Search Results (14,906)

While the Ankom RF system facilitates efficient high-throughput in vitro fermentation studies, its high cost and limited flexibility constrain its broader applicability. To address these limitations, we developed and validated a low-cost, modular gas monitoring system (FerME), assembled from commercially available components. To evaluate its performance and reproducibility relative to the Ankom RF system (Ankom Technology, Macedon, NY, USA), in vitro rumen fermentation experiments were conducted under strictly controlled and identical conditions. Whole rumen contents were collected approximately 2 h post-feeding from individual mid- or late-lactation dairy cows and immediately transported to the laboratory. Each fermenter received 50 mL of processed rumen fluid, 100 mL of anaerobically prepared artificial saliva buffer, and 1.2 g of the donor cow’s diet. Bottles were sealed with the respective system’s pressure sensors, flushed with CO₂, and incubated in a 50 L water bath maintained at 39 °C. FerME (New Taipei City, Taiwan) and Ankom RF fermenters were placed side-by-side to ensure uniform thermal conditions. To assess the effect of filter bag use, an additional trial employed Ankom F57 filter bags (Ankom Technology, Macedon, NY, USA; 25 μm pore size). Trial 1 revealed no significant differences in cumulative gas production, volatile fatty acids (VFAs), NH₃-N, or pH between systems (p > 0.05). However, the use of filter bags reduced gas output and increased propionate concentrations (p < 0.05). Trial 2, which employed filter bags in both systems, confirmed comparable results, with the FerME system demonstrating improved precision (CV: 4.8% vs. 13.2%). Gas composition (CH₄ + CO₂: 76–82%) and fermentation parameters remained consistent across systems (p > 0.05). Importantly, with 12 pressure sensors, the total cost of FerME was about half that of the Ankom RF system. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that FerME is a reliable, low-cost alternative for real-time rumen fermentation monitoring and could be suitable for studies in animal nutrition, methane mitigation, and related applications. Full article

Public transport companies are aware that the success of their operations largely depends on the proper sizing and optimization of their processes. Among the key activities are the maintenance and repair of the vehicle fleet. This paper presents the application of mathematical optimization methods from the field of operations research to improve the efficiency of service workshops for bus maintenance and repair. Based on an analysis of collected data using queueing theory, the authors assessed the current system performance and found that the queueing system still has spare capacity and could be downsized, which aligns with the company’s management goals. Specifically, the company plans to reduce the number of bus repair service stations (servers in a queueing system). The main question is whether the system will continue to function effectively after this reduction. Three specific downsizing solutions were proposed and evaluated using queueing theory methods: extending the daily operating hours of the workshops, reducing the number of arriving buses, and increasing the productivity of a service station (server). The results show that, under high system load, only those solutions that increase the productivity of individual service stations (servers) in the queueing system provide optimal outcomes. Other solutions merely result in longer queues and associated losses due to buses waiting for service, preventing them from performing their intended function and causing financial loss to the company. Full article

Amidst global climate change, carbon emissions across the edible vegetable oil supply chain are critical for sustainable development. This paper systematically reviews the existing literature, employing life cycle assessment (LCA) to analyze key factors influencing carbon footprints at stages including cultivation, processing, and transportation. It reveals the differential impacts of fertilizer application, energy structures, and regional policies. Unlike previous reviews that focus on single crops or regions, this study uniquely integrates global data across major edible oils, identifying three critical gaps: methodological inconsistency (60% of studies deviate from the requirements and guidelines for LCA); data imbalance (80% concentrated on soybean/rapeseed); weak policy-technical linkage. Key findings: fertilizer emissions dominate cultivation (40–60% of total footprint), while renewable energy substitution in processing reduces emissions by 35%. Future efforts should prioritize multidisciplinary integration, enhanced data infrastructure, and policy scenario analysis to provide scientific insights for the low-carbon transformation of the global edible oil industry. Full article

