bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INTRODUCING A DATA-DRIVEN APPROACH TOWARDS THE IDENTIFICATION OF GRID CELL SIZE THRESHOLD (CST) FOR SPATIAL DATA VISUALIZATION: AN APPLICATION ON MARINE SPATIAL PLANNING (MSP)
Authors: Krassanakis Vassilios , Vassilopoulou Vassiliki
Published: February 2023

Spatial data visualization techniques may have a great influence in several disciplines related to spatial management and hence decision-making process. Among them, marine spatial planning (MSP) constitutes an integrated procedure aiming at the optimal allocation of human activities in marine space. In MSP, mapping process referred either in human activities, marine ecosystems or indicative indices is based on the implementation of a grid approach. The present paper discusses some critical issues related to visualization procedure while a new data-driven approach is introduced towards the identification of grid cell size threshold. The proposed method gives a critical suggestion that may be easily extended in each field that considers this type of visualization for spatial data handling.
THE IMPACT OF RESIDENTIAL BUILDING'S DESIGN ON THE ENERGY CONSUMPTION IN HOT DESERT CLIMATE (BAGHDAD CITY AS AN EXAMPLE)
Authors: Hasan Susan Abed
Published: February 2023

Residential Buildings are responsible for a large portion of energy consumption in cities. The study of The Impact of Residential Building's Design on the energy consumption in hot desert climate requires careful examination and evaluating the validity of the commonly known assumptions and for quantifying the effects of building design on energy consumption. This research problem is the effect of residential building design on the energy consumption in hot Deseret climate for Baghdad city as an example. In this study several options for residential building forms, area, number of stories, and walls materials were selected for the assessment of energy consumption. Software simulation was to estimate an energy performance model for assessing various energy conservation measures pertinent to the building design. Percentage change was calculated and compared accordingly for each case. Results demonstrate that shapes with less surface area achieved better results. Also for wall materials the reduction reached to 50% for Thermostone wall for the same building form and area. The area of building and number of stories contributes on energy consumption too. Building with less area provides better results. Also buildings with two stories provide total energy consumption for average square meter less than on story building
WATER MANAGEMENT AND URBAN FLOOD MITIGATION: STUDIES AND PROPOSALS FOR THE MACAÉ RIVER BASIN IN BRAZIL
Authors: Tavares Luiza Paula da Silva , Lugon Junior Jader , Silva José Augusto Ferreira da , Wasserman Julio Cesar Alvin , Rodrigues Pedro Paulo Gomes Watts
Published: February 2023

This article presents a literature review about urban floods, with a specific analysis concerning the Macaé River basin in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The main topics of the study are: (i) legal framework of water resources management; (ii) overview of urban floods in Brazil, focusing on the city of Macaé; (iii) methods of control and mitigation of urban floods; (iv) hydrological and computational modeling applied to the study of floods; and finally, (v) characterization of the Macaé River basin, with an emphasis in the context of floods and inundations. The research confirms the relevance of flood studies for the region, both by the expressive record of flooding events and by the lack of recent investigations about this issue. According to the current trend practiced in flood management, proposals for the city should be based on integrated interventions that consider the peculiarities of the basin. Compensatory techniques and the renaturalization of rivers and streams are two prominent approaches to this context. The modeling of the basin and the simulation of these measures can provide data that will support the basin management plan and the work of other relevant public institutions.
STOCHASTIC MODELING OF MONTHLY RIVER FLOWS BY SELF-ORGANIZING MAPS
Authors: Da Silva Filho José Adalberto , De Farias Camilo Allyson Simões
Published: February 2023

Extreme hydrological conditions and increasing water demands observed in semiarid Brazil have generated conflicts regarding to the best use of existing water resources. Synthetic generation models of river flows are often used as support for the definition of water system operating rules, which allow the establishment of rationing policies before water scarcity spells. This work aims at verifying the applicability of models based on self-organizing maps (SOM) for stochastic modeling of monthly river flows. The basic principle of the study consisted of using SOM models in order to define the deterministic component of river flow series and a density probability function (stochastic component) to represent the resulting residuals. During calibration of all networks, values of NASH were above 0.9989 for the applications. The results were promising, indicating that the established models are capable of producing synthetic series of inflows with excellent performance.
BEHAVIOR OF CFDST COLUMNS WITH OCTAGON AND POLYGON STEEL SECTIONS
Authors: Farajpourbonab Ebrahim , Rafieioskoei Amin
Published: February 2023

Based on some findings on the two kinds of Concrete Filled Double Skin steel Tube (CFDST) members with circular or square sections, a new kind of CFDST with octagonal and polygonal section have been investigated under axial and cyclic loading. For this purpose, the outer steel wall has various steel shapes and the inner steel wall is the same as circular section and for some part of analyses, the outer tube is the same as circular section and the inner wall has various steel sections. Primarily, FEM procedure has been verified with some available experimental studies and then, seven composite columns with different section types have been analyzed. The results of analyses exhibited the increase in strength and improvement in hysteresis behavior of the proposed steel sections under cyclic loading.
MODELING SPATIAL DYNAMICS APPLIED TO THE ASSESSMENT OF URBAN GROWTH IN THE VICINITY OF PIPELINES IN RIO DE JANEIRO
Authors: Delaneze Marcelo Elias , Setti Riedel Paulina
Published: February 2023

