Energy Requirements Research Articles

High-efficiency PMS activation by difunctional Co-Fe PBA/g-C3N4 S-scheme heterojunction for oxytetracycline degradation: Performance evaluation and mechanism insight

The utilization of sulfate radical-based advanced oxidation processes (SR-AOPs) has captivated the academic community due to their minimal energy requirements and superior efficacy in peroxomonosulfate (PMS) activation for pollutant decomposition. Notwithstanding these advantages, engineering an effective and economical catalyst for PMS activation presents a considerable hurdle. In the present study, a metal-organic framework of CoFe PBA is ingeniously anchored onto g-C3N4 nanosheets, resulting in the formation of an innovative CoFe PBA/g-C3N4 S-scheme heterojunction that demonstrates remarkable efficiency in PMS activation. Intriguingly, the catalytic efficiency of CoFe PBA/g-C3N4 surpasses that of g-C3N4 and CoFe PBA by 7-fold and 2.33-fold, respectively. The heightened activity of CoFe PBA/g-C3N4 heterojunction is attributed to the enhanced charge transfer efficiency, a consequence of the successful heterojunction formation. Concurrently, the ability of photoexcited electrons to reduce Co3+/Fe3+ to Co2+/Fe2+ bolsters PMS activation. Significantly, this heterojunction retains unparalleled stability in degrading oxytetracycline without discernible performance attenuation, heralding its commendable prospects in real-world applications. Besides, mechanism exploration indicates that SO4−, h+, and electron transfer contribute to oxytetracycline degradation in the CoFe PBA/g-C3N4 system. This investigation serves as a beacon for the strategic development of highly active and stable catalysts for PMS activation, aiming at environmental decontamination.

Thermal performance analysis of PCM-integrated structures using the resistance-capacitance model: Experiments and numerics

While holding significant potential to reduce cooling energy requirements in buildings, the incorporation of phase-change materials in building envelopes requires information regarding their diurnal and seasonal behaviour through high-fidelity simulations. However, utilizing short-term simulations and experimentation using state-of-the-art models for such a complex configuration does not accurately represent the true heat transfer dynamics of the building. To address this lacuna, we present a physics-based, low computational cost, experimentally and numerically validated resistance–capacitance (RC) model specifically tailored for PCM-encapsulated structures, designed for long-term simulations. The validation of this model is conducted through in-house experiments. Additionally, we support the credibility of our RC model by subjecting it to validation through 3D numerical simulations, emphasizing its precision and reliability. Then, we use the validated model to optimize the thermal properties of concrete roofs in hot and dry climates, taking a specific instance of a city in Western India for various geometric configurations as an illustrative example. We find that a PCM with a phase change temperature between 37 and 42 °C can reduce the peak ceiling temperature by up to 10 °C and the peak energy ingress by a factor of 2 or more, in a typical roof element subjected to the prevailing climatic conditions during peak summer. This shows the time constant of the modified roof is effective in delaying and damping the imposed solar insolation. We make specific recommendations on the selection and geometry optimization of PCM-incorporated roof elements.

Thermoregulation and microhabitat use of Tachymenis peruviana (Dipsadidae) in semi-captivity conditions

Abstract We studied Tachymenis peruviana`s thermoregulatory strategy, and microhabitat use and selection in an open enclosure at 3400 m elevation during the wet season. We expected that thermal conditions at a high elevation locality would result in differences in the thermoregulatory efficiency within microhabitats through their use and selection along the day. We obtained preferred temperatures and critical thermal tolerance limits of field-captured individuals. Some individuals were kept in an open enclosure with access to four microhabitat types with retreats where to hide. We measured individuals’ field-body temperatures along with substrate and air temperatures, and recorded where the snakes were found according to microhabitat type and if they were inside or outside retreats. Meanwhile, operative temperatures were registered every hour at each offered microhabitat between 08:00 to 18:00 hours. The body and microenvironmental temperatures were highly correlated. Even though the enclosure offered appropriate thermal sources for snakes to reach their preferred temperatures, results indicate that the species met its energy requirements with a low effort in this high elevation enclosure. Almost three-quarters of the observations were recorded in retreat sites, showing a lower thermoregulatory efficiency compared to when they were captured aboveground. A comparative evaluation of the thermoregulation of the species in the field within a variety of thermal regimes experienced along its altitudinal and latitudinal range must still be carried out to better understand the species’ thermoregulatory strategies across the Andes.

