Load Factor Research Articles

Time-variant reliability analysis of corroded suspender of suspension bridge based on data-driven

The suspender of a suspension bridge is susceptible to corrosion due to environment, material, load, and other factors, which leads to the reduction of its bearing capacity with time, thus adversely affecting the safety and durability of the suspension bridge. Time-variant reliability analysis can consider the time-variant characteristics and uncertainties of each variable, and can better reveal the degradation of corrosion suspender resistance with time. However, due to the complex and highly nonlinear characteristics of the stress situation, the functional function of the suspender is often implicit, and the traditional time-variant reliability analysis method cannot be directly solved. To solve the problem of the implicit function of the suspender, An Adaptive Support Vector Regression with Extreme Response Surface (ASVR-ERS) method was proposed, and it was applied to the time-variant reliability analysis of corroded suspender of a suspension bridge. According to the corrosion characteristics of steel wire in suspenders, a hybrid constitutive model for calculating the ultimate bearing capacity of corroded suspenders was proposed. Furthermore, the time-variant reliability and residual life of corroded suspenders of a self-anchored suspension bridge were systematically studied. The results show that: Compared with the existing methods, the ASVR-ERS method can use fewer training samples to achieve higher computational accuracy. When calculating the ultimate bearing capacity of a corrosion suspender, the phenomenon of ductility degradation caused by steel wire corrosion in the suspender cannot be ignored, and the mixed constitutive model of the ultimate bearing capacity of a corrosion suspender is more reasonable. When the service time of the bridge is the same, the reliability of the suspender in the middle span of the main span is the smallest, and the reliability of the suspender in the full bridge gradually decreases from the bridge tower position to the middle span direction and the side span direction. The decrease rate of suspender reliability is the fastest at the beginning of corrosion and gradually slows down with the deepening of the corrosion degree. When the sheath has the minimum damage and the maximum circumferential damage and reaches life, the suspender section loss rate is between 10 % and 15 %. Compared with improving the safety factor of the suspender, delaying the breakage time of the sheath can improve the life expectancy of the suspender more obviously.

Application and Development of Firefighting Technologies in Industrial Heritage: Experiences and Insights from Macau

Due to the irreversible nature of the consequences of fire, fire protection is a major challenge and source of problems for all types of built heritage. This study aims to establish sustainable fire protection technology strategies by generalizing fire prevention and control technologies and measures against extended burns. This study aims to explore Macau’s industrial heritage’s historical development and technological applications in the field of fire protection using literature analysis, field investigation, and spatial information visualization methods. It will be carried out using the industrial heritage of Macau as the object and systematic analyses from the screening and processing of fire protection historical data, fire risk assessment, and the migration of fire protection focus. The results show that (1) the fire protection of the industrial heritage of Macau has gone through a total of three phases: passive fire protection, transition of fire protection methods, and active fire protection, and the relied-upon fire protection technologies have been iterated and renewed continuously during this period. (2) When the fire load factors of industrial heritage increase, the fire vulnerability assessment substantially changes, and the center of gravity of heritage fire protection shifts from controlling the scope of disaster to reducing the fire risk. (3) The construction of a suitable and effective ecological model of fire protection technology can provide appropriate fire protection solutions for the preservation and reuse of Macau’s industrial heritage in a complex cultural context. Therefore, this study will help to solve the current dilemma of sustainable application and development of fire protection technology for industrial heritage. This study hopes to provide ideas and strategies for reference on industrial heritage fire protection issues in the development of similar world heritage cities.

Cellular Stress in Dry Eye Disease-Key Hub of the Vicious Circle.

