Placement Of Barriers Research Articles

Enhancing regional defense: barrier placement optimization along coasts

Enhancing regional defense: barrier placement optimization along coasts

Enhancing Drought Resilience through Groundwater Engineering by Utilizing GIS and Remote Sensing in Southern Lebanon

Countries face challenges of excess, scarcity, pollution, and uneven water distribution. This study highlights the benefits of advances in groundwater engineering that improve the understanding of utilizing local geological characteristics due to their crucial role in resisting drought in southern Lebanon. The type of drought in the region was determined using the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI), Standardized Vegetation Index (NDVI), Vegetation Condition Index (VCI), and Soil Moisture Anomaly Index (SM). The dry aquifer and its characteristics were analyzed using mathematical equations and established hydrogeological principles, including Darcy’s law. Additionally, a morphometric assessment of the Litani River was performed to evaluate its suitability for artificial recharge, where the optimal placement of the water barrier and recharge tunnels was determined using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient. This analysis involved excluding certain parameters based on the Shapiro–Wilk test for normality. Accordingly, using the Geographic Information System (GIS), we modeled and simulated the potential water table. The results showed the importance and validity of linking groundwater engineering and morphometric characteristics in combating the drought of groundwater layers. The Eocene layer showed a clearer trend for the possibility of being artificially recharged from the Litani River than any other layer. The results showed that the proposed method can enhance artificial recharge, raise the groundwater level to four levels, and transform it into a large, saturated thickness. On the other hand, it was noted that the groundwater levels near the surface will cover most of the area of the studied region and could potentially store more than one billion cubic meters of water, mitigating the effects of climate change for decades.

Utility of three-dimensional-printed tooth model for training purpose of apical barrier placement technique

ABSTRACT Aim: The application of three-dimensional (3D) printing in dentistry is becoming increasingly valuable from clinical dentistry to student training, teaching, and simulation training. Mastering 3D-printed models’ usage is essential for general dental practitioners (GDPs) as it allows them to choose and necessarily know what is offered, as well as how to implement it in everyday practices, thereby contributing to the betterment of the dental profession. The study aims to assess and quantify GDPs knowledge, understanding, and practices related to the use of 3D-printed tooth model for apical barrier placement technique. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the form of self-explanatory questionnaire in the form of 18 questions that evaluated their knowledge and awareness regarding 3D printing. The sample size of 94 GDPs was asked to respond to questionnaire. After the workshop, GDPs were questioned regarding their satisfaction with the simulation of the apical barrier technique with a 3D model. Responses were structured by a five-point Likert scale (1, strongly disagree; 2, disagree; 3, neither agree nor disagree; 4, agree; and 5, strongly agree). Results: A total of 94 replies were obtained after the questionnaire was circulated. Awareness regarding the apical barrier placement technique in open apex cases was known by 61% of practitioners before the workshop. Most of the GDPs strongly agreed with the skill acquisition on a 3D open apex tooth model after the training workshop and it met their expectations. Conclusion: 3D modeling of open apex cases with the application of apical barrier placement technique is useful to give a simulation experience to GDPs. However, with consideration of costs and long processing times, 3D printing may be used optimally for technique-sensitive cases.

Assessment of the occurrence of the second generation of Mythimna loreyi Duponchel (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) using temperature-dependent developmental and oviposition models.

A significant crop pest, Mythimna loreyi, migrates annually to Korea and has been frequently observed in rice and corn fields. However, the phenology of this pest, particularly in relation to its ecological interactions and host crop seasons in Korea, remains poorly understood. This study aims to clarify the timing of the second generation of M. loreyi in Korea to enhance pest management strategies. To achieve this, we developed temperature-dependent models for developmental and ovipositional rates, studying these processes across five constant temperatures (15, 20, 25, 30, and 35°C). Our models, which showed a high correlation with observed data (r2 ≥ 0.93), include a theoretical approach that combines the developmental variation of immatures with the necessary degree-days for 50% egg laying and complete egg development. These predictions allow for the forecasting of the second generation's occurrence, with relatively small deviations (one to three days) observed at two different field sites. The insights from this study are critical for both understanding the ecology of M. loreyi and for informing practical management decisions, such as optimal placement of barriers to prevent immigration and strategies for controlling local populations.

Optimising barrier placement for intrusion detection and prevention in WSNs.

