Average Load Research Articles

Interdisciplinary network care collaboration in Parkinson’s disease: a baseline evaluation in Germany

BackgroundThe strengthening of interdisciplinary care collaboration in Parkinson's disease is taking on increasing importance in daily medical routine. Therefore, care providers worldwide are organizing themselves in disease-specific regional network structures. However, the existing networks are heterogeneous, and the driving key players are yet unidentified.ObjectivesTo systematically identify key factors of the composition of health care professionals, who are initially interested in the development of a Parkinson network for interdisciplinary care collaboration, their motivation, and expectations, we conducted a basic evaluation in three different German regions covering a total number of 23,405 people with Parkinson’s.MethodsA specially developed semi-open questionnaire focusing on socio-demographic information, ways of contact, interdisciplinary collaboration, and connectedness was used. Statistical analyses were performed based on a predesigned codebook.ResultsThe most crucial professions were outpatient therapists (physio-, occupational-, speech therapists) (36.7%), average case load of 10.1 patients/3 months and inpatient movement disorder specialists (21.1%), average case load of 197.4 patients/3 months. Before implementation of PD networks, 48.9% of outpatient therapists did not have any contact with neurologists. 58.9% of caregivers considered the current frequency of collaboration to be insufficient. The lack of political support as well as a lack of time were identified as main hurdles to increased collaboration.ConclusionThe identified driving forces in strengthened care collaboration are assigned to different healthcare sectors. This makes networks which provide tools for specialized education and interdisciplinary, cross-sectoral communication indispensable. For an areawide rollout, a rethinking of political frameworks towards network care is strongly necessary.

Camouflaging attenuated Salmonella by cryo-shocked macrophages for tumor-targeted therapy

Live bacteria-mediated antitumor therapies mark a pivotal point in cancer immunotherapy. However, the difficulty in reconciling the safety and efficacy of bacterial therapies has limited their application. Improving bacterial tumor-targeted delivery while maintaining biosafety is a critical hurdle for the clinical translation of live microbial therapy for cancer. Here, we developed “dead” yet “functional” Salmonella-loaded macrophages using liquid nitrogen cold shock of an attenuated Salmonella typhimurium VNP20009-contained macrophage cell line. The obtained “dead” macrophages achieve an average loading of approximately 257 live bacteria per 100 cells. The engineered cells maintain an intact cellular structure but lose their original pathogenicity, while intracellular bacteria retain their original biological activity and are delay freed, followed by proliferation. This “Trojan horse”-like bacterial camouflage strategy avoids bacterial immunogenicity-induced neutrophil recruitment and activation in peripheral blood, reduces the clearance of bacteria by neutrophils and enhances bacterial tumor enrichment efficiently after systemic administration. Furthermore, this strategy also strongly activated the tumor microenvironment, including increasing antitumor effector cells (including M1-like macrophages and CD8+ Teffs) and decreasing protumor effector cells (including M2-like macrophages and CD4+ Tregs), and ultimately improved antitumor efficacy in a subcutaneous H22 tumor-bearing mouse model. The cryo-shocked macrophage-mediated bacterial delivery strategy holds promise for expanding the therapeutic applications of living bacteria for cancer.

Interaction of Biomechanical, Anthropometric, and Demographic Factors Associated with Patellofemoral Pain in Rearfoot Strike Runners: A Classification and Regression Tree Approach

BackgroundPatellofemoral pain (PFP) is among the most common injuries in runners. While multiple risk factors for patellofemoral pain have been investigated, the interactions of variables contributing to this condition have not been explored. This study aimed to classify runners with patellofemoral pain using a combination of factors including biomechanical, anthropometric, and demographic factors through a Classification and Regression Tree analysis.ResultsThirty-eight runners with PFP and 38 healthy controls (CON) were selected with mean (standard deviation) age 33 (16) years old and body mass index 22.3 (2.6) kg/m2. Each ran at self-selected speed, but no between-group difference was identified (PFP = 2.54 (0.2) m/s x CON = 2.55 (0.1) m/s, P = .660). Runners with patellofemoral pain had different patterns of interactions involving braking ground reaction force impulse, contact time, vertical average loading rate, and age. The classification and regression tree model classified 84.2% of runners with patellofemoral pain, and 78.9% of healthy controls. The prevalence ratios ranged from 0.06 (95% confidence interval: 0.02–0.23) to 9.86 (95% confidence interval: 1.16–83.34). The strongest model identified runners with patellofemoral pain as having higher braking ground reaction force impulse, lower contact times, higher vertical average loading rate, and older age. The receiver operating characteristic curve demonstrated high accuracy at 0.83 (95% confidence interval: 0.74–0.93; standard error: 0.04; P < .001).ConclusionsThe classification and regression tree model identified an influence of multiple factors associated with patellofemoral pain in runners. Future studies may clarify whether addressing modifiable biomechanical factors may address this form of injury.

