Option For Production Research Articles

The Potential of Vitamin D in Tuberculosis Pharmacotherapy: Retrospective, Marketing Review, and Application Prospects

This article thoroughly explores the importance of ergocalciferol, also known as vitamin D, in promoting overall human health, with particular emphasis on its role in supporting tuberculosis treatment. Vitamin D is recognized for performing a variety of critical functions: it is fundamental for maintaining strong bones, bolstering the immune system, and contributing to a healthy cardiovascular system. Based on the analysis presented, incorporating additional vitamin D into a multifaceted treatment regimen for tuberculosis may result in improved patient outcomes and enhanced quality of life. In addition to discussing vitamin D’s health benefits, the article provides a detailed examination of the market for specialized foods fortified with vitamin D. This market overview encompasses an array of dosage forms, including capsules, tablets, and other supplemental formats. Key manufacturing countries identified include the United States, Poland, and Germany, reflecting the global nature of the vitamin D supply chain. Among the most prominent manufacturers is Solgar, whose substantial market share highlights the wide range of product options available to consumers. This variety ensures that individuals requiring vitamin D can select from an assortment of brands and formulations to suit their specific needs. Moreover, the article underscores the critical importance of adhering to established quality standards. By demonstrating compliance with these guidelines, manufacturers help build consumer trust and reinforce the reliability of vitamin D products in the marketplace. This commitment to quality ultimately benefits patients, enabling them to confidently incorporate vitamin D supplements into their healthcare routines.

Exploring Sensory Attributes in Spinach- and Offals-Filled Chicken Roulades: An Empirical Analysis.

One of the most significant industries in the world is the meat sector, and development into new goods is ongoing due to high customer demand and fierce market competition. Products made from chicken are widely favored. This phenomenon can be attributed to the lack of cultural or religious restrictions on this meat. The study looks into how using two distinct types of iron-rich fillings impacts the sensory profile of classic chicken roulades. The purpose of the study is to determine how changes in sensory qualities (such as taste, texture, and flavor) affect product acceptance among customers. This approach uses methods like check-all-that-apply (CATA), principal component analysis (PCA), external preference mapping (PrefMap), and penalty analysis to explore the impact of adding chicken offals and spinach as fillings on the sensory profile of traditional chicken meat roulades. This approach seeks to expand the meat product category, create new goods that use both plant and animal components, invent new ways to use offals and spinach in the market, and ensure that consumers accept these new products. Based on the results of our investigation, the type of filling utilized in the roulades showed the most differences across all sensory tests. According to hedonic analysis and preference mapping (PrefMap), the majority of customers favored roulades with spinach fillings as opposed to those containing chicken offals, which only a small portion of customers liked. Variations in consumer preference for roulades filled with chicken offals were noted in the anatomical region, with slightly greater preference for roulades made from chicken breast. However, this (anatomical region used) did not significantly affect the outcomes of all sensory tests. The spinach stuffing was found to be quite popular with the customers, even outperforming traditional chicken roulades, making it the most significant influence. Based on consumer appreciation, this suggests that the spinach-filled chicken roulades may be a viable option for meat products in the future.

Energy-exergy and environ-economic (4E) analysis of heat storage-based single-slope solar stills integrated with solar air heater.

The energy-exergy and environ-economic (4E) analysis was conducted on a solar still with and without a hybrid thermal energy storage system (TESS) and a solar air heater. The proposed solar still was modified by integrating a rectangular aluminium box filled with paraffin wax and black gravel as the TESS and coupled with a solar air heater. Paraffin wax was selected due to its widespread availability and proven effectiveness in accelerating desalination, improving process uniformity, and maintaining optimal temperature levels. Throughout the experiments, meticulous data on mass loss, air velocity, and temperature were recorded for both conditions. The daily energy efficiency varies from 40.80% to 31.72%, showing a reduction rate with increased water depth. Estimates were made on the average exergy efficiency, losses, outflow, and inflow for the solar still. These were done for both setups. The analysis revealed that CO2 mitigation and credit were more favorable with the TESS. Furthermore, the Energy Payback Time (EPBT) for the hybrid heat storage-based single-slope solar still coupled with a solar air heater is 1.87 years. On the other hand, EPBT values for the hybrid heat storage single-slope solar still and the conventional single-slope solar still were 1.65 years and 0.95 years, respectively. Integrating a thermal energy storage system and solar air heater significantly improved the performance and sustainability of the solar still for desalination, making it a more efficient and environmentally friendly option for freshwater production.

