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The annual wastewater flow that is treated by public
wastewater treatment plants in Germany amounts
to approx. 10 ∗ 10^9 m3/a and forms an ”artificial” hydropower
potential that can be used for energy generation
or recovery. In the context of this paper, energy
recovery in the outlet of wastewater treatment plants
is examined using the specific example of the water
wheel at the Warendorf central wastewater treatment
plant. The ”artificial” hydropower potential can be
roughly estimated at up to 20 to 105 GWh/a , whereby
this is largely dependent on the hydraulic gradient.
The strong variance results, among other things, from
the findings of the water wheel operation in Warendorf.
The decisive aspect here is the differential factor,
which describes the deviation between the theoretical
and actual energy yield of the water wheel. The
factor includes maintenance work, downtimes and insufficient
inflows, which are associated with a loss of
output. In the case study, the annual energy recovery
amounts to approx. 2 % of the annual electricity consumption
of the wastewater treatment plant and can
be estimated to 23,500 kWh (2022). In the context
of the economic analysis, it can be seen that despite
the ”low” yield, economic operation is possible if the
system is viewed as a long-term investment - payback
period of the example is approx. 14,5 years. The
27-year operation (1996 - 2023) of the water wheel
at the Warendorf central wastewater treatment plant
confirms this and important findings on successful
practical operation can be shown in the context of
this paper.
Wastewater generation model to predict impacts of urine separation on wastewater treatment plants
(2024)
Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are under increasing pressure to enhance resource efficiency and reduce emissions into water bodies. The separation of urine within the catchment area may be an alternative to mitigate the need for costly expansions of central WWTPs. While previous investigations assumed a spatially uniform implementation of urine separation across the catchment area, the present study focuses on an adapted stochastic wastewater generation model, which allows the simulation of various wastewater streams (e.g., urine) on a household level. This enables the non-uniform separation of urine across a catchment area. The model is part of a holistic modelling framework to determine the influence of targeted urine separation in catchments on the operation and emissions of central WWTPs, which will be briefly introduced. The wastewater generation model is validated through an extensive sampling and measurement series.
Results based on observed and simulated wastewater quantity and quality for a catchment area of 366 residents for two dry weather days indicate the suitability of the model for wastewater generation and transport modelling. Based on this, four scenarios for urine separation were defined. The results indicate a potential influence of spatial distribution on the peaks of total nitrogen and total phosphorus.
Background
Degenerative musculoskeletal disorders are among the most frequent diseases occurring in adulthood, often impairing patients' functional mobility and physical activity. The aim of the present study was to investigate and compare the impact of three frequent degenerative musculoskeletal disorders -- knee osteoarthritis (knee OA), hip osteoarthritis (hip OA) and lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) -- on patients' walking ability.
Methods
The study included 120 participants, with 30 in each patient group and 30 healthy control individuals. A uniaxial accelerometer, the StepWatch™ Activity Monitor (Orthocare Innovations, Seattle, Washington, USA), was used to determine the volume (number of gait cycles per day) and intensity (gait cycles per minute) of walking ability. Non-parametric testing was used for all statistical analyses.
Results
Both the volume and the intensity of walking ability were significantly lower among the patients in comparison with the healthy control individuals (p < 0.001). Patients with LSS spent 0.4 (IQR 2.8) min/day doing moderately intense walking (>50 gait cycles/min), which was significantly lower in comparison with patients with knee and hip OA at 2.5 (IQR 4.4) and 3.4 (IQR 16.1) min/day, respectively (p < 0.001). No correlations between demographic or anthropometric data and walking ability were found. No technical problems or measuring errors occurred with any of the measurements.
Conclusions
Patients with degenerative musculoskeletal disorders suffer limitations in their walking ability. Objective assessment of walking ability appeared to be an easy and feasible tool for measuring such limitations as it provides baseline data and objective information that are more precise than the patients' own subjective estimates. In everyday practice, objective activity assessment can provide feedback for clinicians regarding patients' performance during everyday life and the extent to which this confirms the results of clinical investigations. The method can also be used as a way of encouraging patients to develop a more active lifestyle.
Learning digital competencies can be successful if the information is also tried out immediately using interactive elements. However, interactive teaching poses a particular challenge, especially in large group formats. Various strategies are used to promote interaction, but there is little known about the results. This article shows different strategies and evaluates their influence on the interaction rate in a large group course over two terms that teaches digital medicine. Log files and participation in surveys as well as participation in chat were quantitatively evaluated. In addition, the chat messages themselves were evaluated qualitatively. For the evaluation, relation to the total number of participants was particularly relevant in order to be able to determine an interaction rate in the individual course sessions. A maximum average interaction rate of 90.97% could be determined over the entire term while the participants wrote an average of 3.96 comments during a session in the chat. In summary, this research could show that interactive elements should be well planned and used at regular intervals in order to reap the benefits.
BACKGROUND Interest in digital technologies in the health care sector is growing and can be a way to reduce the burden on professional caregivers while helping people to become more independent. Social robots are regarded as a special form of technology that can be usefully applied in professional caregiving with the potential to focus on interpersonal contact. While implementation is progressing slowly, a debate on the concepts and applications of social robots in future care is necessary. OBJECTIVE In addition to existing studies with a focus on societal attitudes toward social robots, there is a need to understand the views of professional caregivers and patients. This study used desired future scenarios to collate the perspectives of experts and analyze the significance for developing the place of social robots in care. METHODS In February 2020, an expert workshop was held with 88 participants (health professionals and educators; [PhD] students of medicine, health care, professional care, and technology; patient advocates; software developers; government representatives; and research fellows) from Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. Using the scenario methodology, the possibilities of analog professional care (Analog Care), fully robotic professional care (Robotic Care), teams of robots and professional caregivers (Deep Care), and professional caregivers supported by robots (Smart Care) were discussed. The scenarios were used as a stimulus for the development of ideas about future professional caregiving. The discussion was evaluated using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS The majority of the experts were in favor of care in which people are supported by technology (Deep Care) and developed similar scenarios with a focus on dignity-centeredness. The discussions then focused on the steps necessary for its implementation, highlighting a strong need for the development of eHealth competence in society, a change in the training of professional caregivers, and cross-sectoral concepts. The experts also saw user acceptance as crucial to the use of robotics. This involves the acceptance of both professional caregivers and care recipients. CONCLUSIONS The literature review and subsequent workshop revealed how decision-making about the value of social robots depends on personal characteristics related to experience and values. There is therefore a strong need to recognize individual perspectives of care before social robots become an integrated part of care in the future.
Verockerung wasserbaulicher Filteranlagen: Stand der Wissenschaft und notwendige Untersuchungen
(2022)
In den letzten Jahrzehnten kam es in Einzelfällen zu schweren Schäden an wasserbaulichen geotextilen Filteranlagen infolge der Verstopfung durch ausgeflockte ockerhaltige Produkte. Durch eine starke Verminderung der Durchlässigkeit der Geokunststoffe in Kombination mit einem hohen hydrostatischen Druck wurden unter anderem die Deckschichten verschiedener Deckwerke in den tidebeeinflussten Wasserstraßen Ems und Weser angehoben und beschädigt. Bisher wurden die Milieubedingungen, d.h. Grundwasser- und Oberflächenwasserbeschaffenheit sowie Aquifer- und Deckwerksmaterial, unter denen die Ockerbildung in geotextilen und mineralischen Filteranlagen auftritt, noch nicht systematisch untersucht. Im Rahmen des vorliegenden Beitrags werden im ersten Schritt aus theoretischen Untersuchungen und Datenanalysen von Grundwasser- und Oberflächenwasseruntersuchungen Kriterien zur Bewertung der Verockerungsneigung abgeleitet. Diese Kriterien bzw. DOCP (decisive ochre clogging parameters) zeigen in den Ästuaren Ems, Weser und Elbe Beträge an, die Verockerungserscheinungen begünstigen bzw. ermöglichen. Auf Basis dieser Untersuchungen werden im zweiten Schritt Randbedingungen für zukünftige systematische in-situ Untersuchungen an wasserbaulichen Filteranlagen sowie im experimentellen Modell abgeleitet.