Design an Energy-Conserving Pathway for Efficient Biosynthesis of 1,5-Pentanediol and 5-Amino-1-Pentanol.

1,5-Pentanediol (1,5-PDO) is an important five-carbon alcohol, widely used in polymer and pharmaceutical industries. Considering the substantial energy (ATP and NADPH) requirements of previous pathways, an energy-conserving artificial pathway with a higher theoretical yield (0.75 mol/mol glucose) was designed and constructed in this study. In this pathway, lysine is converted into 1,5-PDO by decarboxylation, two transamination, and two reduction reactions. For the purpose of full pathway construction, 5-aminopetanal reductase and 5-amino-1-pentanol (5-APO) transaminase were identified and characterized. By implementing strategies such as modular optimization of gene expression, enhancing lysine biosynthesis and increasing NADPH supply, the engineered strains were able to produce 1502.8 mg/L 5-APO and 726.2 mg/L 1,5-PDO in shake flasks and 11.7 g/L 1,5-PDO in a 3 L bioreactor. This work provides a new and promising pathway for the efficient production of 5-APO and 1,5-PDO.

Thermal Transmittance Limits Dataset for New and Existing Buildings Across EU Regulations

Building energy regulations are essential for reducing energy consumption in the European Union (EU) and achieving climate neutrality goals. This data article supplements the “Overview of EU Building Envelope Energy Requirement for Climate Neutrality” by presenting a detailed dataset on building regulations across all 27 EU member states, with a focus on building envelope efficiency. The data include thermal transmittance limits for windows, walls, floors, and roofs, offering insights into regulatory differences and potential opportunities for harmonization. Information was sourced from the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) database, national reports, and scientific literature to ensure comprehensive coverage. Key aspects of each country’s regulations are summarized in tables, covering both new constructions and renovations. The inclusion of Köppen–Geiger climate classifications allows for climate-specific analyses, providing valuable context for researchers, policymakers, and construction professionals. This dataset enables comparative studies, helping to identify best practices and inform policy interventions aimed at enhancing energy efficiency across Europe. It also supports the development of tailored strategies to improve building performance in different environmental conditions, ultimately contributing to the EU’s energy and climate targets.

Multi-type energy conversion for managing the consumption by enhancing the resiliency of electrical distribution networks

The climatic circumstances of the world have altered due to the world warming up, and this issue has increased high-impact and low-probability (HILP) events more than before. Supplying energy requirements has turned into one of the main challenges of utilities especially electrical distribution companies considering the frequency and intensity of HILP events. On the other hand, developments in storing electricity have varied expectations and will change the solutions leading to resilient electrical distribution networks (EDNs). Some researchers have studied and analyzed numerous aspects of resilient EDNs but hybridization of different types of energy storage systems (ESSs) has not evaluated before. This paper considers energy management of emergency-operated EDNs equipped with two different types of energy storage systems which are batteries and flywheels. Convex equations in all parts of the problem, including different types of energy storage systems are proposed and modeled as an MIQCP to optimize the resilient networks considering all limitations. The proposed framework is developed in GAMS software and the results are provided in the form of Pareto optimal solutions. Applicability of the conducted model is evaluated by the IEEE 33-bus test system aiming at outstanding the effects of flywheels in improving the resiliency of electrical distribution networks. The proposed model analyzed by various energy storing scenarios based on technical and economical limitations. Results showed that among the considered case studies, the 50 % of the cases included with flywheel while batteries participated in 30 % that were the most expensive ones. On the other hand, the lowest amount of objective function belongs to the case that is only included with flywheels. Accordingly, by considering flywheels as a newly born energy storage system in the emergency-operated EDNs, the flexibility of energy management is facilitated and can be developed economically.