Effects of planting window on grain yield and oil yield under rainfed sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) in Kilwa District, Lindi, Tanzania

This study evaluated the effects of planting windows on grain yield and oil yield of three sunflower varieties (Hysun33, Record, and K/Fedha) across two locations in 2023. The two factors (varieties and planting windows) were laid out in a split plot arrangement and fitted into randomized complete block design in three replicates. The first planting window (PW1) occurred in late January, the second (PW2) in mid-February, and the third (PW3) in early March. Weather parameters evaluated included minimum and maximum temperatures, average monthly rainfall and rainfall during the growth period. The weather data revealed trends of decreasing minimum and maximum temperatures, as well as fluctuating average rainfall over the period. Total rainfall did not significantly differ between the three planting windows (PW1, PW2, PW3). However, there was significant variation in rainfall amounts at different phenological stages between planting windows (P = 0.001). Grain yield and oil yield were highest in PW3 (1.50 t/ha and 360.2 L, respectively), as well as for the Hysun33 variety (0.92 t/ha and 22.95 L, respectively). High grain and oil yields were influenced by high germination and survival percentages, high rainfall during leaf development and stem elongation, flowering time and interactions between planting window, variety, and locations. Study showed that PW3 and HYsun33 offers the most favorable options for optimal sunflower production in Kilwa District. However, multi-environment trials, repeated over several seasons is recommended to explore the influence of environmental variables. The results may also prompt a revision of the sunflower planting calendar for the southern zone.

Barriers and strategies for scaling up livestock agroforestry systems in the amazon piedmont, Caquetá - Colombia

Background: Silvopastoral systems (SPS) are an option for sustainable livestock production, but although their multiple benefits have been demonstrated, its adoption has been limited. Objective: To identify the barriers to the adoption of SPS, according to the perceptions of producers and the strategies to promote adoption as a tool for sustainable cattle ranching in the Amazonian foothills of the Caquetá province. Methods: Experts on sustainable cattle ranching from public and private organizations implementing projects in the province of Caquetá in this topic were called to contribute in participatory rural appraisal workshops and focus groups. These workshops had also the participation of producers from the municipalities of the south of the province with 3 to 5 years of experience in the establishment of SPS, and producers from the north of the province who were just starting with SPS. Results: The experts recognized 13 practices or alternatives promoted by institutions for sustainable cattle ranching. These alternatives were categorized into pasture management, livestock agroforestry, conservation, and renewable energy. They also identified 21 barriers that limit the adoption of these alternatives, which were grouped into skills and knowledge, social, economic, environmental, and technical and operational barriers. The cattle ranchers’ farmers prioritized and established the advantages and disadvantages of the four main SPS. In response to the barriers to adoption, 22 scaling-up strategies were identified and classified into five categories which contribute to promote adoption of SPS. Conclusions: Organizations that promote sustainable practices for sustainable cattle ranching in the Caquetá foothills and farmers recognize the importance of SPS, but there are still barriers related to knowledge, implementation costs, environmental and cultural conditions that need to be addressed to increase adoption.

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), its additives, microplastic and human health: Unresolved and emerging issues.