This survey study investigates surgical patients’ use and perception of digital health technologies in Germany in the pre–COVID-19 era. The objective of this study was to relate surgical patients’ characteristics to the use and perception of several digital health technologies. In this single-center, cross-sectional survey study in the outpatient department of a university hospital in Germany, 406 patients completed a questionnaire with the following three domains: general information and use of the internet, smartphones, and general digital health aspects. Analyses were stratified by age group and highest education level achieved. We found significant age-based differences in most of the evaluated aspects. Younger patients were more open to using new technologies in private and medical settings but had more security concerns. Although searching for information on illnesses on the web was common, the overall acceptance of and trust in web-based consultations were rather low, with <50% of patients in each age group reporting acceptance and trust. More people with academic qualifications than without academic qualifications searched for information on the web before visiting physicians (73/121, 60.3% and 100/240, 41.7%, respectively). Patients with academic degrees were also more engaged in health-related information and communication technology use. These results support the need for eHealth literacy, health literacy, and available digital devices and internet access to support the active, meaningful use of information and communication technologies in health care. Uncertainties and a lack of knowledge exist, especially regarding telemedicine and the use of medical and health apps. This is especially pronounced among older patients and patients with a low education status.
Mechanical ventilation of buildings is generally based on steadily operating systems. This field is well known and established. But, an approach based on time-varied supply flow rates might improve indoor air quality, comfort, and energy consumption. Typical time-scales of the variation are in the order of seconds or minutes. Until now, the effects of unsteady ventilation scenarios are not fully described and so, reliable dimensioning rules are missing. Hence, with a better understanding of the flow in unsteady ventilation, systems can be calculated and optimised. To understand the effective mechanisms and derive functional relations between the flow field and variation parameters, full-field optical flow measurements are executed with a particle image velocimetry (PIV) system. Experiments are conducted under isothermal conditions in water in a small-scale room model (1.00 m × 0.67 m × 0.46 m) with two swirl ceiling diffusers, Reynolds-scaling assures similarity. In a series of experiments, the effects of different unsteady ventilation strategies on the flow fields are investigated and compared to steady conditions with the same mean exchange rate. Mean exchange rates, signal types, periods, and amplitudes are varied. Time-averaged normalised velocity fields already indicate notable differences between steady and unsteady cases especially for lower exchange rates: the distribution is more homogeneous in unsteady scenarios compared to steady conditions, and low-velocity areas are reduced while the mean velocity of the room increases. So, unsteady ventilation might be beneficial in terms of improved ventilation and energy savings in partial-load operation. Fast Fourier Transformation (FFT) analyses of the mean velocity for each field over the whole series detect the main frequency of the volume flow variation. By dividing the velocity field into smaller areas, this main frequency is still detected especially in the upper part of the room, but side frequencies play a role in the room as well.
Das vorliegende Handbuch ist im Rahmen des EU-Projektes "Energyducation" (Förderkennzeichen KA2 2018-1-ES01-KA202-050327) entstanden und von Berufspädagogen, überwiegend praktizierenden Berufsschullehrerinnen und -lehrern, aus Deutschland (Institut für Berufliche Lehrerbildung an der FH Münster), den Niederlanden (Alfa-college in Groningen), Norwegen (NTI-MMM AS in Oslo) und Spanien (CIFP USURBIL LHII in Usurbil) verfasst worden. Vorlage war eine englische Fassung die umfangreich überarbeitet und im Hinblick auf die im deutschen Sprachraum vorherrschenden Begrifflichkeiten und Konzepte hin geschärft wurde.
Es dokumentiert die mit dem projektbasierten Lernen gesammelten Erfahrungen aus der Sicht von Praktikern. Die Besonderheit ist, dass die Erfahrungen untereinander abgeglichen wurden und damit länderübergreifende Erkenntnisse zusammengeführt wurden. Das vorliegende Handbuch versteht sich dabei nicht als wissenschaftliches Werk, greift aber Erkenntnisse aus der Lehreraus- und -fortbildung auf und stellt diese vor dem Hintergrund der gesammelten Erfahrungen dar.
The use of computational modeling and simulation (CMS) as a tool for gaining insight into the technical performance and safety of medical devices has emerged continuously over the past years. However, to rely on information and decisions derived from model predictions, it is essential to establish model credibility for the specific context of use. Limited regulatory requirements and lack of consensus on the level of verification and validation activities required result in rare use of CMS as a source of evidence in the medical device approval process. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) developed a risk-informed framework to establish appropriate credibility requirements of a computational model: the ASME V&V 40?2018 standard. This paper aims to outline the concepts of this standard and to demonstrate its application using an example from the orthotics field. The necessary steps to establish model credibility for a custom?made 3D printed wrist hand orthosis (WHO) are presented. It is shown that the credibility requirements of each verification and validation activity depend on model risk by applying two different contexts of use to the same computational model.
Toward a notation for modeling value driver trees: Classification development and research agenda
(2024)
Consequences of the consistent exact solution of Einstein{Cartan equation on the time dependence of Hubble parameter are discussed. The torsion leads to a space and time-dependent expansion parameter which results into nontrivial windows of Hubble parameter between diverging behavior.
Only one window shows a period of decreasing followed by increasing time dependence. Provided a known cosmological constant and the present values of Hubble and deceleration parameter this changing time can be given in the past as well as the ending time of the windows or universe. The comparison with the present experimental data allows to determine all parameters of the model.
Large-scale spatial periodic structures appear. From the metric with torsion outside matter, it is seen that torsion can feign dark matter.
The first oscillating water column was invented in 1940. In the past decades the need of wave energy systems has significantly increased. This article quickly describes the Wells turbine and possibilities to enhance its performance and should answer the question: what are the design parameters that can be optimized?
Furthermore it gives a small outlook about the history of oscillating Water Columns.
The Spreadsheet Energy System Model Generator (SESMG) is a tool for modeling and optimizing energy systems with a focus on urban systems. The SESMG is easily accessible as it comes with a browser-based graphical user interface, spreadsheets to provide data entry, and detailed documentation on how to use it. Programming skills are not required for the installation or application of the tool. The SESMG includes advanced modeling features such as the application of the multi-energy system (MES) approach, multi-objective optimization, model-based methods for reducing computational requirements, and automated conceptualization and result processing of urban energy systems with high spatial resolution. Due to its accessibility and the applied modeling methods, urban energy systems can be modeled and optimized with comparatively low effort.
In Germany, the current sectoral urban planning often leads to inefficient use of resources, partly because municipalities lack integrated planning instruments and argumentation strength toward politics, investors, or citizens. The paper develops the ResourcePlan as (i) legal and (ii) a planning instrument to support the efficient use of resources in urban neighborhoods. The integrative, multi-methodological approach addresses the use of natural resources in the building and infrastructural sectors of (i) water (storm- and wastewater) management, (ii) construction and maintenance of buildings and infrastructure, (iii) urban energy system planning, and (iv) land-use planning. First, the development as legal instrument is carried out, providing (i) premises for integrating resource protection at all legal levels and (ii) options for implementing the ResourcePlan within German municipal structures. Second, the evaluation framework for resource efficiency of the urban neighborhoods is set up for usage as a planning instrument. The framework provides a two-stage process that runs through the phases of setting up and implementing the ResourcePlan. (Eco)system services are evaluated as well as life cycle assessment and economic aspects. As a legal instrument, the ResourcePlan integrates resource protection into municipal planning and decision-making processes. The multi-methodological evaluation framework helps to assess inter-disciplinary resource efficiency, supports the spatial identification of synergies and conflicting goals, and contributes to transparent, resource-optimized planning decisions.
