bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advancing Sustainable Healthcare through Enhanced Therapeutic Communication with Elderly Patients in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alhakami Hosam , Alsubait Tahani , Alhakami Wajdi , Alhakami Hatim , Alhakami Rushdi , Alhakami Mohammed , Khan Raees Ahmad , Ansari Md Tarique Jamal
Published: November 2023

Effective communication in nursing, particularly with older patients, is critical to providing high-quality care. The purpose of this research is to fill key gaps in the existing literature by emphasizing the importance of therapeutic communication in the setting of mental nursing care for elderly patients in Saudi Arabia. Building on the study’s foundation, which recognizes the various issues faced by cultural, religious, and linguistic diversity, this research adopted a rigorous research methodology incorporating a broad group of senior healthcare professionals as experts. We analyze various therapeutic communication approaches used by mental health nurses using extensive surveys and observations. This empirical study’s findings are likely to make a significant addition to the field by throwing light on the most efficient methods for improving nurse–elderly-patient communication. The study identifies Simulation-Based Training as the most viable technique, with potentially far-reaching implications for improving care for older patients in Saudi Arabia. This study paves the way for significant advances in healthcare practices, with a focus on mental health nursing, ultimately helping both nurses and elderly patients by developing trust, understanding, and increased communication.
Hydroclimatic Impact Assessment Using the SWAT Model in India—State of the Art Review
Authors: Dubey Swatantra Kumar , Kim JungJin , Her Younggu , Sharma Devesh , Jeong Hanseok
Published: November 2023

The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) has been widely employed to assist with decision making and management planning for assessing and mitigating the impact of climate change. This model has gained popularity in India as the country is facing increasing water issues under projected climate changes. However, a systematic review of the literature that discusses the applicability of the model, the impact assessment process, and the interpretation of the modeling results in India remains lacking. We synthesized and reviewed 110 recent SWAT modeling studies (published from 2012 to 2022) that evaluated the impact of future climate change on water resources in India to identify research gaps that need to be filled to advance SWAT modeling practices for impact assessments. The review revealed that the SWAT model provided acceptable accuracy statistics in most (90%) of the studies reviewed. Half of these studies identified the base curve number (CN2) as the parameter to which the water balance is the most sensitive; thus, this parameter was included in the calibration process. The accuracy of SWAT modeling is closely associated with the accuracy of the weather data fed to the model. However, extreme events, including heavy storm events and severe droughts, were rarely considered in climate change impact assessments using the SWAT model. Most studies downscaled global-scale climate modeling outputs to local weather stations when applying the SWAT model using various methods, such as the delta change method, multiple linear regression method, gamma–gamma transformation, fitted histogram equalization, and quantile mapping. Further, most studies investigated the performance of the SWAT model before applying the model to quantify the future hydrological consequences of projected climate change in a subsequent scenario analysis. This review suggests that further evaluations of the characteristics and development processes of existing climate data products are needed to effectively consider extreme events in impact assessments. In addition, this review finds that climate change impact modeling has been improved with advances in climate projection preparation, including ensemble averaging, bias correction, and downscaling methods. This regional review of current SWAT modeling practices for climate change impact assessments can be used to create reliable future hydrological projections in India.
From Decision Theory to Informed Decision-Making in the Design of Sustainable High-Performance Buildings
Authors: Kamari Aliakbar
Published: November 2023

The design of sustainable high-performance buildings entails dealing with numerous decisions associated with the inclusion and assessment of design objectives and criteria made by multiple decision-makers (or design stakeholders). A more in-depth study of the decision-making fundamentals will, therefore, be effective and practical in this regard. Based on this underlying hypothesis, as a first attempt towards investigating the decision-making structures in the (early) design of sustainable high-performance buildings, and in addition to the empirical application of normative decision-making models, this paper presents the results of two rounds of assessment surveys through conducting semi-structured interviews with practitioners and professionals in Denmark on (a) when and with whom a decision is made, and (b) to what extent a decision can be made autocratically or participatorily. The research study is intended to enable practitioners and researchers to recognize the importance of decision-making characteristics in addressing highly complex sustainability criteria in the (early) design of high-performance buildings. The outcome ensures a systematic approach to involve the right decision-makers at the right time and with suitable decision-making styles. With its strong ability to formalize problems faced by sustainability requirements, the outcome can potentially become a research avenue in future building design contexts.
Design and Research of Heat Storage Enhancement by Innovative Wave Fin in a Hot Water–Oil-Displacement System
Authors: Ning Tao , Huang Xinyu , Su Junwei , Yang Xiaohu
Published: November 2023

Energy storage technology provides a new direction for the utilization of renewable and sustainability energy. The objective of this study is to introduce a novel, wavy, longitudinal fin design, which aims to improve heat transfer in the melting process of a Latent Heat Thermal Energy Storage (LHTES) unit. The main goal is to mitigate the negative effects caused by the refractory zone at the end of the melting phase. A two-dimensional numerical model of LHTES unit is established by using the enthalpy porosity method and verified by experimental data. Through the quantitative comparison between the traditional rectangular fin and the innovative wave fin, the influence of wave fin on the heat transfer mechanism in the heat storage process is revealed. The results show that the average heat storage rate of five and six wave fins is 3.70% and 12.98% higher than that of conventional rectangular fins, respectively, and the average temperature response of six wave fins is 17.78% higher than that of conventional rectangular fins. The addition of the wave fin weakens the negative effect of the refractory zone, but prolongs the heating time of the initial melting point.
Optimization of Fuel Consumption for an Offshore Supply Tug Using a Backtracking Algorithm
Authors: Filimon Dragoș , Roșca Eugen , Ruscă Florin Valentin
Published: November 2023

