Abstract
Despite its worldwide relevance as an invasive plant, there are few studies on Ulex europaeus (gorse) and its allelopathic activity is almost unexplored. The allelochemical profile of gorse was analysed through methanolic extract of pods and roots, and its phytotoxic effects on Lactuca sativa germination. The methanolic extract of pods had no effect in germination, while extract of roots resulted in a U-shaped dose-response curve: reducing the germination at concentration 0.5 mg mL-1. GC-MS analysis detected compounds with proven antimicrobial and antioxidant activities in the pods and cytotoxic compounds in the roots, which could explain the bioassay results. The quinolizidine alkaloids (QAs) composition was evaluated to predict possible biological functions. It showed the presence of QAs in gorse that are absent in their native range, indicating broad defense strategies against bacteria, fungi, plants, and insects in the Chilean ecosystem. This could explain the superiority of gorse in the invaded areas.

Abstract
This work discusses and analyzes a class of nonconvex homogeneous optimization problems, in which the objective function is a positively homogeneous function with a certain degree, and the constraints set is determined by a single homogeneous function with another degree, and a geometric set which is a (not necessarily convex) closed cone. Once a Lagrangian dual problem is associated, it is provided various characterizations for the validity of strong duality property: one of them is related to the convexity of a certain image of the geometric set involving both homogeneous functions, so revealing a hidden convexity. We also derive a suitable S-lemma. In the case where both functions are of the same degree of homogeneity, a copositive reformulation of the original problem is established. It is also established zero-, first-and second-order optimality conditions; KKT (local or global) optimality, giving rise to the notion of L-eigenvalues with applications to symmetric tensors eigenvalues analysis.

Abstract

Abstract
Onshore power supply (OPS) is a key enabler for decarbonizing port operations and meeting upcoming regulatory targets such as the EU AFIR Regulation 2023/1805 and Portugal's PNEC 2030. This paper presents a simulation-based framework for estimating the OPS demand of container ships at berth, integrating ship hoteling loads, reefer thermal dynamics with flexible control, and OPS/auxiliary engine (AE) dispatch under port grid constraints. A case study at Terminal XXI of the Port of Sines demonstrates the approach using high-resolution (1-minute) simulations. Results show that reefer flexibility enables peak shaving, OPS demand can be enforced within available grid capacity without violating thermal limits, and AE provides reliable backup. Complementary machine learning modules based on Gradient Boosting, Random Forest, and XGBoost enable accurate imputation of missing ship descriptors and OPS demand forecasting (R2 > 0.95). The framework provides an AI-ready decision-support tool for OPS infrastructure planning and port energy management. © 2025 IEEE.

Abstract
The increasing energy demand in seaport operations, driven by electrification and decarbonisation targets, requires enhanced tools for operational planning and flexibility management. This paper proposes a novel centralised Energy Management System designed for seaports, which, unlike previous approaches that mainly focused on cost minimisation jointly optimises Battery Energy Storage System scheduling, energy and reserve market participation, and carbon-intensity reduction. A key contribution of this work is the integration of CO\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$$_2$$\end{document} emission forecasts and day-ahead market data into a multi-objective formulation, allowing the Energy Management System not only to minimise operational costs but also to reduce indirect emissions. Additionally, a Traffic Light system is proposed to support operators' decision-making by providing actionable flexibility guidelines. A case study based on real-world data from the Port of Sines shows that this method achieves at least an 17% reduction on an annual basis compared to baseline operations, while ensuring cost efficiency. Results highlight the Energy Management System's potential as a decision-support tool for port authorities seeking to align operational efficiency with sustainability goals.

Abstract
Maritime transport faces increasing decarbonisation requirements, placing new demands on port energy systems. Yet most existing studies analyse isolated components or short time horizons, limiting their usefulness for long-term planning. This work develops a holistic, least-cost optimisation model of the Port of Sines energy system using OSeMOSYS, integrating electricity and fuel consumption across port operations and fuel-management processes from 2020 to 2050.The study evaluates alternative technology pathways and policy measures, including carbon taxation, national emission-reduction targets, and the adoption of an innovative ocean-going vessel fleet. Results show that electrification, driven by onshore power supply and renewable expansion, is the most cost-effective decarbonisation route, while its performance depends on local generation capacity and the carbon intensity of the electricity mix. Policy mechanisms and fleet innovation further influence the timing and depth of emissions reductions. Overall, the model provides a replicable framework to support strategic port decarbonisation planning.