The Internationalisation of Higher Education - Perspectives from the THEA Ukraine Project and Beyond
(2021)
The Ukrainian higher education system has undergone a number
of developments since Ukraine committed itself to the Bologna
Process in 2005. Internationalisation and quality assurance in higher
education have thus become two core policy issues to aid Ukraine’s
efforts in becoming a full member of the European Higher
Education Area.
Within the THEA Ukraine project (October 2019 – September 2021),
32 Ukrainian Higher Education Administrators received training
in the field of internationalisation in higher education and science
management. The participants worked on individual application
projects to foster the international orientation of their home
institutions, which are located all over Ukraine.
The implementation of this project has provided material for a
number of case study descriptions of projects undertaken in the
THEA Ukraine framework, as well as general perspectives on
internationalisation in higher education; this anthology covers
both of these aspects.
The effect of kinesiology tape applications on performance in amateur soccer and team handball
(2015)
Evidence supporting performance enhancing effects of kin esiotape in sports is missing . The aims of this studywere to evaluate effects of kinesiotape applications with regard to shooting and throwing performance in 26 amateursoccer and 32 handball players, and to further investigate if these effects were influenced by the players’ level ofperformance. Ball speed as the primary outcome and accuracy of soccer kicks and handball throws were analyzed withand without kinesiotape by means of radar units and video recordings. The application of kinesiotapes significantlyincreased ball speed in soccer by 1.4 km/h (p=0.047) and accuracy with a lesser di stance from the target by -6.9 cm(p=0.039). Ball velocity in handball throws also signific antly increased by 1.2 km/h (p=0.013), while accuracy wasdeteriorated with a greater distance from the target by 3.4 cm (p=0.005). Larger effects with respect to ball speed werefound in players with a lower performance level in kick ing (1.7 km/h, p=0.028) and throwing (1.8 km/h, p=0.001)compared with higher level soccer and handball players (1.2 km/h, p=0.346 and 0.5 km/h, p=0.511, respectively). Inconclusion, the applications of kinesiot ape used in this study might have beneficial effects on performance in amateursoccer, but the gain in ball speed in handball is counterac ted by a significant deterioration of accuracy. Subgroupanalyses indicate that kinesiotape may yield larger effects on ball velocity in athletes with lower kicking and throwingskills.
A synthesis is made of 10 topics within climate research, where there have been significant advances since January 2020. The insights are based on input from an international open call with broad disciplinary scope. Findings include: (1) the options to still keep global warming below 1.5 °C; (2) the impact of non-CO2 factors in global warming; (3) a new dimension of fire extremes forced by climate change; (4) the increasing pressure on interconnected climate tipping elements; (5) the dimensions of climate justice; (6) political challenges impeding the effectiveness of carbon pricing; (7) demand-side solutions as vehicles of climate mitigation; (8) the potentials and caveats of nature-based solutions; (9) how building resilience of marine ecosystems is possible; and (10) that the costs of climate change mitigation policies can be more than justified by the benefits to the health of humans and nature.
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationships between technology orientations and export performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Design/methodology/approach
A quantitative research design was adopted for this study. The paper formulates hypotheses from the literature review. These hypotheses are tested using structural equation modeling with data collected from 231 SMEs in Uganda. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23 and AMOS.
Findings
The findings of this study showed technology orientation has a positive and significant relationship with the performance of Ugandan SMEs and that supply chain agility moderates technology orientation and export performance.
Research limitations/implications
The study discusses the findings, advances limitations and managerial implications. It also suggests future research avenues. It proposes some recommendations to help Ugandan SMEs to form flexible supply chains, use the latest technology and create strong relationship ties with their partners in the supply chain.
Practical implications
The study suggests that managers of Ugandan SMEs should use the latest technology in production, marketing, logistics and supply chain management which will enable them to respond quickly to customer tastes and preferences leading to higher levels of export performance.
Originality/value
This study contributes to the literature on strategic management showing the reliability of scales used and the confirmatory of the factor structure. This study shows that in strategic management technology, orientation is critical in increasing export performance. This study has extended the resource-based view (RBV) and dynamic capabilities theories.
Diese Arbeit befasst sich mit Kostentrends in Zusammenhang mit technologischem Lernen von Windenergie an Land in den USA, in Deutschland und weltweit. Ziel dieser Arbeit ist es, eine Lernkurve für Windenergie an Land zu bestimmen. Dafür wurden Daten zu Stromgestehungskosten (LCOE) und Kosten für die Installation (COP) von Windenergieanlagen (WEA) im Zeitraum von 1983 bis einschließlich 2020 gesammelt, grafisch dargestellt und weitergehend ausgewertet. Die grafische Darstellung der Datenlage verdeutlicht die zeitliche Entwicklung der Technologie. Zur Beschreibung dieser Lernkurven wurden die Progress Ratio (PR) und Learning Rate (LR) in fünf unterschiedlichen Modellen bestimmt. Anhand derer sich in Kombination mit der zukünftig installierten Leistung von WEA eine Prognose über zukünftige Kosten ableiten lässt. Die ermittelten LR bewegen sich zwischen 13 % und 28 %, woraus sich LCOE im Jahr 2030 zwischen 44,03 US$/MWh und 61 US$/MWh ergeben.
Wind turbine structures take a major role in the
modern conversion to renewable energy sources and
contribute to the creation of a greener world. In recent
years, the development and installation of wind
turbines have seen rapid growth. However, with the
increasing capacity and size of wind farms worldwide,
there are growing concerns about the safety and reliability
of these installations. Therefore, structural
health monitoring and the detection of damage to
wind turbines have gained considerable importance in
research. Wind turbine blades are particularly susceptible
to various types of damage due to environmental
influences. This article provides an overview of signal
responses, sensors used and non-destructive testing
techniques in the field of damage detection on wind
turbine blades. The intention of the article is to give
an insight into the possibilities of structural health
monitoring and at the same time to point out unsolved
problems in this field.
Floating offshore wind (FOW) holds the key to 80 % of the total offshore wind resources, located in waters of 60 m and deeper in European seas, where traditional bottom-fixed offshore wind (BFOW) is not economically attractive.
Many problems affecting floating offshore wind turbines (FOWT) were quickly overcome based on previous experience with floating oil rigs and bottom-fixed offshore wind. However, this technology is still young and there are still many challenges to overcome.
This paper shows that electrical failures are amongst the most significant errors of FOWT. The most common cause was corrosion. It is also stated that the control system is most often affected, and that the Generator is frequently involved. Material corrosion is also the key factor when it comes to the most common overall reason for failures.
A particular attention must be paid to mooring line fracture. Mooring lines are especially vulnerable to extreme sea conditions and the resulting fatigue, corrosion, impact damage, and further risks.
It must be stated that the primary challenge is that of economics. Over time technological costs will decline making FOW more competitive and hence attractive for greater depth.
The upscaling of wind turbines has been increasing in
recent years and will continue to play a significant role
in the future, as it allows for the reduction of electricity
generation costs. Various challenges arise when it
comes to upscaling. This article summarizes the technical
challenges associated with upscaling wind turbines
and presenting their problem-solving approaches
and research trends based on other reviews. It was
found that the most frequently cited challenges are
related to individual components, such as rotor blades,
drive train, generator, tower, and noise impact.
For rotor blades, the challenges are increased flexibility,
more aeroelastic vibrations, increased wear,
interferences with radar and transportation difficulties.
Proposed solutions include the use of carbon-fiber
blades, prebending, novel paints, and for transportation,
segmented rotor blades and on-site manufacturing.
In the gearbox, torque increases, leading to
higher weight and susceptibility to errors. As a result,
the trend is moving towards gearless systems with
permanent magnet synchronous generators. Transportation
is the major issue with towers, which can
be resolved with on-site manufacturing. In terms of
noise emission, reducing aerodynamic noise plays the
most significant role.
