Timing Mismatch Research Articles

The interplay among sleep patterns, social habits, and environmental cues: insights from the Spanish population and implications for aligning daily rhythms

IntroductionThe interplay among sleep patterns, social habits and environmental cues is becoming increasingly more important for public health and wellbeing due to its connection to circadian desynchronization. This paper explores said connections in Spain (which has an official and solar time mismatch), introducing the “Three Times Score” ‒which is based on questions widely used in the field‒ as a complementary tool for exploring the interplay of daily rhythms.MethodsThe questionnaire covers sleep-related habits, social time, and environmental time. The study includes 9,947 participants (34.89 ± 12.15 y/o, mean ± SD; 5,561 women) from different Spanish regions. Sleep parameters were obtained for work and free days, as well as a modified version of the sleep-corrected midsleep on free days (MBFbc) and a parameter similar to social jet lag, both derived from bed time rather than sleep time. A number of indexes were computed to compare bed and work-related habits, together with natural light/dark cycle, along with the Three Times Score. Mixed-effect regression analysis was used to test whether the biological, social and environmental factors included in the study significantly predicted the sleep-related parameters: bedtime, wake-up time, time in bed and mid-bedtime.Results and discussionTemporal differences were found between work and free days, with waking-up occurring 2 h earlier on work days (7:10 ± 0:01) than on free days (9:15 ± 0:01). Bed times were 1 h earlier on work days (23:46 ± 0:01) than on free days (00:45 ± 0:01), whereas time in bed was over 1 h shorter on work (7 h 23 min) versus free (8 h 29 min) days. Strong correlations were found between work starting time and waking-up and bedtimes on workdays. Women went to bed earlier and woke up later, spending more time in bed. Differences in sleep habits were observed between work and free days across all age groups. The group of younger adults (18–30) reported going to bed later than older and younger groups, especially on free days. Adolescents and young adults also woke-up later than other age groups, especially on free days. Social jet lag (relative to bed time) and desynchronization indexes also varied with age, with younger adult participants exhibiting higher levels. Seasonal differences were limited, with minor variations between winter and summer. According to the multiple regression analysis, social (day type, work start time, alarm clock usage), biological (age, gender, in most cases related to sex) and environmental (sunset time) factors significantly contribute to predicting sleep/bed related schedules. This study provides insights into sleep habits in the Spanish population, introducing the Three Times Score as a complementary tool for exploring the interactions between sleep/bed-related habits, natural darkness and work-related schedules. Understanding this interplay is crucial for developing tailored interventions to improve sleep and wellbeing.

An enhanced method for reconstruction of full SIF spectrum for near-ground measurements

Recently the applications of remotely sensed Solar-Induced chlorophyll Fluorescence (SIF) in the study of photosynthesis, stress conditions, and gross primary production have increased significantly. The full SIF spectrum spans over a spectral region of 650 ∼ 850 nm with two characteristic peaks around 685 nm and 740 nm. Over recent decades, many retrieval algorithms have been developed to estimate SIF at Top-Of-Canopy (TOC) using in-situ measurements of solar irradiance and canopy radiance spectra. Although the majority of retrieval methods retrieve SIF at a narrow spectral window, there exists a potential for retrieval of SIF in the full emission spectrum. Moreover, solar irradiance and canopy radiance spectra should ideally be measured at the same time but are usually measured sequentially with a certain time lag, raising potential errors in SIF retrieval. In this study, an enhanced retrieval algorithm of the full SIF spectrum at TOC is proposed. The proposed algorithm attempts to minimize the errors owing to time mismatch in measurements of solar irradiance and canopy radiance spectra. As an improvement to the previous algorithm (advanced Fluorescence Spectrum Reconstruction, aFSR), this proposed algorithm (aFSR-SVE) models the SIF-free contribution with principal components using the singular value decomposition technique. The optimal parameter settings in the forward model were determined for the experimental data collected by spectrometers used in the study. Firstly, the proposed algorithm was used to reconstruct full SIF spectrum for simulated data. The results were compared with known reference SIF values. After achieving satisfying results from simulated data, the proposed algorithm was compared with retrievals from established algorithms using experimental data. The results show improved SIF retrieval accuracy, without the need to simultaneously measure solar irradiance and canopy radiance spectra. The retrieval values comply with the results of previous algorithms in terms of spectral shape, diurnal trend, and temporal variations. The induced errors in SIF retrievals due to non-simultaneous measurements of solar irradiance and canopy radiance spectra were also investigated and the proposed algorithm was found to be less prone to such errors. Hence, the proposed algorithm is an improvement in reconstructing the full SIF spectrum with near-ground measurements. With the help of the proposed algorithm, field measurements using sequential systems and automated measurements of multiple targets can be performed effectively as it relaxes the requirement of concurrent measurement of solar irradiance and canopy radiance spectra. For future work, the applicability of this method can be investigated under more variable illumination conditions, like high cirrus clouds, passing clouds or persistent thin clouds.

