Assessment Methodology Research Articles

Test Methodology for Short-Circuit Assessment and Safe Operation Identification for Power SiC MOSFETs

The short-circuit (SC) immunity of power silicon carbide (SiC) MOSFETs is critical for high-reliability applications, where robust monitoring and protection strategies are essential to ensure system safety. Despite their superior voltage blocking capabilities and high energy efficiency, SiC MOSFETs exhibit greater sensitivity to SC-induced degradation compared to their silicon counterparts. This increased vulnerability necessitates the precise assessment of the key SC performance metrics, such as short-circuit withstand time (TSCWT), as well as a deeper understanding of the failure mechanisms. In this study, a comprehensive experimental methodology for evaluating the SC behavior of SiC MOSFETs is presented and validated using industrial references. The investigation further explores the concept of a Safe Operating Area (SOA) under SC conditions, highlighting the significant impact of quasi-simultaneous SC events on device lifetime. Additionally, an application case study demonstrates how these events can drastically reduce the device’s lifespan.

Assessing the value and risk of renewable PPAs

Renewable Energy Power Purchase Agreements (RE PPAs) are considered to be a key tool in order to foster RE deployment, as they allow for the reduction of uncertainty for all parties as well as facilitating access to the long term finance required for such projects. Nevertheless, RE PPA adoption is hampered by a number of barriers, including the high level of guarantees demanded from offtakers, a problem which is related to the shortcomings of existing assessment methodologies, in particular, determining the credit risk of the PPA itself. In this work, we propose an RE PPA assessment model focused on the main drivers of value and risk for the offtaker which are cost and volatility reductions, compared to the electricity market. By identifying and valuing the options for the offtaker embedded in the PPA, it is possible to determine the default probability at any given time and the expected loss for the producer, thus allowing for the estimation of the amount of guarantees needed to hedge the credit risk.

An ecoregion-based approach to evaluate invasive plant species pools

Invasive alien species are an important component of global change, threatening biodiversity, ecosystem functioning, economy, and human health. The number of alien species that attain the invasive status has experienced an exponential increase in recent years, leading some government agencies and stakeholders to allocate substantial resources to early detection, control, mitigation, and eradication programs. To develop effective nature conservation strategies, it is crucial to understand the invasive status of alien species and to identify priority species for management at spatial scales with a biogeographical basis. Despite significant progress in producing lists of alien species at the country level, a standard methodology for species assessment within ecological regions (i.e., regions with similar environmental or biogeographical characteristics) is still lacking. Here, we develop a systematic approach to determine invasion status and to prioritize invasive alien plant species within an ecoregion. We apply this approach in the Cantabrian Mixed Forests ecoregion, which encompasses biogeographically related areas from N Portugal, NW Spain, and SW France, and is strongly affected by plant invasions. By combining scientific evidence with expert opinion on the ecological characteristics of alien plants, we identified 175 invasive plant species in the study ecoregion, of which 37 cause massive environmental and/or socio-economic impacts. For each species, we provide comprehensive information and recommendations for scientists, land managers, policy makers, and other stakeholders under a biogeographical basis. This information includes species characteristics, invasion status/level, population trends, geographic locations and range size, local abundance, environmental and socio-economic impacts, and invaded habitats. We also accounted for administrative divisions within the ecoregion to facilitate the use of such evaluations in local-scale management and conservation plans. Our framework may be applied to any ecoregion worldwide, enhancing the assessment and management of invasive species pools within biogeographically meaningful regions.