The impact of hydro-power plants on the ecosystem was studied with focus on the fish mortality and types of damage for many years. The fish mortality have a wide range of causes. Types of damage can be different and are caused by different parts of the power plant. The most dangerous part of the system are the fast moving turbine blades. They can cause blade strike and barotrauma due to the high speeds. Different types of turbines were developed for a better survival rate. Five different types of different research groups and manufacturers are presented in this paper. By considering those newly developed turbine designs, a fish survival rate from 96 % to 100 % is achieved.
Study Programme Development
(2022)
Stormwater tree pits with storage elements enable the irrigation of urban trees and can potentially act as decentralized rainwater retention basins. This paper mainly focuses on analyzing this potential. Field tests were conducted to investigate the irrigation behavior and the storage effect of a storm water tree pit system using Perl hoses as irrigation elements over a period of two years.
The rainfall, storage volumes, and soil moisture within the employed planting pit were measured.
With the help of system modeling, the retention ability of the storm water tree pit system was analyzed. The available storage volume was sufficient to irrigate trees for several days. During the measurement period, about 15% of the inflowing rainwater was fed to the root zone of the tree. With practical storage volumes of 200 to 300 m3/ha, a remarkable amount of water from heavy rainfall could be completely stored, thus significantly reducing the risk of flooding. The retention effect and irrigation behavior largely depend on the soil conditions and the technical possibilities of the equipment supplying the root area (in this case, Perl hoses). Further investigations are required to determine the influence on the growth conditions of trees and optimize of the system for discharge into the root zone.
Steigerung der Versorgungsqualität in der Palliativversorgung durch elektronische Gesundheitsakten
(2021)
This review paper provides an initial overview of the
state of the art of common corrosion protection methods
for offshore wind turbines. The functions of the
individual corrosion protection methods and their
interaction are explained. In addition, the specific corrosion
protection of different zones and components
of an offshore wind turbine will be discussed. Finally,
some information is given on current and possible
future developments in this subject area.
Die Transformation der Energiesysteme im Rahmen der Energiewende macht diese durch zusätzliche Komponenten und Wechselwirkungen immer komplexer. Das ökonomische und ökologische Potenzial, dass sich aus der Nutzung der Synergien dieser Komponenten ergeben kann, erfordert eine gemeinsame Betrachtung des gesamten Energiesystems hinsichtlich sämtlicher Energie- und Verbrauchssektoren.
Die Energiesystemmodellierung stellt eine geeignete Methode zur Modellierung und Optimierung dieser urbanen Energiesysteme dar. Mit dem „Spreadsheet Energy System Model Generator“ (SESMG) hat die FH Münster ein Open Source Tool entwickelt, das die Betrachtung urbaner Quartiere ermöglicht. Diese können hinsichtlich verschiedener Zielkriterien wie z. B. monetären Kosten und THG-Emissionen optimiert werden. Die tabellenbasierte Eingabe erfordert keine Programmierkenntnisse. Das implementierte Urban District Upscaling Tool erleichtert die effektive Modellierung auch größerer Systeme. Die automatisierte Ergebnisaufbereitung ermöglicht eine schnelle Analyse der Ergebnisse.
Background. Ketone bodies are a highly relevant topic in nutrition and medicine. -e influence of medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) on ketogenesis is well known and has been successfully used in ketogenic diets for many years. Nevertheless, the effects of MCTs and coconut oil on the production of ketone bodies have only partially been investigated. Furthermore, the increased mobilisation of free fatty acids and release of catabolic hormones by caffeine suggest an influence of caffeine on ketogenesis.
Methods. In a controlled, double-blind intervention study, seven young healthy subjects received 10mL of tricaprylin (C8), tricaprin (C10), C8/C10 (50% C8, 50% C10), or coconut oil with or without 150 mg of caffeine, in 250mL of decaffeinated coffee, over ten interventions. At baseline and after every 40 minutes, for 4 h, ßHB and glucose in capillary blood as well as caffeine in saliva were measured. Furthermore, questionnaires were used to survey sensory properties, side effects, and awareness of hunger and satiety. Results. -e interventions with caffeine caused an increase in ßHB levels—in particular, the interventions with C8 highly impacted ketogenesis. -e effect decreased with increased chain lengths. All interventions showed a continuous increase in hunger and diminishing satiety. Mild side effects (total � 12) occurred during the interventions. Conclusions. -e present study demonstrated an influence of caffeine and MCTon ketogenesis. -eaddition of caffeine showed an additive effect on the ketogenic potential of MCT and coconut oil. C8 showed the highest ketogenicity.
Wind energy conversion systems have attracted considerable attention as a renewable energy source due to depleting fossil fuel reserves and environmental concerns as a direct consequence of using fossil fuel and nuclear energy sources. The increasing number of wind turbines increases the interest in efficient systems. The power output of a wind energy conversion system depends on the accuracy of the maximum power tracking system, as wind speed changes constantly throughout the day. Maximum power point tracking systems that do not require mechanical sensors to measure the wind speed offer several advantages over systems using mechanical sensors. In this paper four different approaches that do not use mechanical sensors to measure the wind speed will be presented; the assets and drawbacks of these systems are highlighted, and afterwards the examined algorithms will be compared based on different characteristics. Finally, based on the analysis, an evaluation is made as to which of the presented algorithms is the most promising.
Self-build small wind turbines are used for rural electrification in the developed and developing world as well as for educational purposes. To give an overview about self-build small wind turbines a systematic literature review was conducted. The identified literature deals with two different vertical and horizontal axis turbine designs. The vertical axis turbines are both prototypes while one of the horizontal axis designs, the design by Piggott is widely used in rural electrification projects. Different papers dealing with the optimization of the Piggott design exist. In retrospect the conduction of a holistic review was not possible due to limited resources and length of this review. Nevertheless it can give a quick overview and a starting point for further research.
Wind energy has steadily gained importance in the generation of renewable energy over the last 25 years. A wind turbine has an average life expectancy of about 25 years. After that, thermoplastic composite materials from the rotors, among other things, accumulate and have to be recycled. Previous methods, such as landfilling, incineration and pyrolysis, have not yet proven to be effective in terms of the circular economy because the recycled material cannot be reused for equivalent products. The use of thermoplastic materials can be a sensible alternative, as thermoplastic resins can be recycled almost without loss of value due to their properties. Recycling of fibreglass is also possible with less loss of stiffness. In the future, it will be crucial to scale up thermoplastic rotor blades and create a market for the recycled material.
The energy demand of the residential sector contributed to about 29 % of Germany’s final energy consumption in 2020. For the planning and optimization of energy systems, an understanding of the temporal energy consumption is necessary. This paper discusses tools for estimating these load profiles. Load profiles for electricity, space heating and domestic hot water (DHW) are investigated. A total of ten tools were applied. It turns out that the selected load profiles are dependent on the field of application. Load profiles influence the results of energy system modeling and therefore it is important to differentiate load profile tools. Standardized load profiles are well suited when a large number of buildings are considered. Stochastic load profiles, behavioral load profiles and the reference load profiles are well suited for building-specific simulations. Physical load pro- files are well suited for single building models, but as soon as several buildings are considered, the input effort for a sufficient accuracy is high.
As Germany aims to increase its utilization of wind
power, the potential threat to bird populations due
to this expansion is a controversial issue. This paper
aims to collect data on the magnitude of bird strikes
on wind turbines, review existing protective measures
and explore innovative solutions. After a thorough
examination of the literature, it was concluded that
although the impact on bird populations is significant,
it may be overemphasized in popular debates. This
statement is not final as further research is necessary
to assess the impact of bird strikes and explore new
solutions. Comprehensive studies on this specific topic
in Germany are limited, which makes a thorough evaluation
challenging. While there are measures in place
to protect species that may be negatively impacted, it
is possible that these measures will not be adequate
for all of them. While several innovative methods
are under examination, progress in testing and implementation
is slow. Lastly, an information problem
was identified. Since the topic is highly politicized
and polarizing, it is crucial to provide the public with
accessible and reliable information on the discussed
themes. This is currently not the case due to a lack
of data and missing information campaigns.