The use of mathematical models in environmental studies allows significant scientific contributions to the physical planning of an area, since they help to understand the impact of changes in land cover and predict future trends of changes in ecosystems. The study area includes portions of the municipalities of Duque de Caxias, Nova Iguaçu, and Belford Roxo, located in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and aims to carry out experiments in land cover changes in the medium-term (10 years) within the catchment area of ORBEL pipelines. The modeling performed in this study was developed using the software Dinamica EGO. For model calibration, we used the weights of evidence method. Positive values foster certain transitions, while negative values indicate low probability of transition. Model validation was executed by means of the fuzzy similarity method using exponential decay. The results show that for the study period (1998-2010) the rate of change for the transition of the class 'others to woody vegetation' is much higher than for the other class transitions observed in the same periods. One annual land cover scenario was generated for the year 2020. The scenario indicated the growth of suburbs near the ring road around Rio de Janeiro, especially in the municipality of Duque de Caxias.
INTER-RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ERODIBILITY, SOIL TOLERANCE AND PYSICAL-CHEMICAL ATTRIBUTES ON NORTHWEST OF SÃO PAULO STATE
Authors: Lima César Gustavo Rocha , Marques Sâmia Momesso , Lollo José Augusto de , Costa Nídia Raquel , Carvalho Morel de Passos e
Published: February 2023

Erosive processes are major environmental problems in soils and constitute a great conservation planning challenge. The knowledge of erodibility and soil loss tolerance, as well as their interactions with physical and chemical attributes of the soil may allow an important diagnostic for sustainable management. The aim of this study was to determine soil erodibility (K) and soil loss tolerance (T) for 32 kinds of soil in the Northwest Region of São Paulo State and assess the linear and spatial correlations between these factors and physical-chemical attributes. The evaluated attributes were: textural relationship (TR), particle density (PD), bulk density (BD), total porosity (TP), macro porosity (MA), micro porosity (MI), water capacity storage (WCS), organic matter (OM) and soil pH (pH). The results showed that K factor ranged from 0.0094 to 0.0758 Mg/ ha MJ mm, while T values ranged from 3.09 to 14.79 Mg /ha year. The erodibility and loss tolerance present significant interaction with the soil physical and chemical attributes, especially with the WCS and the TR that showed the best regression adjustments. In geostatistical point of view, the erodibility and soil loss tolerance also showed considerable spatial correlations with most soil physical properties, especially interactions with the TP and the TR, allowing the best mappings using cokriging technique. Thus, simple and relatively low cost approach preliminary soil erodibility can be adopted for large areas without complexes surveys and in situ tests. As well as long term climate data series, a common situation in large areas in less developed countries.
TIME OF CONCENTRATION IN AN EXPERIMENTAL BASIN: METHODS FOR ANALYSIS, BACKWATER EFFECTS AND VEGETATION REMOVAL
Authors: Malutta Simone , Pscheidt Jhonathan Cristian , Neto Tiago Guizoni , Klein Silvana , Bonumá Nádia Bernardi , Chaffe Pedro Luiz Borges , Kobiyama Masato
Published: February 2023

There are several empirical and theoretical formulas used for the estimation of the time of concentration (Tc). However, it has been shown that the Tc estimation may vary in several orders of magnitude depending on the method. In this study we compare 10 different methods for the estimation of the Tc using sub-basins and backwater effects to analyze those results. We also analyzed if the vegetation removal changes the Tc in the basin. The study area is the basin of the Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC) campus in Joinville with a significant part in a wetland and there is backwater effect caused by the Piraí river. Applying the empirical and theoretical equations found a significant variation of Tc estimates, the standard deviation in relation to the general average was around 65%. The influence of vegetation removal and drainage of a canal had an effect of reducing the Tc by 50%.
SPATIAL MODELING OF SOIL SALINITY USING MULTIPLE LINEAR REGRESSION, ORDINARY KRIGING AND ARTIFICIAL NEURAL NETWORK METHODS IN THE LOWER CHELIFF PLAIN, ALGERIA
Authors: Noureddine Koulla , Mohammed Achite , Santos Celso A. G. , Abdelkader Douaoui , Abdelhamid Bradaï , Do Nascimento Thiago Victor Medeiros
Published: February 2023

Soil salinity is one of the most damaging environmental issues worldwide, essentially in arid and semi-arid regions, caused by various factors. Spatial estimation and prediction of salinity is important to predict land evaluation in order to develop and determine leaching factor and the precise management for maximum production. The Lower Cheliff is characterized by the augmentation of rate of soil salinity with 80 % of area. In this study, we have analyzed the relationship between both elevation and soil salinity, giving their role in understanding and estimating the spatial distribution of soil salinity in the Lower Cheliff plain. To conduct this work, we have taken 406 samples and analysis of electric conductivity as well as measurement of the elevation with a GPS, we analyzed the correlations of soil salinity with elevation. In this study we have given a great focus on the use of the multiple linear regressions, Ordinary kriging and artificial neural network methods, the results showed that soil salinity had a good correlation with elevation, and according to the values of coefficient of determination (R2), root mean square error (RMSE) and mean absolute error (MAE), implied superiority of MLP model with the value of R² = 0.994, RMSE= 0.63 and MAE = 0.33.
SWAT PARAMETERIZATION FOR IDENTIFICATION OF CRITICAL EROSION WATERSHEDS IN THE PIRAPAMA RIVER BASIN, BRAZIL
Authors: Viana Jussara Freire Souza , Montenegro Suzana Maria Gico Lima , Da Silva Bernardo Barbosa , Da Silva Richarde Marques Marques , Srinivasan Raghavan
Published: February 2023