Famatinite (Cu₃SbS₄) is an earth-abundant, nontoxic material with potential for thermoelectric energy generation applications. Herein, rapid, energy-efficient, and facile one-pot modified polyol synthesis was utilized to produce gram-scale quantities of phase-pure famatinite (Cu_2.7M_0.3SbS₄, M = Cu, Zn, Mn) nanoparticles (diameter 20–30 nm) with controllable and stoichiometric incorporation of transition metal dopants on the Cu-site. To produce pellets for thermoelectric characterization, the densification process by spark plasma sintering was optimized for individual samples based on thermal stability determined using differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis. Electronic transport properties of undoped and doped famatinite nanoparticles were studied from 225–575 K, and the thermoelectric power factor was calculated. This is the first time electronic transport properties of famatinite doped with Zn or Mn have been studied. All famatinite samples had similar resistivities (>0.8 mΩ·m) in the measured temperature range. However, the Mn-doped famatinite nanomaterials exhibited a thermoelectric power factor of 10.3 mW·m⁻¹·K⁻¹ at 575 K, which represented a significant increase relative to the undoped nanomaterials and Zn-doped nanomaterials engendered by an elevated Seebeck coefficient of ~220 µV·K⁻¹ at 575 K. Future investigations into optimizing the thermoelectric properties of Mn-doped famatinite nanomaterials are promising avenues of research for producing low-cost, environmentally friendly, high-performing thermoelectric materials. Full article

In high energy density physics, the demand for precise detection of nanosecond-level fast physical processes is high. Ga:ZnO (GZO), GaN, and other fast scintillators are widely used in pulsed signal detection. However, many of them, especially wide-bandgap materials, still face issues of low luminous intensity and significant self-absorption. Therefore, an enhanced method was proposed to tune the wavelength of materials via coating perovskite quantum dot (QD) films. Three-layer samples based on GZO were primarily investigated and characterized. Radioluminescence (RL) spectra from each face of the samples, as well as their decay times, were obtained. Lower temperatures further enhanced the luminous intensity of the samples. Its overall luminous intensity increased by 2.7 times at 60 K compared to room temperature. The changes in the RL processes caused by perovskite QD and low temperatures were discussed using the light tuning and transporting model. In addition, an experiment under a pico-second electron beam was conducted to verify their pulse response and decay time. Accordingly, the samples were successfully applied in beam state monitoring of nanosecond pulsed proton beams, which indicates that GZO wafer coating with perovskite QD films has broad application prospects in pulsed radiation detection. Full article

The regulation of calcium (Ca²⁺) homeostasis is a critical process in both plant and animal systems, involving complex interplay between various organelles and a diverse network of channels, pumps, and transporters. This review provides a concise overview of inter-organellar Ca²⁺ homeostasis, highlighting key regulators and mechanisms in plant and animal cells. We discuss the roles of key Ca²⁺ channels and transporters, including IP₃Rs, RyRs, TPCs, MCUs, TRPMLs, and P2XRs in animals, as well as their plant counterparts. Here, we explore recent innovations in structural biology and advanced microscopic techniques that have enhanced our understanding of these proteins’ structure, functions, and regulations. We examine the importance of membrane contact sites in facilitating Ca²⁺ transfer between organelles and the specific expression patterns of Ca²⁺ channels and transporters. Furthermore, we address the physiological implications of inter-organellar Ca²⁺ homeostasis and its relevance in various pathological conditions. For extended comparability, a brief excursus into bacterial intracellular Ca²⁺ homeostasis is also made. This meta-analysis aims to bridge the gap between plant and animal Ca²⁺ signaling research, identifying common themes and unique adaptations in these diverse biological systems. Full article

With the advancement of low-carbon and sustainable development initiatives, electric scooters, recognized as essential transportation tools and leisure products, have gained significant popularity, particularly among young people. However, the current electric scooter market is plagued by severe product similarity. Once the initial novelty fades for users, the usage frequency declines, resulting in considerable resource wastage. This research collected user needs via surveys and employed the KJ method (affinity diagram) to synthesize fragmented insights into cohesive thematic clusters. Subsequently, a hierarchical needs model for electric scooters was constructed using analytical hierarchy process (AHP) principles, enabling systematic prioritization of user requirements through multi-criteria evaluation. By establishing a house of quality (HoQ), user needs were transformed into technical characteristics of electric scooter products, and the corresponding weights were calculated. After analyzing the positive and negative correlation degrees of the technical characteristic indicators, it was found that there are technical contradictions between functional zoning and compact size, lightweight design and material structure, and smart interaction and usability. Then, based on the theory of inventive problem solving (TRIZ), the contradictions were classified, and corresponding problem-solving principles were identified to achieve a multi-functional innovative design for electric scooters. This research, leveraging a systematic industrial design analysis framework, identified critical pain points among electric scooter users, established hierarchical user needs through priority ranking, and improved product lifecycle sustainability. It offers novel methodologies and perspectives for advancing theoretical research and design practices in the electric scooter domain. Full article

