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Integrated biological system for remediation and valorization of tannery wastewater: focus on microbial communities responsible for methanogenesis and sulfidogenesis
No full textMicrobial communities in hybrid linear flow channel reactors and anaerobic sequencing batch reactors operated in series for remediation and beneficiation of tannery wastewater were assessed. Despite concurrent sulfidogenesis, more intensive pre-treatment in hybrid linear flow channel reactors reduced methanogenic inhibition usually associated with anaerobic digestion of tannery effluent and promoted efficiency (max 321 mLCH₄/gCODconsumed, 59% biogas CH₄). Nitrification and biological sulfate reduction were key metabolic pathways involved in overall and sulfate reducing bacterial community selection, respectively, during pre-treatment. Taxonomic selection could be explained by the proteinaceous and saline character of tannery effluent, with dominant genera being protein and/or amino acid degrading, halotolerant and/or ammonia tolerant. Complete oxidizers dominated the sulfidogenic populations during pre-treatment, while aceticlastic genera dominated the methanogenic populations during anaerobic digestion. With more intensive pre-treatment, the system shows promise for remediation and recovery of biogas and sulfur from tannery wastewater in support of a bio-circular economy
Empowering distribution system operators: a review of distributed energy resource forecasting techniques
No full textEffective management of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) and optimization of grid operations are crucial responsibilities of Distribution System Operators (DSOs). Hence, this comprehensive critical review aims to analyze the current state of DER forecasting practices for DSOs and
their implications for achieving the SDG goals. These goals underscore the significance of clean
and accessible energy, advancements in infrastructure, sustainable urban development, climate
change mitigation, and collaborative partnerships. The review’s core focuses on the DER forecasting techniques employed by DSOs. It explores various aspects, including data collection
methods, load forecasting models, DER generation forecasting, aggregation and integration
techniques, and the role of advanced technologies like machine learning and artificial intelligence. The review highlights the critical role of accurate DER forecasts in optimizing grid operations, managing energy flows, and facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources.
Furthermore, the review examines the implications of DER forecasting for DSOs in achieving the
SDGs. It discusses how DER forecasting facilitates the transition to affordable and clean energy,
enhances industry innovation and infrastructure, builds sustainable cities and communities,
drives climate action efforts, and fosters stakeholder partnerships. However, the review also
identifies challenges and limitations in DER forecasting, including data availability, forecasting
accuracy, uncertainty management, and regulatory barriers. It emphasizes further research and
development in improved forecasting algorithms, advanced data analytics, and enhanced
communication and coordination mechanisms. Finally, this comprehensive critical review highlights the importance of DER forecasting for DSOs in achieving the SDGs. Accurate forecasting can
promote sustainable and clean energy practices, drive innovation, build resilient communities,
mitigate climate change, and foster collaborative partnerships. The review emphasizes the necessity of advancing DER forecasting techniques and addressing associated challenges to fully
realize the potential of DERs in contributing to a sustainable and inclusive future.
This comprehensive critical review aims to analyze the current state of DER forecasting
practices for DSOs and their implications for achieving the SDG goals. As Distributed Energy
Resources (DERs) play an increasingly significant role in the transition to sustainable energy
systems, accurate forecasting techniques are essential for optimizing grid operations and facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources. By effectively managing DERs, Distribution
System Operators (DSOs) contribute to the advancement of several SDGs, including affordable
and clean energy (SDG 7), sustainable infrastructure (SDG 9), climate action (SDG 13), and partnerships for the goals (SDG 17). This review explores the intersection of DER forecasting with
the SDGs, highlighting how forecasting initiatives can support national and global efforts toward
sustainable development by providing insights into energy demand, grid stability, and renewable
energy integration. The goals and targets are derived from an analysis of current trends and the
identification of potential development scenarios by 2030. Both optimistic and pessimistic projections are utilized for communicating with the general public and national governments concerning DSM network planning. Utilizing data from various nations enables the identification of
effective strategies and the prediction of similar trends in other areas. Simultaneously, the
magnitude of activities related to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) enables the improvement and efficient organization of data gathering on a global basis. This, in turn, provides a
foundation for future forecasting endeavours
The hiking optimization algorithm: a novel human-based metaheuristic approach