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a commonly used plastic across Europe, poses a number of risks at various stages of its life cycle. The carcinogenicity of PVC monomer, the need to use high number and volume of problematic additives, the easiness of fragmentation compared to other thermoplastics, the high volume of use in everyday products and the resulting extent to which European population is potentially exposed to both microplastics and chemicals and, finally, continuous problems during waste management, have raised concerns about impacts of PVC on human health and the environment for decades. As far back as in 2000, the European Commission recognized that PVC causes a wide range of serious problems for the environment and human health. More recently, in April 2022, PVC and its additives were included in the European Union's Restrictions Roadmap, and the European Chemicals Agency's investigation ruled that, to limit the use of some additives and to minimize releases of PVC microparticles, regulatory action would be necessary. Additionally, the Global Plastics Treaty discussions emphasise a need to ensure that plastics that remain in the economy are free of hazardous chemicals, including hazardous polymers. In this paper, we reviewed the available data on PVC microplastic, additives, the end of life options of products made of PVC, and how they all are connected. It is crucial to consider this polymer within the broader context of chemical pollution and circular economy, acknowledging that changes in how we manage our resources are necessary to achieve the goal for a truly non-toxic environment in the future.

Formulation development of dual-compartment topical inserts combining Tenofovir Alafenamide and Elvitegravir for flexible on-demand HIV prevention

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has emerged as a prominent approach for the prevention of HIV infections. While the latest advances have resulted in effective oral and injectable product options, there are still gaps in on-demand, event-driven, topical products for HIV prevention that are safe and effective. Here we describe the formulation development of a dual-compartment topical insert containing tenofovir alafenamide fumarate (TAF) and elvitegravir (EVG) that may be administered when needed, vaginally or rectally, pre- or post-coitus, for flexible HIV prophylaxis. Specifically, we describe the lab-scale formulation development, preclinical mucosal safety and pharmacokinetics (PK) testing in rabbits, long-term stability, and scale-up clinical manufacturing of the lead TAF/EVG (20 mg/16 mg) inserts, which are currently in clinical stages of development. As designed, the inserts are small, discreet and portable, offering a number of promising attributes, such as simple and robust direct-compression manufacturing, fast initial disintegration/dissolution, and suitable mechanical strengths showing low hardness (<8 kg), friability (<1 %), and moisture content (<1 %). The inserts initiated disintegration quickly (~ ≤ 15 min) providing full in vitro release (>90 %) of TAF and EVG within 60 min of dissolution. The lead insert was selected from formulation prototypes that met the evaluation criteria for manufacturability and characterization, together with a dose-ranging PK study in non-human primates. Successful technology transfer for clinical development of the lead TAF/EVG (20 mg/16 mg) insert was confirmed under cGMP conditions. Based on the 12 months (lab-scale) and 24 months (clinical batch) stability data, the TAF/EVG inserts are projected to have a long shelf life of over 2 years, if stored at or below 30 °C/65 % RH. Overall, these newly designed topical inserts have formulation properties that enable stable storage and fast release of the antiretroviral payload from a small, portable and discreet dosage form. They are safe and effective when applied vaginally or rectally, before or after coitus, providing the basis for a new method of flexible on-demand HIV prevention for cisgender and transgender women and men. The TAF/EVG inserts are currently the most clinically advanced on-demand topical product, as attested by their completed and ongoing clinical trials.

Obtaining Microcellulose from Solid Agro-Waste by Ball Mill Assisted by Light Acid Hydrolysis Process.