This research addresses the pressing challenge of intrusion detection and prevention in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs), offering an innovative and comprehensive approach. The research leverages Support Vector Regression (SVR) models to predict the number of barriers necessary for effective intrusion detection and prevention while optimising their strategic placement. The paper employs the Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) algorithm to enhance the precision of barrier placement and resource allocation. The integrated approach combines SVR predictive modelling with ACO-based optimisation, contributing to advancing adaptive security solutions for WSNs. Feature ranking highlights the critical influence of barrier count attributes, and regularisation techniques are applied to enhance model robustness. Importantly, the results reveal substantial percentage improvements in model accuracy metrics: a 4835.71% reduction in Mean Squared Error (MSE) for ACO-SVR1, an 862.08% improvement in Mean Absolute Error (MAE) for ACO-SVR1, and an 86.29% enhancement in R-squared (R2) for ACO-SVR1. ACO-SVR2 has a 2202.85% reduction in MSE, a 733.98% improvement in MAE, and a 54.03% enhancement in R-squared. These considerable improvements verify the method's effectiveness in enhancing WSNs, ensuring reliability and resilience in critical infrastructure. The paper concludes with a performance comparison and emphasises the remarkable efficacy of regularisation. It also underscores the practicality of precise barrier count estimation and optimised barrier placement, enhancing the security and resilience of WSNs against potential threats.

Preventive Effects of Laser Irradiation and Dentin Bonding Agent Application on Tooth Discoloration Induced by Mineral Trioxide Aggregate

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of the pre-application of dentin bonding agent and laser application on the prevention of tooth discoloration caused by (MTA) in the presence of blood. Fifty extracted human anterior teeth were prepared by standardizing root lengths to 10 mm and shaping root canals. Specimens were divided into five groups (n = 10) based on the treatment applied to the pulp chamber dentin wall: Group 1/no surface treatment; Group 2/Optibond FL; Group 3/Clearfil SE; Group 4/Optibond Universal adhesive application; Group 5/Nd:YAG laser application. Root canals were filled with fresh human blood below the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ), followed by ProRoot MTA, and collagen barrier placement. Color changes were monitored using a spectrophotometer at 0, 7, 30, 90, and 180 days post MTA placement. Color differences (∆E) were calculated and analyzed using two-factor mixed-design ANOVA with Sidak adjustment at p = 0.05. The degree of coloration increased with time within each group (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed between Optibond FL and Optibond Universal within each time interval, or between Clearfill SE Bond and the control group (p > 0.05). When compared to the control group, the Nd YAG group exhibited the least degree of discoloration in all time intervals (p < 0.05). Although the Nd:YAG laser had promising results, none of the methods can guarantee a 100% prevention of discoloration resulting from tooth discoloration caused by MTA-blood contact.

Noise pollution of the territories adjacent to the automobile road and some means of fighting it

Problem. The article discusses the issues related to environmental pollution by road traffic noise and considers possible solutions to these problems. The article has a review character and applies a systematic approach based on general scientific methodological principles that take into account objects as systems. The objects of study in this article are the noise load from the highway and the means of protection against it.
 Several methods of protection against noise pollution of residential areas adjacent to the highway are considered. Goal. The goal is to analyze noise pollution from highways and analyze solutions to reduce this pollution. Methodology. This research is aimed at analyzing measures to reduce the level of noise arising from traffic and create comfortable conditions for residents of settlements located near highways. Results. Environmental sustainability can be taken into account in the design and construction of noise barriers by using, for example, materials with high renewable amendability or materials that can be recycled. With the right choice of materials, design and placement of noise barriers, a significant reduction in environmental noise levels can be achieved and the quality of life of the occupants can be improved. In each case, a sound engineering assessment should be carried out and an individualized plan developed to achieve optimal noise protection results. The overall effectiveness of noise barriers will be determined by a large number of factors, and each project should be analyzed and designed in detail to meet specific needs and conditions. Practical value. These measures help to improve the quality of life and preserve the health of residents by creating comfortable and safe living conditions. The general approach to noise protection in residential areas involves integrated planning, which takes into account the noise characteristics of transport routes and roads, as well as the design of buildings and the internal layout of housing. This helps to create favourable conditions for residents and reduce the negative impact of noise on their physical and psychological health.