From molecules to ecosystems: Insights into a network of interactions for a Chagas disease outbreak using Triatoma brasiliensis as natural samplers

Exploring the dynamics of disease transmission involves an understanding of complex interactions within the eco-epidemiologic framework. In the context of Chagas disease (CD), elements are mainly represented by the interactions among the pathogen, insect vector, host, humans and the environment. We performed quantitative and qualitative analyses on a dataset derived from 98 Triatoma brasiliensis infected by trypanosomatids, which were linked to a CD outbreak in the semi-arid region of northeastern Brazil. We extracted invertebrate-derived DNA (iDNA) from these insects, comprising 18 populations around the outbreak area, each indicative of various strata of anthropogenic influence. Food source (FS) diversity, representing potential parasite reservoirs, was determined through mitochondrial gene (cyt b) sequencing of vertebrates, and parasite genotyping was accessed using fluorescent amplified fragment barcodes (FFLB) of trypanosomatids. We also assessed the residents' awareness of breeding sites for CD vectors in the inspected houses. The quantification of Trypanosoma cruzi was estimated via real-time PCR and is denominated here as the average parasite load (PL) per insect (T. cruzi/intestinal unit). We aimed to address vector-parasite-host-environment interactions that were discussed based on their significance among the components. Notably, among the significant interactions, we observed that the PL in the insects was significantly influenced by FS. Infected insects that fed on the classic reservoir, Didelphis albiventris, and Galea spixii exhibited higher PLs, compared to those that fed on Kerodon rupestris (p < 0.04)—a primary host. While D. albiventris is already recognized as a synanthropic species, we propose that G. spixii may also be undergoing a synanthropic process. Conversely, domestic cats are frequently identified as FS in infected insects from the sylvatic environment, suggesting a possible change in their behavior towards a wild state. Therefore, we propose that neglected anthropogenic actions have facilitated the reciprocal (sylvatic-peridomestic) circulation of T. cruzi—especially noted for TcI because it was predominant in insects found in peridomestic environments. Residents are often unaware of the existence of insect breeding grounds near their homes, particularly when it involves the storage of materials without planning for use, such as piles of tiles, bricks and wood. Although indirect inferences about the interaction among vector-parasite-host-environment are still incipient, we highlight the potential use of vectors as natural samplers of biological and ecological components in transmitting the disease.

Epstein‐Barr virus in tonsillar tissue of Iranian children with tonsillar hypertrophy: Quantitative measurement by real‐time PCR

AbstractBackground and ObjectivesEpstein‐Barr virus (EBV) infection is ubiquitous all around the world. Tonsils seem to be candidate replication sites for EBV, and these tissues can be infected acutely or chronically. Some studies reported an association between EBV infection and tonsillar hypertrophy. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the presence and copy number of the EBV genome in tonsil tissue specimens of patients with tonsillar hypertrophy.MethodsA cross‐sectional study was performed on 50 fresh tonsil tissue samples from children, who underwent tonsillectomy because of tonsillar hypertrophy. Patients' tonsil tissues were evaluated using real‐time polymerase chain reaction for EBV genome and viral load. Finally, the results were analyzed using SPSS software.ResultsEBV genome was detected in 58% (29/50) of tonsillar tissues. The relationship between EBV genome detection rate and age groups was in the statistical significance range (P = 0.051). Among 29 positive cases, the average EBV viral load was (3.1 × 105) copy/g ± (0.5 × 105) copy/g. No significant difference was observed among different sex and age groups for EBV viral load.ConclusionHerein, EBV genome detection could support the colonization of EBV in the tonsils, which may have a direct or indirect association with the pathogenesis of tonsillar hypertrophy.

