Comprehensive Efficiency Evaluation Research Articles

Enhancing Efficiency, Stability, and Cycle Life of Lithium Metal Electrodeposition in Dry Solid-State Polymer Electrolytes.

Dry solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs), particularly those based on poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO), hold significant potential for advancing solid-state Li-metal battery (LMB) technology. Despite extensive research over the years, a comprehensive evaluation of Coulombic efficiency (CE), deposit stability, and cycle life for reversible Li metal electrodeposition in SPE-based cells is still lacking. In this study, we systematically assess the effect of cycling conditions on the CE of Li|SPE|Cu half cells and provide a thorough examination of different electrolyte chemistries, highlighting and explaining their performance across various parameters. While the efficiency of the PEO-based SPEs still falls short of the efficiency benchmark set by liquid and gel electrolytes, we demonstrated >95% CE with Lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (LiFSI)-based SPEs, surpassing previous reports for dry SPEs in a Li|SPE|Cu cells, this result marks a significant breakthrough. Furthermore, our findings highlight the critical impact of the Li-SPE interphase on these performance metrics. The LiFSI-based SPE forms a Li-rich, high-conductivity interphase, which not only enhances efficiency but also improves cycle life and Li deposit stability. These results underscore the importance of selecting the right polymer electrolyte chemistry and concentration to enhance SPE performance.

Experimental Study of Bifacial Photovoltaic Module Performance on a Sunny Day with Varying Backgrounds Using Exergy and Energy Analysis

In this research, ethe performance of bifacial photovoltaic (PV) modules under varying background conditions is explored, specifically green grass, brown clay, and white gravel, on a sunny day. By leveraging both exergy and energy analysis, this research aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation of bifacial module efficiency compared to traditional monofacial modules. The experimental setup simulates diverse installation environments, including rooftops and ground-mounted systems, by varying background reflectance. Key performance metrics such as energy yield, exergy yield, and overall efficiency were measured. The findings reveal that bifacial modules installed over white gravel backgrounds achieve the highest exergy profile and efficiency during peak solar radiation periods, attributed to the enhanced reflectivity of white gravel. These insights can inform strategic decisions regarding the selection and placement of bifacial modules to optimize energy and exergy outputs in real-world scenarios. This study contributes valuable knowledge to the advancement of renewable energy technologies, offering guidance for researchers, developers, and policymakers focused on sustainable energy solutions.

Network Integration as a Tool for Sustainable Business Development

Business enterprises are required to adopt new economic models and business strategies in line with global trends such as the green agenda, the shortening of innovation cycles, digitalization (networking platforms) and socio-economic security. The models of network integrations (clusters, industrial symbioses, innovation ecosystems, etc.) are developing faster than other business models. Networking allows businesses to synergetically, based on the principles of collaboration, trust and self-organization, increase intellectual, innovative, social, and environmental values, which leads to economic growth and sustainable development. Through networking integration, the business performance of all participants in multi-company projects can be improved, regardless of their size and activities. The purpose of this study is to develop a methodological framework for assessing the synergistic effect and the level of collaborative maturity of participants in network industrial integration. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis and evaluation of network business integration efficiency. The authors’ methodology is based on the AHP hierarchy method, expert evaluation and Harrington’s level of desirability. The methodology is validated on Russian industrial integrations: industrial cluster of Nizhny Novgorod region; pipeline valve manufacturing cluster; South Ural industrial cluster producing spare parts and assembly units for roadbuilding, construction and agricultural vehicles. The results show that the level of collaborative maturity of business partners and the synergies from network integration effect the sustainability of business development. Recommendations for businesses are provided to improve their network integration and collaborative maturity. Furthermore, the findings allow the authors to define directions for further research, considering the interests of the business community, regional authorities, and financial institutions, and provide a framework for researchers to investigate the link between industrial network integration and economic growth.