The aim of this research is to estimate the sediment yield in the Pirapama River Basin and in the area of contribution of the Pirapama Reservoir and to identify areas susceptible to soil erosion for identification of critical erosion watersheds during the period from 2000 to 2010. This study was conducted to design a framework for evaluating and identifying critical erosion in Pirapama watershed, based on the tolerable erosion concept, by using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model. SWAT was calibrated and validated for two streamflow stations (Cachoeira Tapada and Destilaria Inexport) for the period from 2000 to 2010. The results show that the simulated data for Cachoeira Tapada station were considered good (NS = 0.68 and R² = 0.71) and very good (PBIAS = 1.46%). Regarding the statistical data in the validation, the values of NS (0.67), R² (0.85), and PBIAS (19.18%) were considered good, very good, and satisfactory, respectively. The statistical data obtained in the calibration of the model for the fluviometric station Destilaria Inexport indicated that the simulated data are considered very good, with R² = 0.84, NS = 0.81, and PBIAS = 2.33%. In the validation, the statistics showed values consistent with the literature, with NS = 0.72, R² = 0.86, and PBIAS = –19.11%, which are considered good, very good, and satisfactory, respectively. The estimated average sediment yield in the Pirapama River basin ranged from 0.10 to 129.90 ton/ha.year. The results of the sediment yield estimates in the contribution area of the Pirapama Reservoir showed that the mean sediment yield of the sub-basins upstream of the Pirapama Reservoir was 61.49 ton/ha.year for the period analysed. According to the annual estimates performed, 5.59 ton/ha.year of this amount reaches the Pirapama Reservoir, which corresponds to 9% of the soil losses incident in the area. Thus, the sub-basins upstream of the Pirapama Reservoir were identified as portions of the basin that are susceptible to the erosion process. Sediment yield in these portions can interfere with the volume of water of the Pirapama Reservoir when the eroded material is carried to the depth of the lake.
PATTERNS OF ENERGY EXCHANGE FOR TROPICAL URBAN AND RURAL ECOSYSTEMS LOCATED IN BRAZIL CENTRAL
Authors: Callejas Ivan Julio Apolonio , Biudes Marcelo Sacardi , Machado Nadja Gomes , Durante Luciane Cleonice , Lobo Francisco de Almeida
Published: February 2023

Seasonality and inter-annual variation of the energy balance of natural surfaces as the effect of conversion from natural to agricultural areas has been the object of much in-depth research in South America. However, none has assessed the effect of conversion from a native to an urbanized area. Current research was performed in the city of Cuiabá, in the Cerrado-Pantanal ecotone, state of Mato Grosso, central Brazil, featuring a tropical sub-humid climate (Aw). The paper investigates the pattern of energy fluxes exchanges in the rural and urban sites located in Brazilian savannah ecosystem. The heat stored inside the urban canopy (ΔQS) and within the rural area was obtained by the Objective Hysteresis Model (OHM) and by soil flux meter, respectively. Sensible (H) and latent (LE) heat ﬂuxes were estimated by the Bowen Ratio Energy Balance (BREB). The rural and urban sites had different patterns in the micrometeorology variables Wind speed decreased and air temperature and vapor pressure deficit increased from rural to urban site. The urbanization also modified the energy fluxes partition of urban canopy by increasing ΔQs (12%) and H (60%) and by decreasing LE (29%), with β = 2.0 in contrast of rural canopy, where the partition was ΔQs (1.5%), H (29%), LE (64%) and β = 0.45. The ΔQS, H and LE were in phase with Rn, differing from what has been reported for sites in North America and Europe.
EFFECT OF RECYCLE RATIO AND HYDRAULIC RETENTION TIME ON DENITRIFICATION-NITRIFICATION PROCESS
Authors: Cirik Kevser , Eskikaya Ozan
Published: February 2023

In this study, the elimination of nitrogen compounds from is based on nitrifiication and denitrification. Ammonium released from the mineralization of nitrogen-containing organic compounds is oxidized first to nitrite/nitrate in nitrification process. During denitrification, nitrate is reduced to dinitrogen. The parameters effect this process are pH, temperature, electron donor/accepter ratio, hydraulic retention time nitrate-recycling rate etc. In this study, sequential batch denitrification-nitrification reactor was operated for testing different nitrate recycling ratio (100-700%). The batch reactor was fed with Kahramanmaraş urban wastewater during 80d at constant temperature of 25±0.5°C. The reactor performance was determined by color, ammonium (NH4+), nitrate (NO-3), nitrite (NO-2), inorganic carbon (IC), total organic carbon (TOC) parameters. According to our results, 100% recycling time was found optimum. Nitrate and ammonium removals were over 99%.
ANAEROBIC BIODEGRADABILITY ENHANCEMENT OF MEAT PROCESSING WASTEWATER SLUDGE BY FENTON PROCESS
Authors: Erden Gulbin , Dambayci Hancioglu Ilknur
Published: February 2023