Computed tomography and structured light imaging guided orthopedic navigation puncture system: effective reduction of intraoperative image drift and mismatch.

Image-guided surgical navigation systems are widely regarded as the benchmark for computer-assisted surgical robotic platforms, yet a persistent challenge remains in addressing intraoperative image drift and mismatch. It can significantly impact the accuracy and precision of surgical procedures. Therefore, further research and development are necessary to mitigate this issue and enhance the overall performance of these advanced surgical platforms. The primary objective is to improve the precision of image guided puncture navigation systems by developing a computed tomography (CT) and structured light imaging (SLI) based navigation system. Furthermore, we also aim to quantifying and visualize intraoperative image drift and mismatch in real time and provide feedback to surgeons, ensuring that surgical procedures are executed with accuracy and reliability. A CT-SLI guided orthopedic navigation puncture system was developed. Polymer bandages are employed to pressurize, plasticize, immobilize and toughen the surface of a specimen for surgical operations. Preoperative CT images of the specimen are acquired, a 3D navigation map is reconstructed and a puncture path planned accordingly. During surgery, an SLI module captures and reconstructs the 3D surfaces of both the specimen and a guiding tube for the puncture needle. The SLI reconstructed 3D surface of the specimen is matched to the CT navigation map via two-step point cloud registrations, while the SLI reconstructed 3D surface of the guiding tube is fitted by a cylindrical model, which is in turn aligned with the planned puncture path. The proposed system has been tested and evaluated using 20 formalin-soaked lower limb cadaver specimens preserved at a local hospital. The proposed method achieved image registration RMS errors of 0.576 ± 0.146 mm and 0.407 ± 0.234 mm between preoperative CT and intraoperative SLI surface models and between preoperative and postoperative CT surface models. In addition, preoperative and postoperative specimen surface and skeletal drifts were 0.033 ± 0.272 mm and 0.235 ± 0.197 mm respectively. The results indicate that the proposed method is effective in reducing intraoperative image drift and mismatch. The system also visualizes intraoperative image drift and mismatch, and provides real time visual feedback to surgeons.

Control of continuous digester kappa number using generalized model predictive control

Kappa number variability at the digester impacts pulp yield, physical strength properties, and lignin content for downstream delignification processing. Regulation of the digester kappa number is therefore of great importance to the pulp and paper industry. In this work, an industrial application of model-based predictive control (MPC), based on generalized prediction control, was developed for kappa number feedback control and applied to a dual vessel continuous digester located in Western Canada. The problem was complicated by the need to apply heat at multiple locations in the cook. In this study, the problem was reduced from a multiple to a single input system by identifying three potential single variable permutations for temperature adjustment. In the end, a coordinated approach to the heaters was adopted. The process was perturbed and modeled as a simple first order plus dead time model and implemented in generalized predictive control (GPC). The GPC was then configured to be equivalent to Dahlin’s controller, which reduced tuning parameterization to a single closed loop time constant. The controller was then tuned based on robustness towards a worst-case dead time mismatch of 50%. The control held the mean value of the kappa number close to the setpoint, and a 40% reduction in the kappa number’s standard deviation was achieved. Different kappa number trials were run, and the average fiberline yield for each period was evaluated. Trial results suggested yield gains of 0.3%–0.5% were possible for each 1 kappa number target increase.

An Improved Phase Noise Reduction in Millimeter-Wave FBMC Systems

The next generation mobile network needs to have a spectrum above the 30 GHz radio band. The 5G system is a promising technology for future communication systems. It has been used in Device-to-Device (D2D) communications, IoT, Machine type communications (MTC), and wireless backhaul. The 5G is expected to have speeds of hundreds of times and satisfy the requirements of larger traffic density, low latency, connective density, higher capacity & reliability, data rate, super high mobility, etc. It is expected to have applications such as HD video, virtual reality & augmented reality, online games, and cloud desktops. For this, Millimeter wave (Mmwave) has been used for fifth-generation mobile networks. The millimeter wave has a frequency range from 30 to 300 GHz. When the usage of frequency is above 60 GHz, the band will acquire RF impairments such as PAPR, Phase noise, non-linearity, and phase and quadrature timing mismatch (IQTM). This article shows the Phase noise reduction in MIMO FBMC systems using Extended Kalman filter techniques.