Exploring pedestrian and cyclist preferences for shared space design: A video-based online survey

Shared space design aims to establish an environment in which pedestrians, cyclists, and motor vehicles can interact and coexist harmoniously. To identify whether pedestrians and cyclists equally favour attributes that attract, engage, and protect them in the space, this paper explores their preferences for shared space design in configurations that emphasise the sense of place, integration, and informal segregation. In an online survey, 408 participants experienced videos of virtual environments with different designs to assess various attributes and their influence on the perception of the space and crossing behaviour. The results indicate that pedestrians and cyclists do favour similar attributes and space configurations. While both find motor vehicles undesirable, they hold a positive view of the central placement of design elements and protective barriers separating them from other road users. To design liveable environments that integrate and accommodate road users’ needs, this paper reiterates that it is crucial to systematically structure the space to deliver the concept of integration while reinforcing the place function and providing a sense of protection for vulnerable road users. Distinct design elements and their strategic placement, such as a centrally located fountain, can also further enhance the overall appeal of the design.

Closure of pelvic peritoneum with bladder peritoneum flap reconstruction after laparoscopic extralevator abdominoperineal excision: A prospective stage II study.

Extralevator abdominoperineal resection (ELAPE) has increased perineal wound complications due to the extended resection area. Closure of the pelvic peritoneum (CPP) may exclude the abdominal content from descending into the pelvic cavity and reduce the incidence of perineal complications after ELAPE. We have previously introduced bladder peritoneum flap reconstruction (BLAPER) as a novel method for patients in whom traditional CPP is not possible. The aim of the present study was to report the development and preliminary outcomes of BLAPER. This is a prospective single-arm study at the development and exploration phase and fulfills the IDEAL framework stage II. Ultralow rectal cancer patients with rigid pelvis who underwent ELAPE with BLAPER were enrolled. Primary outcomes were intraoperative complications and postoperative complications within 1 month after surgery. Among 27 patients included, the overall success rate of BLAPER was 96.3% (26/27). Indocyanine green fluorescence imaging and antiadhesive barrier placement were introduced to improve the BLAPER technique. The incidence of major pelvic wound complications was 7.7%. No patient who underwent BLAPER has suffered small bowel obstruction (SBO), presence of small bowel in the retrourogenital space, or perineal hernia (PH). BLAPER is safe and may prevent the small bowel from descending into the retrourogenital space and subsequently developing PH and SBO without increasing the intraoperative and postoperative complications. BLAPER may serve as an option when the primary suture of the pelvic peritoneum is not feasible.

Advanced numerical analysis of convective rarefied flows in microchannels: Studying the impact of multiple obstacle arrangements through LBM modeling

The investigation of fluid flow and forced convective heat transfer in microchannels with square barriers is the focus of this study. The positioning of obstacles was varied in three cases: at the top wall, bottom wall, and symmetrically distributed on both sides of the microchannel wall. The thermal Lattice Boltzmann Method in conjunction with the Double Distribution Function and Bhatnagar–Gross–Krook approach was used for simulation through computer code in Python. Slip velocity and temperature jump were considered in the boundary conditions for the walls of the microchannel and obstacles. The results demonstrate that the rarefaction effect, placement of barriers, and choice of square obstacles significantly impact fluid flow and heat transfer. An increase in Knudsen numbers (Kn) leads to a decrease in temperature and velocity. The presence of obstructions on both sides of the microchannel walls reduces the fluid’s velocity and cools the fluid at the microchannel’s exit. The third case, with obstacles on both sides, presents a practical approach for reducing the fluid’s temperature at the exit, resulting in the lowest level of skin friction (Cf) and a reduction in the Nusselt number (Nu). The proposed configurations can be utilized to enhance the geometry of microchannels and for cooling purposes in small-scale devices and systems with miniature mechanical and electrical components. The study’s findings suggest that the placement of obstacles at the bottom or on both sides, depending on the need for best cooling on both sides or only at the top to reduce material consumption, can achieve low temperature at the exit of a rectangular microchannel.