In this study, an advanced oxidation process of Fenton Process was applied to meat prosessing wastewater sludge for the purpose of sludge disintegration before anaerobic digestion. Fenton Process was applied to the meat processing wastewater sludge samples were taken from a treatment plant located in Denizli, Turkey. In the first stage of the study, experiments were carried out to optimize the process conditions in terms of disintegration using Box-Wilson Statistical Design. Ferrous iron and hydrogen peroxide concentrations were chosen as process variable and disintegration degree parameter based on soluble chemical oxygen demand calculations used as process response. 13% of disintegration degree was obtained at 90 gH2O2/ kg Dried Solids and 3 g Fe(III)/kg Dried Solids. After optimization studies for disintegration, sludge digestion studies were carried out using Biochemical Methane Potential (BMP) Test. BMP test results showed that Fenton Process can be used as a sludge disintegration purpose and application of Fenton Process before anaerobic digestion causes 33% higher methane gas production comparing the non-pretreated sludge.
VOLTAGE ASYMMETRY INFLUENCE ON RESOURCE CON-SUMPTION AT POWER GENERATING PLANTS
Authors: Kleshchov Anton , Hugi Christoph , Terentiev Oleg , Zaichenko Stefan
Published: February 2023

The objective of this paper is to provide new research on the linkages between voltage asymmetry, energy efficiency, and resource efficiency to inform policymaking in this area about the possibilities of electricity saving potential. Asymmetry voltage coefficients value in Ukrainian grid were experimentally identified based on assessments of 23 Ukrainian companies during 2016-2018. It was estimated, that 26 % of transformers have asymmetry voltage coefficient of reverse sequence lower than 2 % and 12 % of transformers have asymmetry voltage coefficient of zero sequence lower than 2 %. The estimated resource saving potential for Ukrainian power generating plants is up to 1’978 GWhel/a, which is up to 1.5 % of total electricity produced. Equivalent reducing electricity generation at coal power plants could prevent emissions up to 292.79 t/a of ash emissions; 733 kt/a of CO2 emissions; 5.9 kt/a of SOx emissions; 2.9 kt/a of NOx emissions; 9.03 m3/a of nuclear waste.
ADSORPTION KINETICS, ISOTHERMS, THERMODYNAMICS STUDIES ON THE REMOVAL OF CONGO RED DYE USING ANNONA SQUAMOSA (CUSTARD APPLE) PEEL
Authors: Agarwal Sarang , Vilvanathan Sowmya , S Shanthakumar
Published: February 2023

The present study evaluates the feasibility of an adsorbent prepared from Annona squamosa (custard apple) peel, in removing Congo red dye from its aqueous solution. Batch experiments were carried out to study the effect of various parameters like pH (2-8), adsorbent dose (0.005-0.5 g/100mL), contact time (5-120 min), initial dye concentration (25-200 mg/L) and temperature (298-308 K) to determine its effectiveness as an adsorbent. Maximum dye removal attained at pH 2, adsorbent dose 0.1 g/100mL in equilibrium time of 45 min at 308K. Adsorption kinetics using pseudo-first order and pseudo-second order models, and adsorption isotherm using Langmuir and Freundlich models were studied. The adsorption process was found to follow pseudo-second order kinetic model and more favourably described the Langmuir isotherm model. The Gibbs free energy was found to be negative, signifying the spontaneous nature of the adsorption process. Removal of Congo red dye from its aqueous solution by custard apple peel was found to be an endothermic process. The results of the present study suggest that custard apple can be effectively used as an adsorbent to remove Congo red dye from aqueous solution.
UTILIZATION OF MAXIMUM POWER IN AIRFOIL BLADE OF HORIZONTAL AXIS WIND TURBINE BY THE CONCEPT OF CFD ANALYSIS
Authors: Choubey Abhishek
Published: February 2023

Pollution free power production, quick installation and commissioning capability, less operation and maintenance cost and taking benefit of by means of free and renewable energies are all advantages of using wind turbines as an power generators. Along with these advantages, the main drawback of this source is the conditional nature of wind flow. Therefore, using reliable and efficient apparatus is necessary in order to get as much as energy from wind during the limited period of time that it flows strongly. Wind power is the fastest increasing renewable energy resource and wind power penetration in power systems increases at a significant rate. The high access of wind power into power systems in the present and near future will have several impacts on their planning and operation. A wind turbine transforms the kinetic energy in the wind to mechanical energy in a shaft and ultimately into electrical energy in a generator. Turbine blade is the mainly important part of any wind turbine. In this paper we consider single airfoil NACA 0018 and done CFD analysis at different blade angles 00,100,150 and 300 with constant wind velocity of 6 m/s. The analysis results show that blade angle 15º gives best possible power.
HEAVY METALS ADSORPTION BY OXYTETRACYCLINE HYDROCHLORIDE TETRACYCLINE ANTIBIOTIC WASTEWATER EXCESS ACTIVE SLUDGE
Authors: Qin Songyan , Kuang Wanpeng , Wang Xintong , Luo Yi , Zhao Lixin
Published: February 2023