Food-processing companies are controlled by societal influences and economic interests, but their efforts with regard to reducing food loss and waste are very different. This qualitative study aims to identify basic recommendations of good practice for the food-processing industry in order to prevent and handle food loss and waste. For this purpose, a comprehensive literature review was conducted in the field of food waste prevention and data was collected from thirteen German companies. The findings summarize the recommendations of good practice, which cover the entire supply chain from supplier to consumer and beyond. The analysis showed that the participating companies are already partially aware of operational measures, even if they are applied or mentioned without a systematic approach. Furthermore, the analysis revealed that most activities relate to internal matters, like processing, employees and utilization. However, the responsibility of foodprocessing companies does not end with internal processes to reduce food waste. The results show that some companies are already aware of their responsibility to be involved along the entire supply chain. Finally, the results show that the needs of consumers and suppliers must also be considered in order to reduce food waste, in addition to direct reduction measures. This paper highlights nine important stages and 53 basic recommendations for companies to address food loss and waste in order to improve their practices.
A new approach to determine the elements carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen and oxygen (CHNO) in polymers by wavelength-dispersive X-ray fluorescence analysis (WDXRF) in combination with partial least squares (PLS) regression was explored. The quantification of CHNO was achieved by using the Rayleigh and Compton scattering spectra of an Rh X-ray tube from 84 different polymers. Concealed differences of the corresponding scattering spectra could be utilized to quantify CHNO in a multivariate manner. It was shown that the developed model was capable of determining these commonly non-measurable matrix elements in polymers using WDXRF. Furthermore, the influence of spectral resolution, which is given by the collimator and the crystal, on the prediction of CHNO was explored in this study. It was found that minimal spectral resolution led to the most accurate CHNO predictions. Information about matrix composition could be used to improve so-called semi-quantitative XRF methods based on fundamental parameters (FP) for the analysis of plastics, soil or other samples with high organic content.
This study investigates the role of individual differences in channel choice and switching behavior in a multichannel environment using latent class analysis on data from 1512 customers. Psychographic variables from five domains (risk attitudes, cognitive ability, motivation, personality, and decision-making style) serve as covariates for multichannel customer behavior. We identify six segments that differ significantly on six psychographic variables (readiness to take risks, need for cognition, autotelic and instrumental need for touch, and rational and intuitive decision-making styles). The results advance the theory-building of multichannel customer behavior and present insights for proactively managing customer journeys of distinct segments.
Purpose: Organic food processing must include organic principles to be authentic. This qualitative study aims to understand the processors' understanding of organic food processing quality.
Design/methodology/approach: This study is based on semi-structured expert interviews with eight employees of six purely or partly organic dairies from Germany and Switzerland. Interview themes are (1) quality of organic milk processing in general, (2) assessment of specific processing techniques, (3) product quality of organic milk and (4) flow of information between producer and consumer. The interviews have been audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed.
Findings: (1) Experts prefer minimal processing; some prefer artisanal processing, whilst others stress the advantages of mechanisation. (2) High temperature short time (HTST) pasteurisation and mechanical processing techniques are accepted; ultra-high-temperature (UHT) milk processing is partly rejected. (3) Traditional taste and valuable ingredients should be present in the final product. Natural variances are judged positively. (4) Consumers' low level of food technology literacy is challenging for communication.
Research limitations/implications: The results cannot be generalised due to the qualitative study design. Further studies, e.g. qualitative case analyses and studies with a quantitative design, are necessary to deepen the results.
Practical implications: The paper shows which processing technologies experts consider suitable or unsuitable for organic milk. The paper also identifies opportunities to bridge the perceived gap between processors' and consumers' demands.
Originality/value: The study shows the challenges of processors in expressing the processors' understanding of process quality.
The concern for the environment among European consumers is growing and in the future the need for sustainable shopping is expected to increase. Through transparent on-packaging communication with consumers, organic producers have the opportunity to show attributes of organic production system and build a strong market position. The aim of the study was to analyse voluntary packaging information on organic milk from four European markets in the context of organic food quality, i.e., Germany, the Netherlands, Italy and Poland. More specifically, the textual content of 106 organic milk packages was analysed and voluntary information on each package was categorized according to process- and product-related organic milk attributes. The assortment and content of voluntary packaging information varied across the four countries. The largest number of products was found on the German market (37) and the smallest on the Polish market (14). Dutch milk had the greatest amount of voluntary information on animal welfare, product locality, environmental protection, quality confirmation, naturalness and nutritional value. German milk had the most information on enjoyment and conditions of processing, while the Italian milk on the social perspective. The products available on the Polish market had the least voluntary information. Pasteurized organic milk had noticeably more information about organic quality attributes than micro filtrated and UHT milk.
This study identifies supply options for sustainable urban energy systems, which are robust to external system changes. A multi-criteria optimization model is used to minimize greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and financial costs of a reference system. Sensitivity analyses examine the impact of changing boundary conditions related to GHG emissions, energy prices, energy demands, and population density. Options that align with both financial and emission reduction and are robust to system changes are called “no-regret” options. Options sensitive to system changes are labeled as “potential-risk” options.
There is a conflict between minimizing GHG emissions and financial costs. In the reference case, the emission-optimized scenario enables a reduction of GHG emissions (-93%), but involves higher costs (+160%) compared to the financially-optimized scenario.
No-regret options include photovoltaic systems, decentralized heat pumps, thermal storages, electricity exchange between sub-systems and with higher-level systems, and reducing energy demands through building insulation, behavioral changes, or the decrease of living space per inhabitant. Potential-risk options include solar thermal systems, natural gas technologies, high-capacity battery storages, and hydrogen for building energy supply.
When energy prices rise, financially-optimized systems approach the least-emission system design. The maximum profitability of natural gas technologies was already reached before the 2022 European energy crisis.
Potential and risks of water reuse in Brandenburg (Germany) – an interdisciplinary case study
(2024)
For Brandenburg, a region in Germany with increasing water shortage and drought events, water reuse can counteract competition scenarios between drinking water supply, agricultural irrigation, and industrial use. Centralized and decentralized sources for reclaimed water are found to potentially substitute 245 or 28% of irrigation water, respectively, in agriculture production in Brandenburg. For such a reuse scenario, the
fate of organic micropollutants is examined for diatrizoate (DZA) and carbamazepine (CBZ). Retention in local sandy soil and transfer into roots and leaves of arugula are analyzed in lysimeter studies and greenhouse pot experiments. Vertical transport was found for DZA and accumulation in or on arugula roots with a root concentration factor of 1,925+34% but a low bioconcentration factor due to intrinsic molecule properties. CBZ was not found to be mobile in the sandy soil but accumulates in arugula roots and leaves by factors of 70+7% and 155+12%, respectively. Further research on potential plant uptake and groundwater enrichment for more substances is highly recommended as well as tertiary wastewater treatment prior to water reuse.
The PAQAF – the Pan-African Quality Assurance and Accreditation Framework – is an overarching framework for several action lines and instruments related to the convergence of the African Higher Education sector, and more specifically quality assurance and accreditation. It was adopted by the Specialized Technical Committee (STC) on Education, Science and Technology of the African Union Assembly in 2016. The implementation of some of the PAQAF’s action lines and the development of some of its instruments has been supported by the HAQAA initiative from 2015 to 2018 and is currently continued in the context of HAAQA2. Module 1 gives an overview of the PAQAF's deveopment and action lines.