GAPS OF INDIAN ELECTRICAL ENERGY SECTOR AND ITS OPTIMAL MITIGATION BY USING OPTIMAL UTILIZATION OF INDIAN RENEWABLE ENERGY POLICY WITH THE HELP OF THE P&O MPPT TECHNIQUE

Developing countries, especially, India, depend importantly on energy sources to perform their country’s industrial and economic activities. Mainly the two factors continuous population growth of the country and the rapid growth rate of industrialization of the country, the gap between electrical energy supply and demand for electrical energy is slowly and consistently increasing. To resolve this unevenness, there is a jointly planned attempt is required to enhance the contribution of renewable energy in the all over mix of energy. Despite these attempts, unexpected surges caused by the sector of domestic energy consumption could lead to important shortfalls between energy requirements at peak demand and available supply in India. As a solution to this challenge, the Union government of India has launched a new policy, named PM SURYA GHAR: MUFT BIJLI YOJANA, targeted to handle this crucial problem head-on. This initiative requires addressing the increasing energy demand by promoting the utilization of solar power in households throughout the length and breadth of the country. With the implementation techniques of Photo voltaic optimization, this analysis explores how such types of strategies can play a significant role in filling the gap between the energy supply-demand in the Indian context. Employing the solar energy potential and optimizing and utilization of solar energy, creates a path to not only meet the enhancing energy requirements but also creates the path for a more environmentally friendly and sustainable energy in India. By integration of innovative technologies and solutions of renewable energy holds the key to ensuring a balanced, sustainable, stable energy supply for the future of India and country’s growth and development.

Environmental Sustainability Assessment of Tissue Paper Production

The environmental performance of tissue paper varies greatly based on factors such as the type of fibre used as the raw material, the production process and the fuels used to meet the energy requirements. One possible strategy to decrease greenhouse gas emissions in tissue production is the integration of pulp and paper mills and their energy systems at the same site. However, the environmental trade-offs associated with this strategy are still unclear. Therefore, this study aimed (i) to assess for the first time the environmental impacts of tissue paper produced at a typical industrial site in Portugal using slush and market pulp as the main raw material, and (ii) to assess the environmental effects of the integration of bioenergy produced in the pulp mill in tissue production. A life cycle assessment was conducted from cradle to gate using real data from the production of eucalyptus wood, eucalyptus pulp and tissue paper. The results showed that energy consumption in tissue paper production is the main hotspot for most impact categories. When bioenergy is used in tissue production, the environmental impacts decrease by up to 20% for categories other than marine eutrophication and mineral resource scarcity. These results are relevant to support decision making concerning sustainable practices not only for the pulp and paper industry but also for the authorities in charge of defining environmental policies, incentives and tax regulations.

Impact of combining ablation index-guided and very high-power short-duration ablation at posterior wall adjacent to esophagus during perioperative period on procedural factors.

The impact of combining ablation index (AI)-guided and very high-power short-duration (vHPSD) ablation on procedural factors at the posterior wall near the esophagus is unclear. Atrial fibrillation patients who underwent initial ablation using three-dimensional mapping were enrolled. Patients were classified into two groups: those who underwent only AI-guided pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) (AI group) and those who underwent vHPSD ablation at the posterior wall adjacent to the esophagus in addition to AI-guided PVI (AI + vHPSD group). Differences in myocardial injury, inflammation, procedural characteristics, and pulmonary vein (PV) reconnection patterns were assessed between the two groups. This study included 167 patients (AI group, 83 patients; AI+vHPSD group, 84 patients). No significant differences in high-sensitive troponin I or changes in inflammatory markers between pre- and Postablation were observed in either group. Total application time and total application energy were significantly lower in the AI+vHPSD group than in the AI group (p < 0.001 for both) despite no significant difference in the total number of applications between the groups. The incidence of esophagus temperature ≥40 degrees was significantly lower in the AI+vHPSD group than in the AI group (p = 0.036). However, the incidence of PV reconnections near the esophagus was significantly higher in the AI+vHPSD group than in the AI group (11.9% vs 3.6%, p = 0.046), despite no significant difference in the incidence of PV reconnections overall. The combination of AI-guided PVI and vHPSD adjacent to the esophagus demonstrated reduced application energy requirements and maintained safety and effectiveness during the perioperative period.