This paper introduces a backtracking algorithm for the fuel optimization of an offshore supply tugboat. The aim is to determine the optimal cruising speed that minimizes fuel use under operational constraints. Many older vessels in local offshore regions face limitations in adopting new fuel efficient technologies due to financial constraints. Hence, alternative cost-effective methods are needed to improve energy use and reduce emissions from these older ships. We propose using a backtracking algorithm to systematically explore all potential speed solutions and find the optimal one. Operational constraints like time restrictions and weather factors are incorporated during the optimization. The algorithm branches out to potential solutions and backtracks when they violate constraints. This allows for the pruning of infeasible solutions to improve the computational efficiency. The study provides the basis for optimizing offshore voyages as a sustainable transportation activity. Further work could expand the technique by adding parameters and real-time data.
Comparative Analysis of Sustainable Food Governance and the Alignment of Food Security Policies to Sustainable Development: A Case Study of OIC Countries
Authors: Aassouli Dalal , Akande Ayodele , Jureidini Ray
Published: November 2023

Employing Grey Relation Analysis (GRA) and Leximetrics, this study conducts a comparative analysis of sustainable food governance performance in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation countries (OIC). It assesses the alignment of their food security policies with sustainable development principles. Addressing a gap in the existing literature, the study aims to assess two separate components of food security governance, i.e., policy formulation and policy implementation. This is achieved by focusing on critical intrinsic factors like sustainable agriculture, sufficiency, resilience, and inclusivity, and sustainable finance which are often overlooked in policy formulation and evaluation. The findings reveal inadequate incorporation of sustainable finance, sustainable agriculture, circular food systems, and effective governance principles. Several countries lack concise policies (e.g., Iran, Turkmenistan, Suriname), relying on fragmented approaches, while others adopt regional food security strategies with observed differences in food governance versus policy alignment performance. The study enhances our understanding of food security governance and policy formulation and implementation, offering insights for advancing sustainability in the food security policies of the OIC.
Fuzzy-Based Human Health Risk Assessment for Shallow Groundwater Well Users in Arid Regions
Authors: Thabit Hussein , Haider Husnain , Ghumman Abdul Razzaq , Alattyih Wael , Alodah Abdullah , Hu Guangji , Shafiquzzaman Md.
Published: November 2023

The conventional point-estimate human health risk assessment (HHRA) primarily uses average concentrations of a limited number of samples due to the high monitoring costs of heavy metals in groundwater. The results can be erroneous when concentrations significantly deviate from the average across the collected samples in an investigation region. The present research developed a hierarchical fuzzy-based HHRA (F-HHRA) framework to handle variations in limited data sets and subjectively established a broader range of risks for various exposure groups. Groundwater samples from 80 to 120 m deep in shallow wells were collected from agricultural farms along Wadi Rumah in the Qassim Region of Saudi Arabia. Laboratory testing found total dissolved solids much higher than the promulgated drinking water quality standards. As the aftertaste issue eliminated the raw water potability, the study considered dermal exposure for HHRA. The collected samples were tested for thirteen potential heavy metals (HMs), including barium (Ba), boron (B), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), lead (Pb), lithium (Li), manganese (Mn), silver (Ag), strontium (Sr), thallium (TI), and zinc (Zn). Cu, Fe, Pb, Ag, and TI were lower than the detectable limit of the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry device. Concentrations of the remaining HMs in wastewater outfalls that were much less than the groundwater eradicated the impact of anthropogenic activities and affirmed natural contamination. Apart from 10% of the samples for Mn and 90% of the samples for Sr, all the other HMs remained within the desired maximum allowable concentrations. Point-estimate and fuzzy-based approaches yielded ‘low’ dermal non-cancer risk and cancer risk for all groups other than adults, where dermal cancer risk of Cr remained in the ‘acceptable’ (1 × 10−6 and 1 × 10−5) risk zone. Although dermal risk does not require controls, scenario analysis established the rationality of F-HHRA for more contaminated samples. The proposed hierarchical F-HHRA framework will facilitate the decision-makers in concerned agencies to plan risk mitigation strategies (household level and decentralized systems) for shallow well consumers in Saudi Arabia and other arid regions.
The Perception of Cultural Authenticity, Destination Attachment, and Support for Cultural Heritage Tourism Development by Local People: The Moderator Role of Cultural Sustainability
Authors: Uslu Fatih , Yayla Ozgur , Guven Yigit , Ergun Gozde Seval , Demir Erdi , Erol Suzan , Yıldırım Merve Nur Oklu , Keles Huseyin , Gozen Ebru
Published: November 2023