Comparative Evaluation of Different Intra-orifice Barriers on the Microleakage of Endodontically Treated Roots Obturated with Gutta-percha “An In-vitro Study”

Aim: To comparatively evaluate various Intra-Orifice barriers (IOB) namely; Cention N (Ivoclar Vivadent), Biodentine (Septodont), Light Cured GIC (GC Gold Label 2LC) and Tetric N Flow (Ivoclar Vivadent) for their effects on the microleakage of endodontically treated teeth.
 Study Design: In-vitro study.
 Place of Study: Department of Endodontics and conservative dentistry, Himachal dental college, Sundarnagar, Himachal Pradesh.
 Materials and Methods: Seventy-five mandibular premolars were decoronated to a standardized length, prepared and obturated with Gutta-Percha and AH Plus sealer. Except for control specimens, the coronal 3-mm gutta-percha was removed and filled with different Intra-orifice barrier materials. The specimens (75) were divided into five groups (n = 15) on the basis of the Intra-Orifice barrier material used. Group 1: Control, Group 2: Cention N, Group 3: Biodentine, Group 4: Light Cured GIC, Group 5: Tetric N Flow. In experimental groups, 3 mm of coronal gutta-percha was removed and replaced with the study material. Samples were submerged in 2% methylene blue dye in vacuum for one week. Specimens were longitudinally sectioned and leakage measured using a 50X stereomicroscope and graded for depth of leakage.
 Results: In the present study microleakage of roots were significantly affected by the type of Intra-Orifice barrier used and the following pattern was observed: Tetric N Flow > Biodentine >Light Cured GIC > Cention N>Control.
 Conclusion: The present study concluded that Intra-Orifice barrier placement provides better coronal seal, prevents microleakage, and enhance the longevity of postobturation restorations, Tetric N Flow proved to be the best followed by Biodentine, Light Cured GIC and Control group.

The homogenisation behaviour of BCV bentonite – A laboratory and numerical study

Bentonite is considered as a suitable sealing material for radioactive waste geological repositories because of its high swelling capacity and low permeability. Regardless of the construction procedure and initial form of the bentonite, i.e. blocks, pellets, powder or combinations and mixtures thereof, the placement of the bentonite barrier results in initial heterogeneities which could potentially form preferential pathways for the migration of radionuclides. This study focused on the laboratory investigation of the homogenisation of Czech BCV bentonite. The analysis comprised the performance of four sets of tests on dual-density samples composed of two layers of bentonite compacted to various dry densities. Each set of tests considered two identical samples saturated from different sides under constant volume conditions. Homogenisation was investigated through the measurement of swelling pressure on both sides of the samples and via the determination of the final density distribution in a vertical profile from the post-mortem analysis. The results confirmed a substantial degree of homogenisation, with only a small density gradient revealed by the post-mortem analysis. The density distribution profiles indicated a gradual change in the vertical direction with no distinct border between the original layers. A higher degree of homogenisation was found in the samples with a higher overall density and, consequently, a higher swelling potential. No clear effect of the direction of saturation on homogenisation was identified from the density profiles. The final swelling pressures corresponded well to swelling pressures obtained on single-density samples with density equal to the global density of the dual-density samples. The numerical modelling represented well the final swelling pressures and the swelling pressure evolution curves for both the single- and dual-density samples (including the distinct experimentally-observed swelling pressure peak when the dual-density sample was saturated from the high-density end). More accurate results were obtained while considering the porosity and the degree of saturation-dependent permeability. However, the model did not fully capture the homogenisation of the dual-density samples in terms of the dry density profiles. While the tendency towards homogenisation was predicted correctly, two distinct density zones were evident in the simulations, while the experiment revealed a gradual density distribution.

Evaluation of the effect of diode laser activation on push-out bond strength of different intraorifice barriers in endodontically treated teeth. An in-vitro study

Introduction: The placement of intraorifice barriers should facilitate proper adhesion; however, it is still a challenge with existing intraorifice barrier materials. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the push-out bond strength of Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC), Tetric-N-Flow, and Biodentine as intraorifice barriers with and without diode laser activation. Materials and Methods: Human-extracted single-rooted 60 mandibular premolars were decoronated to standardize 13 mm root length. Root canal was instrumented with rotary ProTaper universal system till F4 and alternatively irrigated with 5 ml of 2.5% sodium hypochlorite and normal saline, followed by obturation using gutta-percha and AH-plus sealer. About 3.5 mm of gutta-percha was removed from the orifice using peso reamer. Horizontal tooth sections of 3.5 mm in length were obtained from the coronal third of each sample and were randomly divided into three groups (n = 20 each) for intraorifice barrier materials. Group 1: GIC; group 2: Tetric-N-Flow and group 3:Biodentine. Each group was further subdivided into two subgroups A and B (n = 10 each) with and without diode laser. After 7 days, the specimens were mounted in acrylic molds and push-out bond strength was evaluated under universal testing machine. Data analysis was done using One way-analysis of variance and post hoc Tuckey comparison tests (P ≤ 0.05). Results: Laser activation in each group showed greater push-out bond strength; however, Biodentine with laser (group 3A) exhibited higher bond strength compared to all groups (P ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: Biodentine with laser activation before placement of the coronal barrier of endodontic treated tooth increases the quality of bond strength.