How Employee Productivity Mediates the Effect of Organizational Justice on Work Engagement in Türkiye

This article explores whether organizational justice has a significant effect on work engagement, and if so, whether employee productivity has a mediating role on this effect. It studies the case of Turkish information technology employees, with an online survey method used for data generation, with data analyzed by SmartPLS and structural equation modeling with the least squares method. Cronbach’s Alpha and Compound Reliability values were used to test the reliability of the generated model. Average variance and factor loads were calculated to test convergent validity. Cross-factor loads were taken into account with the Fornell-Larcker criterion to assess differential validity. In this way, the study finds that organizational justice had a significant effect on work engagement and that productivity had a partial mediating role on this effect. Keywords: Work engagement, Organizational justice, Employee productivity

Experimental investigation on mechanical performance of kerf anchorage of stone cladding considering construction defects

Because of its good deformation performance, easy installation and replacement, the kerf anchorage technology is widely used in the stone cladding. The current reports of accidents related to the kerf anchorage of stone claddings are most often caused by construction defects. However, current studies on the impact of construction defects on the failure of kerf anchorage of stone claddings are still limited. In order to investigate the mechanical performance of kerf anchorage of stone cladding with construction defects, anchorage strength tests under monotonic load were conducted on seven groups of specimens based on ASTM C1354-15. The results indicate that, compared with the specimens without adhesive, the filling of adhesive in the slot directly affects the failure characteristics of kerf anchorage of stone cladding, and greatly enhances the ultimate load of anchorage systems. The failure modes of specimens with and without adhesive are flexural failure and punch-shear failure, respectively. The average ultimate load of specimens with epoxy resin and unsaturated polyester resin is increased by 321 % and 289 % compared to the specimens without adhesive. For the specimens with adhesive, the position deviation of the anchor, which is a common construction defect, can cause changes in the thickness of the adhesive between the loading surface of panel and the anchor. As the thickness of adhesive between the loading surface of panel and the anchor increases, the ultimate load of specimens with adhesive increase accordingly. Based on the strength criteria and mechanical analysis, a calculation model for predicting the ultimate load of kerfed stone cladding with slot adhesive is proposed.

Real-world assessment of a decentralized food waste anaerobic digestion system: A test-bedding case study application

Addressing the global challenge of food waste, this research delves into the assessment of an on-site food waste treatment solution through a full-scale decentralized anaerobic digester (AD) system, specifically deployed at a Singapore hawker centre. Demonstrating efficiency in Singapore's tropical climate (29 °C) without external heating, the 10.8 m³ digester exhibited resilience over 234 days, navigating through real-world fluctuations in average organic loading rates ranging from 0.07 ± 0.02 to 0.81 ± 0.38 kgVS/(m3d). The normalized specific biogas production averaged 0.70 ± 0.48 m3/kgVS, accompanied by a methane concentration of 56.9 ± 2.9%. During peak performance, with an organic loading rate of 1.1 kgVS/(m3d), the system achieved an impressive volumetric biogas production rate of 1.18 m3biogas/m3reactor, equivalent to 1.1 m3/kgVS of specific biogas production per day. The energy assessment revealed consumption rates of 0.57–0.97 m3/kWh, positioning it comparably with commercialized biogas technologies in China and Taiwan. In the realm of microbiome composition, the prevalence of hydrogenotrophic methanogens, including Methanomicrobia, Thermoplasmata, and Nanoarchaeia, is notable. These methanogens showcase a remarkable tolerance to acetate, surpassing common aceticlastic methanogens by 11 times, thereby playing a pivotal role in enhancing the stability of the AD system over extended periods. On the economic front, the present AD system yielded losses ranging from SG$552,434 to SG$742,919, primarily due to a low payback period and substantial investment costs. Profitability becomes a possibility if there are significant reductions in capital costs and operator salaries. The challenges encountered during the operation of this decentralized system, along with the corresponding mitigation measures, are thoroughly discussed. Positioned as a promising test-bedding model, this application underscores its technical feasibility potential for sustainable food waste management through AD technology in Singapore. It stands as a replicable prototype, contributing to closing the food waste loop and advancing the bioeconomy.