Analyzing the Environmental Impact of Livestock Manure Recycling Process Using Life Cycle Assessment

Objectives:This study aims to assess the environmental impact of the composting process, which constitutes 75.3% of the domestic livestock manure recycling methods, and to determine the environmental impacts of methane and nitrous oxide, the major greenhouse gases in the livestock sector, as well as ammonia, a precursor to fine particulate matter that has recently become a social issue. The analysis will focus on the categories of climate change and fine particulate matter formation to identify the most significant factors impacting the environment.Methods:This study applied the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology according to ISO 14040/14044 standards to evaluate the environmental impact of producing one bag (20kg) of livestock manure compost. The system boundary included the transportation of livestock manure and sawdust to the composting facility and the compost production process. The methodology applied for impact assessment was the ReCiPe 2016 v.1.1 Midpoint (H) method, which allows for a more global evaluation by utilizing worldwide average data.Results and Discussion:The impact assessment of livestock manure compost production revealed that producing one bag contributes 2.667 kg CO2-eq. to climate change, with electricity consumption responsible for 68.95% of emissions. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the dominant greenhouse gas, making up 84.37% of the total. Particulate matter formation is 0.037 kg PM2.5-eq., with 91.97% resulting from emissions during the composting process. Ammonia (NH3) is the main cause of particulate matter, accounting for 92.02% of emissions.Conclusion:Based on the research, electricity consumption is the main factor affecting climate change in compost production, and ammonia is the primary cause of fine particulate matter. This study provides a case for evaluating the environmental impact of livestock manure composting and can serve as a foundational reference for developing policies and technologies to address climate change and fine particulate matter issues.

Comparative analysis of Environmental Impact of Each Building Material using Life Cycle assessment(LCA)_Focusing on Types of Construction Wood and Concrete

Objectives:The construction sector is a very important sector in achieving carbon neutrality. In modern society, construction has grown rapidly, and basic materials such as cement and concrete have contributed greatly to the development of construction. These materials emit a large amount of global warming substances during the raw material extraction and production process, causing serious environmental pollution. In order to establish a carbon reduction strategy to slow down global warming, we compared the environmental impacts of each building material and showed the current situation.Methods:The LCI DB for the construction materials used in the two-story wooden house (Building area 128.67m2, total floor area 235.73m2) located in the National Institute of Forest Science was extracted. Then, the data for LCA was processed and performed through the life cycle assessment methodology for the resources consumed from raw material collection, material production, and transportation stages. Then, based on the environmental performance labeling impact assessment method, a study was conducted on the environmental impact categories of the actual construction materials used and comparisons with other construction materials.Results and Discussion:When analyzing the environmental impact of concrete [25-21-120] and construction wood used in wooden house, the environmental impact was found to be 98.79% higher on average in the pre-manufacturing stage than in the manufacturing stage, and construction wood was confirmed to have a reduction effect of 62.21 kg CO2-eq per 1 m3 compared to concrete. Through the scenario, there was a carbon reduction effect of up to 36% when the entire area was replaced with wood. In addition, the environmental impact by major construction material was quantitatively quantified.Conclusion:When building a wooden house, reducing the amount of concrete equivalent to the amount of wood is expected to have a greenhouse gas reduction effect, so it is time to activate construction wood from the production process to the post-production stage to replace concrete. In addition, follow-up research on the development of construction technology with low environmental impact during construction should be continued. This study is expected to be used as a useful indicator for R&D and policies in the construction field in the future, as it quantitatively quantified the amount of CO2 reduction per m3 when replacing concrete with construction wood and numerically compared and analyzed six major environmental impact categories by major construction materials.

Building a theoretical framework for financial risk management in emerging markets: Applying global best practices to the oil and gas industry in developing economies