Tetracycline wastewater excess active sludge TEAS was studied for the possibility of heavy metal ions adsorption and barrier materials in the landfill. TEAS was characterized by SEM, element analysis, TGA and FT-IR techniques. The characterization of TEAS demonstrated mounts of remaining hypha residues existed in sludge. High-temperature drying of sludge reduced the potential risk of remaining Tetracycline bleaching. The Adsorption thermodynamics study of TEAS to the Cu2+, Ni2+ ，and Cd2+ indicated a spontaneous and endothermic nature of the adsorption process. The best equilibrium data was given by Langmuir isotherm, and the maximum adsorption capacities were 18.484，14.837 and 9.116 mg/g for Cu2+, Ni2+ and Cd2+, respectively. The kinetic data of adsorption were described by a pseudo-second-order equation, indicating their chemical adsorption. The main mechanism of metal biosorption was cation exchanged is expected that TEAS could be used as a promising co-disposal and attenuation material in the landfill to hinder the heavy metal solution into Landfill leachate.
URBAN MOBILITY OF THE ELDERLY IN THE METROPOLITAN REGION OF SÃO PAULO: AN APPLICATION OH THE MULTINOMIAL LOGIT MODEL
Authors: Mação Bernal Luciana , Moreira Diniz Claudinei , Da Penha Sanches Suely
Published: February 2023

Elderly population growth has become a worldwide concern in recent years. For that matter, it is important to think about the current state of cities in a way to ensure a safe and independent transportation for the daily mobility of the elderly. Therefore, this study aimed to identify differences in the urban mobility of the elderly and non-elderly population based on travel characteristics. Data was obtained from a mobility research conducted within the metropolitan area of São Paulo, from which five variables were selected and treated for the study. The methodology was based on an analysis with a multinomial logit model. Results indicated that elderly and the non-elderly people tend to choose the individual transport mode first, followed by the public transport mode and lastly the walking mode. Moreover, non-elderly people tend to travel longer distances in their daily commutes, while the elderly people are more likely to do shorter trips in their daily commutes. In sum, the comprehension of mobility differences between elderly and non-elderly population allows a better understanding of challenges faced by the elderly in their daily mobility, as well as adequate planning for more inclusive cities.
IS CONGESTION PRICING AN URBAN MOBILITY SOLUTION TO BRAZILIAN CITIES?
Authors: Oliveira Leise Kelli de , Souza Sayonara Lopes , Cardoso Leandro , Bessa Jr José Elievam , Oliveira Renata Lúcia Magalhães de , Bracarense Lílian Santos Fontes Pereira
Published: February 2023

The congestion pricing is a measure of travel demand management to discourage car use with low public and political acceptability. In the Brazilian context, the Urban Mobility Policy considers this measure to mitigate the congestion. In this paper, we present an exploratory analysis to identify the characteristics considered important by Brazilian transport experts to the implementation of the congestion pricing. The residents assessed these characteristics to identify the preference and acceptability of this scheme in Belo Horizonte (Brazil). We obtained the data from a Web-based survey from experts and residents. With the results, we simulated scenarios reducing the number of private cars in order to evaluate the real benefits of congestion price in a real network. According to Brazilian transport experts, the congestion pricing can be an efficient and well-accepted demand management measure, if the profit subsidises the public transportation systems (bus and rail) and the infrastructure to non-motorized transportation, with active public participation in the decision-making. Considering the residents’ results, we identified favourable public acceptability considering the benefits of public transport investment from the revenue obtained out of the congestion charges. However, availability for payment has a high rejection rate, although implementation strategies are perceived as advantages. The simulation indicates the reduction of travel time (seconds/km), delay time (seconds/km), queue length (vehicle) and density time (vehicle/km) indicating congestion reduction and, consequently, improving the urban mobility. The contribution of this paper is one methodology considering the Brazilian context to evaluate the congestion-pricing scheme from experts and residents point of view. Also, the results could support the discussion about the implementation of the congestion charging in Brazilian cities.
MODELLING SYSTEM DYNAMICS TO EVALUATE URBAN WATER SUPPLY MANAGEMENT AND PRODUCTION OF FUTURE SCENARIOS
Authors: Silva Sidnei Pereira , Teixeira Bernardo A. N.
Published: February 2023

This paper analyzes, evaluates and simulates a water catchment and consumption process using a system dynamics model to support water resources management. After creating a theoretical model, real data from São Carlos in Brazil were used. The water availability situation was assessed using the catchment data analysis of the main surface and groundwater sources and the supply data, subdivided into four categories of use. Simulations were carried out by evaluating historical data and further simulations of future scenarios. The average annual consumption was 15.8 million m3. The volume of water catchment in 2017 was more than 35 million m³, and from this total 43.5% of treated water was wasted due to losses. Domestic consumption accounts for more than 80% of the total and greywater reuse can reduce this impact, which means economizing approximately 9 million m3/year. Modeling allows decision makers to analyze the evolution of parameters and the scenario projection.
DEVELOPING AND OPTIMISING AN URBAN INTEGRATED SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT MODEL: EFFECT OF TRANSFER STATIONS
Authors: Paul Koushik , Chattopadhyay Subhasish , Dutta Amit , Krishna Akhouri Pramod , Ray Subhabrata
Published: February 2023