Disturbance or insufficiency of the tear film challenges the regulatory systems of the ocular surfaces. The reaction of the surfaces includes temporary mechanisms engaged in the preservation of homeostasis. However, strong or persisting challenges can lead to the potential exhaustion of the coping capacity. This again activates the vicious circle with chronic inflammation and autocatalytic deterioration. Hence, the factors challenging the homeostasis should be addressed in time. Amongst them are a varying osmolarity, constant presence of small lesions at the epithelium, acidification, attrition with mechanical irritation, and onset of pain and discomfort. Each of them and, especially when occurring simultaneously, impose stress on the coping mechanisms and lead to a stress response. Many stressors can culminate, leading to an exhaustion of the coping capacity, outrunning normal resilience. Reaching the limits of stress tolerance leads to the manifestation of a lubrication deficiency as the disease we refer to as dry eye disease (DED). To postpone its manifestation, the avoidance or amelioration of stress factors is one key option. In DED, this is the target of lubrication therapy, substituting the missing tear film or its components. The latter options include the management of secondary sequelae such as the inflammation and activation of reparative cascades. Preventive measures include the enhancement in resilience, recovery velocity, and recovery potential. The capacity to handle the external load factors is the key issue. The aim is to guard homeostasis and to prevent intercellular stress responses from being launched, triggering and invigorating the vicious circle. Considering the dilemma of the surface to have to cope with increased time of exposure to stress, with simultaneously decreasing time for cellular recovery, it illustrates the importance of the vicious circle as a hub for ocular surface stress. The resulting imbalance triggers a continuous deterioration of the ocular surface condition. After an initial phase of the reaction and adaption of the ocular surface to the surrounding challenges, the normal coping capacity will be exhausted. This is the time when the integrated stress response (ISR), a protector for cellular survival, will inevitably be activated, and cellular changes such as altered translation and ribosome pausing are initiated. Once activated, this will slow down any recovery, in a phase where apoptosis is imminent. Premature senescence of cells may also occur. The process of prematurization due to permanent stress exposures contributes to the risk for constant deterioration. The illustrated flow of events in the development of DED outlines that the ability to cope, and to recover, has limited resources in the cells at the ocular surface. The reduction in and amelioration of stress hence should be one of the key targets of therapy and begin early. Here, lubrication optimization as well as causal treatment such as the correction of anatomical anomalies (leading to anatomical dry eye) should be a prime intent of any therapy. The features of cellular stress as a key hub for the vicious circle will be outlined and discussed.

Environmental and economic potential of high-capacity trucks

High-capacity trucks (HCTs) are vehicles that are heavier or larger than normally allowed and are used as a means of increasing the efficiency of road freight transport and reducing emissions. The present research analyses the economic and environmental efficiency of HCTs by comparing them with normal semitrailers. Survey-based estimates on cost structure, fuel consumption, load factor and empty running of semitrailers, road trains and HCT combinations currently operating in Finland have been used to calculate whether HCTs improve the cost competitiveness and reduce the emissions of road transport. The results indicate that HCTs have a 42% emission reduction potential in mass-based transport and a 38% potential in volume-based transport compared to normal semitrailers.

Identifying the impact of absorptive capacity, new product development, and marketing capabilities on digital marketing adoption and new product performance in Indonesian SMEs

This study investigates the impact of absorptive capacity on enhancing the performance of SMEs through new product development, marketing capabilities, and the adoption of digital marketing. The research problem addresses how absorptive capacity influences these factors to improve new product performance. A quantitative approach was employed, collecting data from 212 SMEs in three cities in East Java Province, Indonesia. Data analysis was conducted using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The results indicate that critical factors influencing new product performance include the ability of SMEs to absorb external knowledge (indicator AC3, loading factor 0.852), new initiatives in product development (indicator NPD4, loading factor 0.886), and strong marketing strategies (indicator MC3, loading factor 0.878). Further analysis reveals that absorptive capacity positively and significantly affects new product development (ß=0.763; p-value<0.05) and marketing capabilities (ß=0.724; p-value <0.05) but has a negative and insignificant effect on digital marketing adoption (ß=–0.102; p-value>0.05). However, digital marketing adoption positively and significantly impacts new product performance (ß=0.628; p-value<0.05). These findings suggest that while absorptive capacity is crucial for new product development and marketing capabilities, it is insufficient to drive digital marketing adoption. The results highlight the important but not significant mediating role of digital marketing adoption. The practical implications provide guidance for SMEs to adjust their marketing strategies and new product development to improve performance, particularly during a crisis

3D mode shapes characterization under hammer impact using 3D-DIC and phase-based motion magnification