Cellulose, the most abundant biopolymer on Earth, is biodegradable, nontoxic, and derived from renewable sources. Its properties and applications depend on the extraction methods and sources, making plant waste reuse a sustainable production option. This study aimed to assess the potential of cowpea pod skin (Vigna unguiculata) as a source of microcellulose (CPMC) using a chemical-mechanical process involving ball milling combined with acid hydrolysis. For a comparative analysis of the method's efficiency and biomass performance, corn straw (Zea mays L., CSMC) and pineapple peel (Ananas comosus, PPMC) were also utilized as extraction sources. The chemical composition of microcelluloses (MCs) was investigated by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), thermal behavior by Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), crystallinity by X-ray Diffraction (XRD), morphologies by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and shape and size by Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). In the FTIR spectra, absorption bands characteristic of cellulose were observed at 3408 cm-1 (hydroxyl group OH stretching), 1640 cm-1 (adsorbed water molecules), 1205 cm-1 (O-H deformation vibration), 1165 cm-1 (C-O-C- stretching vibration), 1113 cm-1 (glucose ring stretching vibration), 1055 cm-1 (CO stretching), 1028 cm-1 (C-OH stretching), and 895 cm-1 (β-glycosidic bonds). The TGA/DTG curves of all the samples showed three stages of mass loss, and CPMC proved to be the sample with the greatest thermal stability. The crystallinity indices of the MCs samples ranged between 69.23-75%. The micrographs show compact and lamellar materials. However, AFM measurements revealed distinct nanostructures for each of the MCs obtained, displaying lamellar structures from 20 to 280 nm. Therefore, this method was efficient for extracting MCs from different types of biomass. The analyses demonstrated greater efficiency in the CPMC and CSMC samples. In this context, they have become promising candidates for application in a wide range of industrial materials.

Biochemical profiling and byproduct utilization of Garcinia aril

Garcinia gummi-gutta, commonly known as Malabar Tamarind, is a fruit crop of significant economic value, extensively grown in the southern regions of the Western Ghats. The economically valuable part is the fruit peel or rind, which is used as a seasoning in its dried form, imparting a distinct flavour and taste to food preparations. During processing of the rind, the edible aril, a whitish pulp attached to the seed, is discarded. The aril of G. gummi-gutta fruits has a unique flavour with a sweet-acidic blend. Biochemical profiling of the aril is essential for developing food products with enhanced nutritional benefits. The present study reports the quantification of its biochemical components. Identification and quantification of various sugars and acids were performed using Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry. Fructose (47.44 mg/g) emerged as the predominant sugar, while Hydroxy Citric Acid (522.99 mg/g) was identified as the principal organic acid. Biochemical profiling of the aril revealed its potential for functional food development. The aril contained significant amounts of Hydroxy Citric Acid (2.64 %), known for anti-obesity properties, along with calcium (756.67 ppm), potassium 649.52 ppm, phenols 382.25 mg GAE/g , flavonoids 6.58 mg QE/g, and exhibited 87.32 % antioxidant activity. Ready-to-serve blended fruit beverages were developed using the pulp of G. gummi-gutta aril combined with pomegranate, watermelon or dragon fruit juice. Sensory analysis indicates higher consumer acceptance and enhanced nutritional qualities. The utilisation of G. gummi-gutta byproducts can contribute to food product diversification, providing innovative options for novel products with enhanced taste and health benefits.

Joint Pricing-Production Decisions for a Capital-Constrained Supplier in a Marketplace Platform

We analyze a supply chain consisting of a capital-constrained supplier and a platform functioning as a marketplace, where the supplier sells products to consumers via the platform, which charges a commission fee for each item sold. Operating in a market characterized by price-sensitive stochastic demand, the supplier must make simultaneous decisions regarding pricing and production quantity before a selling period. The supplier has three financing options for production: bank financing, platform-guaranteed bank financing, and direct platform financing. Using a Stackelberg game approach, we model these interactions and derive key managerial insights. Our findings reveal that financing choices and commission fees significantly impact the supplier’s pricing and production decisions, as well as the platform’s financing preferences. Generally, while the platform favors direct financing, the supplier prefers guaranteed financing under certain conditions.