Financial risk management is crucial for the sustainability and growth of the oil and gas industry in developing economies, where volatility and regulatory uncertainties present significant challenges. This abstract explores the construction of a theoretical framework for financial risk management, adapting global best practices to the specific contexts of emerging markets within the oil and gas sector. In developing economies, the oil and gas industry faces unique risks such as geopolitical instability, currency fluctuations, and regulatory changes. Effective financial risk management mitigates these risks through proactive strategies that balance risk exposure with strategic objectives. Adopting global best practices involves the integration of comprehensive risk assessment methodologies, scenario planning, and hedging techniques tailored to local market conditions. Key components of the theoretical framework include risk identification through comprehensive analysis of market, operational, and financial factors. This approach enables oil and gas companies to anticipate and mitigate risks before they escalate, ensuring financial stability and resilience in volatile environments. Furthermore, the application of global best practices in financial risk management fosters transparency and accountability, enhancing investor confidence and facilitating access to capital. By aligning risk management strategies with international standards and benchmarks, developing economy oil and gas firms can navigate uncertainty more effectively, thereby optimizing operational performance and sustaining long-term growth. However, challenges such as limited access to sophisticated financial instruments and expertise may hinder effective implementation. Overcoming these barriers requires capacity building, collaboration with experienced partners, and continuous adaptation of strategies to evolving market dynamics. In conclusion, building a theoretical framework for financial risk management in the oil and gas industry in developing economies is essential for mitigating volatility and maximizing opportunities. By applying global best practices tailored to local contexts, companies can strengthen their resilience, attract investment, and drive sustainable development in emerging markets.

Letter to the Editor: Misophonia: A Need for Audiological Diagnostic Guidelines.

The goal of this commentary is to present to audiologists the recent consensus definition of misophonia along with current clinical measures useful for audiologists in the diagnosis of misophonia. Up and coming behavioral methods that may be sensitive to misophonia are highlighted. Finally, a call is put out for translational audiologic research with the goal of developing diagnostic criteria for misophonia. The approach to the consensus definition is described, as well as the main characteristics of misophonia agreed upon by the expert panel. Next, available clinical measures that may be useful to audiologists for the diagnosis of misophonia are presented, followed by a brief review of current behavioral assessment methodology that still requires research to determine sensitivity and specificity to misophonia symptomatology. This discussion leads to the need for establishment of audiologic diagnostic criteria in misophonia, especially when differentiating from hyperacusis. While the consensus definition for misophonia is an excellent first step in obtaining expert agreement on the descriptors of misophonic triggers, reactions, and behavior, clinical research is critical in developing criteria for misophonia as a specific sound tolerance disorder.

Using Peer Assessment Leveraging Large Language Models in Software Engineering Education

This paper explores the integration of generative AI and large language models into the realm of software engineering education and training, with a specific focus on the transformation of traditional peer assessment methodologies. The motivation stems from the growing demand for innovative educational techniques that can effectively engage and empower learners in mastering Software Engineering principles. The proposed approach involves presenting students with modeling exercises solved by ChatGPT, prompting them to critically evaluate and provide constructive feedback on the generated solutions. By engaging students in a dialogue with the AI model, we aim to foster a dynamic learning environment where learners can articulate their considerations and insights, thereby enhancing their comprehension of software engineering principles, critical thinking and self evaluation skills. Preliminary results from pilot implementations indicate promising outcomes, suggesting that this approach not only enhances the quality of peer feedback but also contributes to a more interactive and engaging educational experience.

Assessing the Environmental Impact of Municipal Waste on Energy Incineration Technology for Power Generation Using Life Cycle Assessment Methodology

The life cycle assessment methodology is a comprehensive environmental impact evaluation approach rooted in the “cradle-to-grave” concept. This study takes a municipal solid waste incineration power plant in central China as an example to comprehensively explore the potential ecological and environmental impacts of municipal solid waste incineration power generation through life cycle assessment methods. Burning one ton of waste can recover 7342 joules of thermal energy. Compared with traditional landfill, incineration can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by about 30%, with a potential global warming impact of −0.69 kg of carbon dioxide equivalent. Amongst environmental impacts, land, freshwater, and marine ecosystems possess the greatest potential toxicity, followed by the harmful effects on human health and the influence of ozone-producing photochemical pollution. Lastly, there comes terrestrial acidification, whereas other types of effects can be relatively disregarded in comparison. In the process of waste incineration power generation, the potential impacts of global warming, ionizing radiation, and fossil resource scarcity are less than zero, indicating that this is an environmentally friendly process. In response to the above-mentioned environmental impacts, it is necessary to pay attention to improving incineration efficiency, optimizing leachate treatment, reducing coal use, and controlling acidic gas emissions in the process of urban solid waste incineration power generation. This research offers insights into advancing environmentally sustainable technologies for utilizing waste as an energy resource.