This study explores the intriguing relationship between personality traits, self-rated fitness (SRF), and physical activity (PA) variables among German university students (N = 4244) and sheds light on the impact of personality on adherence to PA guidelines. Employing an online cross-sectional study, the short-form of the Big Five Inventory-2 assessed five domains of personality traits (Extraversion, Negative Emotionality, Agreeableness, conscientiousness, and Open-Mindedness). PA, including sitting time, was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (short-form). SRF and muscle-strengthening activities (MSA) were assessed with one item each. Multiple linear and logistic regression analyses examined associations of individual personality trait domains and all domains combined with SFR, PA variables, and adherence to PA guidelines, controlling for sociodemographic, behavioral, and (mental) health covariates. Most reliably, Extraversion and Conscientiousness revealed positive associations with PA variables, while Negative Emotionality yielded inverse relationships with PA variables. For instance, each unit increase in Extraversion corresponded to an additional 17 min of weekly MSA. On the contrary, daily sitting time was unrelated to personality. Of note, high Open-Mindedness was associated with lower odds for adhering to current PA guidelines. The findings have implications for developing targeted interventions that promote a physically active lifestyle and support students’ well-being and academic success.
Background: Electronic medical records (EMRs) offer a promising approach to mapping and documenting the complex information gathered in paediatric palliative care (PPC). However, if they are not well developed, poorly implemented EMRs have unintended consequences that may cause harm to patients. One approach to preventing such harm is the involvement of users in the participatory design to ensure user acceptance and patient safety. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the acceptance of a novel patient chart module (PCM) as part of an EMR from the perspective of potential users in PPC and to involve these professionals in the design process. Methods: A qualitative observational study with N = 16 PPC professionals (n = 10 nurses, n = 6 physicians) was conducted, including concurrent think aloud (CTA) and semi-structured interviews. A structured content analysis based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology was applied. Results: The results can be summarized in terms of general observations, performance expectancy, effort expectancy and facilitating conditions, all of which are likely to have a positive influence on acceptance of the PCM from the user perspective in the context of PPC. Conclusions: The involvement of users in the development of EMRs is important for meeting the requirements in PPC. Further software adaptations are necessary to implement these requirements.
Background: Pediatric palliative care (PPC) patients experience years of multisectoral and professional care. An electronic cross-facility health record (ECHR) system can support the immediate exchange of information among PPC professionals. Based on a needs assessment, a prototype ECHR system was developed. Methods: To evaluate potential users’ perspective regarding the system, a qualitative observational study was conducted consisting of a concurrent think-aloud session and a semi-structured qualitative interview. Results: Twenty PPC professionals (nurses, physicians) from specialized outpatient PPC teams, a PPC unit, and medical offices rated the ECHR system as a helpful tool to improve the exchange and collection of information, communication between PPC professionals, and treatment planning. From the user’s point of view, the basic logic of the ECHR system should be further adapted to improve the interaction of data remirrored from patient records of outpatient and inpatient care with those entered via the system. The users wished for further functions (text search) and content (information on therapies). Some content, such as the treatment process, needs to be further adapted. Conclusion: The developed ECHR system needs to be more specific in some features by offering all available information; while for other features, be less specific to offer a quick overview. The ability to share information promptly and automatically was seen as a tremendous improvement to the quality of care for PPC patients.
Background: Electronic medical records (EMRs) play a key role in improving documentation and quality of care in paediatric palliative care (PPC). Inadequate EMR design can cause incorrect prescription and administration of medications. Due to the fact of complex diseases and the resulting high level of medical complexity, patients in PPC are vulnerable to medication errors. Consequently, involving users in the development process is important. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the acceptance of a medication module from the perspective of potential users in PPC and to involve them in the development process. Methods: A qualitative observational study was conducted with 10 nurses and four physicians using a concurrent think-aloud protocol and semi-structured qualitative interviews. A qualitative content analysis was applied based on a unified theory of acceptance and use of technology. Results: Requirements from the user’s perspective could be identified as possible influences on acceptance and actual use. Requirements were grouped into the categories “performance expectancies” and “effort expectancies”. Conclusions: The results serve as a basis for further development. Attention should be given to the reduction of display fragmentation, as it decreases cognitive load. Further approaches to evaluation should be taken.
Background: Electronic medical records (EMRs) play a key role in improving documentation and quality of care in paediatric palliative care (PPC). Inadequate EMR design can cause incorrect prescription and administration of medications. Due to the fact of complex diseases and the resulting high level of medical complexity, patients in PPC are vulnerable to medication errors. Consequently, involving users in the development process is important. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the acceptance of a medication module from the perspective of potential users in PPC and to involve them in the development process. Methods: A qualitative observational study was conducted with 10 nurses and four physicians using a concurrent think-aloud protocol and semi-structured qualitative interviews. A qualitative content analysis was applied based on a unified theory of acceptance and use of technology. Results: Requirements from the user’s perspective could be identified as possible influences on acceptance and actual use. Requirements were grouped into the categories “performance expectancies” and “effort expectancies”. Conclusions: The results serve as a basis for further development. Attention should be given to the reduction of display fragmentation, as it decreases cognitive load. Further approaches to evaluation should be taken.
Organic food quality is based on processing. While the EU organic production regulation focuses on agricultural production, private standards provide more detailed information about further processing. For the development of organic processing, practitioner perspectives can provide valuable input. To get insight into practitioner perspectives, we conducted semi-structured expert interviews with nine employees of seven partly organic juice processing companies from Germany and Austria. Interview topics were (i) quality of organic juice processing in general, (ii) assessment of specific processing techniques, (iii) product quality of organic juice and (iv) flow of information between producer and consumer. We conducted a thematic analysis. We found that the experts’ understanding of process quality mostly includes more aspects than the EU organic production regulation. It covers the whole food chain plus aspects of social and environmental sustainability. The experts prefer directly bottled juice of local raw materials but chiefly accept juice made from concentrate of exotic raw materials because of environmental concerns. Organic juice is preferred when it is cloudy and natural fluctuations are interpreted as an indicator of natural quality. The experts report that consumer information is challenging because of low food literacy. Raising this might help reduce the number of processed juices on the market.
This review paper presents a short overview of current power system modelling tools especially used for analysing energy and electricity systems for the supply and demand sector. The main focus of this review lies on open source tools and models which are written and used in the programming language “Python”. The modelling tools are represented in a comprehensive table with key information. Five modelling tools with an open source license can be filtered out. The modelling tool PyPSA can be considered as a high performing tool especially as the gap between power system analysis tool (PSAT) and energy system modelling tool.
NRW isst besser!
(2021)
Background: Pediatric palliative care (PPC) is characterized by years of multisectoral and multi-professional care. Sharing information between PPC professionals is, therefore, essential for quality care. The evidence shows that electronic cross-facility health records (ECHRs) provide useful support in this context. To our knowledge, no ECHRs have been developed through a user-centered approach for this specific setting in Germany. Methods: Guided by design thinking, first, qualitative interviews were conducted to assess the needs of PPC professionals. Second, the elicited needs were specified in focus groups (FGs). Based on the needs stated in the interviews, prototypes of the ECHR were developed and discussed in the FGs. The indicated needs were supplemented and specified in an iterative process. The prototypes were further adapted according to these results. The unified theory of acceptance and use of technology was the basic model in the evaluation of needs. Results: Across seven main categories, past and current medication, emergency view, and messaging functions were identified as the participants’ desired core components of an ECHR. Utilizing design thinking facilitated the explicit articulation of user needs. Conclusions: Developing an ECHR with the content identified would allow for real-time data during emergencies, tracking what other PPC professionals have done, and making the applied treatments visible to others. This would offer a broader picture of the complex conditions common to PPC.