This study was prepared to examine the effects of cultural authenticity perception by local people on destination attachment and intention to support cultural heritage tourism. The study also investigated the moderator role of cultural sustainability perception. It was conducted in Manavgat, one of the most popular touristic destinations in Turkey. According to the study results, a positive effect was detected between the perception of cultural authenticity, destination attachment, and the intention to support cultural heritage tourism. In addition, the results indicate the existence of a moderator role of cultural sustainability perception in the relationship between destination loyalty and intention to support cultural heritage tourism. As a consequence of the findings obtained, a number of theoretical and practical suggestions have been presented to sector representatives, destination management organizations, and academics working in the literature.
Toward Enhanced Geological Analysis: A Novel Approach Based on Transmuted Semicircular Distribution
Authors: Yedlapalli Phani , Kishore Gajula Naveen Venkata , Boulila Wadii , Koubaa Anis , Mlaiki Nabil
Published: November 2023

This paper introduces a novel semicircular distribution obtained by applying the quadratic rank transmutation map to the stereographic semicircular exponential distribution, referred to as the transmuted stereographic semicircular exponential distribution (TSSCED). This newly proposed distribution exhibits enhanced flexibility compared to the baseline stereographic semicircular exponential distribution (SSCEXP). We conduct a comprehensive analysis of the model’s properties and demonstrate its efficacy in data modeling through the application to a real dataset.
A Mixed Finite Element Approximation for Time-Dependent Navier–Stokes Equations with a General Boundary Condition
Authors: El Moutea Omar , Nakbi Nadia , El Akkad Abdeslam , Elkhalfi Ahmed , El Ouadefli Lahcen , Vlase Sorin , Scutaru Maria Luminita
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we present a numerical scheme for addressing the unsteady asymmetric flows governed by the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations under a general boundary condition. We utilized the Finite Element Method (FEM) for spatial discretization and the fully implicit Euler scheme for time discretization. In addition to the theoretical analysis of the error in our numerical scheme, we introduced two types of a posteriori error indicators: one for time discretization and another for spatial discretization, aimed at effectively controlling the error. We established the equivalence between these estimators and the actual error. Furthermore, we conducted numerical simulations in two dimensions to assess the accuracy and effectiveness of our scheme.
Implementation of Finite Element Method Simulation in Control of Additive Manufacturing to Increase Component Strength and Productivity
Authors: Matúš Miloš , Križan Peter , Kijovský Ján , Strigáč Stanislav , Beniak Juraj , Šooš Ľubomír
Published: November 2023

Additive manufacturing (AM) technologies are becoming a global phenomenon in the manufacturing industry. The progressiveness of additive manufacturing lies in its universality. AM makes it possible to produce parts with complex shapes from different materials without any tools, using only one device. Complex and time-consuming production preparation is eliminated by using AM. It is used in a wide range of industries. Although additive manufacturing is a progressive technology, the currently applied conservative approach has significant limits. The presented work focuses on the development of a new methodology for controlling the AM process. This methodology is based on the outputs of the strength simulation of a specific component through the finite element method (FEM) and their implementation in the printing software of the production equipment. The developed algorithm for controlling the AM process consists of a sequence of successive steps. The designed CAD model of the component is subjected to FEM simulation in order to analyze the von Mises stress in the entire volume of the loaded component. Stresses are distributed asymmetrically in the volume of the component due to the shape and nature of the load. The results of the FEM analysis allow the definition of the volumes in the component with different levels of infill geometry and infill density based on different levels of stress. The FEM simulation also serves to define the effective fiber orientation. The goal of implementing FEM simulation into the building structure of the component is to achieve a symmetrical distribution of stresses in the entire volume. Through the symmetry of internal stresses, it is possible to obtain more efficient production with high productivity and component strength. The work also deals with experimental research on the effect of the building structure on flexural strength. The results of FEM simulation and experimental research are integrated into the developed slicer software to design a layering of the model and the setting of technological and material parameters of printing. This progressive approach makes it possible to generate data for 3D printing based on FEM analysis of components to obtain an optimized printed structure of components and optimized technological and material parameters with regard to maximizing the strength of components and minimizing production times and costs.
The Application of Cold-Induced Liquid–Liquid Extraction for the Determination of 4-Methylimidazole in Tea and Associated Risk Assessment for Chinese Tea Consumers
Authors: Li Shaohua , Wang Lian , Chen Dawei , Li Hong
Published: November 2023

4-Methylimidazole (4-MEI), as a Maillard reaction product, often occurs in heat-processed food. Due to its widespread occurrence and strong carcinogenicity in food and beverages, 4-MEI has received attention from regulatory organizations and consumers. Some studies have reported the occurrence and exposure of 4-MEI in food, but few studies have involved traditional tea beverages, which is related to the limited analytical methods currently being influenced by complex tea matrices. For this issue, this study presents a simple, reliable, and highly sensitive analytical method for the determination of 4-MEI in tea using liquid chromatography–high resolution mass spectrometry. By means of this method, a total of 570 tea samples from typical tea-producing regions in China were monitored for contamination of 4-MEI. The results showed that the average 4-MEI level (136 μg/kg) in oolong tea was significantly higher than that in other types of tea samples. Based on contamination levels and tea consumption data in China, the daily intake doses (0.04–1.16 μg/day) of 4-MEI among tea consumers were obtained. As a result, the health risk of Chinese tea consumers consuming 4-MEI alone through tea consumption is relatively low, but the overall intake level of 4-MEI in other foods cannot be ignored.
Evaluation of Proinflammatory Chemokines in HIV Patients with Asymptomatic Leishmania Infantum Infection
Authors: Monteiro Bruna Eduarda Freitas , da Silva Elis Dionísio , Bezerra Gilberto Silva Nunes , Cavalcante Marton Kaique de Andrade , Pereira Valéria Rêgo Alves , Castro Maria Carolina Accioly Brelaz , Mendes Luiz Gustavo , Guedes Diego Lins , Barbosa Júnior Walter Lins , de Medeiros Zulma Maria
Published: November 2023

