, and Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT 2018) quality checks, 86 peer-reviewed English-language studies were retained. Findings reveal three dominant technology clusters: (1) e-commerce platforms and cloud services, (2) IoT-enabled supply chain solutions, and (3) emerging AI analytics. E-commerce and cloud adoption consistently raise export intensity—doubling it for digitally mature SMEs—while AI applications are the fastest-growing research strand, particularly in East Asia and Northern Europe. However, benefits are uneven: firms in low-infrastructure settings face higher fixed digital costs, and cybersecurity and regulatory fragmentation remain pervasive obstacles. By integrating trade economics with development and SME internationalization studies, this review offers the first holistic framework that links national digital infrastructure and policy support to firm-level export performance. It shows that the trade-enhancing effects of digitalization are contingent on robust broadband penetration, affordable cloud access, and harmonized data-governance regimes. Policymakers should, therefore, prioritize inclusive digital-readiness programs, while business leaders should invest in complementary capabilities—data analytics, cyber-risk management, and cross-border e-logistics—to fully capture digital trade gains. This balanced perspective advances theory and practice on building resilient, equitable digital trade ecosystems. Full article