Solid waste management (SWM) is among the poorly rendered services in developing countries — limited resources, increasing population, rapid urbanisation and application of unscientific, outdated systems leads to inefficiency. Lack of proper planning and inadequate data regarding solid waste generation and collection compound the solid waste management problem. Given the large number of available waste management options and the inter-relationships among them, identifying SWM strategies that satisfy economic or environmental objectives is a complex task. The paper integrates the effects of transfer station(s) to a mathematical model developed for a municipal Integrated Solid Waste Management (ISWM) system and focusses on the effect of inclusion of transfer stations on the overall efficiency and cost-effectiveness of an ISWM system. The model then serves as decision support tool to evaluate various waste management alternatives and identifies the least cost optimal combination of technologies for the collection, transport, treatment and disposal of waste. The constraints include those linking waste flows and mass balance, processing plants capacity, landfill capacity, transport vehicle capacity and number of trips. The linear programming model integrating different functional elements was solved by LINGO optimisation software and various possible waste management options were considered during analysis.
ASSESSING THE CARBON FOOTPRINT OF A DEDICATED ALL-CARGO AIRLINE: THE CASE OF CARGOLUX INTERNATIONAL AIRLINES
Authors: Baxter Glenn
Published: February 2023

The objective of this study was to examine Cargolux International Airlines, one of the world’s largest dedicated all-cargo airlines, carbon footprint and to identify how it has been influenced by its route network expansion and the operation of the next-generation, Boeing B747-8 freighter aircraft. The study covered the period 2005 to 2018. To achieve the objectives of the study, an in-depth qualitative longitudinal case study research approach was used. The data that was sourced for the study was examined using document analysis. The study found that Cargolux International Airlines annual carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions increased from 2,845,000 tonnes in 2005 to 4,093, 521 tonnes in 2018. The increase in the airline’s annual carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions is due to a higher level of services, route network expansion, and an increase its fleet of freighter aircraft. Over the study period, Cargolux’s annual carbon dioxide emissions (CO2) per available tonne kilometre (ATK) exhibited a downward trend, decreasing from a high of 386.5 grams per available tonne kilometre (ATK) in 2006 to a low of 330.8 grams per available tonne kilometre (ATK) in 2018. A similar trend occurred with the airline’s annual carbon dioxide emissions (CO2) per freight tonne kilometre (FTK), which decreased from a high of 540 grams per freight tonne kilometre (FTK) in 2011 to a low of 330.8 grams per available freight tonne kilometre (FTK) in 2017. These trends were very favourable given the expansion in services and in enplaned air cargo tonnages throughout the study period. The case study revealed that the airline’s fleet rollover plan, in which Cargolux acquired a fleet of 14 state-of-the art Boeing B747-8 freighters, has resulted in the most substantial reductions in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. The more favourable fuel efficiency of this aircraft results in lower carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions for their operators. In addition to operating a modern fuel-efficient fleet, Cargolux has implemented a very broad range of measures and initiatives that are designed to mitigate its carbon footprint from both its flight and ground operations.
THE IMPORTANCE OF THE SIZE OF THE RESERVOIR´S USEFUL VOLUME FOR CONSUMPTION AND COST DECREASE IN ELECTRICITY
Authors: Da Conceição Moreira Francisca Nara , Rodrigues Pereira José Almir
Published: February 2023

Current paper analyzes the reservoir´s useful water volume for hydropower efficiency in water supply systems. Data, retrieved from the Guanabara Water Supply System of the municipality of Ananindeua, state of Pará, Brazil, were analyzed. Two useful volume sizes were determined following recommendations by NBR 12.217/1994 “Project on the water distribution reservoir for public supply”. The former featured the time curve of water consumption and the latter the rate of maximum daily discharge. The latter stage assessed the most adequate useful water volume from the point of view of hydropower efficiency by Epanet 2.0. Dimensions with or without water consumption curve provided useful volumes of 838 m3 and 2.043 m3, respectively. In the case of the lowest volume, 47 hours/day of CMB functioning and 987 kWh/day of electric power consumption in EAT were detected. Volume increase to 2,043 m3 was positive, followed by 30 hours/day of functioning of CMB and consumption at 818 kWh/day in EAT. Hydropower costs were reduced by R$ 35,903.00/year, from R$ 143,108.00/year, with a useful volume of 838 m³, to R$ 107,205.00/year with 2,043 m³. Research revealed the importance of computerized simulation in decision-taking and the need for the updating of NBR 12.217/1994 by criteria of hydropower efficiency in the preparation of projects involving water supply reservoir systems.
ANALYSIS OF THE RISK OF CONTAMINATION BY METALS IN AREAS OF SOLID URBAN WASTE DISPOSAL
Authors: C. da Silva Valdenira , Cardoso Pedro Herlleyson. G. , G. Lima Cleidiane , De Castro Rubens. C. , Nobre Crisiana. A. , Milhome Maria Aparecida
Published: February 2023