Parabens—specifically methylparaben (MeP), ethylparaben (EtP), propylparaben (PrP), and butylparaben (BuP)—are widely used substances in everyday life, particularly as preservatives in pharmaceutical and food products. However, these compounds are not effectively removed by conventional water and wastewater treatment processes, potentially causing disruptions to human homeostasis and the endocrine system. This study conducted a transport and dimensional analysis through simulation of the adsorption process for these parabens, using zinc chloride-activated carbon derived from spent coffee grounds (ACZnCl₂) as the adsorbent, implemented via Aspen Properties^® and Aspen Adsorption^®. Simulations were performed for two inlet concentrations (50 mg/L and 100 mg/L) and two adsorption column heights (3 m and 4 m), considering a volumetric flow rate representative of a medium-sized city with approximately 100,000 inhabitants. The results showed that both density and surface tension of the parabens varied linearly with increasing temperature, and viscosity exhibited a marked reduction above 30 °C. Among the tested conditions, the configuration with 50 mg∙L⁻¹ inlet concentration and a 4 m column height demonstrated the highest adsorption capacity and better performance under adsorption–desorption equilibrium. These findings indicate that the implementation of adsorption beds on an industrial scale in water and wastewater treatment systems is both environmentally and socially viable. 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

The Shahejie Formation in Nanpu Sag is a crucial region for deep-layer hydrocarbon exploration in the Bohai Bay Basin. To address the impact of faults on sublacustrine fan formation and spatial distribution within the study area, this study integrated well logging, laboratory analysis, and 3D seismic data to systematically analyze sedimentary characteristics of sandbodies from the first member of the Shahejie Formation (Es₁) sublacustrine fans, clarifying their planar and cross-sectional distributions. Further research indicates that Gaoliu Fault activity during Es₁ deposition played a significant role in fan development through two mechanisms: (1) vertical displacement between hanging wall and footwall reshaped local paleogeomorphology; (2) tectonic stresses generated by fault movement affected slope stability, triggering gravitational mass transport processes that remobilized fan delta sediments into the central depression zone as sublacustrine fans through slumping and collapse mechanisms. Core observations reveal soft-sediment deformation features, including slump structures, flame structures, and shale rip-up clasts. Seismic profiles show lens-shaped geometries with thick centers thinning laterally, exhibiting lateral pinch-out terminations. Inverse fault-step architectures formed by underlying faults control sandbody distribution patterns, restricting primary deposition locations for sublacustrine fan development. The study demonstrates that sublacustrine fans in the study area are formed by gravity flow processes. A new model was established, illustrating the combined control of the Gaoliu Fault and reverse stepover faults on fan development. These findings provide valuable insights for gravity flow exploration and reservoir prediction in the Nanpu Sag, offering important implications for hydrocarbon exploration in similar lacustrine rift basins. Full article

Insulin-regulated glucose uptake is a central mechanism in maintaining systemic glucose homeostasis, primarily occurring in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue. This process relies on the insulin-stimulated translocation of the glucose transporter, GLUT4, from specialized intracellular compartments, known as GLUT4 storage vesicles (GSVs), to the plasma membrane. Disruption of this pathway is a hallmark of insulin resistance and a key contributor to the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes. Recent advances have provided critical insights into both the insulin signalling cascades and the complex biogenesis, as well as the trafficking and fusion dynamics of GSVs. This review synthesizes the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing GSV mobilization and membrane fusion, highlighting key regulatory nodes that may become dysfunctional in metabolic disease. By elucidating these pathways, we propose new therapeutic avenues targeting GSV trafficking to improve insulin sensitivity and combat type 2 diabetes. Full article

This review outlines a comprehensive methodology for the research and development of heterogeneous catalytic technologies (R&D_HeCaTe). Emphasis is placed on the fundamental interactions between reactants, solvents, and heterogeneous catalysts—specifically the roles of catalytic centers and support materials (e.g., functional groups) in modulating activation energies and stabilizing catalytic functionality. Particular attention is given to catalyst deactivation mechanisms and potential regeneration strategies. The application of molecular modeling and chemical engineering analyses, including reaction kinetics, thermal effects, and mass and heat transport phenomena, is identified as essential for R&D_HeCaTe. Reactor configuration is discussed in relation to key physicochemical parameters such as molecular diffusivity, reaction exothermicity, operating temperature and pressure, and the phase and “aggressiveness” of the reaction system. Suitable reactor types—such as suspension reactors, fixed-bed reactors, and flow microreactors—are evaluated accordingly. Economic and environmental considerations are also addressed, with a focus on the complexity of reactions, selectivity versus conversion trade-offs, catalyst disposal, and separation challenges. To illustrate the breadth and applicability of the proposed framework, representative industrial processes are discussed, including ammonia synthesis, fluid catalytic cracking, methanol production, alkyl tert-butyl ethers, and aniline. Full article