AN EXPERT SYSTEM FOR SOLAR-POWERED AQUAPONICS SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS AND ECONOMIC ANALYSIS

Aquaponics system is an alternative solution for food generation in urban areas where there is a scarcity of land for food production. With the advent of solar energy technologies, the energy requirement of the system will not be added to the existing power consumption of the house hold. This paper presents an expert system for solar-powered aquaponics that provides users the aquaponics system dimensions, power requirements, bills of materials, cost-benefit analysis and payback period given land area available and the type of plants and fishes to culture.

Maximizing microbial activity and synergistic interaction to boost biofuel production from lignocellulosic biomass.

Addressing global environmental challenges and meeting the escalating energy demands stand as two pivotal issues in the current landscape. Lignocellulosic biomass emerges as a promising renewable bio-energy source capable of fulfilling the world's energy requirements on a large scale. One of the most important steps in lowering reliance on fossil fuel and lessening environmental effect is turning lignocellulosic biomass into biofuel. As carbon-neutral substitutes for traditional fuel, biofuel offer a solution to environmental concerns compared to conventional fuel. Effective utilization of lignocellulosic biomass is imperative for sustainable development. Ongoing research focuses on exploring the potential of various microorganisms and their co-interactions to synthesize diverse biofuels from different starting materials, including lignocellulosic biomass. Co-culture techniques demonstrate resilience to nutrient scarcity and environmental fluctuations. By utilising a variety of carbon sources, microbes can enhance their adaptability to environmental stressors and potentially increase productivity through their symbiotic interactions. Furthermore, compared to single organism involvement, co-interactions allow faster execution of multistep processes. Lignocellulosic biomass serves as a primary substrate for pre-treatment, fermentation, and enzymatic hydrolysis processes. This review primarily delves into the pretreatment, enzymatic hydrolysis process and the biochemical pathways involved in converting lignocellulosic biomass into bioenergy.

A Mediterranean dietary pattern intervention does not improve cardiometabolic risk but does improve quality of life and body composition in an Aotearoa New Zealand population at increased cardiometabolic risk: A randomised controlled trial.

To test if a New Zealand food-based Mediterranean diet (NZMedDiet) with behavioural intervention improves cardiometabolic health and wellbeing. A randomised controlled trial comparing 12 weeks of the NZMedDiet to usual diet in participants with increased cardiometabolic risk (metabolic syndrome severity score [MetSSS] > 0.35). The intervention group was provided with food and recipes to meet 75% of their energy requirements, supported by a behavioural intervention to improve adherence. The primary outcome measure was (MetSSS) after 12 weeks. Two hundred individuals with mean (SD) age 49.9 (10.9) years of which 62% women were enrolled with their household/whānau. After 12 weeks, the mean (SD) MetSSS was 1.0 (0.7) in the control (n = 98) and 0.8 (0.5) in the intervention (n = 102) group; estimated difference (95% confidence interval [CI]) of -0.05 (-0.16 to 0.06), p = 0.35. The Mediterranean diet score (PyrMDS) was greater in the intervention group 1.6 (1.1-2.1), p < 0.001, consistent with a change to a more Mediterranean dietary pattern. Weight reduced in the NZMedDiet group compared with control (-1.9 kg [-2.0 to -0.34]), p = 0.006 and wellbeing, assessed by the SF-36 quality of life questionnaire, and improved across all domains. For example, the physical component summary score difference (95% CI) was 4.0 (2.4-5.7), p < 0.001, and the mental component summary score difference was 3.0 (0.7-5.2), p = 0.01. In participants with increased cardiometabolic risk, food provision with a Mediterranean dietary pattern and a behavioural intervention did not improve metabolic risk scores but was associated with reduced weight and improved quality of life.