Study of protective hard coatings of SiO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt;-TiO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt; on aluminum substrates

&lt;abstract&gt; &lt;p&gt;Aluminum alloys are frequently employed in the aeronautics industry due to the remarkable mechanical properties and lightweight nature of these materials. Moreover, thin film coatings are commonly applied in order to improve the corrosion resistance under harsh environments. In this work, Al 7075-T6 substrates were coated with nanostructured SiO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt;-TiO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt; films using a sol-gel method. The experimental approach initially consisted in the preparation of a precursor agent using tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) and triethoxy(octyl)silane (ETOS). Subsequently, nanoparticles of SiO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt;-TiO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt; were mixed in order to develop thin films using a one-step dip coating method. The roughness, nanoindentation and corrosion properties were evaluated for the coated substrates. A finite element model was created for the nanoindentation test, which determined the mechanical response between the film-contact interface during loading conditions. The average hardness, elastic modulus and critical loads leading to fracture were verified. The nanoindentation test presented a significant increase in hardness for the coated Al 7075-T6 alloy, reaching a value of 4.6 GPa. The SiO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt;-TiO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt; thin films presented uniform and compact surface coatings with high mechanical properties. Furthermore, the performed corrosion tests indicated moderate protection by the SiO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt;-TiO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt; thin films. The SiO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt;-TiO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt; thin films displayed a generalized corrosion throughout the surface, presenting oxides and fractured crystals in localized regions.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;/abstract&gt;

A Retrospective Study on COVID-19 Infections Caused by Omicron Variant with Clinical, Epidemiological, and Viral Load Evaluations in Breakthrough Infections.

Purpose: To explore the clinical, epidemiological, and viral load characteristics of COVID-19 caused by the omicron variant. Methods: Based on the COVID-19 epidemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.2 broke out in Shanghai, China. To analyze whether there is any association between clinical symptoms and viral load of COVID-19 with age, sex, and combined disease and whether the clinical symptoms and viral load are associated with vaccine-breakthrough infections. Results: The most common symptoms were cough, expectoration, and fatigue, which were more common in women than males (p < 0.001). The average viral clearance time in the > 75 years group was the longest (6.64 days). The viral load in the 60-75 years group was significantly higher than that in the other groups (p < 0.001). The 18-45 years old group had the most clinical symptoms at admission (45.39%). The days of nucleic acid-negative conversion, average viral load, highest viral load, and clinical symptoms in comorbid chronic disease patients are longer (p < 0.001). The average and highest viral loads in the unvaccinated group were longer than those in the vaccine breakthrough infection groups (p < 0.001). However, the clinical symptoms in the vaccine breakthrough infection group were significantly more severe than those in the unvaccinated group (p < 0.001). Conclusions: We found that female patients, the elderly, and those with underlying comorbidities had longer clinical positive symptoms and viral loads. Although vaccination may not reduce clinical symptoms, it can shorten the viral load and the time required for virus clearance.

Ensaios de push-out: conexões por aderência no contexto de lajes treliçadas

Abstract Composite structures and precast solutions stand out because they lead to simple, fast erected and economic constructions. In steel-concrete composite construction, shear connectors are used to assure the shear transfer between the steel profile and the concrete slab, enabling the composite action to develop. This paper discusses an innovative technology for connection by adherence, whose resistance is due to friction on various steel-concrete interfaces. The authors consider that this type of shear connection is suitable for composite beams with latticed joists slabs, and the study developed intends to analyze the behavior of the proposed connection, in this application's context, through experimental and numerical approaches. For this purpose, push-out specimens were fabricated and tested in accordance with Eurocode-4 requirements, where the connection behavior is analyzed in terms of its load-slip relation, and the failure modes are identified. Experimental and numerical results allowed to induce that the connector by adherence made with a checkered steel plate is appropriate to be used in composite structures, as it exhibits satisfactory shear resistance and ductility performance. Also, specimens with latticed joist slabs presented average load capacity values with the same magnitude as the average load capacity obtained in models with solid slabs, despite being more prone to cracking. From the parametric study, an increase of 100% in the connector height implied strength increase from 16% to 25%, depending on slab type.

