Cost-benefit Research Articles

Cost-optimization based target reliabilities for design of structures exposed to fire

Adequacy of structural fire design in uncommon structures is conceptually ensured through cost-benefit analysis where the future costs are balanced against the benefits of safety investment. Cost-benefit analyses, however, are complicated and computationally challenging, and hence impractical for application to individual projects. To address this issue, design guidance proposes target reliability indices for normal design conditions, but no target reliability indices are defined for structural fire design. We revisit the background of the cost-optimization based approach underlying normal design target reliability indices then we extend this approach for the case of fire design of structures. We also propose a modified objective function for cost-optimization which simplifies the evaluation of target reliability indices and reduces the number of assumptions. The optimum safety level is expressed as a function of a new dimensionless variable named “Damage-to-investment indicator” (DII). The cost optimization approach is validated for the target reliability indices for normal design condition. The method is then applied for evaluating DII and the associated optimum reliability indices for fire-exposed structures. Two case studies are presented: (i) a one-way loaded reinforced concrete slab and (ii) a steel column under axial loading. This study thus provides a framework for deriving optimum (target) reliability index for structural fire design which can support the development of rational provisions in codes and standards.

Unionization of retired workers in Europe

We shed light on an understudied group: retirees in unions. Using representative individual-level data of 19 European countries, we find that the share of retirees in unions and the union density of retirees increased between 2008 and 2020. Econometric analyses indicate that on average retired workers’ probability of union membership is 17 percentage points lower than that of active workers, with some variation among countries. This finding is consistent with social custom models and cost–benefit considerations, but it partly questions the inter-generational solidarity model put forward in the literature. We further find that some determinants of union membership differ between active and retired workers; for instance, the (former) status of being a full-time or blue-collar worker is only statistically significant for active but not for retired workers. Overall, standard membership models better explain the unionization of active than retired workers.

Effect of Endovascular Thrombectomy for Acute Ischemic Stroke on Cognitive Outcomes: A Secondary Analysis of the ESCAPE Trial.

The effect of endovascular therapy (EVT) for large vessel occlusion stroke on cognitive outcomes is not well understood. We evaluated the effect of EVT on cognitive function in the Endovascular Treatment for Small Core and Anterior Circulation Proximal Occlusion With Emphasis on Minimizing CT to Recanalization Times (ESCAPE) trial. Patient data from the ESCAPE randomized trial were analyzed. Cognitive assessments completed at 90 days after stroke were the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), the Sunnybrook Neglect Assessment Procedure (SNAP), the Boston Naming Test (BNT), Trail-making test A (Trails A), and Trail-making test B (Trails B). We used logistic regression to evaluate the association between EVT and favorable cognitive outcome on the 5 separate tests, adjusting for demographic and clinical factors. We used generalized estimating equations and ordinal regression to determine the odds of favorable outcome with EVT on global cognition incorporating the 5 tests. We added final infarct volume (FIV) to the models to assess the relationship of FIV with cognitive outcome. The ESCAPE trial included 315 patients, 165 randomized to EVT and 150 randomized to control. There was higher odds of favorable outcome with EVT for MoCA (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.32, 95% CI 1.30-4.16), SNAP (aOR 3.85, 95% CI 2.00-7.45), BNT (aOR 2.33, 95% CI 1.30-4.17), trails A (aOR 3.50, 95% CI 1.93-6.36), and trails B (aOR 2.56, 95% CI 1.46-4.48). There was higher odds of favorable outcome with EVT on global binary (aOR 2.57, 95% CI 1.67-3.94) and ordinal analyses (aOR 2.83, 95% CI 1.68-4.76) of cognitive function. After adding FIV to the models, both FIV and EVT were significantly associated with cognitive outcome. There was a significant correlation between global cognitive performance and mRS at day 90 (r = -0.78, p < 0.001), with the largest reductions in favorable cognitive outcome from mRS score 4 to 5 and from mRS 2 to 3. In this secondary analysis of the ESCAPE trial, EVT was associated with favorable outcome on 5 separate cognitive tests and in global analyses of cognitive benefit. These results provide novel evidence for the effect of EVT on cognition and support the global benefit of treatment with EVT. This study provides Class II evidence that in patients with acute ischemic stroke due to intracranial internal carotid artery (ICA) or M1 segment MCA occlusion, including tandem extracranial ICA occlusions, EVT compared with best medical therapy increased odds of favorable cognitive outcome.