Modal analysis constitutes a fundamental aspect of structural investigation within diverse engineering domains, encompassing sectors such as automotive, wind energy, and aerospace. The prominence of high-frequency excitation loads, exemplified by the combustion phenomena in liquid rocket engines, necessitates an in-depth examination of the high-frequency vibrational response within structural components. However, the complexity of evaluating high-frequency vibrations arises from the negligible displacement associated with these responses. When using an optical full-field measurement system based on a high-speed camera for vibration measurement, it is usually severely affected by noise. Direct analysis of raw data using an optical measurement system (3D-DIC) is not feasible. In this paper, we combine phase-based motion magnification and digital image correlation methods to obtain the high-frequency vibration modes of the structure. 3D-DIC(3D Digital Image Correlation)analysis is performed on the magnified images to quantify the out-of-plane vibration modes of the structure. Using the cantilever beam as an example, the first five out-of-plane vibration mode shapes were separated from the response video under a single hammer excitation. Especially the 5th order natural frequency is as high as 3503 Hz, and the corresponding structural response was below the noise floor of the camera system. The vibration mode results obtained by this method are highly consistent with the vibration modes obtained by the 3D-SLDV(3D Scanning Laser Doppler Vibrometer) method. Finally, this method was applied to identify the out-of-plane vibration modes of real engine pipe. The combination of motion magnification techniques and DIC can enhance the capability of traditional 3D-DIC, which is beneficial for high-frequency structural identification. Future research could concentrate on optimizing motion amplification factors for different structures and loads, and creating automated algorithms for analyzing and visualizing amplified motion data in real time.

Investigation on the propagation of uncertainties of a timber floor under human excitation

Due to the characteristics of high stiffness-weight ratio, timber floors are prone to annoying vibrations under human excitation. Given the natural origin of timber, its mechanical properties exhibit significant variability. The randomness inherent in human excitation cannot be overlooked during structural dynamic analysis. Consequently, the adoption of a stochastic approach is imperative for attaining reliable serviceability evaluation results. However, current research on human-induced vibrations in the timber floor, accounting for this randomness, remains inadequate. In this paper, an experimental investigation is conducted on the dynamic properties and human-induced responses of a timber floor composed of glued laminated timber and oriented strand board. A finite element model is developed and subsequently validated for accuracy in terms of modal properties and dynamic responses. The probability density evolution method is introduced for stochastic analysis, which demonstrates that both the natural frequency and dynamic responses of the floor exhibit considerable variability when uncertainty factors are considered. The Kullback–Leibler divergence indices are used to assess the impact of each uncertain variable quantitatively. The results indicate that the longitudinal elastic modulus has the greatest influence on the natural frequency, while the first dynamic load factor, αz1, exerts the most significant impact on dynamic responses. Notably, both material mechanical properties and load model parameters contribute to the uncertainty of dynamic responses, with the influence of the load model parameters being significantly greater than that of material mechanical properties.

Investigation of wind loads on angle steel columns in lattice structures via force measurement method on members

As the demand for precise prediction of fatigue and collapse continues to grow, it is imperative to conduct research on wind load calculation methods for lattice structures using members as the fundamental unit. This study focuses on the tower body of an angle steel lattice structure with a rectangular cross-section. The aerodynamic characteristics of entire segments, column members in lattice structures, and a single angle steel were investigated, along with the aerodynamic interference effects on members within lattice structures. The research findings indicate that drag coefficients cannot universally substitute the SRSS coefficients of column members or a single angle steel across all wind directions. Therefore, considering that the drag coefficient of the column member or single angle steel surpasses 98% of their SRSS coefficients at a wind direction of 45°, a particular skewed wind load factor was defined, and its fitting formula was proposed. Additionally, a calculation method for wind loads on columns within lattice structures was developed, introducing the concepts of SRSS angle and aerodynamic interference factors on members. The comparison among the experimental data, fitting formula, and proposed calculation method, were conducted. To facilitate the practical application, the simplified formulas for both AIF and SRSS were recommended.