IntroductionAssessment of challenging behaviors in dementia is important for intervention selection. Here, we describe the technical and experimental setup and the feasibility of long-term multidimensional behavior assessment of people with dementia living in nursing homes.MethodsWe conducted 4 weeks of multimodal sensor assessment together with real-time observation of 17 residents with moderate to very severe dementia in two nursing care units. Nursing staff received extensive training on device handling and measurement procedures. Behavior of a subsample of eight participants was further recorded by videotaping during 4 weeks during day hours. Sensors were mounted on the participants' wrist and ankle and measured motion, rotation, as well as surrounding loudness level, light level, and air pressure.ResultsParticipants were in moderate to severe stages of dementia. Almost 100% of participants exhibited relevant levels of challenging behaviors. Automated quality control detected 155 potential issues. But only 11% of the recordings have been influenced by noncompliance of the participants. Qualitative debriefing of staff members suggested that implementation of the technology and observation platform in the routine procedures of the nursing home units was feasible and identified a range of user- and hardware-related implementation and handling challenges.DiscussionOur results indicate that high-quality behavior data from real-world environments can be made available for the development of intelligent assistive systems and that the problem of noncompliance seems to be manageable. Currently, we train machine-learning algorithms to detect episodes of challenging behaviors in the recorded sensor data.
Local and regional energy systems are becoming increasingly entangled. Therefore, models for optimizing these energy systems are becoming more and more complex and the required computing resources (run-time and random access memory usage) are increasing rapidly. The computational requirements can basically be reduced solver-based (mathematical optimization of the solving process) or model-based (simplification of the real-world problem in the model). This paper deals with identifying how the required computational requirements for solving optimization models of multi-energy systems with high spatial resolution change with increasing model complexity and which model-based approaches enable to reduce the requirements with the lowest possible model deviations. A total of 12 temporal model reductions (reduction of the number of modeled time steps), nine techno-spatial model reductions (reduction of possible solutions), and five combined reduction schemes were theoretically analyzed and practically applied to a test case. The improvement in reducing the usage of computational resources and the impact on the quality of the results were quantified by comparing the results with a non-simplified reference case. The results show, that the run-time to solve a model increases quadratically and memory usage increases linearly with increasing model complexity. The application of various model adaption methods have enabled a reduction of the run-time by over 99% and the memory usage by up to 88%. At the same time, however, some of the methods led to significant deviations of the model results. Other methods require a profound prior knowledge and understanding of the investigated energy systems to be applied. In order to reduce the run-time and memory requirements for investment optimization, while maintaining good quality results, we recommend the application of (1) a pre-model that is used to (1a) perform technological pre-selection and (1b) define reasonable technological boundaries, (2) spatial sub-modeling along network nodes, and 3) temporal simplification by only modeling every nth day (temporal slicing), where at least 20% of the original time steps are modeled. Further simplifications such as spatial clustering or larger temporal simplification can further reduce the computational effort, but also result in significant model deviations.
Die Studie untersucht den didaktischen Mehrwert partizipativer Medien in der hochschulischen Lehrerbildung. Die hier entwickelten Gestaltungsgrundsätze für die Planung von Lernarrangements mit Social Media sollen dazu beitragen, die Besonderheiten dieser Medien in die didaktische Konzeption einzubinden. Auf diese Weise soll ein Beitrag dazu geleistet werden, den didaktischen Mehrwert von Social Media in Lernarrangements zu entfalten.
Because of the rapid expansion and widespread application of wind energy the overall environmental impacts of wind power plants have increased as well. For the further development of wind power, methods to lessen the adverse effects wind power has on avian populations have to be implemented. This review aims to find effective methods to reduce avian collision rates with wind turbines and that therefore can reduce bird fatality rates.
For the assessment the different mitigation methods, for which concrete data was found, are compared with each other regarding the hypothetical effort of implementation and effectiveness in reducing avian collision rates with wind turbines.
These methods are:
(a) Coloring of rotor blades
(b) Coloring of the tower base
(c) Ultraviolet/violet lightning
(d) Temporary shut-down of wind turbines
(e) Auditory warning signals
(f) Repowering
All of the mentioned methods report influence on reducing avian collision rates or at least the behavior of birds in flight.
This review found the following three methods to be most effective:
(a) Coloring of rotor blades
(b) Temporary shut-downs of wind turbines
(c) Repowering
The most effective method to reduce avian collision rates at horizontal axis wind turbines is to paint one of the rotor blades black and consequently increasing the visibility of the rotor blades. The presented study reports 71,9 percent reduction of found carcasses of birds at the treated turbines. For this method the effort of implementation is low while the effectiveness is high.
The effectiveness of the found mitigation methods has been proven and they are suited for application. The method of using lightning or sound fields require more testing to determine their effectiveness. Another topic for research could be how different mitigation methods interact with each other. Is there a significant advantage to be had if multiple mitigation methods are applied at the same wind power plant or turbine? Furthermore the environmental impacts of wind turbines are not limited to birds. Other animals like bats are affected too and might require different methods of mitigation.
There are many hydropower turbines for low heads or low flows on a small scale. Many technologies are unsuitable for developing countries because equipment or materials are limited, high-tech machines are to expensive or spare parts are not readily available. This review combines currently available technologies with the requirements of developing countries in small, micro and pico hydropower. In small hydropower a propeller turbine from Thailand has a high efficiency of 70 to 80 percent at calculated production costs of around $ 513 per kW. Pumps as turbines are suitable for developing countries in micro hydropower due to readily availability, low price and an large number of standard sizes. In pico-scale, a low-cost Turgo wheel can be made of spoons for $ 48 and yields acceptable values in comparison to a 3D printed Pelton wheel for $ 822. While the Turgo wheel is suitable for high heads, a homemade siphon turbine can be used for low heads. The siphon turbine generates up to 200 W, is made of materials that are available anywhere in the world, and costs less than $ 50.
The use of wind power is rapidly expanding worldwide. It is important to examine the impact of wind turbines on the environment to see if they provide a net benefit and to identify potential for improving. Therefore life cycle assessments (LCA) of different wind turbine types are compared in this short review. The results are then shown side by side in tables for comparison. Overall the LCAs show that wind turbines compensate the required energy and emitted pollutants after approx. 6-16 months. The energy payback period (EPP) for 2 MW onshore wind turbines remained roughly the same since 2009 with approximately 7 months. Onshore wind turbines have a higher impact due to emissions but a shorter EPP than offshore wind turbines. The estimated service life of 20 years should be maximized to ensure a high energy yield ratio. The biggest impact on the environment results from the processes to provide the building material e.g. steel and cement. That impact could be reduced by 20 % if recycled steel would be used. It is shown that wind power is one of the cleanest energy sources. But further investigations in material processing and recycling are important to improve the eco-balance of wind turbines.
Ob Nachhaltigkeit zum selbstverständlichen Bestandteil der Ausbildung wird, hängt vor allem
vom Engagement und der Qualifikation des Berufsbildungspersonals ab. Denn als Fachleute kennen Ausbilderinnen und Ausbilder die beruflichen Tätigkeiten und betrieblichen Prozesse, und als Pädagoginnen und Pädagogen sind sie es, die Lernsituationen gestalten und Lerninhalte vermitteln. Vor diesem Hintergrund richtet sich der vorliegende Leitfaden insbesondere an das betriebli-
che und überbetriebliche Ausbildungspersonal, aber auch an Lehrkräfte in Berufsschulen. Er zeigt
auf, wie nachhaltigkeitsbezogene Lehr-/Lernarrangements entwickelt und umgesetzt werden können. Mit Blick auf die lebensmittelproduzierenden Berufe werden dem Ausbildungspersonal Tipps zur Gestaltung entsprechender Lernaufgaben und damit zur betrieblichen Umsetzung der
Standardberufsbildposition gegeben.
Welche Umweltbelastungen verursacht der Betrieb? Wie lässt sich Nachhaltigkeit im betrieblichen Handeln stärker verankern und wie können etwaige Zielkonflikte konstruktiv thematisiert
werden? Ausbilderinnen und Ausbilder müssen sich heute darauf einlassen, diese komplexen und zum Teil auch unbequemen Fragen gemeinsam mit den Auszubildenden zu diskutieren. Dieser Leitfaden gibt hierzu ein Rüstzeug an die Hand, mit dem eine nachhaltigkeitsorientierte didaktische Berufsbildungsarbeit in Betrieb und Schule sofort und ganz konkret umgesetzt werden kann.