Economic Analysis of Red Tilapia (Oreochromis sp.) Production Under Different Solar Energy Alternatives in a Commercial Biofloc System in Colombia

The study investigates the economic aspects of red tilapia (Oreochromis sp.) production using biofloc technology under different electrical energy sources. Conducted at the El Vergel Fish Farming Association in Arauca, Colombia, the study examines four energy treatments: conventional energy (CE), combined conventional and photovoltaic energy (CPVE), full photovoltaic energy (PVE), and simulation of photovoltaic energy generating surplus for nighttime use (PVES). The water quality and zootechnical performance met the species requirements, with dissolved oxygen decreasing as fish size increased. The PVE treatment had the highest initial investment due to solar panels and battery costs, but it also had the lowest operating energy costs. However, the overall costs of the PVE treatment increased due to depreciation and maintenance. Feed was the largest production cost, followed by labor in most treatments, while depreciation was a major cost for the PVE treatment. The total operating cost (TOC) of the photovoltaic energy systems (PVE and PVES) was lower compared to that of conventional energy (CE), with PVES showing the highest cost savings. The reduction in energy costs highlights the potential for solar energy systems to enhance the economic viability of aquaculture production, making these systems a favorable option for sustainable production in the long term.

Marginal oil and gas field development using stranded and flaring gas

Indonesia’s abundant natural gas reserves present an opportunity to transition towards natural gas as a primary energy source due to its efficiency and industrial versatility. However, stranded gas and flare gas remain underutilized, especially in remote and challenging areas like Papua, Indonesia. This research investigates the utilization of such limited gas resources through technical and economic evaluations. This region is characterized by logistical challenges and a scarcity of natural gas users, making it a representative example for similar cases across Indonesia. The study assessed product and technology options for utilizing feed gas with an average volume of 2.5 MMSCFD over a 15-year production lifetime. The findings indicate that converting the gas into CNG and LPG is the most viable solution, yielding an average of 1,264 MMBTU/day of CNG and 4 MT/day of LPG. Economic analysis shows a net present value (NPV) of USD 1.83 million, an internal rate of return (IRR) of 13.01%, and a payback period (POT) of 6.31 years. The use of skid-mounted transportation modules and barges aligns well with the geographical complexities of Eastern Indonesia, offering a scalable and commercially viable approach to stranded gas utilization. This research highlights a sustainable pathway for monetizing marginal gas fields.

Potato Cyst Nematodes (PCN), Globodera Rostochiensis and G. Pallida as a New Challenging Problem of Potato Production in Africa

AbstractPotato cyst nematode (PCN) Globodera rostochiensis and G. pallida have been highlighted as new challenging problems of potato production in Africa. This review traces the emergence and current status of PCN as a problem of potato production and available PCN management options for Africa. The review revealed G. rostochiensis as the most widespread PCN species reported in eight countries as compared to G. pallida only found in four countries. G. rostochiensis Ro1/4 and G. pallida Pa/2/3 were the only PCN pathotypes that have been reported in Africa. Different PCN control strategies which have been tested and recommended as suitable for managing PCN in Africa are reviewed. We recommend expanding PCN surveillance to other potato producing African countries, targeting PCN management based on the most widespread PCN species/pathotypes in Africa and integrated management using locally tested and available PCN control strategies.

Beer drinker perceptions of cannabis-infused beverages

PurposeAs cannabis markets have expanded and nonalcoholic beer sales have grown, craft beverage manufacturers are increasingly interested in alternative beverage markets for product differentiation. This study evaluates consumer perceptions of nonalcoholic, cannabis-infused beverages to explore the market potential.Design/methodology/approachThe study used survey data from 1,094 US beer drinkers to identify consumer willingness to try and general perceptions of cannabis-infused beverages. First, we identified who is most likely to try cannabis-infused beverages using multinomial logistic regression analysis. Then, we identified perceptions of cannabis-infused beverages relative to conventional beer by asking respondents to rate the expected taste, nutrition, safety and price for one of three hypothetical product options: a traditional beer, a cannabidiol (CBD) beverage or a tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) beverage. Comparisons across products were then drawn using standard statistical tests.FindingsApproximately 53–56% of beer drinkers in our sample stated they were willing to try cannabis-infused beverages, with age, product knowledge and past purchasing behaviors correlating with this response. Additionally, consumers expected cannabis-infused beverage scores to have similar safety and nutrition metrics to traditional beer but at higher prices. On average, consumers expected CBD- and THC-infused beverages to be $0.33 and $0.98 more expensive per six-pack than a conventional beer, respectively.Originality/valueWith an evolving craft beverage and cannabis landscape, these results provide a glimpse into beer drinkers’ attitudes toward CBD- and THC-infused beverages. The results offer novel insights into the target audience and market potential for cannabis-infused beverages that manufacturers and entrepreneurs can use in their business strategies. Additionally, the findings can be useful to policymakers and public health officials in monitoring this emerging market, informing policy design and designing public health messaging. Lastly, the study opens avenues for future research on consumer perceptions of cannabis versus alcoholic products across academic disciplines.