Asymptomatic Leishmania infantum, when associated with HIV, can become severe and potentially fatal. In this co-infection, the worst prognosis may be influenced by the host’s immunological aspects, which are crucial in determining susceptibility. Chemokines play an important role in this process by influencing the cellular composition at affected sites and impacting the disease’s outcome. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate proinflammatory chemokines in HIV patients with the asymptomatic L. infantum infection. In this cross-sectional study, the levels of CCL2, CCL5, CXCL8, MIG, and IP-10 were measured in 160 serum samples from co-infected patients (n = 53), patients with HIV (n = 90), and negative controls (n = 17). Quantification was determined by flow cytometry. The obtained data were statistically analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis test, followed by the Dunn’s post-test and the Spearman’s correlation coefficient. Significance was set at p < 0.05. The chemokines CCL2, CCL5, MIG, and IP-10 exhibited higher levels in the HIV group compared to co-infection. However, the elevated levels of all these chemokines and their increased connectivity in co-infected patients appear to be important in identifying proinflammatory immune responses associated with the asymptomatic condition. Furthermore, a weak negative correlation was observed between higher levels of CXCL8 and lower viral loads in co-infected patients.
The Validity of the ROX Index and APACHE II in Predicting Early, Late, and Non-Responses to Non-Invasive Ventilation in Patients with COVID-19 in a Low-Resource Setting
Authors: Arunachala Sumalatha , Parthasarathi Ashwaghosha , Basavaraj Chetak Kadabasal , Kaleem Ullah Mohammed , Chandran Shreya , Venkataraman Hariharan , Vishwanath Prashant , Ganguly Koustav , Upadhyay Swapna , Mahesh Padukudru Anand
Published: November 2023

The use of the Ratio of Oxygen Saturation (ROX) index to predict the success of high-flow nasal oxygenation (HFNO) is well established. The ROX can also predict the need for intubation, mortality, and is easier to calculate compared with APACHE II. In this prospective study, the primary aim is to compare the ROX (easily administered in resource limited setting) to APACHE II for clinically relevant outcomes such as mortality and the need for intubation. Our secondary aim was to identify thresholds for the ROX index in predicting outcomes such as the length of ICU stay and failure of non-invasive respiratory support therapies and to assess the effectiveness of using the ROX (day 1 at admission, day 2, and day 3) versus Acute physiology and chronic health evaluation (APACHE) II scores (at admission) in patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) to predict early, late, and non-responders. After screening 208 intensive care unit patients, a total of 118 COVID-19 patients were enrolled, who were categorized into early (n = 38), late (n = 34), and non-responders (n = 46). Multinomial logistic regression, receiver operating characteristic (ROC), Multivariate Cox regression, and Kaplan–Meier analysis were conducted. Multinomial logistic regressions between late and early responders and between non- and early responders were associated with reduced risk of treatment failures. ROC analysis for early vs. late responders showed that APACHE II on admission had the largest area under the curve (0.847), followed by the ROX index on admission (0.843). For responders vs. non-responders, we found that the ROX index on admission had a slightly better AUC than APACHE II on admission (0.759 vs. 0.751). A higher ROX index on admission [HR (95% CI): 0.29 (0.13–0.52)] and on day 2 [HR (95% CI): 0.55 (0.34–0.89)] were associated with a reduced risk of treatment failure. The ROX index can be used as an independent predictor of early response and mortality outcomes to HFNO and NIV in COVID-19 pneumonia, especially in low-resource settings, and is non-inferior to APACHE II.
Antiviral, Cytoprotective, and Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Ampelozizyphus amazonicus Ducke Ethanolic Wood Extract on Chikungunya Virus Infection
Authors: Rocha Daniele C. P. , Sisnande Tháyna , Gavino-Leopoldino Daniel , Guimarães-Andrade Iris Paula , Cruz Fernanda F. , Assunção-Miranda Iranaia , Mendonça Simony C. , Leitão Gilda Guimarães , Simas Rosineide Costa , Mohana-Borges Ronaldo , Leitão Suzana Guimarães , Allonso Diego
Published: November 2023