On the mechanical response of graphene-capped copper nanoparticles.

In this study, we investigated the mechanical behavior of pristine copper (Cu) nanoparticles (NPs) and Cu@graphene (Cu@G) hybrid NPs using molecular dynamics simulations. The longitudinal engineering strain was calculated as a measure of compression until reaching 25% of the initial size of the NPs. The stress-strain curves revealed the elastic-to-plastic transition in the Cu NPs at a longitudinal strain of 3.57% with a yield strength of 6.15 GPa. On the other hand, the Cu@G NPs exhibited a maximum average load point at a longitudinal strain of 6.81% with a yield strength of 8.26 GPa. The hybrid Cu@G NPs showed increased strength and resistance to plastic deformation compared to the pure Cu NPs, while the calculation of the elastic modulus indicated a higher load resistance provided by the graphene coverage for the Cu@G NPs. Furthermore, the analysis of atomic configurations, dislocations, and stress distribution demonstrated that the graphene flakes play a crucial role in preventing dislocation events and faceting in the Cu@G NPs by acting as a shock absorber, distributing the applied force on themselves, and producing a more homogeneous stress distribution on the Cu NPs; additionally, they prevent the movement of Cu atoms, reducing the occurrence of dislocations and surface faceting, thanks to their supportive effect. Overall, our findings highlight the potential of hybrid nanomaterials, such as Cu@G, for enhancing the mechanical properties of metallic NPs, which could have significant implications for the development of advanced nanomaterials with improved performance in a variety of applications.

Use of Electrocautery to Facilitate Suture Passage Through the Greater Trochanter of the Femur: A Biomechanical Study.

The specific aims of this study were to evaluate (1) the axial force reduction of suture passage utilizing electrocautery when applied to the greater trochanter of the femur, (2) the temperature change caused while using electrocautery for suture passage, and (3) the failure loads and failure modes utilizing this technique. Five matched pairs of fresh-frozen femurs were used and classified into two groups: with electrocautery on needle (study group) and without electrocautery on needle (control group). Two bicortical, osseous tunnels were made around the insertion of the gluteus medius tendon. Each specimen was sequentially tested in a needle penetration test and a single load-to-failure test. A #5 Ethibond suture with a straight needle was used. Electrocautery reduced the peak axial force for bone penetration in 40% (near cortex) and 70% (far cortex) of the trials, and no significant difference was detected between groups or between two osseous tunnels. The average peak force was significantly higher for the far cortex for both groups and for both osseous tunnels compared to the near cortex. There was no significant change in temperature of the tunnel site with electrocautery. Ninety percent of the samples experienced bone tunnel failure for the study group compared to 70% in the control group. The average ultimate failure load for the study group was lower compared with the control group, but this finding was not statistically significant (range: 6%-15%). Suture passage using electrocautery may not significantly decrease the peak force needed to pass a needle directly through the greater trochanter.

Investigation of low-cycle fatigue in adhesively-bonded single-lap joints

Adhesively bonded joints are used as an alternative to classical mechanical joining methods, e.g., bolts, rivets, welding, and soldering, due to their advantages such as high strength, uniform stress distribution, and good fatigue resistance. These adhesively bonded joints are becoming more and more important, especially in fields where weight is critical, such as aviation and aerospace. Adhesively bonded joints are preferred because they offer highly reliable connections. In the present study, the low-cycle fatigue of materials joined together as adhesively bonded single-lap joints were investigated experimentally and numerically. Joints of aluminum and steel samples were subjected to variable loads that were lower than the experimentally obtained average breaking loads, and the number of cycles was determined. As a result, the fatigue life of adhesively bonded single-lap stainless steel samples was observed to be higher than that of aluminum samples. In addition, it was also observed that smudging adhesive around the endpoints of the joint significantly increased the fatigue life of steel samples.