No full textIn this paper, a novel metaheuristic called ‘The Hiking Optimization Algorithm’ (HOA) is proposed. HOA is inspired by hiking, a popular recreational activity, in recognition of the similarity between the search landscapes of optimization problems and the mountainous terrains traversed by hikers. HOA’s mathematical model is premised on Tobler’s Hiking Function (THF), which determines the walking velocity of hikers (i.e. agents) by considering the elevation of the terrain and the distance covered. THF is employed in determining hikers’ positions in the course of solving an optimization problem. HOA’s performance is demonstrated by benchmarking with 29 well-known test functions (including unimodal, multimodal, fixed-dimension multimodal, and composite functions), three engineering design problems (EDPs), (including I-beam, tension/compression spring, and gear train problems) and two N-P Hard problems (i.e. Traveling Salesman’s and Knapsack Problems). Moreover, HOA’s results are verified by comparison to 14 other metaheuristics, including Teaching Learning Based Optimization (TLBO), Genetic Algorithm (GA), Differential Evolution (DE), Particle Swarm Optimization, Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO) as well as newly introduced algorithms such as Komodo Mlipir Algorithm (KMA), Quadratic Interpolation Optimization (QIO), and Coronavirus Optimization Algorithm (COVIDOA). In this study, we employ statistical tests such as the Wilcoxon rank sum, Friedman test, and Dunn’s post hoc test for the performance evaluation. HOA’s results are competitive and, in many instances, outperform the aforementioned well-known metaheuristics. The source codes of HOA and related metaheuristics can be accessed publicly via this link: https://github.com/DayoSun/The-Hiking-Optimization-Algorithm
Resizing Kruger National Park: trends in numbers of rhinoceroses within priority zones
No full textSpecies typically occupy fewer sites, and average population densities decline from the centre to the edge of a species’ range when the range contracts. The poaching of rhinoceroses (rhinos) for their horn has degraded the black and white rhino populations in Kruger National Park (Kruger). Rhino populations have declined, and their distributions have contracted since 2010. We surveyed the black and white rhino populations in the Kruger during 2021 and 2022. We also identified core areas where rhino densities are greater and defined these as priority conservation zones. We then tested the prediction that population growth within priority conservation zones will exceed population growth beyond these zones for both black and white rhino. The results highlighted the continued decline of the white rhino population, while the black rhino population has stabilised since 2020. Growth rates were negative for white rhinos within priority conservation zones, but higher than those beyond these zones. For black rhinos, growth in priority conservation zones was positive and higher than those beyond zones. Priority conservation zones offer an opportunity to combat rhino poaching in a more tactical manner, concentrating resources on key areas for rhino survival.
Conservation implications: We highlight complementary approaches to the existing anti-poaching tactics that focus on exploiting easier access control, situational awareness, integrity and individual-based rhino monitoring when targeting priority conservation zones within Kruger
Neuroprotective effects of glycyrrhiza glabra total extract and isolated compounds
No full textGlycyrrhiza glabra L. is a plant commonly utilized in herbal medicine and stands out as one of the more extensively researched medicinal plants globally. It has been documented with respect to several pharmacological activities, notably, neuroprotective effects, among others. However, the neuroprotective activity of pure phenolic compounds has not been reported yet. The chromatographic of a methanolic extract yielded twenty-two compounds, viz.: naringenin 4′-O-glucoside (1), 3′,4′,7-trihydroxyflavanone (butin) (2), liquiritin (3), liquiritin apioside (4), abyssinone (5), glabrol (6), isoliquiritin (7), neoisoliquiritin (8), isoliquiritin apioside (9), licuraside (10). 3’[O], 4’-(2,2-dimethylpyrano)-3,7-dihydroxyflavanone (11), glabrocoumarin (12), glabrene (13), isomedicarpin (14), 7-hydroxy-4′-methoxyflavone (formononetin) (15), ononin (16), glycyroside (17), (3S)-7,4′-dihydroxy-2′-methoxyisoflavan (18), glabridin (19), neoliquiritin (20), 3,11-dioxooleana-1,12-dien-29-oic acid (21), and 3-oxo-18β-glycyrrhetinic acid (22). The results of the neuroprotection evaluation showed that G. glabra total extract (TE) and compounds 1, 7, 11, 16, and 20 protected SH-SY5Y cells by inhibiting the depletion of ATP and elevated caspase 3/7 activities induced by MPP+. Indeed, this study reports for the first time the structure and activity of compound 11 and the neuroprotective activity of some phenolic constituents from G. glabra
Prospective dose monitoring using a manual dose management system: experience in brain computed tomography from a tertiary hospital in Nigeria
No full textA manual radiation dose management system was developed to track the radiation dose and scan parameters of patients for brain computed tomography (CT). Radiation dose in volume computed tomography dose index (CTDIvol) and dose length product (DLP) were monitored to identify procedures that may require optimisation using notification values. The data were analysed and compared with national and international diagnostic reference levels (DRLs). A total of 596 brain CTs were monitored and grouped as 15): 11. Furthermore, the DLP notification values identified the following examinations with high DLP in 15): 18. The established local paediatric DLP DRLs were 2–3 times higher than the international paediatric DLP DRLs. This calls for a total protocol review and optimisation considering the local CT practices for paediatric imaging
Regulated root zone water temperatures and soilless media improve bulb yield and offset production of hydroponically cultivated Amaryllis belladonna L.