This paper presents the design and implementation of a high-precision vehicle detection and classification system for toll stations on national highways in Colombia, leveraging LiDAR-based 3D point cloud processing and supervised machine learning. The system integrates a multi-sensor architecture, including a LiDAR scanner, high-resolution cameras, and Doppler radars, with an embedded computing platform for real-time processing and on-site inference. The methodology covers data preprocessing, feature extraction, descriptor encoding, and classification using Support Vector Machines. The system supports eight vehicular categories established by national regulations, which present significant challenges due to the need to differentiate categories by axle count, the presence of lifted axles, and vehicle usage. These distinctions affect toll fees and require a classification strategy beyond geometric profiling. The system achieves $89.9\%$ overall classification accuracy, including $96.2\%$ for light vehicles and $99.0\%$ for vehicles with three or more axles. It also incorporates license plate recognition for complete vehicle traceability. The system was deployed at an operational toll station and has run continuously under real traffic and environmental conditions for over eighteen months. This framework represents a robust, scalable, and strategic technological component within Intelligent Transportation Systems and contributes to data-driven decision-making for road management and toll operations. Full article

As a typical porous medium, unsaturated loess demonstrates critical hydro-mechanical coupling properties that fundamentally influence geohazard mitigation, groundwater resource evaluation, and foundation stability in geotechnical engineering. This investigation develops a novel theoretical framework to overcome the limitations of existing models in converting electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) profiles into water content distributions for unsaturated loess through quantitative inversion modeling. Systematic laboratory investigations on remolded loess specimens with controlled density and water content conditions revealed distinct resistivity–water interaction mechanisms. A characteristic two-stage decay pattern was identified: resistivity exhibited an exponential decrease from 420 Ω·m (water saturation (S_w = 10%)) to 90 Ω·m (S_w = 40%), followed by asymptotic stabilization at S_w ≥ 40%. The derived quantitative correlation provides a robust mathematical basis for water content profile inversion. Field validation through integrated ERT and borehole data demonstrated exceptional predictive accuracy in shallow strata (<20 m depth), achieving mean absolute errors of <5%. However, inversion reliability decreased with depth (>20 m), primarily attributed to density-dependent charge transport mechanisms. This underscores the necessity of incorporating coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical processes for deep-layer characterization. This study provides a robust framework for engineering applications of ERT in loess terrains, offering significant advancements in geotechnical monitoring and geohazard prevention. Full article

Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) and Group Rapid Transit (GRT) are classes of fully automated public transport systems, where passengers can travel in small vehicles on an interconnected, grade-separated network of guideways, non-stop, from origin to destination. PRT and GRT are considered sustainable as they are low-emission and able to attract car drivers. The parameterized cost modeling framework developed in this paper has the advantage that profitability of different PRT/GRT systems can be rapidly verified in a transparent way and in function of a variety of relevant system parameters. This framework may contribute to a more transparent, rapid, and low-cost evaluation of PRT/GRT schemes for planning and decision-making purposes. The main innovation is the introduction of the “peak hour network saturation” S: the number of vehicles in circulation during peak hour divided by the maximum number of vehicles running at line speed with minimum time headways. It is an index that aggregates the main uncertainties in the planning process, namely the demand level relative to the supply level. Furthermore, a maximum S can be estimated for a PRT/GRT project, even without a detailed demand estimation. The profit per trip is analytically derived based on S and a series of more certain parameters, such as fares, capital and maintenance costs, daily demand curve, empty vehicle share, and physical properties of the system. To demonstrate the ability of the framework to analyze profitability in function of various parameters, we apply the methods to a single vehicle PRT, a platooned PRT, and a mixed PRT/GRT. The results show that PRT services with trip length proportional fares could be profitable already for $S>0.25$. The PRT capacity, profitability, and robustness to tripled infrastructure costs can be increased by vehicle platooning or GRT service during peak hours. Full article