Modern Methods of Evaluating the Efficiency of Logistics Processes in a Company

The article discusses modern methods of assessing the efficiency of logistics processes, which are one of the most important components of the successful functioning of any company, especially in today's fierce competition and globalization. The article assesses the efficiency of logistics processes, which are an integral part of the company's strategic management and allow ensuring its stable development. The analysis of modern methods for assessing the efficiency of logistics processes in a company has allowed to identify three important tools, such as: data envelopment analysis (DEA), ABC analysis and cost analysis and control method. It is proved that the DEA method can be applied to a wide range of logistics systems, regardless of their complexity and specificity. In addition, DEA allows to identify factors that limit efficiency and develops recommendations for its improvement. The value of ABC analysis is highlighted, which lies in the potential to increase sales volumes by improving the availability of goods that are most valued by customers. An assessment of the efficiency of logistics processes in a company using ABC analysis is proposed. The importance of such a method as cost analysis and control is analyzed. Thanks to a detailed analysis and control of costs, it is possible to identify bottlenecks in the logistics chain, optimize delivery routes, reduce storage costs and increase the efficiency of vehicle use. The author proposes the key stages of the logistics cost analysis based on the “Five Steps” system. It is proved that the joint use of the proposed methods creates synergy, allowing for a deeper and more accurate analysis than when each of them is applied separately. The methods we have studied complement each other, providing company managers with tools for comprehensive analysis and evaluation of logistics efficiency.

The ventromedial prefrontal cortex plays an important role in implicit emotion regulation: A focality-optimized multichannel tDCS study in anxiety individuals.

The regulation of emotions is a crucial facet of well-being and social adaptability, with explicit strategies receiving primary attention in prior research. Recent studies, however, emphasize the role of implicit emotion regulation, particularly implicating the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (VMPFC) in association with its implementation. This study delves into the nuanced role of the VMPFC through focality-optimized multichannel transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), shedding light on its causal involvement in implicit reappraisal. The primary goal was to evaluate the effectiveness of VMFPC-targeted tDCS and elucidate its role in individuals with high trait anxiety. Participants engaged in implicit and explicit emotion regulation tasks during multichannel tDCS targeting the VMPFC. The outcome measures encompassed negative emotion ratings, pupillary diameter, and saccade count, providing a comprehensive evaluation of emotion regulation efficiency. The intervention exhibited a notable impact, resulting in significant reductions in negative emotion ratings and pupillary reactions during implicit reappraisal, highlighting the indispensable role of the VMPFC in modulating emotional responses. Notably, these effects demonstrated sustained efficacy up to 1 day postintervention. This study underscores the potency of VMPFC-targeted multichannel tDCS in augmenting implicit emotion regulation. This not only contributes insights into the neural mechanisms of emotion regulation but also suggests innovative therapeutic avenues for anxiety disorders. The findings present a promising trajectory for future mood disorder interventions, bridging the gap between implicit emotion regulation and neural stimulation techniques.

The formation process of the gaseous pollutant emissions in pure ammonia fueled engines with pre-chamber jet ignition

Ammonia, as a carbon-free fuel, can serve as an alternative fuel for future engines, which is consistent with the requirements of national carbon reduction policies. However, the higher concentrations of NOx, unburned ammonia and hydrogen emissions of ammonia-fueled engines need to be controlled seriously to meet the increasingly stringent emission regulations. In this study, a pre-chamber jet ignition single-cylinder engine with port pure ammonia injection was carried. The formation process of gaseous pollutants during engine operation was investigated using CFD simulations in the equivalence ratio range of 0.8–1.3. And, the study also discusses different methods for reducing gaseous pollutant emissions. The results reveal that under lean burn conditions, the ITE can exceed 49%, and unburned ammonia and hydrogen emissions are extremely low. However, the NO emission concentration is relatively high, reaching above 1500 × 10−6, and primarily dominated by thermal NO. N2O is primarily distributed near the flame front, The low temperature at the cylinder walls decelerates the pyrolysis of N2O, coupled with the influence of secondary combustion, both leading to higher N2O emission concentrations, with maximum value reaching 78.6 × 10−6. NO2 emissions are primarily generated in the burned regions. Under rich burn conditions, the ITE significantly decreases, with an ITE of only 34.6% at an equivalence ratio of 1.3. The unburned ammonia emissions rise with an increase in the equivalence ratio, and hydrogen emissions are mainly generated through the pyrolysis of residual ammonia in the burned region, so that the elevated unburned ammonia emissions could lead to an increase in hydrogen emissions. Fuel NO is dominant in NO emissions, and the reduction reaction of unburned ammonia results in extremely low emission concentrations, and also leading to the low levels of N2O and NO2 emissions. According to a comprehensive evaluation of pollutant emissions and engine thermal efficiency, stoichiometric condition is deemed optimal for engine operation, as it can achieve a balance between ITE and gaseous pollutant emissions. Moreover, the adoption of water injection technology can further reduce NOx emissions. Furthermore, the EGR technology and direct liquid ammonia injection will also achieve lower NOx emissions. However, it is insufficient to meet the national emission regulations that only controlling gaseous pollutant emissions during the combustion, and development of the special aftertreatment systems for ammonia fueled engines should not be neglected.