Chikungunya fever, a debilitating disease caused by Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), is characterized by a high fever of sudden onset and an intense arthralgia that impairs individual regular activities. Although most symptoms are self-limited, long-term persistent arthralgia is observed in 30–40% of infected individuals. Currently, there is no vaccine or specific treatment against CHIKV infection, so there is an urgent need for the discovery of new therapeutic options for CHIKF chronic cases. This present study aims to test the antiviral, cytoprotective, and anti-inflammatory activities of an ethanol extract (FF72) from Ampelozizyphus amazonicus Ducke wood, chemically characterized using mass spectrometry, which indicated the major presence of dammarane-type triterpenoid saponins. The major saponin in the extract, with a deprotonated molecule ion m/z 897 [M-H]−, was tentatively assigned as a jujubogenin triglycoside, a dammarane-type triterpenoid saponin. Treatment with FF72 resulted in a significant reduction in both virus replication and the production of infective virions in BHK-21-infected cells. The viability of infected cells was assessed using an MTT, and the result indicated that FF72 treatment was able to revert the toxicity mediated by CHIKV infection. In addition, FF72 had a direct effect on CHIKV, since the infectivity was completely abolished in the presence of the extract. FF72 treatment also reduced the expression of the major pro-inflammatory mediators overexpressed during CHIKV infection, such as IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and MCP-1. Overall, the present study elucidates the potential of FF72 to become a promising candidate of herbal medicine for alphaviruses infections.
Experimental Study of the Freeze–Thaw Damage of Alpine Surface Coal Mine Roads Based on Geopolymer Materials
Authors: Lu Xiang , Tu Lixiao , Tian Ya , Zhou Wei , Zhao Xinjia , Yang Yuqing
Published: November 2023

In the process of mining and transportation, the temporary non-hardened mine-road structure is mainly a mixture of soil and stone, which very easily produces dust hazards via crushing and wind transportation. Geopolymers can be used in the road’s soil and stone mixture so that the road reaches certain strength requirements in line with the short-term use of the mine. However, in alpine open-pit coal mines, which are subject to the influence of weather changes, freezing and thawing phenomena will affect the long-term use of the road and its normal and safe operation. An open-pit coal mine in Xinjiang, China, was chosen as the research object of alpine open-pit coal mines. Using the method of indoor testing, different freeze–thaw freezing temperatures, different numbers of cycles, changes in the mechanical properties of the mine-road materials, and microscopic changes were studied. From the experimental results, it was determined that with a reduction in the freeze–thaw freezing temperature, the specimen strength declines after stabilizing, and with an increase in the number of freeze–thaw cycles, the specimen strength exhibits a linear decline. The specimen’s internal structure gradually changed from dense to loose; the fracture mode changed from toughness fractures to crystal fractures after the removal of the maximum load reduction. The uniaxial compressive strength was reduced to 61%; the tensile strength was reduced to 49%. The fracture zone of the specimen was analyzed using energy spectra, and the main elements changed from O (57.19%), Si (17.07%), and Al (12.19%) without freezing and thawing to O (49.76%), Si (15.70%) and Ca (11.09%) after freezing and thawing.
Mapping Prospects for Artificial Groundwater Recharge Utilizing Remote Sensing and GIS Methods
Authors: Gururani Dheeraj Mohan , Kumar Yogendra , Abed Salwan Ali , Kumar Vinod , Vishwakarma Dinesh Kumar , Al-Ansari Nadhir , Singh Kanwarpreet , Kuriqi Alban , Mattar Mohamed A.
Published: November 2023

The indiscriminate use of groundwater and its overexploitation has led to a significant decline in groundwater resources in India, making it essential to identify potential recharge zones for aquifer recharge. A study was conducted to determine such potential recharge zones in the Nandhour-Kailash River watershed. The study area included 1481 streams divided into 12 sub-basins (SWS). The results show that the downstream Saraunj sub-basins (SWS-11) and Odra sub-basins (SWS-12) were high priority and required immediate soil and water conservation attention. Sub catchments Lobchla West (SWS-4), Deotar (SWS-5), Balot South (SWS-8), Nandhour (SWS-9), and Nakoliy (SWS-10) had medium priority and were designated for moderate soil erosion and degradation. In contrast, sub-catchments Aligad (SWS-1), Kundal (SWS-2), Lowarnala North (SWS-3), Bhalseni (SWS-6), and Uparla Gauniyarao (SWS-7) had low priority, indicating a low risk of soil erosion and degradation. Using the existing groundwater level data, the potential map of groundwater was validated to confirm its validity. According to the guidelines provided by the Integrated Mission for Sustainable Development (IMSD), the results of the groundwater potential zones for good to very good zones have been integrated at the slope and stream order. In a 120.94 km2 area with a slope of 0–5% in first-order streams, 36 ponds were proposed, and in a 218.03 km2 area with a slope of 15% in first- to fourth-order streams, 105 retention dams were proposed and recognized as possible sites for artificial groundwater recharge. The proposed water harvesting structure may aid in continuously recharging these zones and benefit water resource managers and planners. Thus, various governmental organizations can use the results to identify possible future recharge areas.
Adsorption of Pb2+ by Activated Carbon Produced by Microwave-Assisted K2CO3 Activation of Date Palm Leaf Sheath Fibres
Authors: Aloud Saud S. , Hameed Bassim H. , Yusop Mohamad F. M. , Alharbi Hattan A. , Giesy John P. , Alotaibi Khaled D.
Published: November 2023