The inadequate disposal of solid urban waste has been of concern, due to the possibility of environmental contamination by various toxic substances, such as heavy metals. The study aims to analyze the concentration of heavy metals in soil and water samples collected around the municipal solid waste (MSW) open dumpsite, Iguatu, Ceará, Brazil. The analysis of risk to human health was determined using Hazard Quotient (HQ). The results showed the presence of heavy metals in concentrations higher than those established by current legislation. The concentration of metals in the soil and water samples were found in the following order, respectively: Fe> Zn> Mn> Cu> Pb> Cr and Fe> Mn> Zn> Ni> Cu> Cr> Cd> Co. However, HQ values indicate that the level of these metals may have little or no adverse health effects. The results suggest the continuous monitoring of the environmental matrices, to avoid the increase of contamination and the risk to human health.
CLAY BRICK WASTE: NEW FILLER TO NATURAL RUBBER COMPOSITE
Authors: Neves Lucas , Paiva Fábio F. G. , Bacarin Giovani B. , Cabrera Flavio Camargo , Job Aldo E.
Published: February 2023

The development of urban cities increases the amount of construction and demolition waste, such as ceramic materials, mainly clay bricks, and consequently, generates cost for the management and environmental disposal due to the few routes to recycle or reuse them. Here, it is proposed a new approach to reuse clay bricks waste (CB) composed by red ceramic as a reinforcement filler to natural rubber (NR) composites. It was verified that the residue is mostly composed of silicon, which is a filler widely used in rubber industry as SiO2, to mechanically reinforce composites. Tensile strength showed an increment around 16% when 20 phr of CB waste was added to the natural rubber (reaching 12,4 MPa). In addition, composites with 10 phr of waste showed great abrasion resistance and the hardness property increased as CB waste was added. The results indicate that the residue can be used as a possible filler in natural rubber products.
FAST DISINFECTION OF CONTAMINATED STORMWATER USING PERACETIC ACID
Authors: Santos Dário , Cesar Teixeira Luiz Alberto , Volschan Jr. Isaac
Published: February 2023

This work evaluates the performance of peracetic acid (PAA) for the disinfection of stormwater runoffs contaminated by domestic sewage with the objective of using the collecting systems as contact reactors for in-situ disinfection. PAA is increasingly being used as a substitute for chlorination in the disinfection of wastewaters because of its rapid degradability and the absence of chlorinated organic by-products. In Brazil, and despite the adoption of the separator system in sewage systems, there is a large amount of domestic effluents that are piped directly into the stormwater systems, contributing to the contamination of water bodies. The efficiency of the disinfection of Escherichia Coli was evaluated by applying different doses (2, 5 and 10 mg.L-1) of PAA with short contact times (2, 5 and 10 minutes) in real stormwater samples collected at three different points of the stormwater system of the city of Rio de Janeiro. Trials were performed simulating the conditions and flow times available in the stormwater sewers. The results were excellent, with removals up to 5 log units with 10 mg.L-1 peracetic acid and 2 minutes contact time. Where there was available a contact time of at least 5 minutes, a dose of 5 mg.L-1 was sufficient.
NOVEL HYBRID MODELS FOR THE DESIGN OF UPFLOW ANAEROBIC FILTERS SEPARATED IN PHASES.
Authors: Maldonado Julio , Marquez Adriana , Guevara Edilberto , Perez Sergio , Rey Demetrio
Published: February 2023

In this paper, three novelties are presented, the type of reactor, design models, and design experimental factors. The upflow anaerobic filters are separated into two and three phases identified as DI-FAFS and TRI-FAFS (abbreviation in Spanish). The second novelty consists of modifying and combining the traditional models for trickling filter to create hybrid models. The third novelty is based on the combination of three experimental factors: the volumetric organic load has been set at 2.25, 3.45 and 4.64 kg COD m-3 d-1, the temperature at 20, 27 and 34 ° C, the ratio of depths in reactors. The wastewater is the landfill leachate. The conceptual model is based on equations deduced from a mass balance under stationary conditions dS / dt = 0 and advective dS / dZ ≠ 0; formulating eight equations applicable to the DI-FAFS and TRI-FAFS reactors, resulting a R2 adjusted greater than 0.7.
Relationship between lipid profile and suicide attempts in first-episode major depressive disorder patients
Authors: Nukala Srikrishna , Vinnakota Archana , Singisetti Srinivas , Chilukuri Shvetha , Vasireddy Niveditha , Garapati Venkata Abhilash , Sanapala Vidya , Tata Ramya Spandana , Aneepu Yoshita Rao
Published: February 2023

Introduction:

Cholesterol is considered a core component of the central nervous system, essential for cell membrane stability and the correct functioning of neurotransmitters. Cholesterol plays a vital role in the brain’s second messenger system related to the mechanism of action of antidepressant drugs and mood stabilizers. It may be involved in the etiology and pathogenesis of mood disorders.

Aim:

This study aims to explicate facts and views about the role of cholesterol levels in depressive disorder and suicidality.

Materials and Methods:

This was a cross-sectional comparative study where the patients were divided into two groups, i.e., subjects with first-episode major depressive disorder (MDD) with a recent suicide attempt and without suicide attempt. A detailed psychiatric interview, their sociodemographic characteristics, and clinical details were noted on a structured pro forma. MDD diagnosis in the patients was made using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders V. Hamilton Depression Rating Scale was used on subjects to determine the patient’s level of depression. After the overnight fast, blood samples are collected between 6 am and 7 am. Total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride, high-density lipid levels, and low-density lipid levels were measured on the Cobas c311 machine.

Results:

In the current study, a positive correlation was noted in TC (r = 0.488) and low-density lipid (LDL) levels (r = 0.549) in subjects with depression and suicide attempts.