Comparative analysis of amine-functionalized silica for direct air capture (DAC): Material characterization, performance, and thermodynamic efficiency

Direct air capture (DAC) technology faces challenges due to energy-intensive processes and limited CO2 capture capacity under atmospheric concentration. Utilizing adsorption techniques with solid sorbents offers a sustainable solution. This study investigates the performance, efficiency, and regeneration energy of various amines (TEPA, low and high molecular weights PEI and APTES) functionalized mesoporous silica (SBA-15) for DAC. Comprehensive investigations, including characterization and thermodynamic efficiency evaluation, are conducted for CO2 adsorption under dry and humid conditions (50 % RH). Functionalizing SBA-15 with TEPA, PEI-L and PEI-H, and TEPA significantly improves CO2 adsorption, increasing capacities to 2.1, 1.36, and 1.11 mmol/g, respectively, and introduction of humidity further increases CO2 capacities to 3.17, 2.87, and 1.68 mmol/g, respectively. However, there’s a trade-off in thermodynamic efficiency due to energy consumed in desorbing water molecules. S-TEP exhibits the highest thermodynamic efficiency in dry conditions, while S-PEI-L achieves the highest efficiency in humid conditions. Stability tests of all material in addition to, the commercial material, lewatit demonstrate robust regenerability over 10 cycles under both dry and humid conditions (50 % RH). This study provides insights into functionalized SBA-15 performance in CO2 adsorption, with implications for efficient and sustainable indoor DAC processes.

Assessing the Efficiency of Microalgae in the Removal of Salicylic Acid from Contaminated Water: Insights from Zebrafish Embryo Toxicity Tests

Microalgae-based water treatments for the removal of different types of pollution have been gaining considerable attention during the last few decades. However, information about microalgae potential in the removal of pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) and the ecotoxicological outcomes is still limited. Therefore, in this work, we aimed at investigating salicylic acid removal from water by three different microalgae strains, namely Chlorella sorokiniana, Chlorella vulgaris and Scenedesmus obliquus. For such a purpose, photobioreactors were operated under batch and semi-continuous mode. Apart from determining the reduction in the concentration of salicylic acid attained by each strain, we used zebrafish embryo bioassays to assess the efficiency of microalgae to reduce its toxicity effects. S. obliquus was the strain that achieved the most significant decrease in the concentration and toxic effects of salicylic acid. Indeed, S. obliquus was able to rescue mortality and reduce abnormalities at practically 100%. The efficiency of C. sorokiniana and, especially, that of C. vulgaris were not so remarkable, indicating that the removal of SA and its toxic effects from water by microalgae is markedly strain dependent. The obtained results proved the importance of considering toxic effects for a more comprehensive evaluation of microalgae efficiency in the removal of PPCPs in view of an adequate selection for water treatment.

Comprehensive performance analysis of CST-PV system based on spectral beam splitting film

Abstract In this paper, a novel linear Fresnel concentrator (LFC) with a rotating platform was constructed, and a novel concentrated solar thermal and photovoltaic (CST-PV) hybrid system utilizing spectral beam splitting was established on the LFC. A spectral beam-splitting film (SBSF) was coated on the PV cell’s inner glass wall, replacing the LFC’s primary reflector. The SBSF can transmit the solar spectrum of 300-1100 nm to the photovoltaic (PV) cells and reflect the remaining solar wavelengths to the absorber to generate heat. The LFC’s cosine efficiency and end efficiency after azimuthal compensation by a rotating platform were calculated through theoretical analysis. The effects of temperature on the efficiency of PV and linear Fresnel solar systems were studied through experimental and numerical simulations. The comprehensive utilization efficiency evaluation method was established. The results show that the LFC’s end efficiency and cosine efficiency in this paper, after azimuthal compensation, increased by 31.7% and 33.7%, respectively, compared with the east-west and north-south axis placement. The comprehensive utilization efficiency of the CST-PV system based on SBS is 61.58%, which increased by 13.47% compared to that of the single fixed PV system.