Isolation and characterisation of potential bacterialpathogens from Oreochromis niloticus (Linnaeus, 1758) of Lake Hawassa, Ethiopia

The aim of the current study was to isolate and identify potential bacterial pathogens from Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus (Linnaeus, 1758) in Lake Hawassa, Ethiopia. The study was conducted during January to December 2021. A total of 360 Nile tilapia were sampledfrom Lake Hawassa and subjected to bacteriological investigations. The results showed 64.2% prevalence of bacterial infection in Nile tilapia from the lake. Potential bacterial pathogens such as Aeromonas hydrophila, Escherichia coli, Edwardsiella tarda, Vibrio sp,,Bacillus sp., Staphylococcus sp., Salmonella sp., Flavobacterum sp., Pseudomonas sp. and Shigella sp. were isolated. The prevalence of infection in female fish (52.4%) was higher compared to male fish (47.6%). Comparatively higher prevalence was recorded in thesmaller fish group than in the larger ones. The average bacterial loads recorded in various organs such as intestine, skin, gill, liver and kidney were, 4.86±0.56 x 105, 4.72±0.48 x 105, 4.14±0.53 x 105, 3.45±0.23 x 105 and 2.63±0.324 x 105 CFU ml-1 respectively. Significantly high bacterial loads were recorded from the intestine (5.81±0.01 x 105 CFU ml-1) of fishduring the summer season (p&lt;0.05). The results of the study indicated that there is a risk of occurrence of disease outbreak under stressful situations. Moreover, the recovery of these bacteria in the fish which are potentially pathogenic to humans, suggests that if the fish are improperly handled, undercooked or consumed raw, may cause diseases to susceptible individuals. Keywords:Bacterial pathogens, Lake Hawassa, Oriochromis niloticus, Prevalence

Digitalisasi Prasasti dan Pelinggih Desa Baturan Gianyar Berbasis Augmented Reality Based Marker

Digitalization of the inscriptions and shrines of Batuan Gianyar Village based on Augmented Reality (AR) Markers is an innovative project that aims to preserve, promote and revive the cultural and historical heritage of Baturan Village, Gianyar, Indonesia, through the application of Augmented Reality technology. Baturan Village is known to have inscriptions and pelinggih which have high historical value. This research uses AR Marker technology to connect the physical world with digital content. The inscriptions and shrines of Baturan Village are marked with AR markers which allow users to access additional information about these objects via mobile devices. This AR application provides an immersive and interactive experience, allowing users to explore the history and meaning of inscriptions and shrines. The method used in developing this AR application is R &amp; D. The results of this research after testing loading time using four different smartphones, Xiaomi Note8 Pro and iPhone 13, have a faster average loading time response compared to other smartphones.

Immigrant Parent Legal Status and Children's Health in the Hispanic Community Health Study of Latino Youth (SOL Youth).

We assess how immigrant parent legal status shapes children's physical and mental health. Using the Hispanic Community Health Study of Latino Youth-a multi-site dataset-we evaluated mean differences in multiple physical and mental health indicators and parents' and children's stress and resilience by parents' (primarily mothers') legal status (N = 1177). We estimated regression models of two overall child health outcomes-allostatic load and any internalized disorder. Average allostatic load was 28% higher (0.36 standard deviations) and average prevalence of any internalizing disorder was 16% points greater for children of foreign-born unauthorized versus US-born parents. Higher levels of socioeconomic and acculturative stress contributed to children of foreign-born unauthorized parents' heightened health risk, while resilience factors-parental health and familial support-protected their health. Children with unauthorized immigrant parents experience both negative physical and mental health outcomes that can have potential long-term costs.

Performance evaluation of gravity-driven bioreactor (GDB) for simultaneous treatment of black liquor and domestic wastewater.