Enhancement of Solubility and Dissolution Rate of Simvastatin Tablets by Liquisolid Compact Approach

The aim of the current work was to improve the solubility and dissolution rate of poorly water-soluble drug, simvastatin (SM) by using the liquisolid compact technique (LS; SM-LS). Liquid load factors, and excipient ratios were used to calculate the required amounts of excipients necessary to prepare the SM-LS and compressed to tablets according to mathematical models. Avicel PH102, Aerosil 200 and Crosspovidone (CP) was used as carrier, coating material and disintegrant, respectively. Drug-excipient mixtures were evaluated compatibility by Attenuated total reflectance (ATR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Prepared SM-LS formulations were evaluated for various pre-compression and post-compressional parameters, in-vitro dissolution, and stability studies (40 ± 2°C / 75 ± 5% RH) for 3 months. Among the different formulations, LS10 formulation which contains 30% drug, 5% CP, Avicel pH 102: Aerosil 200 (1:10) showed 14-folds increase in dissolution rate when compared with pure SM powder. FTIR-ATR and DSC studies confirmed that there was no interaction between the drug and excipients. Further, the LS10 formulation had shown comparable dissolution profile with commercially available tablet formulation. The LS10 formulation showed no significant changes in the physicochemical properties over 3 months during stability studies. Therefore, the SM loaded LS formulation could be considered as an alternative approach to enhance the solubility and dissolution for commercial formulations. Keywords: Liquisolids compacts, solubility, dissolution, carrier, coating material, stability.

Evaluation of the relationship between dietary acid load and cardiovascular risk factors in patients with type 2 diabetes: a case-control study.

Diets high in dietary acid load are thought to be associated with metabolic diseases. However, the number of studies examining the relationship between dietary acid load and metabolic diseases in Turkey is insufficient. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between cardiovascular disease risk factors and dietary acid load in individuals with type 2 diabetes. In this case-control study, 51 participants aged 30-65 years with type 2 diabetes and 59 participants in the control group were included. Blood pressure and biochemical findings were measured. Anthropometric measurements and body composition measurements were made. Dietary intake was assessed using a 3-day (1 day on weekends, 2 days on weekdays) food consumption record. Dietary acid load scores, including potential renal acid load (PRAL) and net endogenous acid production (NEAP), were calculated based on dietary intake. NEAP and PRAL scores were categorized as low and high according to the median value. Smoking status, body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), total cholesterol (TC), trigylceride (TG), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), waist-hip ratio (WHR), waist-to- height ratio (WtHR), hemoglobin and fat mass (%) were evaluated as cardiovascular risk factors. The cut-off values of PRAL and NEAP were 3.61 and 44.78 mEq/d, respectively. After adjustment for various covariates, a significant positive association between PRAL and TG levels was observed in the diabetic group [odds ratio (OR), 5.98; 95% CI, 1.45-24.67; p = 0.013]. In contrast, a negative association was found between PRAL and SBP in the control group [odds ratio (OR), 0.21; 95% CI, 0.05-0.83; p = 0.026]. However, these associations were not observed for NEAP values in either group. A higher PRAL value was consistently associated with higher TG level, but other cardiovascular risk factors were not. More longitudinal and interventional studies are needed to better establish a causal effect between dietary acid load and cardiovascular risk factors in individuals with diabetes.

Thermal kinetic, mechanical and wear properties of glass fiber reinforced polyamide 6 thermoplastic composites

AbstractPolyamide 6 (PA6) thermoplastic‐based composites are often used in automobile, aerospace, marine, and biomedical applications. Here, PA6 and its composites with varied chopped glass fiber (GF) concentrations of 5, 10, and 20 mass% were fabricated by injection molding. The specimens were characterized by structural, thermal kinetic, mechanical, as well as tribological analyses. Tribological performance was evaluated in dry pin‐on‐disc test apparatus with three different levels of time, speed, and load factors. The PA6/GF composites showed high decomposition activation energy compared to pure PA6. Thermal activation, Ea increased to 46.16% with increasing of GF content up to 10 mass% in the composites compared to PA6. PA6/5GF exhibited best mechanical properties (e.g., strength = 44.46 MPa and Hardness = 45.2). Addition of GF in PA6 significantly improved tribological properties, coefficient of friction (COF) and specific wear rate (WR) besides thermal stability and mechanical properties of the composites. Especially, COF and WR of PA6/5GF composite decreased by 17%–65% and 68%–92%, respectively, compared to PA6. ANOVA statistical results determined the significant contribution of the tribological factors to the performance metrics of the composites for COF and WR. Therefore, the PA6/5GF composite would highly be useful for tie‐rod gears and bearings as a crucial structural component in automotive bodywork.