WHO/Europe tools for strengthening health information systems

Abstract WHO/Europe offers different tools and capacity building activities to support Member States (MS) in strengthening their health information systems (HIS). These range from assessment methodologies and guidance documents to situation reports and workshops and trainings. The HIS assessment method of WHO/Europe provides an overview of the performance of the entire HIS in an MS. As such, this is often applied as a starting point for HIS strengthening activities in a country, and ideally repeated every few years to measure progress. Next to an assessment of the overall HIS, WHO/Europe also has methods for assessing specific HIS aspects, such as cybersecurity preparedness and GIS capacity. There are also several tools and capacity building activities that specifically focus on strengthening HIS digitalisation (d-HIS). For example, there is a modular d-HIS training, the programme of which can be adapted to meet specific MS needs. This also applies to the population health monitoring training that is available for interested MS. In addition, WHO/Europe has published a range of guidance documents, ranging from a comprehensive d-HIS strengthening manual to guidance on how to write an impactful health report, and guidance on how to apply data protection principles in public health. Finally, WHO/Europe supports HIS strengthening by making Regional and country-level situation reports, and by writing and contributing to scientific papers. In this presentation, first a general overview of available types of HIS strengthening tools and activities will be provided, after which the available tools and capacity building related to data protection and cybersecurity will be presented in more detail, because of the high interest WHO/Europe encounters for these topics in the Region currently.

A healthcare workforce assessment model using reimbursement data in Luxembourg

Abstract Background The assessment of the healthcare professional (HCP) headcount and level of activity is a real challenge for policy makers. In Luxembourg, there is no uniform definition of practicing HCP. This work focused on identifying a method to assess HCP headcount and their level of activity in Luxembourg, while finding national consensus. Methods A thorough literature review was conducted to find methods that assess practicing HCP and identify their level of activity. Eligible were scientific papers or national reports discussing methods on employed and self-employed HCP. National reimbursement data were used for preliminary data explorations conducted alongside the ‘General Inspectorate of Social Security’ in Luxembourg and discussed with the ‘Institut national d’assurance maladie-invalidité (INAMI)’ in Belgium. Two working groups were planned with national stakeholders to discuss HCP assessment methodologies. Both the collaborations and the working groups led to a preliminary validated HCP assessment method. To reach national consensus, a Delphi study is planned in June 2024, using the eDelphi.org platform. Invited panelists include researchers, professionals, healthcare practitioners, decision makers and policy makers, patient representatives, and insurers. Results The literature review found 16 eligible papers on HCP headcount and HCP’ level of activity. Finally, the Belgian method, developed by experts from INAMI, using reimbursement data and establishing a median reimbursement for each medical specialty was retained for Luxembourg. The results of the Delphi study will inform on the level of agreement on relevance, clarity and completeness of the proposed methodology for Luxembourg. Discussion Finding national consensus represents a strong foundation for efforts to advance the use of the proposed methodology in healthcare workforce assessment and planning. Key messages • Counting something as simple as healthcare professionals requires a strong methodology that held the buy-in of all major stakeholder. • As working behavior of HCP evolves over time, it is crucial to not only count professionals but also full-time equivalents for policy makers to plan ahead in an accurate manner.

Cross-cutting integration of equity and diversity lens in public health: a novel approach of JACARDI