Fragmentation Level Drives Local Fish Assemblage Diversity Patterns in Fragmented River Basins

Longitudinal connectivity is the main attribute of river ecosystems and is essential for the maintenance of aquatic biota. When longitudinal connectivity decreases in a river network, abundance of some fish species decreases, and local extinctions may occur. Such abundance decreases and extinctions affect local assemblage structure (alpha diversity) and result in a high degree of dissimilarity among local assemblages (higher beta diversity). Specific ecological mechanisms that are behind these biodiversity changes induced by connectivity loss remain poorly understood. Here, we assessed the effects of fragmentation at the local and basin level, as well as local environmental variables on local fish diversity patterns in eight Andean river basins in central Chile (32–39° S). The results indicated that fish assemblages inhabiting pool habitats in highly fragmented basins were characterized by significantly lower species richness and alpha diversity mainly driven by absence of fish species with high dispersion capacities. Our results highlight the importance of the effects of barrier cascades upstream as drivers of local native fish diversity. Sustainable hydropower development necessitates system scale planning of the placement of future barriers and should consider both local and basin scale biodiversity indicators.

Orifice barriers to prevent coronal microleakage after root canal treatment: systematic review and meta-analysis.

This systematic review aimed to compare the efficiency of orifice barriers in preventing coronal microleakage in vitro. Articles published in English, German and Chinese were searched for studies describing microleakage assays for the bacterial penetration of root canal-treated teeth in vitro. The final sample included 18 articles for review and meta-analysis. Risk ratios and confidence intervals were determined for dichotomous variables. Ten publications using bacterial leakage models contributed to the meta-analysis. The addition of orifice barriers to a root canal filling was overall effective, shown by risk ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) demonstrating reduced microleakage with glass ionomer cement (GIC) (RR 0.37, 95% CI 0.26-0.53, P < 0.001), resin-modified GIC (RR 0.32, 95% CI 0.15-0.67, P= 0.01), composite resin (RR 0.54, 95% CI 0.38-0.75, P < 0.001), mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) (RR 0.25, 95% CI 0.12-0.52, P < 0.001) and Cavit (RR 0.23, 95% CI 0.14-0.39, P < 0.001). There were no significant differences between GIC, resin-modified GIC, composite resin and MTA orifice barriers. Placement of an orifice barrier over the root canal filling is effective in the prevention of coronal microleakage in vitro. Other parameters may also affect the effectiveness of orifice barriers, including thickness and duration of exposure to the oral environment. © 2023 Australian Dental Association.

In vivo evaluation of a collagen membrane in bone neoformation: A morphological and histomorphometric study

ObjectiveGuided bone regeneration (GBR) is a technique that involves the placement of mechanical barriers to protect the blood clot, and create an isolated space to prevent competition from epithelial and connective tissues in bone augmentation treatments. Collagen membranes stand out from other materials available for performing regenerative surgeries, and are widely used because of their ability to promote cell adhesion and homeostasis, and their biocompatibility, ease of handling, and low immunogenicity. In this context, researchers have investigated xenogenic membranes/barriers that cost less and have slower resorption rates. The current study aimed to assess the osteogenic potential induced by a crosslinked, synthesized xenogenic membrane 100 µm thick when applied in vivo to critical defects in rat calvaria. Material and methodsCritical size defects were created in the calvaria of thirty male Wistar rats, and randomly divided into the following two groups: G1 – clot covered with a commercial xenogenic membrane (Lumina-Coat®, Criteria, Brazil), and G2 – clot covered with a synthesized xenogenic membrane. The animals were euthanized after 7, 15 and 30 days, and samples of calvaria were processed to perform morphometric evaluations to measure bone neoformation in the defect region. In addition, ultrastructural characterization of the collagen membranes was performed by scanning electron microscope. The quantitative analyses were carried out by adopting a significance level of 5%. ResultsThe ultrastructural characterization revealed that the synthesized membrane had thicker collagen fibers and a more cohesive surface, compared with the Lumina-Coat® collagen membrane (G1). There was no significant difference in bone neoformation between the membranes (p>0.05), at any of the time periods analyzed. The bone quantification area increased significantly over time for both membranes (p<0.05). ConclusionThe synthesized membrane exhibited morphological characteristics similar to those of the commercial membrane evaluated, allowed potentially active participation in the bone neoformation process, and served as a low-cost alternative for GBR procedures.