Study on the Effect of Size on the Surface Wind Pressure and Shape Factor of Wind Load of Solar Greenhouses

Study on the Effect of Size on the Surface Wind Pressure and Shape Factor of Wind Load of Solar Greenhouses

Analisis Kinerja Operasional Light Rail Transit (LRT) Stasiun Demang Kota Palembang

This research examines the operational performance and user satisfaction of the Light Rail Transit (LRT) mass transportation system in Palembang City, particularly on the LRT Demang Lebar Daun station corridor. The study involves the collection of primary and secondary data, including passenger numbers, waiting times, travel intervals, and travel times. The research results indicate that the average number of passengers per LRT station is approximately 10 passengers, resulting in a load factor ranging from 9% to 11%. While passenger comfort levels are relatively high, this low ridership may impact operational efficiency. The waiting times and travel intervals of the LRT are relatively short, enhancing passenger comfort, but warrant operational considerations. Furthermore, the study notes that the round-trip travel time on the LRT is approximately 2 hours, 33 minutes, and 57 seconds. However, limited parking facilities at the Demang Lebar Daun station can affect the interest in using the LRT. In order to improve operational performance and user satisfaction of the LRT, this research recommends an evaluation of travel intervals, waiting times, and daily LRT trip numbers. Additionally, improvements in parking facilities at LRT stations should be considered to enhance the convenience of using this mode of transportation.

Analisa Kerusakan Jalan Akibat Beban Kendaraan di Gerbang Masuk Kota Jambi Paal 10 – Simpang 4 Paal 10 Kota Jambi

The Palembang - Jambi highway is a very busy route. Along the road at the entrance to Jambi City, Paal 10 - Simpang 4 Paal 10, Jambi City is passed by many vehicles because this road is one of the roads that is open to pass through heavy vehicles carrying loads. This is also one of the causes of rapid damage to flexible road pavement. The aim of this research is to determine the average daily traffic volume of vehicles passing through the asphalt pavement at the entrance gate of Jambi City, Paal 10 - intersection 4 Paal 10, Jambi City, to find out the effect of vehicle load on the level of road damage on the entrance gate of Jambi City. Paal 10 – Simpang 4 Paal 10 Jambi City. This research method uses guidelines from Bina Marga Pd T-14-2003. Average daily traffic data (LHR) on the entrance road to the city of Jambi Paal 10 – intersection 4 Paal 10 Jambi City on Saturday is 6,702 vehicles, on Sunday it is 6650 vehicles and on Monday it is 6719 vehicles. From this data, the total LHR from the vehicle analysis results is 1115 vehicles/hour. and the results of the Truck Factor calculation are 3.775 > 1, where this value shows that the condition of the damage to the road at the entrance to the city of Jambi Paal 10 - intersection 4 Paal 10 Jambi city is due to the excessive load of vehicles passing through it. The excessive load factor that occurs causes 2 types of damage, namely groove distortion with a high level of damage and alligator cracks.