Modulating Electrical Properties of Ti64/B4C Composite Materials via Laser Direct Manufacturing with Varying B4C Contents.

The modulation of electrical properties in composite materials is critical for applications requiring tailored electrical functionality, such as electromagnetic shielding and absorption. This study focuses on Ti64/B4C composites, a material combination promising enhanced electromagnetic properties. Laser direct manufacturing (LDM) was utilized to fabricate coaxial samples of Ti64 blended with TiB and TiC in various mass ratios, with sample thicknesses ranging from 0.5 mm to 3.5 mm. The electrical characterization involved assessing the dielectric and magnetic permeability, as well as impedance and reflectance, across a frequency spectrum of 2 to 18 GHz. The result reveals that TiC, when incorporated into Ti64, exhibits strong dielectric polarization and achieves a reflectivity as low as -40 dB between 7 and 14 GHz. Conversely, TiB demonstrates effective electromagnetic absorption, with reflectivity values below -10 dB in the frequency band of 8.5 to 11.5 GHz. The study also notes that a lower B4C content enhances electronic polarization and increases the dielectric coefficient, while higher contents favor ionic polarization. This shift can lead to a timing mismatch in the establishment of electron and ion polarization, resulting in a decreased dielectric coefficient. In addition, adjusting the B4C content in Ti64/B4C composites effectively modulates their electrical properties, suggesting a strategic approach to designing materials for specific electromagnetic functions.

Review on the Integration of Just-in-time Adaptive Intervention and Internet-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Reducing Suicidal Thoughts and Behavior

Suicide remains a major public health challenge in the world. The current suicide prevention approaches face challenges in timing mismatch, access barriers, and lack of personalization, complicating the environment for successfully reducing suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs). Mobile health has been an emerging but effective approach to supporting and treating mental illnesses. The strengths of Just-in-Time Adaptive Interventions (JITAI) and Internet-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(iCBT) are potential approaches to resolving the current challenges of suicide prevention. This paper examines the definitions of JITAIs and iCBT and explores their use in mitigating suicidal thoughts and behaviors. It is proposed that the integration of JITAIs and iCBT could address the current obstacles in preventing suicidal thoughts and behaviors due to their advantages in availability, accessibility, and personalization. However, this integration also has its limitations, necessitating further research. The paper underscores the necessity of future empirical studies on the combined use of JITAIs and iCBT to reduce suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

An all-digital low-complexity blind background calibration of timing mismatch in time-interleaved ADCs

This paper proposed a novel all-digital blind background calibration to mitigate timing mismatch in time-interleaved analog-to-digital converter (TIADC). In estimation module, the adoption of a subtraction-based error extraction function and the design of Variable-Step-Size Least Mean Squares algorithm contribute to reducing the computational complexity and enhancing the convergence speed with optimal output accuracy respectively. In compensation module, a dual-stage Taylor series expansion structure has been introduced to effectively maintain the overall output performance. The proposed architecture is applied to a 12-bit 3 GS/s four-channel TIADC model. Its effectiveness for single-tone and multi-tone signals is proven through systematical testing and analysis. The simulation results exhibit that the Spurious Free Dynamic Range is significantly improved by 54.53 dB in the single-tone signal case, and the timing mismatch is converged after 1000 samples. The proposed calibration circuit has been synthesized utilizing a 28 nm standard cell library for assessing its hardware consumption, area (0.051 mm2) and average power dissipation (67.5 mW) within the integrated chip architecture. Our technology provides a viable optimization solution to improve efficiency of TIADC in high-speed systems.