Date palm trees generate large amounts of various types of waste, including leaf sheath fibres, which can be used as a low-cost precursor for the production of biochar, including activated carbon (AC), which can be employed for the adsorption of contaminants. In the current study, activated carbon was produced from leaf sheath fibres of date palms (LSDPFAC) by the use of chemical activation with K2CO3 combined with microwave irradiation, and it was characterised and evaluated for its adsorptive capacity of lead ions (Pb2+). The Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area, Langmuir surface area, total pore volume and average pore diameter of the LSDPFAC were 560.20 m2/g, 744.31 m2/g, 0.29 cm3/g and 2.47 nm, respectively. A greater adsorption of Pb2+ was observed when its concentration was higher in the solution, and the greatest adsorption capacity of 5.67 mg Pb/g was observed at the highest pH. The results of isotherm and kinetic studies demonstrated that the adsorption of Pb2+ onto the LSDPFAC was best described by the Freundlich isotherm and pseudo-second-order (PSO) models. The Langmuir ΔG° and Ea were 6.39 kJ/mol, 0.12 kJ/mol K, −31.28 kJ/mol and 15.90 kJ/mol, respectively, which demonstrated that the adsorption of Pb2+ by the LSDPFAC was endothermic, spontaneous and governed by physisorption.
Analyzing Temporal Patterns of Temperature, Precipitation, and Drought Incidents: A Comprehensive Study of Environmental Trends in the Upper Draa Basin, Morocco
Authors: El Qorchi Fadoua , Yacoubi Khebiza Mohammed , Omondi Onyango Augustine , Karmaoui Ahmed , Pham Quoc Bao , Acharki Siham
Published: November 2023

Quantifying variation in precipitation and drought in the context of a changing climate is important to assess climate-induced changes and propose feasible mitigation strategies, particularly in agrarian economies. This study investigates the main characteristics and historical drought trend for the period 1980–2016 using the Standard Precipitation Index (SPI), Standard Precipitation Evaporation Index (SPEI), Run Theory and Mann–Kendall Trend Test at seven stations across the Upper Draa Basin. The results indicate that rainfall has the largest magnitude over the M’semrir and Agouim (>218 mm/pa) and the lowest in the Agouilal, Mansour Eddahbi Dam, and Assaka subregions (104 mm–134 mm/pa). The annual rainfall exhibited high variability with a coefficient of variation between 35−57% and was positively related to altitude with a correlation coefficient of 0.86. However, no significant annual rainfall trend was detected for all stations. The drought analysis results showed severe drought in 1981–1984, 2000–2001, and 2013–2014, with 2001 being the driest year during the study period and over 75% of both SPEI and SPI values returned drought. Conversely, wet years were experienced in 1988–1990 and 2007–2010, with 1989 being the wettest year. The drought frequency was low (<19%) across all the timescales considered for both SPI and SPEI, with Mansour Eddahbi Dam and Assaka recording the highest frequencies for SPI-3 and SPEI-3, respectively.
The Relationship between Total Mercury, Its Fractions and Species Diversity of Diatom Taphocoenoses Deposited in Surface Sediments (Southern Baltic Sea)
Authors: Hetko Dominika , Witak Małgorzata , Bełdowska Magdalena
Published: November 2023

Mercury is a toxic metal that in excessive amounts negatively affects the human nervous system. It can biomagnify to enrich successive levels of the trophic web with higher and higher concentrations of Hg. Diatoms are cosmopolitan microalgae that represent the base of the trophic web. The objective of this study was to determine the importance of diatoms in the accumulation of Hg in surface sediments in the example of Puck Lagoon (southern Baltic Sea). The study verified the relationship of mercury forms with diatoms’ characteristic salinity groups and individual diatom species. The identified diatom flora permitted the distinguishment of three regions with different salinity preferences. The obtained results suggest that, together with organic matter and fine sediment fraction, diatoms are an important element of the marine environment in accumulating Hg. Area I, dominated by euhalobous and mesohalobous diatom species, was characterized by a high statistically significant correlation of mesohalobous with HgSO4, Hg in complexes with organic matter and HgS. In Area II, associated with the highest Hg concentrations (ca. 100 ng g−1), euhalobous showed a statistically significant linear correlation with HgSO4. In contrast, in Area III, the freshwater diatom community was associated with stable Hg forms. The identified species showed a connection with labile forms of Hg that can undergo biomagnification.
Assessing the Suitability of the Flood Defense Policy of Republic of Korea for Risk Reduction in Local Rivers
Authors: Jung Kichul , An Heejin , Hwang Sewon , Seo Seung Beom , Park Hyemin , Park Chan , Yoo Jonghyun
Published: November 2023

This study examines whether the fluvial flood defense system of Korea is appropriate for risk reduction. Using spatial socioeconomic data and remote sensing, we estimated the potential economic damage that can be caused by the flooding of local streams and rivers along the Nakdong River (the longest river in Korea). For the analysis, a river risk map including return periods (50, 80, 100, and 200 years) and spatial inventories (residential, agricultural, industrial assets, and human lives) was employed to determine flood-prone areas and assess the damage within the inundation areas. A quantitative flood analysis was conducted using an object-based method to estimate the expected annual damage. We then compared the estimated damage for each tributary within the designed return periods and found no correlation. Numerous tributaries with low-defense targets were considered high-risk, while those with high-defense targets were assessed as low-risk. The dataset used in this study covered four damage categories. Among them, flood damage to residential assets appeared to have the highest value, whereas flood damage to industrial assets had the lowest value. The results demonstrate that the Korean government needs to tailor its flood defense policy based on quantitative risk assessments to effectively manage flood risks, especially given the increasing risk of climate change.
Assessment and Comprehensive Evaluation of Large-Scale Reclaimed Water Reuse for Urban River Restoration and Water Resource Management: A Case Study in China
Authors: Lin Xiaohu , Li Shiyi , Sun Danyan , Zhou Wenming , Wei Jun , Fang Haifeng , Zhu Liping , Lu Zhibo , Xu Jingcheng
Published: November 2023