Das vorliegende Kompetenzmodell zur Berufsbildung für nachhaltige Entwicklung (BBNE) in Lebensmittelhandwerk und Lebensmittelindustrie enthält eine Kompetenzmatrix, deren Felder der Strukturierung dienen, welche nicht isoliert, sondern in ihrem Gesamtzusammenhang zu betrachten sind.
Ergänzt wird diese Matrix durch nachhaltigkeitsrelevante Kernkompetenzen sowie dazugehörige Kompetenzziele.
(1) Background: Schools report a high number of schoolchildren with poor attention and hyperactive behavior, with 5% being diagnosed with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This causes specific problems during homework and classroom times, and the extension of all-day schooling in German primary schools makes this a challenge for support staff working in the after-school programs. Such staff have a very wide variety of qualifications, ranging from no formal teacher training to full teaching qualifications. (2) Methods: This study documents the knowledge of 196 support staff working in all-day primary schools about ADHD, and their subjective view of whether they feel competent with regard to homework situations in general and ADHD in particular. (3) Results: Those with an educational background have significantly more knowledge than those without such a background, staff feel less prepared to supervise children with ADHD, and there is a small but significant correlation here with knowledge about ADHD. (4) Conclusions: The importance of trained pedagogical staff in the supervision of children with concentration problems is emphasized.
Die klimabedingte Zunahme extremer Wetterereignisse ist eine der Herausforderungen in der gegenwärtig durch Krisen geprägten Zeit. Gefahren gehen von großräumigen Hochwasserereignissen und von kleinräumigen Überflutungen innerhalb besiedelter Bereiche aus. Ursache sind ausgeprägte Extremniederschläge. Das Schadpotenzial hängt maßgeblich von den lokalen Bedingungen ab. Ein Starkregen richtet im Flachland mit versickerungsfähigen Böden wesentlich weniger Schäden an als im Bereich eines Kerbtalgewässers, wenn dort die Hochwasserwelle auf bebaute Talbereiche trifft. Auch sind die Folgen einer als urbane Sturzflut bezeichneten Überflutung in dicht besiedelten Räumen in der Regel dramatischer als bei ländlich geprägten Siedlungsstrukturen. Aber nicht nur dem Problem „zu viel Wasser“, sondern auch der zunehmenden Herausforderung „zu wenig Wasser“ muss sich die Wasserwirtschaft stellen. Trockenheit und Hitze führen vor allem in Innenstädten immer häufiger zu Bedingungen, in denen das Leben und Arbeiten zur Belastung wird. Vielerorts sinkende Grundwasserspiegel stellen die Bewirtschaftung natürlicher Wasserressourcen und nicht zuletzt die öffentliche Wasserversorgung in Deutschland vor bislang weitgehend unbekannte Herausforderungen. Einen absoluten Schutz gegen Überflutungen und vor Hitzeperioden gibt es nicht. Wir müssen Vorsorge betreiben, um die Belastungen zu begrenzen. In der letzten Zeit hat dafür der Begriff der „Resilienz“ im wasserwirtschaftlichen Kontext eine besondere Bedeutung gewonnen. Dazu erforderliche Konzepte greifen die Wassertage Münster im Jahr 2023 auf. Zu den Maßnahmen der wasserbewussten Stadtentwicklung zählen beispielsweise die gezielte Versickerung und Verdunstung von Niederschlagswasser oder die Ableitung von Oberflächenabflüssen bei seltenen Starkregen in weniger kritische Bereiche. Thematisiert wird auch der Umgang mit (Ab-)Wasser als Ressource. Hierbei werden die Bedeutung und Chancen der Wasserwiederverwendung betrachtet.
Involving Health Care Professionals in the Development of Electronic Health Records: Scoping Review
(2023)
Electronic health records (EHRs) are a promising approach to document and map (complex) health information gathered in health care worldwide. However, possible unintended consequences during use, which can occur owing to low usability or the lack of adaption to existing workflows (eg, high cognitive load), may pose a challenge. To prevent this, the involvement of users in the development of EHRs is crucial and growing. Overall, involvement is designed to be very multifaceted, for example, in terms of the timing, frequency, or even methods used to capture user preferences. Setting, users and their needs, and the context and practice of health care must be considered in the design and subsequent implementation of EHRs. Many different approaches to user involvement exist, each requiring a variety of methodological choices. The aim of the study was to provide an overview of the existing forms of user involvement and the circumstances they need and to provide support for the planning of new involvement processes. We conducted a scoping review to provide a database for future projects on which design of inclusion is worthwhile and to show the diversity of reporting. Using a very broad search string, we searched the PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus databases. In addition, we searched Google Scholar. Hits were screened according to scoping review methodology and then examined, focusing on methods and materials, participants, frequency and design of the development, and competencies of the researchers involved. In total, 70 articles were included in the final analysis. There was a wide range of methods of involvement. Physicians and nurses were the most frequently included groups and, in most cases, were involved only once in the process. The approach of involvement (eg, co-design) was not specified in most of the studies (44/70, 63%). Further qualitative deficiencies in the reporting were evident in the presentation of the competences of members of the research and development teams. Think-aloud sessions, interviews, and prototypes were frequently used. This review provides insights into the diversity of health care professionals’ involvement in the development of EHRs. It provides an overview of the different approaches in various fields of health care. However, it also shows the necessity of considering quality standards in the development of EHRs together with future users and the need for reporting this in future studies.
This report examines the strength of young and early age concrete that has been systematically exposed to horizontal, sinusoidal vibrations with varying vibration parameters. Specimens were subjected to vibrations of predefined vibration times (4–14 h) and the compressive strength was determined after a period of 28 days. It was found that the different parameters have no critical influence on compressive strength and that vibration prior to initial setting of the concrete can increase its strength. Additional information to examine the reasons for this increase was obtained by further investigations (nuclear magnetic resonance, x-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis).
Indicators for the optimization of sustainable urban energy systems based on energy system modeling
(2022)
Background: Urban energy systems are responsible for 75 % of the world's energy consumption and for 70 % of the worldwide greenhouse gas emissions. Energy system models are used to optimize, benchmark and compare such energy systems with the help of energy sustainability indicators. We discuss several indicators for their basic suitability and their response to changing boundary conditions, system structures and reference values. The most suitable parameters are applied to four different supply scenarios of a real-world urban energy system.
Results: There is a number of energy sustainability indicators, but not all of them are suitable for the use in urban energy system optimization models. Shortcomings originate from the omission of upstream energy supply chains (secondary energy efficiency), from limited capabilities to compare small energy systems (energy productivity), from excessive accounting expense (regeneration rate), from unsuitable accounting methods (primary energy efficiency), from a questionable impact of some indicators on the overall system sustainability (self-sufficiency), from the lack of detailed information content (share of renewables), and more. On the other hand, indicators of absolute greenhouse gas emissions, energy costs, and final energy demand are well suitable for the use in optimization models. However, each of these indicators only represents partial aspects of energy sustainability; the use of only one indicator in the optimization process increases the risk that other important aspects will deteriorate significantly, eventually leading to suboptimal or even unrealistic scenarios in practice. Therefore, multi-criteria approaches should be used to enable a more holistic optimization and planning of sustainable urban energy systems.
Conclusion: We recommend multi-criteria optimization approaches using the indicators of absolute greenhouse gas emissions, absolute energy costs, and absolute energy demand. For benchmarking and comparison purposes, specific indicators should be used and therefore related to the final energy demand, respectively the number of inhabitants. Our example scenarios demonstrate modeling strategies to optimize sustainability of urban energy systems.