Biomarkers of auditory cortical plasticity and development of binaural pathways in children with unilateral hearing loss using a hearing aid

Congenital or early-onset unilateral hearing loss (UHL) can disrupt the normal development of the auditory system. In extreme cases of UHL (i.e., single sided deafness), consistent cochlear implant use during sensitive periods resulted in cortical reorganization that partially reversed the detrimental effects of unilateral sensory deprivation. There is a gap in knowledge, however, regarding cortical plasticity i.e. the brain's capacity to adapt, reorganize, and develop binaural pathways in milder degrees of UHL rehabilitated by a hearing aid (HA). The current study was set to investigate early-stage cortical processing and electrophysiological manifestations of binaural processing by means of cortical auditory evoked potentials (CAEPs) to speech sounds, in children with moderate to severe-to-profound UHL using a HA. Fourteen children with UHL (CHwUHL), 6-14 years old consistently using a HA for 3.5 (±2.3) years participated in the study. CAEPs were elicited to the speech sounds /m/, /g/, and /t/ in three listening conditions: monaural [Normal hearing (NH), HA], and bilateral [BI (NH + HA)]. Results indicated age-appropriate CAEP morphology in the NH and BI listening conditions in all children. In the HA listening condition: (1) CAEPs showed similar morphology to that found in the NH listening condition, however, the mature morphology observed in older children in the NH listening condition was not evident; (2) P1 was elicited in all but two children with severe-to-profound hearing loss, to at least one speech stimuli, indicating effective audibility; (3) A significant mismatch in timing and synchrony between the NH and HA ear was found; (4) P1 was sensitive to the acoustic features of the eliciting stimulus and to the amplification characteristics of the HA. Finally, a cortical binaural interaction component (BIC) was derived in most children. In conclusion, the current study provides first-time evidence for cortical plasticity and partial reversal of the detrimental effects of moderate to severe-to-profound UHL rehabilitated by a HA. The derivation of a cortical biomarker of binaural processing implies that functional binaural pathways can develop when sufficient auditory input is provided to the affected ear. CAEPs may thus serve as a clinical tool for assessing, monitoring, and managing CHwUHL using a HA.

A Digital Background Calibration Circuit for Coarse-Fine Timing Mismatch in VCO-Based ADCs

A Digital Background Calibration Circuit for Coarse-Fine Timing Mismatch in VCO-Based ADCs

Forecasted changes to the timing of Pacific herring Clupea pallasii spawn in a warming ocean

Pacific herring Clupea pallasii are a critical commercial and subsistence fish species and play a keystone role in the ecology and culture of the North Pacific. The annual herring spawn, in which mature herring migrate nearshore to deposit eggs along the coastline, is an important event linked to the migration of seabirds and marine mammals as well as a subsistence harvest for Alaska Natives and First Nations in British Columbia. Previous work has suggested that environmental variables and broad teleconnection indices play a role in the magnitude and phenology of spawning; however, the effects of these drivers have not been examined in the context of future climate scenarios. Here, we modeled variability in the timing of herring spawn across British Columbia and Southeast Alaska using survey data from 1951-2022. We created a model using Pacific teleconnection indices, sea surface temperature (SST), tidal height, and lagged data to predict spawn date anomalies (SDAs) across 9 spawning regions. SDAs were significantly affected by the Oceanic Niño Index, Pacific Decadal Oscillation, SST, and lagged SDAs. We then used this model to predict SDAs using projected SST from climate models and bootstrapped teleconnection data from 2025-2100. Future herring spawn timing trends earlier on average with warming SSTs, although the magnitude is relatively small, occurring 9 d earlier on average by 2100. This changing phenology, though small, varied by region and may have ecosystem-level ramifications and create timing mismatch for migratory species. However, our findings also reinforce the importance of other physical factors not measured in this study, such as photoperiod, which drive herring spawn timing.

A Low Mismatch Current Charge Pump Applied to Phase-Locked Loops.

This paper presents a charge pump circuit with a wide output range and low current mismatch applied to phase-locked loops. In this designed structure, T-shaped analog switches are adopted to suppress the non-ideal effects of clock feedthrough, switching time mismatch, and charge injection. A source follower and current splitting circuits are proposed to improve the matching accuracy of the charging and discharging currents and reduce the current mismatch rate. A rail-to-rail high-gain amplifier with a negative feedback connection is introduced to suppress the charge-sharing effect of the charge pump. A cascode current mirror with a high output impedance is used to provide the charge and discharge currents for the charge pump, which not only improves the current accuracy of the charge pump but also increases the output voltage range. The proposed charge pump is designed and simulated based on a 65 nm CMOS process. The results show that when the power supply voltage is 1.2 V, the output current of the charge pump is 100 μA, the output voltage is in the range of 0.2~1 V, and the maximum current mismatch rate and current variation rate are only 0.21% and 1.4%, respectively.