An Analysis of Goldfish Hatchtery Business in the Situjaya Group of Situraja Village, Sumedang Regency, West Java

The purposes of this study were (1) To analyze the prospect of goldfish hatchery business in Situ Jaya Group, judged from the financial aspect. (2) To formulate any goldfish hatchery alternative strategy in Situjaya Group. The eligibility analysis criteria that is applied to analyze the business feasibility are Net Benefit Cost Ratio (Net B / C), and Payback Period (PP). Furthermore, the methods which are applied to identify the factors that influenced the business development using Internal Factor Evaluation (IFE) matrix, the EFE matrix, the Strategic Matrix, and the Matrix Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT), on the final phase resulted in creating alternative development strategies. Data collection method was conducted by using census method. The number of respondents were 8 people in all members of the Situ Jaya Group. Based on the non-financial feasibility analysis, the hatchery business is still weak on all non-financial aspects. Based on the results of financial analysis, it yields worth 100%. The entire value of Net B / C that obtained is greater than 1, i.e. 1.67. All PP value that obtained is 6 years 11 months 27 days. Based on the Matrix Strategy analysis that can be applied is market penetration and product development. Based on the SWOT analysis, the strategy that needs to be done is aggressive strategy which means that the business is in steady and excellent condition so it is possible to continue to expand, enlarge the growth and achieve maximum progress. While the Alternative Strategy for business development is the application of Weaknesses-Opportunities Strategy.

A study on the thermal performance of Pleurotus Ostreatus/Straw mycelium composites and its application in building envelopes

Most conventional construction materials are non-degradable, putting huge burden on our environment at disposal. Mycelium-based composites are formed by aggregating some forestry and agricultural residues with networks of filamentous hyphae, and they are degradable and environmentally friendly. The paper examines the thermal property of Pleurotus Ostreatus/Straw (PO/S) mycelium composites and explores the possibility of using it for building insulation application. Samples of PO/S mycelium composites of different composition and density were prepared. The thermal conductivity was measured by a steady-state thermal measurement approach. It was found that incubation time, preparation method, and composition are important factors for the thermal performance of the material. The lowest thermal conductivity was 0.12 W/m‧K, with the sample (FMC 04) consisting of 75 % Pleurotus Ostreatus primary spawn and 25 % straw substrate and prepared without pressure. With this composition, a series of mycelium-based façade and roof sandwich insulation panels were designed in details. The U-values of the panels were calculated using THERM software, and required panel thickness was investigated. It was found that when the panel thickness reaches 240 mm, two types of wall panels (W1 and W2) and two types of roof panels (R1 and R2) satisfy the energy efficiency requirements of Class A public building in the “hot summer and cold winter” climate zone in China. A cost-benefit analysis shows that implementation of this novel insulation panel is financially sustainable for at least 10 years from now on, if it is sold at a price 5 % more than normal panels.

Efficacy of Certain Chemicals and Botanicals against Shoot and Fruit Borer, Leucinodes orbonalis (Guenee) on Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)

The field trial was conducted at Central research farm , SHUATS, Prayagraj, U.P during Kharif season 2023 in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications consisting of eight treatment viz, Neem oil 2%, Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC , Spinosad 45%SC, Flubendiamide 480 SC, Indoxacarb 14.5% SC, Pangomia + Flubendiamide, Neem oil + Flubendiamide, and untreated Control, The result revealed that all insecticidal treatments were significantly superior to reduce the incidence of shoot and fruit damage of brinjal compared to untreated control. The plot treated with Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC recorded the lowest % of shoot and fruit damage 4.03% and 3.20 % in first and second sprays, respectively followed by spinosad 45% SC (4.43% and 4.15% respectively). The yield ranged from 85 to 225.50 q/ha in all treatments. The highest yield was recorded in Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 % SC (225q/ha) followed by spinosad 45% SC (190q/ha), Flubendiamide 480 SC (17.50q/ha), Indoxacarb 14.5 SC (160.35q/ha), Pangomia + Flubendiamide (140.33q/ha), Neem oil + Flubendiamide (132.40q/ha) and Neem oil 2% (120.50q/ha) as compared to control (85.00q/ha). When cost benefit worked out the best and most economical treatment was Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC (1:10.3) followed by Spinosad 45% SC (1:8.5), Flubendiamide 480 SC (1:7.5), Indoxacarb14.5 SC (1:7.4), Pangomia + Flubendiamide (1:6.0), Neem oil + Flubendiamide (1:5.5) and Neem oil 2% (1:5.4) as compared to control (1:4.2).