Analysis of Scooter Spare Parts Sales at Harapan Indah Scooter Using the K-Means Algorithm

: K-means clustering algorithm has been used in this study to analyze the sales performance of scooter spare parts at Harapan Indah Scooter. By using the K-means method, researchers can classify products into 3 categories according to their sales volume. The purpose of this analysis is to identify patterns in sales data and compare the characteristics of each product group. Researchers can see the output from the previous step shows three clusters: Low, Medium, and High Sales. Associating products with these categories Empowers improved tracking of sales movements and fluctuation trends in product options. The findings of this study can be useful in the field of inventory management and to develop marketing strategies to increase product sales. Companies can find out which products fall into which categories and therefore can make better decisions on how to manage stock and promotional efforts. These findings are the first step to maintain and improve sales performance and optimize Harapan Indah Scooter business

Design and optimization of large-scale natural gas liquefaction process based on triple refrigeration cycles

In large-scale natural gas liquefaction, minimizing specific energy consumption has consistently been a primary objective. This study aims to develop a large-scale natural gas liquefaction process that balances energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness, presenting a viable option for industrial production. By employing a refrigerant strategy of “propane + mixed refrigerant + mixed refrigerant”, a novel large-scale natural gas liquefaction process based on triple refrigeration cycles (TRC) is proposed. To address the challenge of boil-off gas (BOG) re-liquefaction, the TRC process is further refined to integrate BOG re-liquefaction (TRC-BR). Thermodynamic models are built for the proposed TRC and TRC-BR processes, as well as the propane pre-cooled mixed refrigerant (C3MR) and AP-X processes as baseline cases. Global optimization is conducted using the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm, with the specific power consumption (SPC) serves as the objective function. The results reveal that the SPC of the TRC and TRC-BR processes are 0.2726 and 0.2704 kWh/kg-LNG respectively. Compared with the C3MR and AP-X processes, the SPC of the TRC decrease by 1.54% and 4.84%, respectively. The total investments for the TRC and TRC-BR processes are estimated at a similar level compared to the baseline cases, demonstrating their significant potential for industrial application.

Review - Insect farming for food and feed in the Global South: Focus on black soldier fly production.

Clear differences exist between the Global South and the Global North with respect to economic development. The majority of small and medium-sized insect production farms are located in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, which face challenges to food production and organic waste management in general. These regions have a long history of insect use, as well as environmental advantages, making production of insects in general - and the black soldier fly in particular - a promising option for sustainable food production and organic waste management. This study aimed to identify the current state of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens L.) production in the Global South. The results of a survey and a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats Analysis are presented; responses were obtained from 33 of the 100 insect producers contacted: 14 in Africa, 4 in Latin America, and 15 in Asia. Their responses indicate that although insects have great potential and can help meet many of the Sustainable development goals thanks to their ecosystem services they provide - which is one of the main reasons producers engage in their production, significant challenges exist to the sustainability of insect farming, including lack of an adequate regulatory framework, an unstable supply of raw materials, market instability, and lack of adequate technology for operational scaling. Global collaboration among all stakeholders is crucial to overcoming these challenges.