A fully digital timing background calibration algorithm based on first-order auto-correlation for time-interleaved ADCs

This paper presents a fully digital background calibration method for time-interleaved (TI) analog-to-digital converters (ADCs). The timing detector employs a timing detection method based on an enhanced autocorrelation function, combined with matrix operations, to improve the accuracy of timing mismatch acquisition. The algorithm makes full use of the autocorrelation functions of each channel and proposes a more precise method for obtaining autocorrelation derivatives. Furthermore, the algorithm features a simple structure, low computational complexity, and can support timing calibration for any number of channels without requiring additional channels. The algorithm was validated using an ADC + FPGA combined system, with a 8-channel TI-ADC manufactured in 28 nm technology and a sampling rate of 20 GS/s. Results demonstrate that compared to the uncalibrated state, the algorithm significantly improves the SNDR and SFDR from 27.98 dB and 30.76 dB to 39.38 dB and 42.13 dB, respectively when the inputs are near the Nyquist frequency.

A Wideband Timing Mismatch Calibration Design for Time-Interleaved Analog-to-Digital Converters with Fast Convergence

This paper presents a design for timing mismatch calibration in a TIADC (Time-Interleaved Analog-to-Digital Converter) with wideband inputs. By exploiting the approximately linear relationship between the autocorrelation properties of sub-ADCs and timing mismatch, we achieve rapid convergence of error estimation. A low-cost detection method is proposed based on the convergent monotonicity of the Least Mean Square (LMS) algorithm, which can automatically correct the calibration direction when the input signal goes beyond the Nyquist zone. Physical test results indicate that the spurs caused by timing mismatch can be suppressed by 26–30 dB using the proposed method.

Optimization of a Hybrid Solar–Wind Microgrid for Sustainable Development: A Case Study in Antofagasta, Chile

This paper introduces a genetic algorithm designed to optimize the sizing of a hybrid solar–wind microgrid connected to the main electric grid in Chile, serving a simulated town of 2000 houses. The goal is to promote sustainable development by using renewable energy sources (RES) to supply a small village. The model, considering local meteorological conditions, aggregated load, and Chilean electrical regulations, establishes the optimal number of photovoltaic modules and wind turbine generators and allows for the monitoring of the microgrid’s operation, whose operating strategy is proposed herein. Adhering to Chilean regulations, a maximum exporting power of 9 MW is analyzed, with no restrictions on importing power, which is needed when the renewable resources are not enough to meet the demand. The optimization algorithm, aimed at sizing the RES supply, identified an optimal solution composed of 5 photovoltaic modules of 500 Wp each (2.5 kWp in total) and 123 wind turbines of 100 kW each (total of 12,300 kW), meeting around 85% of the demand through renewable generation. Due to time mismatches between generation and load patterns, the remaining energy was imported. The project’s net present value is approximately EUR 25 M, with a levelized cost of energy at 37 EUR/MWh. A comparison with HOMER grid simulations validates the efficacy of the developed model.

Experimental study on a two-stage absorption thermal battery with absorption-enhanced generation for high storage density and extremely low charging temperature (∼50 °C)

Absorption thermal battery (ATB) is a promising solution to balance the timing or intensity mismatch between low-grade renewable energy sources and end users, which can significantly alleviate the growing energy and environmental issues. However, the performance of the basic ATB needs to be improved, and there is still a lack of experimental research on advanced ATBs. This study proposes a two-stage ATB with absorption-enhanced generation to achieve high energy storage density (ESD) and extremely low charging temperature. A prototype is designed and manufactured, including the single-stage and two-stage modes. The experimental results indicate that the single-stage ATB is fully charged under a charging temperature of 90 °C with an energy storage efficiency (ESE) of 0.62 and an ESD of 137.3 kWh/m3 (357.2 kJ/kg). Under a charging temperature of 70 °C, the ESD of the single-stage ATB is only 62.7 kWh/m3 (163.1 kJ/kg), which can be greatly enhanced to 100.0 kWh/m3 (260.1 kJ/kg) by the two-stage ATB. The lowest charging temperature of the single-stage ATB is 60 °C, with an ESE of 0.31 and an ESD of 22.1 kWh/m3, while the two-stage ATB improves the ESE and ESD by 9.7% and 190.5%, respectively. Even under 50 °C, the ESE (0.33) and ESD (29.4 kWh/m3) of the two-stage ATB are higher than those of the single-stage ATB under 60 °C. The experiment results prove that the two-stage ATB has the advantages of higher ESD and lower charging temperature than the conventional ATB, which provides a promising option for low-grade renewable energy utilization.