Comprehensive Evaluation of Anti-icing Performance and Operational Efficiency of Superhydrophobic Propellers.

The icing of propellers is a critical factor that affects the safe operation of aircraft. A superhydrophobic surface, with its extremely low wettability, is highly valuable in the field of anti-icing. This study investigates the distribution pattern of ice on propeller surfaces by employing spray coating to create superhydrophobic surfaces. Additionally, it conducts a comparative analysis of thrust and power under icing and non-icing conditions to comprehensively assess the impact of superhydrophobic surfaces on propeller operation efficiency. The results show that superhydrophobic surfaces not only diminish the ice formation area on propeller surfaces but also enhance the traction of propellers under icing conditions, reducing the power consumption of the propeller. The generated thrust can reach up to 1.6 times that of non-superhydrophobic propellers while consuming only one-third of the power. Furthermore, under non-icing conditions, superhydrophobic surfaces exhibit minimal impact on propeller performance.

Advancing group efficiency evaluation in DEA with negative data: an empirical application in the banking industry

Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) plays a pivotal role in assessing production unit efficiency. This study extends group efficiency assessment within the banking sector by utilizing the Modified Semi-Oriented Radial Measure (MSORM) model, specifically designed to handle negative data. It introduces two distinct efficiency definitions and develops models for their evaluation within these groups. Focusing on banks as decision-making units, the MSORM model delves into the intricacies of group efficiency. By effectively addressing negative data complexities, it enables a comprehensive evaluation of bank efficiency across various group frameworks. The study further examines the efficacy of efficiency definitions based on average and weakest performances within the MSORM framework. Empirical findings reveal significant variations in group efficiency assessment under different paradigms, highlighting the impact of the evaluation approach. This research contributes valuable insights into performance variations within the banking industry and aids in enhancing efficiency evaluations in banking systems.

Decoupling government spending from carbon emissions: A spatio-temporal analysis of 283 Chinese cities

A comprehensive evaluation of government spending efficiency and its connection to emissions reduction is vital for sustainable green economic progress. However, the precise nature of the decoupling relationship between carbon emissions and government spending at the city level remains uncertain. Here, using the panel data from 283 cities covering the period from 2007 to 2020, we employ diverse methodologies, such as Kernel density estimation and spatiotemporal autocorrelation analysis, to examine the spatiotemporal distribution of decoupling and identify key contributors through LMDI decomposition analysis. We find that initially, most cities demonstrated weak decoupling, but after 2010, a subset of cities achieved strong decoupling. The spatiotemporal distribution analysis highlights an expansion of inter-city differences in decoupling values and a reduction in the number of cities forming clusters after 2015. Furthermore, an increasing number of cities experienced positive emission intensity effects, while the positive effects of government spending on labor input consistently decreased. Initially, the positive effect of government spending on economic development declined but later showed a slight increase. The distribution of cities with a positive impact of government spending scale shifted from dispersed to concentrated in northern regions, resulting in a decrease in the number of cities with a positive impact.

Development of quantum machine learning to evaluate the corrosion inhibition capability of pyrimidine compounds

This investigation employs a quantum neural network (QNN) synergistically integrated with a quantitative structure-property relationship (QSPR) model for the comprehensive evaluation of corrosion inhibition efficiency (CIE) in pyrimidine compounds. The QNN, exhibiting superior performance over conventional methodologies, attains commendable predictive precision, as evidenced by metrics: R2 = 0.981, RMSE = 0.53, MAE = 0.43, and MAD = 0.42. The prognosticated CIE values for the synthesized derivatives (P1, P2, P3) are 91.17, 98.69, and 99.21, respectively. This pioneering approach holds promise for a transformative impact on both the manufacturing and evaluation procedures associated with novel anti-corrosion materials.