Real-World Emission Characteristics of Diesel Pallet Trucks under Varying Loads: Using the Example of China

Diesel pallet trucks, a type of heavy-duty diesel trucks (HDDTs), have historically been a vital component in logistics and transport due to their high payload capacity. However, they also present significant challenges, particularly in terms of emissions which contribute substantially to urban air pollution. Traditional HDDTs emission measurement methods, such as engine bench tests and those used in laboratory settings, often fail to capture real-world emission behaviors accurately. This study specifically examines the real-world emission characteristics of diesel pallet trucks exceeding 30 t under varying loads (unloaded, half loaded, and fully loaded) and different road conditions (urban, suburban, and high-speed). Considering that data quality is the key to the accuracy of the scheme, this research utilized a portable emission measurement system (PEMS) to capture real-time emissions data of carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOX), and total hydrocarbons (THC). Key findings demonstrate a direct correlation between vehicle load and emission factors, with the emission factors for CO2, CO, and NOX increasing by 39.5%, 105.4%, and 22.7%, respectively, from unloaded to fully loaded states under comprehensive operating conditions. Regression analyses further provide an emission factor prediction model for HDDPTs, underscoring the continuous relationship between speed, load, and emission rates. These findings provide a scientific basis for pollution control strategies for diesel trucks.

Response surface method-based efficient approach for the load and resistance factors calibration of breakwater foundation considering soil spatial variability

This study aims to propose an efficient approach to calibrate the load and resistance factors (LRFs) for the limit state design of breakwater foundations. The spatial variability of soil was considered by employing the Cholesky decomposition technique. To overcome the low computational efficiency of the Monte Carlo simulation (MCS), a response surface method (RSM) was utilized. Additionally, an efficient algorithm, namely the adaptive boundary-based particle filtering algorithm (ABB-PFA), was proposed with the use of RSM to automatically and quickly search optimal nominal values of random variables in the LRF calibration process. Noticeably, the optimal number of particles and values of the modification factor used in the ABB-PFA were observed to enhance the efficiency of the calibration process. The results showed that the computational efficiency of the calibration process is significantly increased by utilizing the response surface method and the proposed ABB-PFA. The efficiency increases the most if the number of particles is one and the value of the modification factor is 0.5 or 0.6. The influences of the random field element size on the efficiency of the calibration process were also investigated. By using the appropriate size, the efficiency is significantly increased while still obtaining a high accuracy of the LRFs calibration process.

Handheld Near-Infrared Spectroscopy for Undried Forage Quality Estimation.

This study investigates the efficacy of handheld Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) devices for in-field estimation of forage quality using undried samples. The objective is to assess the precision and accuracy of multiple handheld NIRS instruments-NeoSpectra, TrinamiX, and AgroCares-when evaluating key forage quality metrics such as Crude Protein (CP), Neutral Detergent Fiber (aNDF), Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF), Acid Detergent Lignin (ADL), in vitro Total Digestibility (IVTD)and Neutral Detergent Fiber Digestibility (NDFD). Samples were collected from silage bunkers across 111 farms in New York State and scanned using different methods (static, moving, and turntable). The results demonstrate that dynamic scanning patterns (moving and turntable) enhance the predictive accuracy of the models compared to static scans. Fiber constituents (ADF, aNDF) and Crude Protein (CP) show higher robustness and minimal impact from water interference, maintaining similar R2 values as dried samples. Conversely, IVTD, NDFD, and ADL are adversely affected by water content, resulting in lower R2 values. This study underscores the importance of understanding the water effects on undried forage, as water's high absorption bands at 1400 and 1900 nm introduce significant spectral interference. Further investigation into the PLSR loading factors is necessary to mitigate these effects. The findings suggest that, while handheld NIRS devices hold promise for rapid, on-site forage quality assessment, careful consideration of scanning methodology is crucial for accurate prediction models. This research contributes valuable insights for optimizing the use of portable NIRS technology in forage analysis, enhancing feed utilization efficiency, and supporting sustainable dairy farming practices.

Optimizing HIV care: Insights from CD4 count, viral load, and demographic factors in a tertiary care centre of South Gujarat