Conclusion:

The present study results add to the other studies that support an association between serum cholesterol with depression and suicide. Understanding the significance of lower cholesterol levels is central for future treatments of depressive disorder.
A cross-sectional study of sociodemographic profile, availability, pattern of use, and service utilization by opioid users in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Goyal Shri Gopal , Ambekar Atul , Arora Pikakashi , Prakash Prem , Rao Ravindra , Agrawal Alok , Mishra Ashwani Kumar
Published: February 2023

Background:

The menace of substance abuse is not only socially unacceptable but also emerging as a major public health challenge in many States of India, including Rajasthan.

Aims:

The aim of this study is to study the sociodemographic profile, pattern of use, availability of opioids, and process of seeking treatment services for opioid dependence.

Subjects and Methods:

After ethical clearance, a cross-sectional observational study was carried out among those who fulfilled the screening criteria at a tertiary care hospital. A self-designed pro forma was used, which included a sociodemographic profile, drug use profile and pattern, behaviors and practices, service access, and the World Health Organization Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST). Results were analyzed using SPSS version 22.

Results:

The mean age of the participants was 41.25 (±12.4) years. The majority (98.3%) were males, married (91.7%), illiterate (33.3%), farmers (61.7%), 45.7% lived in Bikaner District, and 83.3% lived in rural areas. Crude opium was the most common drug used in the lifetime of 98% of users. The most common comorbid substance used was tobacco, used by 75% of them. In 85% of cases, opioid drugs were purchased with their own legal earnings. The major reasons for starting opioid drugs were peer pressure (38.3%), to relieve pain/stress (25%), and to increase physical stamina for work (33.3%). The majority (73.3%) of them had utilized services for deaddiction purposes earlier.

Conclusion:

The rural population in Western Rajasthan was highly affected by opium dependence. Participants were mainly low-potency opioid users without significant impairment in socio-occupational functioning, and their use was mainly to relieve stress and pain and to increase work capacity.
Post-COVID Mixed Fungal Infection – A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Sivakumar P , Krishnamoorthy K , Pratheeban T Joseph , Mathan E , Rahman O M , Hameed Shahul
Published: February 2023

In the COVID-19 pandemic era, an increasing number of cases of mucormycosis have been associated with COVID-19. Mucormycosis is an invasive fungal infection in the background of immunosuppression state. COVID-19 and its treatment cause immunosuppression in patients. Mucormycosis commonly causes necrosis in the nose, paranasal sinuses, and facial bones and may also spread into the brain and lungs. A 58-year-old male, who was a known case of diabetes mellitus, was admitted with COVID-19 reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction positive and B/L GGO with 50% lung involvement in computed tomography (CT) chest, treated as per protocol, and discharged. After 2 weeks of discharge patient presented with hemoptysis, cough with expectoration and breathlessness. Patient was admitted and stabilized. CT chest taken showed right (Rt) upper lobe and lower lobe mucormycosis and left (Lt) upper lobe and lower lobe aspergilloma. Fiberoptic bronchoscopy was done and bronchial wash taken then sent for fungal KOH and culture.fungal culture report showed mixed fungal infection like mucormycosis and aspergilloma. Patient treated with tablet posaconazole and other supportive measures and discharged. Patient asked to review every month. Followup CT chest taken at 1 month and end of 5 months. CT chest revealed partial resolution of Rt upper and lower lobe mucormycosis and persistence of Lt upper and lower lobe aspergilloma lesions. The patient persistently had hemoptysis and hence was referred to cardiothoracic surgery for surgical management of aspergilloma. COVID-19 and treatment of COVID-19 cause underlying immunosuppression that leads to fungal infections such as mucormycosis and aspergilloma. Early identification and treatment of fungal infection reduce morbidity and mortality.
Effectiveness of Educating Proper Inhaler Technique in Chronic Obstructive Airway Disease Patients Visiting Pulmonology Outpatient Department
Authors: Alavandar Aishwarya , Govindasaami Vinod , Thangaswamy Dhanasekar , Muthuraja Koushik
Published: February 2023

Objective:

Inhaler usage plays a key role in the treatment of chronic obstructive airway diseases. Improper usage technique is the most common but correctable aspect of the inhaler therapy, which leads to poor disease control, additional medications, morbidity, repeated exacerbations, and admissions. The usage of proper inhaler technique ensures good treatment outcome.

Methods:

Results:

The number of patients with inhaler technique adequacy (scores of 3 and 4) was 44% in the study's initial phase. The study participants were trained on each stage of the inhaler technique till a level of accuracy is reached and the patient is made aware about the proper technique. The participants during the review process exhibited improved levels of technique adequacy. Overall inhaler technique adequacy (score of 3 and 4) of the study participants reached 91% in the review stage (after 1 month). Part of patient care to educate the patients regarding proper inhaler technique has been found to be highly effective.

Conclusion:

Proper education on correct method of inhaler technique may not only improve the symptoms of the disease but also helps in dose reduction in long-term. Health professionals should encourage and instruct on correct inhalation technique and regularly re-evaluate the patient's inhalation technique during every OPD visit. Thus, proper counseling for the inhaler use in patients must be encouraged as it is closely related in quality of life of patient.