Replenishing reclaimed water into urban rivers, which suffer from reduced flow and deteriorating water quality due to anthropogenic activities, presents an opportunity for water resource management and ecological restoration, while the effect and evaluation need to be considered. This study investigated the feasibility of large-scale reclaimed water reuse in urban rivers, focusing on water quality improvements and reuse scheme evaluation, utilizing modeling software to simulate the water quality after implementing the reclaimed water replenishment scheme. After seven days of reclaimed water replenishment simulated, the water quality in the receiving urban rivers exhibited substantial improvements to different extents, with some rivers showing a decrease of over 90% in chemical oxygen demand (CODMn), ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), and total phosphorus (TP) concentrations. A comprehensive evaluation method using the physical element extension–analytic hierarchy process (AHP) evaluation model was developed to evaluate the feasibility and efficiency of the large-scale project of reclaimed water reuse in urban rivers. The overall score of the large-scale reclaimed water reuse scenario reaches 89, approaching Level I and indicating a highly scientific and reasonable plan. This study contributes to the field of urban river restoration and water resource management by demonstrating the potential for improving water quality in urban rivers through large-scale reclaimed water reuse. The innovative comprehensive evaluation method offers valuable insights for guiding the implementation of similar projects in other urban river systems, addressing water resource challenges, and promoting ecological restoration in urban areas.
A Review of Drought Disturbance on Socioeconomic Development
Authors: Yang Xinyue , Liao Xingliang , Di Dongrui , Shi Weiyu
Published: November 2023

Climate-change-intensified drought carries great challenges for socioeconomic development. This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of research on the effects of drought disturbance on socioeconomic development within the context of climate change. According to the co-citation analysis of approximately 3000 literature sources, it should be emphasized that challenges resulting from drought carry significant socioeconomic implications, including agriculture losses, increased financial burdens on governments, and escalating insurance claims. Drought can also trigger humanitarian and social crises, especially in resource-limited areas, resulting in shortages of food and water, population displacement, and health risks. Therefore, effective policies, informed by robust research and data, are crucial for addressing the complex challenges of droughts in a changing climate. Proactive strategies, including improved water management, early warning systems, and sustainable agricultural practices, are essential for a comprehensive response. Addressing the socioeconomic impacts of climate-induced drought requires a holistic, interdisciplinary approach, emphasizing collaboration among governments, communities, researchers, and international organizations. Implementing adaptive measures and risk reduction strategies enhances resilience and mitigates the adverse effects of drought on society and the economy.
Environmental Monitoring and Risk Assessment of Pharmaceutical Residues Discharged from Large Livestock Complex in the Geum River Basin, South Korea
Authors: Lee Hyeri , Chae Minhee , Lee Seokwon
Published: November 2023

This study aims to collect water samples from two tributaries within the Geum River basin in South Korea, where large-scale livestock complexes are located, to quantify the measured environmental concentration (MEC) of pharmaceutical residues using a multiresidue analytical method developed with liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), and to evaluate the environmental risks posed by the detected pharmaceuticals to aquatic organisms. The water samples were collected at a total of 17 points, including up-, middle-, and downstream of the Seoksong and Nonsan-Gangkyoung streams connected to the Geum River, from October 2018 to March 2019. A multiresidue analytical method using LC-MS/MS was developed to quantify 49 pharmaceuticals with hydrophilic lipophilic balance using solid phase extraction. The recovery rates varied between 67.23% and 136.98%, while the limits of quantification were from 3.99 to 46.32 ng/L. Ecotoxicological information on acute and chronic effect endpoints (e.g., EC50, NOEC, etc.) was obtained from the U.S. EPA ECOTOX Knowledgebase. Considering the worst-case scenario, the lowest observed effect endpoint (mainly NOEC) of the most sensitive species was selected, and predicted no effect concentration (PNEC) values were calculated by dividing the endpoint by an assessment factor (AF). The mean, minimum, and maximum MECs of pharmaceuticals were divided by PNECs to calculate risk quotient (RQ). Caffeine was detected in all sampling sites with a detection frequency of 100%. High levels of pharmaceuticals (9.212 μg/L of sulfathiazole, 8.479 μg/L of acetaminophen, and 5.885 μg/L of florfenicol) were detected. The RQ values exceeded 1 and reached up to 84.79 (high risk category) for acetaminophen, and were between 0.11 and 0.83 (moderate risk) for carbamazepine, etc. The RQs for the rest of the 15 substances were below 1 (low risk). In the future, further studies should be conducted to monitor other micropollutants, including industrial chemicals, pesticides, etc., at different locations of the Geum River basin, including livestock farms, pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities, wastewater treatment plants, and other facilities, for long-term period.
Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue from Aqueous Solutions by Using Nano-ZnO/Kaolin-Clay-Based Nanocomposite
Authors: Modi Shreya , Yadav Virendra Kumar , Ali Daoud , Choudhary Nisha , Alarifi Saud , Sahoo Dipak Kumar , Patel Ashish , Fulekar Madhusudan Hiraman
Published: November 2023