BIM-based energy consumption analysis for residential buildings: effects of orientation, size, and type of windows

Buildings have a significant environmental impact due to their reliance on nonrenewable energy sources. To address this concern, computer software is utilized to estimate building energy requirements. Building Information Modeling (BIM) has emerged as a valuable tool in this process, with BIM 6D offering a particularly beneficial feature. BIM 6D provides a comprehensive energy model of the building, simulating its actual energy performance. By analyzing natural and artificial lighting systems, particularly daylighting, BIM 6D can assist in optimizing energy efficiency. Despite being underutilized, the potential of this feature to enhance building sustainability is noteworthy. BIM 6D facilitates well-informed design and operational decisions for both new constructions and the renovation of existing buildings. The study examines design criteria such as building orientation, window orientation, size, and type to optimize energy consumption in a bungalow in the Sangli region of Maharashtra, underscoring the importance of energy-efficient buildings to local communities. Energy analysis and optimization are conducted using the Autodesk Insight tool. The methodology involves creating 3D models with Autodesk Revit Architecture software and performing various analyses, including Building Energy Modeling (BEM) simulations, Illuminance Analysis, Solar Access, and Daylight Autonomy assessments. The analysis findings indicate that low-e glass windows of small size and oriented between 0° and 90° significantly enhance energy efficiency under certain conditions, while changing the window type does not affect the analysis. The paper concludes with recommendations for window orientation and size to enhance energy performance in residential buildings, contributing to the broader goal of sustainable and energy-efficient construction practices. This study provides valuable insights for designing energy-efficient residential buildings in rural areas, addressing awareness gaps, and promoting sustainable construction practices.

Nutrient intake of young South African adults from the baseline of the African-PREDICT cohort study.

This study aimed to describe and compare the nutrient intake of young adults in the African Prospective Study on the Early Detection and Identification of Cardiovascular Disease and Hypertension (African-PREDICT) study according to ethnicity and socioeconomic status (SES). Cross-sectional analysis of baseline nutrient intakes in the African-PREDICT study. North West Province, South Africa. Black and white adults (n=1153), aged 20-30 years, were classified into three SES groups. Dietary data were collected using three multiple-pass 24-hour dietary recalls. Among all participants, over 70% failed to meet the Estimated Energy Requirements and the Estimated Average Requirements (EAR) for 17 of the 19 reported micronutrients. Across SES groups, more than 50% of participants consistently did not meet the EAR for calcium, magnesium, folate, pantothenic acid, and biotin, as well as vitamins A, C, D, and E. Participants' distribution by nutrient pattern tertiles showed high adherence to two patterns: one rich in animal protein and saturated fat, and the other in magnesium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, and fiber. This was seen only in white participants and high SES. Black participants and low SES showed higher adherence to a plant protein, B-vitamins, zinc, and iron nutrient pattern. The dietary intake of young adults in this study was restricted, with none of the groups meeting nutrient requirements for essential nutrients. Further research is needed to establish a direct link between nutrient patterns and the early detection and identification of cardiovascular diseases and hypertension.