Pore-scale simulation of low-salinity waterflooding in mixed-wet systems: effect of corner flow, surface heterogeneity and kinetics of wettability alteration

The initial wettability state of the candidate oil reservoirs for low-salinity waterflooding (LSWF) is commonly characterized as mixed-wet. In mixed-wet systems, both the two-phase flow dynamics and the salt transport are significantly influenced by the corner flow of the wetting phase. Thus this study aims at comprehensive evaluation of LSWF efficiency by capturing the effect of corner flow and non-uniform wettability distribution. In this regard, direct numerical simulations under capillary-dominated flow regime were performed using the OpenFOAM Computational Fluid Dynamics toolbox. The results indicate that corner flow results in the transport of low-salinity water ahead of the primary fluid front and triggers a transition in the flow regime from a piston-like to multi-directional displacement. This then makes a substantial difference of 22% in the ultimate oil recovery factors between the 2D and quasi-3D models. Furthermore, the interplay of solute transport through corners and wettability alteration kinetics can lead to a new oil trapping mechanism, not reported in the literature, that diminishes LSWF efficiency. While the findings of this study elucidate that LSWF does exhibit improved oil recovery compared to high-salinity waterflooding, the complicating phenomena in mixed-wet systems can significantly affect the efficiency of this method and make it less successful.

Research of IoT Technology Based Online Status Monitoring on Hydropower Station Equipment

The rapid proliferation of the Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized the field of status monitoring for electrical equipment such as hydropower station equipment, offering enhanced efficiency and reliability in maintenance and operations. In this paper, we investigate the utilization of IoT transmission technology enhanced by multiple relays, denoted as $M$ relays, to augment the monitoring of hydropower station equipment. To further optimize the performance of the system, we employ partial relay selection, commonly referred to as selection combining. This study delves into the analysis of the system performance by deriving analytical data rates, with a focus on quantifying the benefits of employing partial relay selection in IoT transmission for electrical equipment status monitoring. Our analytical approach enables a comprehensive evaluation of system efficiency, considering factors such as data rate, reliability, and power consumption. Through our analysis, we aim to provide valuable insights into the trade-offs and advantages of incorporating partial relay selection into IoT systems, ultimately assisting in the development of more effective and efficient solutions for status monitoring on electrical equipment. By examining the impact of $M$ relays and partial relay selection on IoT transmission technology, this research contributes to the ongoing efforts to enhance the reliability and robustness of status monitoring for electrical equipment, ultimately advancing the capabilities of IoT-based solutions in the context of electrical systems and equipment maintenance.

A comprehensive automatic labeling and repair strategy for cracks and peeling conditions of literary murals in ancient buildings

To protect the historical and cultural heritage, the application of self-organizing mapping networks and genetic algorithms in the restoration of ancient architectural murals is studied. The results show that the average repair time for different types of mural paintings is less than 60 seconds, and the shortest repair time is only 17.81 seconds. The evaluation effect of the research model is good, and the comprehensive efficiency evaluation of the mural restoration work is improved by about 40.42%. The repair system has excellent performance, and the algorithm has high feasibility and effectiveness. The impact of restoring murals is substantial, and the extent of restoration is highly consequential for the restoration of ancient architectural murals.

Comprehensive evaluation of efficiency to identify deficiencies in muscle activity in different modes in team sports

Aim: To concern the scientific substantiation of a complex ergometer tests of aerobic and anaerobic character and quantitative criteria for assessing the condition of female handball players` respiratory and power supply systems in the maximum. Materials and Methods: Descriptive analysis, correlation analysis, factor analysis. In order to solve those tasks within the framework there were measured the indicators of two hundred young female handball players at the pre-basic training stage. Results: The outcomes of the research allow us to recommend the program for handball players` potential capabilities assessment that will help to characterize the state of power supply systems of the body under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. At the same time, the results of the testing can be used to identify strengths and weaknesses in the structure of handball players` special readiness indicators and to individualize the process of players’ preparation at the subsequent stages. Conclusions: As a result of experimental data, the quantitative criteria and the scale for the assessment of handball players’ working capacity in ergometer maximum tests of aerobic-anaerobic character have been developed. On the basis of these tests, it is possible to analyze objectively the individual characteristics of children before making a final decision.