An All-Digital Timing Mismatch Calibration Algorithm Based on Reference Channel for TIADC

This paper proposes an all-digital calibration algorithm that utilizes a reference channel to suppress the timing mismatch in the Time-Interleaved Analog-to-Digital Converter (TIADC). The output of the reference channel is aligned with each sub-channel in turn, therefore enabling the simultaneous sampling and conversion of the same input signal. First, the statistical characteristics across the channels are employed for estimating the timing mismatch; then, by comparing the output difference between the reference channel and the sub-channels that are sampled simultaneously, the deviation of the derivator can be calibrated. Finally, combining both calibration results yields an accurate final output. This proposed algorithm provides an effective solution to improve TIADC performance in high-speed data acquisition systems. The proposed architecture is applied to a 12-bit 2.4 GS/s four-channel TIADC model, and then its effectiveness is verified. The simulation results exhibit that the Effective Number Of Bits (ENOB) at an input signal frequency of 984 MHz shows a remarkable improvement from 6.88 bits to 11.92 bits. The effectiveness of this technique is also demonstrated through the off-chip calibration of a commercial 12-bit four-channel 2 GS/s TIADC using a 680 MHz input signal that is based on the actual chip results.

Experimental research of photovoltaic-valley power hybrid heating system with phase change material thermal storage

The widespread integration of high-ratio distributed photovoltaic (PV) systems in buildings calls for flexible load management to align with municipal power peaks and PV variability. To address the timing and demand mismatches between PV generation and building energy needs, energy storage systems are used to manage PV excess, aid in grid peak shaving, and support building heating. This research develops a Photovoltaic-Valley power complementary phase change energy storage heating system, designed to consume photovoltaic and valley power for the decentralized heating of individual rooms, thus optimizing distributed energy utilization. A CPCM of magnesium chloride hexahydrate, EG, and calcium hydroxide, designed for indoor heating, was created with a phase change temperature around 117.9 °C and an enthalpy of 106.2 kJ/kg. An experimental platform was established to test the system and its control strategy, showing that the PV-powered phase change energy storage heater effectively keeps indoor temperatures above the thermal comfort minimum of 18 °C. As the PV guarantee rate increases, the system improves indoor temperature regulation and significantly reduces fluctuations. Operating costs are over 30% lower than those of traditional heating networks and natural gas systems, underscoring substantial energy savings and emission reductions. This research provides an integrated approach for optimizing building PV consumption, managing grid peaks, and regulating indoor temperatures with phase change energy storage heating systems.

CFD simulation of a solar collector integrated with PCM thermal storage

AbstractThermal energy storage is indeed a valuable solution for addressing the time lag or mismatch between energy supply and demand. The study aims to computationally model the melting and solidification processes of phase change material (PCM) using ANSYS Fluent that utilizes the finite volume technique. The simulations provide insights into the shapes of the liquid fraction, corresponding times, and temperature distribution of the PCM particles under the given conditions. The study considers factors such as solar radiation, thermal conductivity, density, latent heat, and the melting temperature of the PCM. The study finds that paraffin wax melts more quickly under a higher average maximum solar irradiance of 985 W/m2, while a lower solar radiation of 300 W/m2 has the opposite effect. Enhanced heat transfer resulting from conduction within the molten PCM, especially at a thermal conductivity of k = 0.25 W/m·K, accelerates the melting process. The thermal conductivity of the PCM affects the overall performance of the thermal energy storage system. The study highlights the potential application of thermal storage for drying purposes. Through the controlled release of stored heat energy, thermal storage enables the provision of heat in the absence of sunlight.

Climate change effects on plankton recruitment from coastal sediments.

In highly seasonal systems, the emergence of planktonic resting stages from the sediment is a key driver for bloom timing and plankton community composition. The termination of the resting phase is often linked to environmental cues, but the extent to which recruitment of resting stages is affected by climate change remains largely unknown for coastal environments. Here we investigate phyto- and zooplankton recruitment from oxic sediments in the Baltic Sea in a controlled experiment under proposed temperature and light increase during the spring and summer. We find that emergence of resting stage differs between seasons and the abiotic environment. Phytoplankton recruitment from resting stages were high in spring with significantly higher emergence rates at increased temperature and light levels for dinoflagellate and cyanobacteria than for diatoms, which had highest emergence under cold and dark conditions. In comparison, hatching of copepod nauplii was not affected by increased temperature and light levels. These results show that activation of plankton resting stages are affected to different degrees by increasing temperature and light levels, indicating that climate change affects plankton dynamics through processes related to resting stage termination with potential consequences for bloom timing, community composition and trophic mismatch.