A lab-scale gravity-driven bioreactor (GDB) was designed and constructed to evaluate the simultaneous treatment of black liquor and domestic wastewater. The GDB was operated with a mixture of black liquor and domestic wastewater at a ratio of 1:1 and maintained at an average organic loading rate of 1235mg-COD/L-Day. The wastewater was fed to the primary sedimentation tank at a flow rate of approximately 12mL/min and subsequently passed through serially connected anaerobic and aerobic chambers with the same flow rate. Each wastewater sample was allowed to undergo a hydraulic retention time of approximately 72h, ensuring effective treatment. The GDB was actively operated for nine samples (W1-W9) at a weekly frequency. The entire process was conducted within the workstation's ambient temperature range of 30-35°C to sustain microbial activity and treatment efficiency in an open environment. The performance of the GDB was evaluated in terms of various pollution indicators, including COD, BOD5, lignin removal, TDS, TSS, EC, PO43-, SO42-, microbial load (CFU/mL and MPN index), total nitrogen, and color reduction. The results showed that the GDB achieved promising treatment efficiencies: 84.5% for COD, 71.80% for BOD5, 82.8% for TDS, 100% for TSS, 74.71% for E.C., 67.25% for PO43-, 81% for SO42-, and 69.36% for TN. Additionally, about 80% reduction in lignin content and 57% color reduction were observed after the treatment. The GDB substantially reduced microbial load in CFU/mL (77.98%) and MPN (90%). This study marks the first to report on wastewater treatment from two different sources (black liquor and domestic wastewater) using a simple GDB design. Furthermore, it highlights the GDB's potential as a cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and efficient solution for wastewater treatment, with no need for supplementary chemical or physical agents and zero operational costs.

Structured stochastic models based on multi-source heterogeneous data for predicting internal electricity load of non-residential buildings

Electricity load patterns in buildings are increasingly diverse and inherently present building-by-building and temporal variations. This study develops structured stochastic models to capture individual and temporal variations in non-residential building groups (e.g., education, office, culture, and retail buildings). Hourly electricity load data of non-residential buildings, categorized by building use, are sourced from two open datasets (Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and Korea Electric Power Corporation). First, heterogeneous public datasets are processed and utilized to provide both detailed building information and high-resolution electricity load data. Second, a structured set of four stochastic models are formulated using linear regression and multivariate normal distribution models. Model 1 utilizes the beta distribution to derive daily average electricity load per unit area for each building use. Model 2 utilizes the burr distribution to determine the daily variation of electricity load from the daily average. Models 3 and 4 utilize a multivariate normal distribution to represent the hourly average electricity load profile and its time variation, respectively. The coefficient of variation of the root mean square error (CVRMSE) for the structured probabilistic models ranges from 5.2 % to 14.8 % regarding five key load characterization variables. CVRMSEs for near-peak load, near-base load, rise time, high-load duration, and fall time are 8.5–13.9, 9.5–14.7, 7.3–14.8, 6.4–13.9, and 5.2–11.4 %, respectively. The validation results demonstrate that the proposed probabilistic models capture actual variations in measurements. Structured statistical models improve prediction performance by distinctly reflecting individual and temporal variations in electricity loads.

Techno-economic feasibility of stand-alone hybrid energy system with battery storage in educational buildings: A case study of Uttara University

Stand-alone hybrid energy systems (HES) have the potential to significantly reduce pollutant emissions and alleviate strain on the national grid. The selection and sizing of stand-alone HES for buildings can serve as a methodological approach toward establishing a resilient and clean electrical energy system in urban areas of developing countries. To explore this further, a case study was conducted using Hybrid Optimization of Multiple Energy Resources (HOMER) to assess the feasibility of implementing a HES at Uttara University in Dhaka, Bangladesh. This study examined the technical, economic, environmental, social, and reliability aspects of a stand-alone HES. The findings of this study suggested that the PV-WT-DG-BT is the most cost-effective solution for the University when compared to other hybrid configurations. Additionally, this HES benefits the surrounding communities by creating employment opportunities and contributing to human development. The sensitivity analysis showed that the COE and NPC of the optimal HES are sensitive to fuel price changes. A PV slope angle of 23.88° was cost-effective, and a 20-meter wind turbine hub height was optimal. It was observed that increased solar radiation decreases COE. Further, sensitivity analysis showed that fuel costs, CO2 emissions, and NPC will decrease if average daily load demand declines. It was also found that 1 kWh of Li-Ion-based HES performed the best compared to other batteries. Finally, the results of the genetic algorithm (GA), and grey wolf optimizer (GWO) showed that they provide the same optimum configuration as HOMER but with the lowest NPC. The findings of this study can serve as a foundational model for designing HESs in other large educational buildings located in low and middle-income countries with environmental conditions and socio-economic characteristics similar to Bangladesh.