Abstract Issue/Problem Health inequities persist across European countries, impacting the distribution, prevention, and management of non-communicable diseases. With increasing population diversity and improved understanding of the intersectional nature of drivers of health inequities, narrowing inequities calls for systematic integration of diversity perspectives into equity-driven policy and practice. Description of the problem The EU-co-funded Joint Action on CVDs and diabetes (JACARDI, 11/2023-10/2027) project with 76 partners from 21 countries and 142 national-level projects (later pilots), applies a structured approach for integrating equity and diversity perspectives within all project structures. This is achieved through design of a common methodological framework and terminology glossary for all thematic work packages (WPs) and their pilots, which are further supported through capacity building sessions and consultations. Results The “4Cs” framework (Critical reflection; Context and data; Co-design; and inclusive and accessible Communications) for integrating equity and diversity principles in JACARDI was developed based on results of focus group interviews with WP leaders (n = 24) and review of previous literature. This framework was applied as a lens to be applied in the planned activities by WPs and pilots, elaborated in an equity and diversity maturity matrix aligned with the XV methodological steps for pilot implementation. Additionally, equity and diversity indicators were integrated into harmonized context analysis questionnaires for national focal points of each partner country, as well as into the methodology for pilot assessment and reporting. Lessons Equity and diversity perspectives should be integrated into the core structures of project implementation, supported by practical tools, trainings and practical consultations to improve adherence and collaborative understanding across project partners. Key messages • Equity and diversity integration into core structures are essential for tackling health inequities and the NCD-related social gradient in Europe. • Encouraging critical reflection among JACARDI partners is pivotal for initiating a paradigm shift towards equity and diversity inclusion.

Using Geographic Momentary Assessment to Explore Spatial Environment Influences on Wellbeing in People With HIV.

Place-based socio-economic and racial inequities contribute to health disparities among people with HIV (PWH). We used geographic ecological momentary assessment (GEMA) methodologies to explore the interplay between psychosocial outcomes in daily diaries and community spatial measures among PWH in New Orleans. PWH (N = 69) were recruited from a clinic-based cohort study. Micro-longitudinal data were collected via smartphone-based daily diaries and geospatial tracking over 14 days. First, correlations were run between diary derived outcomes (e.g., feeling safe in current location, stress), and spatial measures (e.g., violent crime, alcohol outlets, and vacant lots) within a half-mile buffer around each diary point to understand the real time associations between mood and space. Next, we fit multilevel models, controlling for between-person effects, to assess within-person associations between accumulative spatial daily violence exposure (50m, 100m and 200m buffers), and measures of daily mood and coping. Violent crime, alcohol outlets and vacant lots were inversely correlated with feeling safe and positively correlated with perceived ease of obtaining drugs. Vacant lots were positively associated with stress and inversely correlated with positive mood. Within individuals, higher daily accumulated violence exposure was associated with increased rumination at the 50m buffer level, decreased trust in oneself and others at the 100m buffer, and decreased ratio of positive/negative mood at all buffers. Our results emphasize the intricate interplay between mental wellness, coping mechanisms, and spatial measures in PWH. Future research and interventions for PWH should consider how spatial factors may influence PWH in terms of mental health and care engagement.

Urban burden of disease estimation for policy making

Abstract Introduction The Urban Burden of Disease Estimation for Policy Making (UBDPolicy) project aims to estimate the health impacts resulting from urban and transport planning related exposures in nearly 1000 European cities. So far, quantitative burden of disease assessments have estimated premature mortality attributable to the environmental stressors of air pollution, noise, urban heat islands and lack of green space for the year 2015. Regular reporting and trend monitoring of the health impacts associated with urban environments is crucial for assessing the wider impacts of urban and transport planning. Methods For almost 1000 European cities, quantitative Health Impact Assessments (HIAs) will be conducted that employ the comparative risk assessment methodology. Baseline exposure levels of air pollution, noise, urban heat islands and green space will be estimated and preventable health impacts modelled using counterfactual exposure scenarios. Analysis will comprise two components: firstly, the 2018 HIA will incorporate multiple environmental exposures for that year, while the second component will monitor trends at three-yearly reporting intervals covering the years of 2015, 2018, 2021 and 2024. Results Results are intended to shape evidence-informed urban planning and policies throughout Europe. By ranking cities according to environmental exposures and health impacts, cities are encouraged to address challenges and learn from successful urban design and planning policies in other cities. Discussion HIAs serve as an effective tool for identifying the health impacts of current and future urban policies. The provision of burden of disease estimates will provide policy-makers and practitioners robust data for informed decision-making, while estimates over time will allow tracking of changes from implemented policies. To fully harness the potential of cities as key drivers of sustainable and healthy living, robust evidence must be at the forefront of this change. Key messages • A multitude of urban and transport planning pathways contribute toward the health of urban populations. • Compact city designs often promote health, however there are exceptions.