Assessing the Implementation of Kampus Mengajar Program: A Comprehensive Evaluation of Relevance, Efficiency, Effectiveness, and Impact

This study aims to evaluate the implementation of the Kampus Mengajar Program, especially at the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB), State University of Malang. The research subjects were 97 FEB students who participated in the Kampus Mengajar Program from batch 1 to batch 5. Evaluation of the Kampus Mengajar program is needed to determine the suitability between the goals and targets designed and the program's implementation in the field. The data collection method was carried out by distributing evaluation questionnaires consisting of 19 statement items covering aspects of relevance, effectiveness and efficiency, and program impact. The results of data analysis showed that 44.33% of respondents assessed the program as relevant to the initial objectives, 45.59% of respondents set that the implementation of this program was efficient and effective, and 43.45% of respondents assessed that the program had an impact on increasing their knowledge and teaching skills. The results of this evaluation can be used as an impetus so that stakeholders can improve and increase the program's quality so that the output obtained is maximized.

A novel district heating system based on absorption heat exchange and water-heat combined supply

Considering the challenges posed by long transportation distances and poor heating economy in large-scale heating systems based on conventional steam extraction cogeneration in nuclear power plants, a novel district heating system is proposed. This novel system is based on absorption heat exchange and water-heat combined supply. It offers significant improvements in heating and transportation capacity, while reducing the required investment in pipelines and transportation power consumption. In this study, an example of an AP1000 nuclear power turbine unit was used to construct a novel system. Additionally, a comprehensive energy efficiency evaluation model was established for this system. A comparison with the conventional district heating system based on cogeneration revealed several notable advantages of the novel system: (1) the comprehensive equivalent electricity decreased from 45.3 kWh/GJ to 31.2 kWh/GJ, representing a 31.1% reduction; (2) the unit heating cost decreased from 51.1 CNY/GJ to 42.0 CNY/GJ, resulting in potential savings of 10,726.17 × 104 CNY during a heating season; and (3) the emissions of CO2, SO2, and NOx were reduced by approximately 117.78 × 104 tons, 3.55 × 104 tons, and 1.77 × 104 tons, respectively.

Assessment of the detection accuracy of SARS-CoV-2 rapid antigen test in children and adolescents: An updated meta-analysis.

Real-time and appropriate antigen tests play a pivotal role in preventing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. However, a previous meta-analysis reported that the antigen test had lower sensitivity for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in children. To provide a comprehensive evaluation of diagnostic efficiency, we performed an updated meta-analysis to assess the detection accuracy of SARS-CoV-2 antigen tests stratified by days after symptom onset and specimen type in children and adolescents. We comprehensively searched for appropriate studies in the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases. Studies on the diagnostic accuracy of antigen tests for SARS-CoV-2 in children and adolescents were included. The relevant data of the included studies were extracted to construct a 2 × 2 table on a per-patient basis. The overall sensitivity and specificity of the SARS-CoV-2 antigen tests were estimated using a bivariate random-effects model. Seventeen studies enrolling 10,912 patients were included in the present meta-analysis. For the detection accuracy of SARS-CoV-2 antigen tests, the meta-analysis generated a pooled sensitivity of 77.9% (95% confidence interval (CI): 67.3-85.8%) and a pooled specificity of 99.6% (95% CI: 98.9-99.8%). The subgroup analysis of studies that examined antigen tests in symptomatic participants ≦7 days after symptom onset generated a pooled sensitivity of 79.4% (95% CI: 47.6-94.2%) and a pooled specificity of 99.4% (95% CI: 98.2-99.8%). Another subgroup analysis of studies that evaluated nasal swab specimens demonstrated a pooled sensitivity of 80.1% (95% CI: 65.0-89.7%) and a pooled specificity of 98.5% (95% CI: 97.3-99.2%). Our findings demonstrated that the antigen test performed using nasal swab specimens exhibited high sensitivity for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 within 7 days after symptom onset. Therefore, antigen testing using nasal swabs may be effective in blocking SARS-CoV-2 transmission in children.