Internet-Based Mass Communication in Multi-Level Marketing Companies Operating in Poland

ABSTRACT This study examines the areas of Internet-based mass communication (websites, social media) utilized by multi-level marketing (MLM) companies operating in Poland, using methods including literature review, descriptive analysis, and statistical analysis of primary data. Findings reveal that the most popular MLM websites in Poland are those of foreign-owned companies with over 16 years of operation, which attract more smartphone users, especially among younger firms with high mobile engagement. Average visit duration is around 4 minutes, with longer visits on established global sites, while about half of all visits result in a bounce. Most of the MLM websites examined have content in Polish, primarily featuring product information, company details, and contact information, alongside product and partnership options and required privacy policies. Social media presence is less significant, with Facebook being the most utilized platform, particularly by older firms; Polish-language profiles are rare on more time-intensive platforms like YouTube. Facebook holds the highest average user count, especially for firms operating for over 21 years. This study lays a foundation that may support the first formal classification of MLM enterprises in Poland and inform governmental policies on MLM regulation and PKD code identification. Despite the study’s limitations, the findings contribute a preliminary understanding of MLM companies’ online communication strategies in Poland, paving the way for future qualitative and quantitative research.

Eco-optimized experimental and computational analysis of coarse wood chips fluidization aerodynamics in bed reactors

In this study, computational particle fluid dynamics (CPFD) simulations optimized the aerodynamic properties of wood chips which are a key biomass fuel for sustainable power generation by the addressing of challenges in fluidization. Using both fixed and bubbling fluidized beds, the study focused on particle adhesion and agglomeration, which cause channeling and voids, thus reducing gas-particle contact. Additionally, solid bridges or agglomerates from uneven bed distribution were shown to decrease fluidization efficiency and heat transfer. Coarse particles (2–2.5 mm) were selected to establish the optimal operational range for effective fluidization. Reducing particle aggregation and adhesion through collisions promoted a uniform distribution, enhanced thermal energy storage and stabilizing bed temperature, and benefited in combustion control in green chemical engineering applications. The commercial CPFD software Barracuda was used for simulations at an inlet pressure of 300 Pa above atmospheric and an atmospheric outlet pressure. These simulations provided good insight into wood chip fluidization behavior by the establishment of operating parameters for fluidized bed reactors and were validated using a lab-scale model with consistent parameters. This study concludes that wood chip fluidization can be represented in distinct operating zones and clarifies optimal design considerations for reactors suited to biomass combustion. These findings significantly advance the understanding of wood chip aerodynamics by giving a sustainable fuel option for efficient thermal energy production.

Extracellular lipase production from Bacillus cereus by using agro-industrial waste.

Lipases are crucial biocatalysts in various industrial applications, and there is considerable interest in developing sustainable methods for their synthesis. This study focuses on the isolation, screening, and comparison of Bacillus cereus strains to produce extracellular lipases utilizing agro-industrial waste through solid-state fermentation. The results indicate that B. cereus exhibited optimal lipase production with soybean extract, yielding 41.2 ± 1.08µ/ml (p < 0.05), followed by bagasse with 40.5 ± 0.97µ/ml (p < 0.05). Other substrates, including rice bran (9.9µ/ml), wheat bran (25.8µ/ml), sunflower seed (24.0µ/ml), and oat bran (10.2µ/ml), demonstrated significantly lower enzyme activity. Additionally, lipase production from fruit peels was assessed, with banana yielding 21.1µ/ml, orange 20.3 µ/ml, melon 16.3 µ/ml, and watermelon 16.43µ/ml. Various oil wastes were also evaluated, showing lipase activities of 14.6 µ/ml (Sitara oil), 13.3µ/ml (Shan oil), 11.0µ/ml (automobile oil), and 10.2µ/ml (cooking oil). The bacterial lipases produced from B. cereus demonstrated maximum hydrolysis of tributyrin agar medium at 40°C (p < 0.05). The findings suggest that utilizing different agro-industrial wastes for the production of extracellular lipase could help mitigate environmental pollution while providing a viable option for commercial enzyme production.