In this work, we use direct-numerical-simulation-based Eulerian-Lagrangian simulations to investigate the dynamics of small gyrotactic swimmers in free-surface turbulence. We consider open-channel flow turbulence in which bottom-heavy swimmers are dispersed. Swimmers are characterized by different vertical stability, so that some realign to swim upward with a characteristic time smaller than the Kolmogorov timescale, while others possess a reorientation time longer than the Kolmogorov timescale. We cover one order of magnitude in the flow Reynolds number and two orders of magnitude in the stability number, which is a measure of bottom heaviness. We observe that large-scale advection dominates vertical motion when the stability number, scaled on the local Kolmogorov timescale of the flow, is larger than unity: This condition is associated to enhanced migration toward the surface, particularly at low Reynolds number, when swimmers can rise through surface renewal motions that originate directly from the bottom-boundary turbulent bursts. Conversely, small-scale effects become more important when the Kolmogorov-based stability number is below unity: Under this condition, migration toward the surface is hindered, particularly at high Reynolds, when bottom-boundary bursts are less effective in bringing bulk fluid to the surface. In an effort to provide scaling arguments to improve predictions of models for motile microorganisms in turbulent water bodies, we demonstrate that a Kolmogorov-based stability number around unity represents a threshold beyond which swimmer capability to reach the free surface and form clusters saturates.

Because of the currently changing climate, Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) is increasingly becoming an important contemporary topic. However, this technique still faces various challenges. For the compression of CO${}_2$ to its supercritical condition for efficient transport, one of the important challenges is mastering the two-phase flow in the pump. Indeed, phase changes that appear on the blade tips of an impeller or rotor in such pumps can lead to performance and stability issues. Moreover, these phase change phenomena (vaporization and condensation) can be significantly modified by the presence of impurities (N${}_2$, O${}_2$, H${}_2$S, etc.) whose nature depends on the source of the CO${}_2$ production. In this work, we focus on analyzing the high pressure flow behavior of CO${}_2$ mixed with varying levels of impurities in a de Laval nozzle, for which experimental results are available. Numerical simulations are performed using a real-fluid model (RFM) implemented in the CONVERGE CFD solver. In this model, a tabulation approach is used to provide the thermodynamic and transport properties of the mixture of CO${}_2$ with the impurities. The study is carried out with different inlet conditions, and the results are in good agreement with the available experimental data. In addition, the results provide insights on the interaction of the shock wave with the observed condensation phenomenon, as well as its impact on the amount of condensation and other thermodynamic variables. The research indicates that the presence of impurities mixed with CO${}_2$ significantly affects the observed condensation in gas streams, which is a crucial factor that cannot be overlooked when implementing CCS systems.

Urban heat vulnerability is an increasing public health concern, particularly in rapidly urbanizing regions of southern France. This study aims to quantify and map the Heat Vulnerability Index (HVI) for Toulouse and to analyze its temporal trends to identify high-risk zones and influencing factors. The assessment integrates recent years’ remote sensing data of pollutant emissions, land use/land cover and land surface temperature, statistical data of climate-related mortalities, and socioeconomic and demographic factors. Following a detailed analysis of recent real-time air quality and weather data from multiple monitoring stations across the city of Toulouse, it was observed that Urban Pollution Island (UPI) and Urban Heat Island (UHI) are closely interlinked phenomena. Their combined effects can significantly elevate the annual mortality risk rate by an average of 2%, as calculated using AirQ+ particularly, in densely populated urban areas. Remote sensing data was processed using Google Earth Engine and all factors were grouped into three key categories: heat exposure, heat sensitivity, and adaptive capacity to derive HVI. Temporal HVI maps were generated and analyzed to identify recent trends, revealing a persistent increase in vulnerability across the city. Comparative results show that 2022 was the most critical summer period, especially evident in areas with limited vegetation and extensive use of heat-absorptive materials in buildings and pavements. The year 2024 indicates resiliency and adaptation although some areas remain highly vulnerable. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted mitigation strategies to improve public health, enhance urban resilience, and promote overall human well-being. This research provides valuable insights for urban planners and municipal authorities in designing greener, more heat-resilient environments.