No full textThe protracted natural bulb growth rate and offset generation constrain the timely expansion of bulbs in Amaryllis belladonna. An 18-month experiment was conducted to determine the efficacy of different root zone water temperatures and soilless media on the bulb yield and offset production of A. belladonna cultivated in a deep water culture hydroponic system. The study comprised dormant juvenile bulbs that were planted in plastic cavity trays filled with soilless media and suspended in heated water reservoirs at different temperatures (16 °C control, 22 °C, 28 °C, and 34 °C). The results found that the autonomous analysis of water temperatures, as opposed to soilless media and the combination, was significant. Warm root zone water temperatures ranging from 16 °C to 28 °C resulted in comparable aerial and subsurface morphological growth and development, promoting the vegetative proliferation of larger juvenile mother bulbs and offset induction. However, an excessively high temperature of 34 °C proved injurious and depleting. The results infer that the intrinsic processes for ‘bulbing’ were synchronized under inducive extrinsic hydroponic stimuli. A water temperature of 22 °C is recommended for long-term, sustainable production of simultaneously generating optimum reclaimable bulbs and offset generation to abridge the timeous cultivation of continuous A. belladonna vegetative bulb stock. A water temperature of 22 °C is recommended for long-term, sustainable production of simultaneously generating optimum bulbs and offset generation to abridge the timeous cultivation of continuous A. belladonna vegetative bulb stock
The quest for resilient sustainable development and low-carbon energy transitions: investigating the challenges and success factors for mini-grids in Malawi
No full textRenewable energy mini-grids are considered a cost-effective way to provide electricity for a large proportion of the population in developing countries who do not have access to it. Compared with standalone home systems and national grid systems, mini-grids can potentially offer a better service. They can be deployed faster, making them essential for sustainable development, especially in rural and semi-urban areas of developing countries. However, mini-grids often face challenges regarding their resilience, and many fail to survive beyond their pilot phases. This paper aims to identify the factors contributing to the success of mini-grids and to identify common themes that can help existing and future mini-grid developments become more resilient and influence policy decision making. To achieve this goal, we developed a database of the status of mini-grids in Malawi, with the energy generation resource(s) of their installed capacity, enabling factors, and challenges. We undertook a more detailed investigation of two hydro mini-grid systems—Bondo and Chipopoma. We collected qualitative and quantitative data through literature reviews, site visits, interviews, and observations. The study identified 19 mini-grids with a combined installed capacity of 26 MW. Of these, seven had been abandoned, and one was under development. Several factors that affect successful mini-grid efficacy in Malawi were identified, including financial resourcefulness, technical resourcefulness, policies and regulations, community engagement and capacity building, cross-sector linkages, and institutional organisational frameworks. These factors need to be integrated into decision making by all stakeholders to ensure the enhancement of resilience and the sustainable development of mini-grids
Towards a definition of ‘empathic understanding’ in industrial design practice
No full textEmpathy is often not well defined, particularly in design. While the practice of designers developing a deep understanding of the people who use their products is recommended, the details of how to do this are limited. This problem of vagueness about empathy in design makes it difficult for product designers to take suitable actions to produce best results for the users. Through a strategic examination of a body of literature, across seven databases relevant to design, the systematic literature review adds to a discussion on empathy within the designing process. Study limitations included the complex nature of empathy itself, and multiple uses of the terms design and product. Findings indicate a contradiction of internal and external factors affecting empathy in design, and are considerably more complex than just an ‘accepted’ part of the design process. Shifting towards user-centred design in industrial design means that a considerably more nuanced understanding of empathy is needed, for implementation in design practice. By better understanding the concept of empathy as a duality, all stakeholders can manage expectations around empathy ‘behaviour’, and empathy as part of the design process. Empathy needs to be recognised as a complex phenomenological relationship between process (external) and person (internal) within industrial design. Practical, theoretical and societal implications of this concept are discussed.
Transdisciplinary contribution: Empathy in product design practice represents several fields, related to human behaviour and interactions. This review’s contribution is to confirm areas for further research and the importance of developing theory to address the complexity of design practice
Diatoms as an indicator of water quality in the Kuils River, Western Cape, South Africa
No full textRivers are crucial hydrological cycle components, supporting ecosystems and human activities. Managing and protecting river water quality is essential. Diatoms, microscopic algae, are widespread and sensitive to changes in water quality, making them effective bioindicators. This study focused on the Kuils River in the Western Cape, South Africa, where diatom sampling was conducted at four sites. Their communities are affected by different physicochemical parameters, such as changes in pH, salinisation, eutrophication, and organic enrichment. A total of 98 diatom species were identified. The Omnidia software was used to calculate the Generic Diatom Index, Specific Pollution Index, and Trophic Diatom Index. Historical physicochemical data such as pH, chemical oxygen demand, and phosphorus were obtained from the Department of Water and Sanitation between 2019 and 2021 and were used to provide a reference for comparing diatoms. The results showed clear signs of pollution, as shifts in diatom species composition were observed. Pollution-tolerant species such as the Nitzschia palea (Kützing) W Smith 1856, Navicula viridula (Kützing) Ehrenberg 1838, Eunotia bilunaris (Ehrenberg) Schaarschmidt 1880, and Ulnaria ulna (Nitzsch) Compère 2001 dominated, while less pollution-tolerant species like Gomphonema parvulum f.saprophilum Lange-Bertalot and E. Reichardt 1993 and Stephanocylus meneghinianus (Kutzing) Kulikovskiy, Genkal, and Kociolek 2022 were less abundant. Both diatom indices and physicochemical data indicated poor water quality in the Kuils River. The study concludes that diatoms are a valuable tool for biomonitoring river water quality and recommends their use alongside traditional physicochemical methods for future assessments of river systems