PurposeDespite advancements in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, HIV/AIDS remains a critical health concern, particularly in India. This study contributes valuable insights into HIV management strategies. This prospective and retrospective longitudinal observational study aimed to analyze the trends in CD4 cell count and viral load suppression among adult People Living with HIV (PLHIV) undergoing antiretroviral therapy (ART) and evaluate the influence of demographic factors and ART adherence on these parameters at the ART Centre of New Civil Hospital, Surat, India. Materials & methodsAdult PLHIV registered and initiated on ART between June 2017 and May 2018 at ART-NCH, Surat with Continuous follow-up until 2023 were included in the study. Data was collected and Statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS software. Other factors were evaluated for their influence on treatment outcomes. ResultsA longitudinally analyzed data from 365 adult PLHIV receiving ART with continuous follow-up until 2023 revealed significant trends, with CD4 counts increasing from 425 (1st month) to 612.67 (24th month), indicating improving immune function. Individuals on first-line ART regimens had significantly higher odds (OR: 3.5, 95 % CI: 1.1–11.3) of achieving CD4 counts ≥350 compared to those on second-line regimens. Adherence to treatment (OR: 1.98, 95 % CI: 1.1–3.4) also increased the odds of attaining CD4 counts ≥350. Viral load suppression was achieved in 353 out of 365 participants. ConclusionThis study highlights the need for tailored interventions to optimize immune recovery and viral load suppression among PLHIV. Recommendations include targeted intervention to improve long-term health outcomes.

Macro-Nutrient Prediction of Paddy Field Soil Using Artificial Neural Network and NIR Spectroscopy

Understanding soil fertility, influenced by macronutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, is essential for adaptive agriculture implementation based on various soil conditions. Near-infrared spectroscopy technology provides non-destructive, rapid soil property measurements without chemicals, applicable both in-field and in-laboratory. However, the wide NIR spectrum range and neural network complexities can hinder Artificial Neural Network (ANN) training and inference, leading to time and resource inefficiency, especially without sophisticated computing devices. This study examines data reduction methods to enhance ANN performance in predicting soil macronutrients using NIR spectra. Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) were applied to select wavelengths from the 1000–2500 nm for ANN input, comparing their performance. About 237 NIR reflectance data from paddy soil were transformed into absorbance data. MLR used forward selection to identify wavelengths with correlations higher than 0.9, while PCA selected wavelengths corresponding to the loading factor peaks for each principal component. These selected wavelengths served as inputs for the ANN model. The ANN’s performance was assessed using correlation and determination coefficients, RMSE, RPD, and model consistency. For nitrogen, the PCA+ANN model with reflectance spectra performed better (RPD 2.4-4.8) than the MLR+ANN model (RPD 2.2-2.6) using fewer wavelengths (5-9 for PCA+ANN vs. 9-12 for MLR+ANN). For phosphorus estimation, the PCA+ANN model also excelled (RPD 2.3-7.0 vs. 2.3-2.4) with fewer wavelengths (4-7 vs. 7). For potassium estimation, the PCA+ANN model showed superior performance (RPD 4.3-9.5 vs. 4.2-4.4), using the same number of wavelengths (4-8 vs. 4-6).

Flexural performance of reinforced concrete beams repaired with BFRP grid-TSUHDC

Due to the influence of time, load, and external environmental factors, many reinforced concrete beams have been damaged and require repair. Tailings are waste generated during mineral production, resulting in substantial environmental pollution and economic losses due to the excessive generation of tailings and low comprehensive utilization. In the UHDC, tailings replaced quartz sand, while BFRP grids itself is an environmentally friendly material. Two repair methods were evaluated in this study, Tailings Sand Ultra-High Ductile Concrete (TSUHDC) and Basalt Fiber Reinforced Polymer (BFRP) grid-TSUHDC, grounded in the principles of green and sustainable development. Five reinforced concrete beam specimens were designed and fabricated for bending performance tests and finite element simulations. The effects of different repair methods and levels of damage on the flexural performance of reinforced concrete beams were investigated. The results reveal that, compared to untreated reinforced concrete beams, both TSUHDC and BFRP grid-TSUHDC repair methods enhanced bending load-bearing capacity. However, the stiffness of specimens repaired with TSUHDC decreased when subjected to 80 % of the pre-applied failure load. When the pre-applied failure load is less than 80 %, the recommended repair approach is the use of TSUHDC for repair. For cases where the pre-applied failure load exceeds 80 %, BFRP grid-TSUHDC is the preferable option. The flexural bearing capacity formula for this type of repair method was derived by improving existing formulas, yielding prediction results in close alignment with the experimental results.