Improving Workplace Safety and Health Through a Rapid Ergonomic Risk Assessment Methodology Enhanced by an Artificial Intelligence System

The comfort of a worker while performing any activity is extremely important. If that activity extends beyond a person’s capacity to withstand physical and psychological stress, the worker may suffer from both physical and mental ailments. Over time, if the stress persists, these conditions can become chronic diseases and can even be the cause of workplace accidents. In this research, a methodology was developed for the rapid assessment of ergonomic risks and for calculating the level of ergonomic comfort in the workplace. This methodology uses artificial intelligence through a specific algorithm and takes into account a number of factors that, when combined, can have a significant impact on workers. To achieve a more accurate simulation of a work situation or to evaluate an ongoing work situation, and to significantly correlate these parameters, we used logarithmic calculation formulas. To streamline the process, we developed software that performs these calculations, conducts a rapid assessment of ergonomic risks, estimates a comfort level, and proposes possible measures to mitigate the risks and effects on workers. To assist in diagnosing the work situation, we used a neural network with five neurons in the input layer, one hidden layer, and two neurons in the output layer. As a result, most work situations, in any industrial field, can be quickly analyzed and evaluated using this methodology. The use of this new analysis and diagnosis tool, implemented through this new research technology, is beneficial for employers and workers. Moreover, through further developments of this methodology, achieved by increasing the number of relevant input parameters for ergonomics and integrating advanced artificial intelligence systems, we aim to provide high precision in assessing ergonomic risk and calculating the level of ergonomic comfort.

A Review of Reliability Research in Regional Integrated Energy System: Indicator, Modeling, and Assessment Methods

The increasing complexity of integrated energy systems has made reliability assessment a critical challenge. This paper presents a comprehensive review of reliability assessment in Regional Integrated Energy Systems (RIES), focusing on key aspects such as reliability indicators, modeling approaches, and evaluation techniques. This study highlights the role of renewable energy sources and examines the coupling relationships within RIES. Energy hub models and complex network theory are identified as significant in RIES modeling, while probabilistic load flow analysis shows promise in handling renewable energy uncertainties. This paper also explores the potential of machine learning methods and multi-objective optimization approaches in enhancing system reliability. By proposing an integrated assessment framework, this study addresses this research gap in reliability evaluation under high renewable energy penetration scenarios. The findings contribute to the advancement of reliability assessment methodologies for integrated energy systems, supporting the development of more resilient and sustainable energy infrastructures.

Development and Validation of a New Approach to Assess the Seismic Vulnerability of Masonry Structures Based on the CARTIS Form

ABSTRACT Rapid methodologies for seismic vulnerability assessment are crucial for implementing effective seismic risk mitigation strategies over large areas. This paper addresses data accuracy and specificity uncertainties in vulnerability indices by introducing a novel rapid methodology built upon the CARTIS form. To transition from typology identification to vulnerability analysis, the study proposes a new Informed Vulnerability Index for Structures (In.V.I.S.) calibrated upon a hybrid vulnerability index formulation based on the GNDT II level approach, and specifically tailored to fit the main CARTIS form fields. Collaboration with local experts, as required by the CARTIS form, aids in identifying representative building typologies within urban centres, informed by historical data and expert knowledge. The In.V.I.S. is computed based on the distinctive characteristics of these building typologies to accurately reflect vulnerability levels. The feasibility of this approach is proved by its application to six municipalities in the Garfagnana area (Lucca, Italy). Finally, vulnerability and fragility curves are proposed for the main building typologies, as a demonstration of the potential applications of the proposed index. Overall, this research underscores the importance of integrating local expertise, historical context and rapid vulnerability assessment methodologies to enhance the accuracy and effectiveness of seismic vulnerability assessments.