Dyes are toxic organic compounds released as effluent from various industries that need proper treatment as they pose serious hazards to the environment and living beings, including humans. Nanocomposites can be employed as photocatalysts for the elimination of such organic compounds from wastewater. One such attempt is made in this present research study, where a zinc-based nanocomposite has been fabricated for the elimination of the methylene blue dye (MB). For the development of nanocomposite, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) were prepared to utilize Allium sativa peel (garlic skin) extract, which was further processed to develop ZnO/kaolin clay NC. ZnONPs and ZnO/kaolin clay NC formation have been confirmed by UV–Vis spectral bands at 379 nm and 423 nm. The NC was rod-shaped, with width of 60–100 nm and length of 200–800 nm and an average size of 50.0 ± 0.58 nm. Both materials were compared for their efficacy in photocatalytic degradation of the MB under solar light irradiation. ZnONPs removed 65% of MB, whereas the degradation efficiency of ZnO/clay NC was calculated to be 96% for 10 ppm MB. A kinetics study for photocatalytic degradation of MB using both nanomaterials showed that the photocatalytic degradation followed the pseudo-first-order (PFO) type of reaction. This investigation represents an expeditious, lucrative, ecological, and appropriate technique for the fabrication of functional nanomaterials for the remediation of diverse organic pollutants.
Assessing Groundwater Quality for Sustainable Drinking and Irrigation: A GIS-Based Hydro-Chemical and Health Risk Study in Kovilpatti Taluk, Tamil Nadu
Authors: Sivakumar Vivek , Ramamoorthy Venkada Lakshmi , Muthaiyan Uma Maguesvari , Kaliyappan Shumugapriya , Ravindiran Gokulan , Shanmugam Sethuraman , Velusamy Priya , Natarajan Logesh , Almohamad Hussein , Al-Mutiry Motrih , Abdo Hazem Ghassan
Published: November 2023

The continuous investigation of water resources is essential to assess pollution risks. This study investigated a groundwater assessment in the coastal belt of Tamil Nadu’s Kovilpatti Taluk, Thoothukudi district. Twenty-one groundwater samples were collected during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, analyzing water quality parameters, namely pH, EC, Cl−, SO42−, Ca2+, Mg2+, HCO3−, TH, Na2+, and K+. The Water Quality Index (WQI) was computed and it is observed that 5% of pre-monsoon and 9% of post-monsoon samples were unsuitable for drinking. SAR, MHR, RSC, %Na and Kelley’s index were used to determine irrigation suitability. Pre-monsoon shows 29% (MHR) and 71% (RSC) unsuitable, and post-monsoon shows 59% (MHR) and 9% (RSC) unsuitable. Coastal activity, urbanization, and industrialization in Kovilpatti resulted in the degradation of groundwater quality. Solving this coastal issue requires sustainable wastewater treatment and strict industrial discharge guidelines. Spatial distribution plots, Box plots, Gibbs plots, Piper plots, Wilcox plots and Correlation Matrices had similar results to the computed WQI and its physical–chemical parameters. According to the human health risk assessment, the Mooppanpatti, Illuppaiurani, and Vijayapuri regions show high health risks due to the nitrate and fluoride concentration in the groundwater. Kadambu, Melparaipatti, Therkuilandhaikulam, and Vadakku Vandanam have low levels, posing a minimal health risk.
Chemical Characteristics-Based Evolution of Groundwater in Tailan River Basin, Xinjiang, China
Authors: Liu Lei , Lu Yudong , Yin Lihe , Yang Zhi , Bian Jiaxin , Cui Liyang
Published: November 2023

Groundwater plays an important role in ecological environment protection in arid and semi-arid areas. Therefore, understanding the characteristics of hydrochemical evolution is of great significance for the sustainable use of groundwater in the area of the Tailan River Basin. The Tailan River Basin is located in an arid, ecologically sensitive area in western China. In this study, we collected 42 groups of representative water samples from the Tailan River Basin and analyzed the chemical distribution in the groundwater using mathematical statistics, Piper and Gibbs diagrams, ion ratio analysis, and hydrogeochemical simulation methods. We also discussed the water–rock interactions in the groundwater hydrochemical evolutionary process. The results were as follows: (1) The chemical types of groundwater changed from HCO3·SO4-Ca·Na to SO4·Cl-Na·Ca, Cl·SO4-Na, and Cl-Na, and the total dissolved solids content increased from less than 1 g/L to more than 40 g/L from the gravel plain to the fine soil plain. (2) The Gibbs diagram, the ion ratio analysis, and the saturation index showed that the groundwater chemical characteristics in the study area were mainly controlled by water–rock interactions, as well as evaporation and concentration. Along the runoff of groundwater, halite and gypsum were dissolved. Nevertheless, dolomite and calcite precipitated. The relationship between the chlor-alkali index and [(Na+ + K+)-Cl−] and [(Ca2+ + Mg2+)-(HCO3− + SO42−)] indicated that cation exchange also affects the chemical composition of groundwater in the area. (3) Through reverse hydrogeochemical simulation, the main water–rock effect of the groundwater runoff process revealed by qualitative analysis was quantitatively verified.