Seawater alkalization via an energy-efficient electrochemical process for CO2 capture

Electrochemical pH-swing strategies offer a promising avenue for cost-effective and energy-efficient carbon dioxide (CO2) capture, surpassing the traditional thermally activated processes and humidity-sensitive techniques. The concept of elevating seawater's alkalinity for scalable CO2 capture without introducing additional chemical as reactant is particularly intriguing due to its minimal environmental impact. However, current commercial plants like chlor-alkali process or water electrolysis demand high thermodynamic voltages of 2.2 V and 1.23 V, respectively, for the production of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) from seawater. These high voltages are attributed to the asymmetric electrochemical reactions, where two completely different reactions take place at the anode and cathode. Here, we developed a symmetric electrochemical system for seawater alkalization based on a highly reversible and identical reaction taking place at the anode and cathode. We utilize hydrogen evolution reaction at the cathode, where the generated hydrogen is looped to the anode for hydrogen oxidation reaction. Theoretical calculations indicate an impressively low energy requirement ranging from 0.07 to 0.53 kWh/kg NaOH for established pH differences of 1.7 to 13.4. Experimentally, we achieved the alkalization with an energy consumption of 0.63 kWh/kg NaOH, which is only 38% of the theoretical energy requirements of the chlor-alkali process (1.64 kWh/kg NaOH). Further tests demonstrated the system's potential of enduring high current densities (~20 mA/cm2) and operating stability over an extended period (>110 h), showing its potential for future applications. Notably, the CO2 adsorption tests performed with alkalized seawater exhibited remarkably improved CO2 capture dictated by the production of hydroxide compared to the pristine seawater.

Signaling Pathways Concerning Mitochondrial Dysfunction: Implications in Neurodegeneration and Possible Molecular Targets.

Mitochondrion is an important organelle present in our cells responsible for meeting energy requirements. All higher organisms rely on efficient mitochondrial bioenergetic machinery to sustain life. No other respiratory process can produce as much power as generated by mitochondria in the form of ATPs. This review is written in order to get an insight into the magnificent working of mitochondrion and its implications in cellular homeostasis, bioenergetics, redox, calcium signaling, and cell death. However, if this machinery gets faulty, it may lead to several disease states. Mitochondrial dysfunctioning is of growing concern today as it is seen in the pathogenesis of several diseases which includes neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular disorders, diabetes mellitus, skeletal muscle defects, liver diseases, and so on. To cover all these aspects is beyond the scope of this article; hence, our study is restricted to neurodegenerative disorders only. Moreover, faulty functioning of this organelle can be one of the causes of early ageing in individuals. This review emphasizes mutations in the mitochondrial DNA, defects in oxidative phosphorylation, generation of ROS, and apoptosis. Researchers have looked into new approaches that might be able to control mitochondrial failure and show a lot of promise as treatments.

Microscale chemiresistive hydrogen sensors: Current status and recent developments

Hydrogen is known for its efficient combustion, abundant natural availability, and environmentally friendly characteristics. It is recognized as a promising energy source for the future and is already utilized in various industries, including petrochemicals, electronics, food processing, aerospace, and new energy vehicles. However, challenges arise in the storage and use of hydrogen owing to its tendency to leak, its potential for explosion within a specific concentration range of 4%–75%, and itslow ignition energy requirements. Consequently, there is a demand for hydrogen sensors capable of quickly and accurately detecting low levels of hydrogen leaks. Microelectromechanical systems-based chemiresistive hydrogen sensors offer advantages such as low cost, compact size, low energy consumption, and superior sensing performance, making them a major focus of recent research. This article provides a comprehensive overview and comparison of the sensing principles of various hydrogen sensors, including chemiresistive sensors, electrochemical sensors, thermocatalytic sensors, acoustic sensors, and mechanical sensors. Micro-chemiresistive hydrogen sensors exhibit high sensitivity, low cost, and ease of integration, making them highly promising for practical applications. In response to the challenges encountered in practical applications of chemiresistive hydrogen sensors, such as high operating temperatures and high power consumption, this review explores emerging trends in chemiresistive hydrogen sensor technology from the perspectives of novel materials and activation methods. Finally, it discusses the applications and potential further developments of chemiresistive hydrogen sensors.