Подходы к качественной оценке состояния барьеров безопасности на объектах нефтегазовой отрасли

The basic concepts of the idea of safety barriers and proposals for their classification are given. The criteria for assessing the performance of safety barriers, methods for checking their performance during operation of the facility, as well as an approach to a qualitative assessment of their performance at the facility are described. Technical safety barriers mean engineering systems and equipment located at the facility and designed to implement a critical safety function. Administrative safety barriers serve to control the implementation of critical safety tasks performed by the employees. The performance of safety barriers is described by three groups of criteria: efficiency, reliability, stability. The tasks of effective safety barriers management are reduced to preventing, controlling, or reducing the consequences of the implementation of risks at oil and gas facilities. These goals are achieved by assessing the performance of each barrier element and maintaining its performance capability, as well as by analyzing not only technical, but also administrative decisions. The tasks set are solved by the efficient placement and use of safety barriers, ensuring their effectiveness, reliability, and sustainability through current supporting procedures. Based on the results of the assessment of the safety barriers performance, the recommendations are developed on the formation of a list of measures in the field of operational risk management and on reducing the level of risk criticality. The task of assessing the performance of safety barriers is to identify the weak points in the industrial safety of oil and gas facilities by determining the sufficiency and readiness of each existing safety barrier to perform a barrier function.

Investigation of effect of logjam series for varying channel and barrier physical properties using a sparse input data 1D network model

Targeted design and placement of natural flood management leaky barriers, or engineered logjams, and accurate representation of logjams in hydraulic models across different scales is necessary to generate desired water storage and flood peak attenuation for effective river restoration and natural flood management projects. We systematically assess the effect of varying logjam spacing, extent of logjam-generated change in water surface profile, vertical height of lower gap, overflow to local floodplain, and varying channel slope, representing a series of logjams in a sparse input data 1D network model including the jam-generated backwater, which depends on loss of momentum within the jam. To guide catchment-scale representation, best-fit increased channel resistance was found to increase with number of jams, approaching an analytically determined maximum for close inter-jam spacing, useful for setting an upper envelope for efficacy.

The differences of microleakage smart dentin replacement, glass ionomer cement and a flowable resin composite as orifice barrier in root canal treated

This study was a laboratory experiment. The sample was 27 premolar teeth with one or two mandibular permanent teeth extracted consist of: a smart dentin replacement, glass ionomer cement, and a flowable resin composite. Teeth were prepared using a crown-down method and obturated using gutta percha and AH Plus. After placement of the orifice barrier with a thickness of 4 mm, the teeth were immersed in a 2% methylene blue solution at 37ºC for 24 hours. Teeth sectioned in the buccolingual direction and observation of microleakage using a stereomicroscope (M = 10×). The results showed that microleakage differences between a smart dentin replacement, glass ionomer cement, and a flowable resin composite. The smart dentin replacement has the smallest micro-leakage value of 1.70 but does not differ significantly with the flowable composite resin.

Challenges in siting a highway noise barrier with constraints of cost, zoning, and wetlands management

A noise barrier has been planned to reduce the impact of highway noise on a private property with restrictions on construction due to wetlands management, and stringent building code requirements, with respect to cost. Using the constraints of the site and local ordinances, an application of a genetic algorithm was designed in order to find the optimal barrier placement that complied with all site constraints. Fitness criteria were developed according to the area of the constructed barrier, as well as the amount of attenuation provided according to a Maekawa based screen attenuation calculation determined in a 3-D model of the terrain.