The Effect of Algae Supplementation on Anthropometric Indices in Adults: A GRADE-Assessed Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Inconsistent results have been reported regarding the effects of different types of algae, such as Spirulina and Chlorella, on anthropometric indices. To conduct a meta-analysis to assess the efficacy of algae supplementation on anthropometric indices. A comprehensive systematic search was conducted to find relevant articles published from January 1990 to January 2024. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing algae supplementation with a placebo or control group were included. The risk of bias and certainty of the evidence were evaluated using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology, respectively. The random-effects model was used to find the Weighted mean differences (WMDs) for each outcome. Of 9079 distinct articles in the initial screening, 61 clinical trials were included in this meta-analysis. Algae supplementation resulted in lower body mass index (WMD, -0.27 kg/m2 (95% CI, -0.42 to -0.13); GRADE rating, low), body weight (WMD: -0.78 kg [-1.18 to -0.38]; GRADE rating, low), waist circumference (WMD, -0.68 cm [-1.27 to -0.10]; GRADE rating, very low), kilograms of body fat (WMD, -0.65 kg [-1.13 to -0.17]; GRADE rating, low), and body fat percentage (WMD, -0.9% [-1.62 to -0.17]; GRADE rating, very low) compared with placebo or controls. Nevertheless, the statistically significant effects of algae supplementation on hip circumference (WMD, -0.20 cm [-0.73 to 0.32]; GRADE rating, moderate), waist to hip ratio (WMD, -0.01 [-0.01 to 0.00]; GRADE rating, moderate), and lean body mass (WMD, -0.30 kg [-0.62 to 0.02]; GRADE rating, moderate) were not observed. Overall, the findings of this meta-analysis indicate supplementation with algae may exert beneficial effects on anthropometric indices. However, due to between-studies heterogeneity and very low to low levels of GRADE for significant outcomes, the results should be interpreted with caution. PROSPERO registration no. CRD42024522923.

Comparative LCA of thermal power plant with CCS and solar PV system: sustainability assessment in Indian context.

The study's objective is to evaluate and compare the sustainability of power production techniques for India's transition to clean power generation. It specifically focuses on coal-based power generation with emission control technologies, flue gas desulfurization (FGD) with carbon capture and storage (CCS), and compares it with solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. The study conducted a life cycle assessment (LCA) to determine the environmental impact of electricity generation in each scenario. Inventory data has been collected for each case through plant visits, emission modelling, and literature searches. The study evaluated midpoint and endpoint impact indicators utilizing the ReCiPe (H) assessment methodology. The economic viability of all the cases was determined by calculating the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE). The results showed that retrofitting an existing power plant with flue gas desulfurization (FGD) and carbon capture and storage (CCS) reduced efficiency by 30%, required 1.2 times more auxiliary power, and increased heat rates. The LCA results showed that the global warming potential (GwP) for FGD and CCS together was 0.614 kg CO2 eq. per kWh of power generation. On the other hand, the GwP for the solar PV system was much lower, at 0.043 kg CO2 eq. per kWh. There were trade-offs in both cases, but solar PV plants are more environmentally friendly than thermal power plants equipped with CCS systems in almost all categories. Furthermore, the LCOE results showed Rs 3.87 per kWh for an on-grid solar PV plant and Rs 5.33 for thermal power, with CCS and FGD showing solar as an economically more feasible option. Retrofitting thermal power facilities with emission control technology is necessary to achieve net zero emissions, but transition torenewable energy sources isinevitable.

On the Mathematical Modeling of a Fire Thermogasodynamic Pattern and Using a Priory Calculation of Fire Hazard Factors in Forensic Fire Examination

The article presents the disadvantages of the “risk analysis” methodology for fire safety assessment of buildings and its inadmissibility in forensic practice. The option of numerical modeling application for fire hazards evaluation in forensic fire-examination is analyzed.