Trans-10 shifted ruminal biohydrogenation and its implications for ruminant milk and meat fat content and quality

Feeding high-grain diets is a common practice in intensive ruminant production systems to meet animal energy requirements and maximize feed efficiency. One of the consequences of these diets is trans (t)10 shifted ruminal biohydrogenation, which includes increased formation of t10-18:1 and t10,cis (c)12-conjugated linoleic acid (t10,c12-CLA) at the expense of t11-18:1 and c9,t11-CLA. In dairy cows, the t10 shift has been associated with milk fat depression. In beef cattle, the t10 shift has not been associated with negative effects on animal performance or marbling fat deposition, however, it may negatively impact meat fat eating quality by decreasing its cis monounsaturated fatty acid to saturated fatty acid ratio. Finally, the t10 shift increases t10-18:1 accumulation in ruminant-derived foods (dairy, beef and lamb) which at high enough levels may compromise the nutritional quality of these foods. The present review will cover our current understanding of the rumen microbes involved in the t10 shift and its implications for milk fat synthesis and beef fat quality.

Effect of Age at First Calving on the Reproduction Parameters, Metabolic Profile, and Fatty Acid Composition of Polish Holstein Friesian (PHF) and Crossbreds PHF × Swedish Red (SRB) Cattle

Background: The high dairy production of Polish Holstein Friesian (PHF) cows determines high energy requirements in the early stages of lactation. Unfortunately, it is very often difficult to meet this demand through feedstuffs; therefore, homeostasis may be disturbed and metabolic diseases may occur, causing a majority of cows’ health problems. Breeders are, therefore, looking for alternatives to the PHF breed using crossbreeding. Methods: This experiment involved 30 PHF cows and 30 PHF × Swedish Red (SRB) crossbred hybrid cows, divided into two age groups, &lt;2 years and &gt;2 years, at first calving. Milk and blood samples were collected at 35 ± 5 days postpartum for analysis. Data on reproductive performance were also analyzed. Results: This study revealed lower milk production for the crossbreds hybrid (27.44 kg compared to 32.08 kg), with a higher basic composition content than PHF cows (fat: 3.97% compared to 3.83%, protein: 3.53% compared to 3.27%). The heifers of the crossbreds hybrid reached sexual maturity earlier but did not affect the lower age at first calving. Dividing the cows into age categories provided a more detailed perspective of the impact of genotypic differences on reproductive and metabolic profiles in PHF and PHF × SRB cattle. The findings highlight the importance of considering age-specific effects when assessing the performance and health of dairy cattle with diverse genotypes. Conclusions: The choice between PHF and PHF × SRB should depend on the specific goals and priorities of the cattle farming operation. Factors such as overall milk yield requirements, market demands, reproductive management strategies, and health considerations should be carefully evaluated to determine the most suitable breed for a given farming context.

Innovative Strategies for Combining Solar and Wind Energy with Green Hydrogen Systems

The integration of wind and solar energy with green hydrogen technologies represents an innovative approach toward achieving sustainable energy solutions. This review examines state-of-the-art strategies for synthesizing renewable energy sources, aimed at improving the efficiency of hydrogen (H2) generation, storage, and utilization. The complementary characteristics of solar and wind energy, where solar power typically peaks during daylight hours while wind energy becomes more accessible at night or during overcast conditions, facilitate more reliable and stable hydrogen production. Quantitatively, hybrid systems can realize a reduction in the levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) ranging from EUR 3.5 to EUR 8.9 per kilogram, thereby maximizing the use of renewable resources but also minimizing the overall H2 production and infrastructure costs. Furthermore, advancements such as enhanced electrolysis technologies, with overall efficiencies rising from 6% in 2008 to over 20% in the near future, illustrate significant progress in this domain. The review also addresses operational challenges, including intermittency and scalability, and introduces system topologies that enhance both efficiency and performance. However, it is essential to consider these challenges carefully, because they can significantly impact the overall effectiveness of hydrogen production systems. By providing a comprehensive assessment of these hybrid systems (which are gaining traction), this study highlights their potential to address the increasing global energy demands. However, it also aims to support the transition toward a carbon-neutral future. This potential is significant, because it aligns with both environmental goals and energy requirements. Although challenges remain, the promise of these systems is evident.