Efficacy of Selected Biopesticides against Mustard Aphid, Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.) (Hemiptera: Aphididae)

The present experiment was carried out at Central Research Farm, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, during Rabi season of the year 2023-2024under Randomized Block Design (RBD) with eight treatments and three replications. Single spray Twosprays were undertaken at fourteen days interval. Neem oil 5 %, imidacloprid 17.8 SL, Beauveria bassiana 1.15 % WP, Nisco Sixer plus, Metarhizum anisopliae, spinosad + neem oil 5 %, spinosad 45% SC were the treatments tested against the mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.). Results show that imidacloprid 17.8% SL was significantly superior over the other treatments showing 30.08/top 10cm twig and Beauveria bassiana being least effective recorded the highest number of aphids of 69.53/top 10cm twig of plant. The highest yield and cost benefit ratio was recorded from the plots treated with imidacloprid 17.8% SL (18.5 q/ha and 1:5.19) and the lowest from Beauveria bassiana (12.55 q/ha and 1:3.43).

The impact of low-cost carriers on high-quality producers in the aviation industry: cost-benefit analysis

PurposeThis paper aims to examine the low-cost carriers (LCC) impact on the high-quality carriers (HQC) in the aviation industry. The impact of LCCs on high-quality producers in the aviation industry has been a significant and multifaceted phenomenon.Design/methodology/approachThe study employs a captivating case study approach, investigating into the intricate fabric of the subject matter. Interviews serve as the cornerstone of primary evidence, offering first-hand insights, while secondary data sourced from documents adds depth to the exploration of the challenges encountered by the HQC.FindingsThe study concludes that LCCs have disrupted the traditional aviation landscape by offering low fares, simplified service models and aggressive cost-cutting strategies. This disruption has affected both the high-quality producers, such as full-service airlines. Full-service airlines have adopted a strategy of segmenting their market by offering multiple fare classes, with varying levels of service and flexibility. This allows them to target both price-sensitive travelers and those seeking premium services, catering to a broader customer base. The competition from LCCs has spurred innovation within the aviation industry, leading to advancements in technology, digital services and operational efficiency. Airlines, both LCCs and traditional carriers, have had to adapt to evolving consumer preferences and embrace digital solutions for booking, check-in and in-flight services.Research limitations/implicationsWhile this study provides a valuable cost-benefit analysis of the impact of LCC on high-quality producers in the aviation industry, it is essential to acknowledge its limitations and recognize the avenues for future research to further enhance our understanding of this complex and evolving industry landscape. While this study contributes valuable insights into the impact of LCCs on high-quality producers in the aviation industry, it is essential to recognize its limitations and identify opportunities for future research to expand our understanding of this complex and dynamic landscape. By addressing these limitations and exploring new avenues of inquiry, we can continue to advance our knowledge and inform evidence-based decision-making within the industry.Originality/valueThis study pioneers an exploration into the intricate tapestry of factors molding the future of the aviation sector. Through its groundbreaking analysis, it furnishes indispensable insights for industry stakeholders, policymakers and the discerning traveling public, setting a new benchmark for understanding and navigating the aviation landscape.

Economic consequences of the implementation of primary DNA-HPV genotype testing in Bulgaria

There is a global call for action for cervical cancer elimination as a public health problem—WHO Strategy 90-70-90. One of the strategic pillars, alongside vaccination, is cervical cancer screening. This aims to assess the economic consequences and cost-effectiveness of primary DNA-HPV testing for cervical cancer screening in Bulgaria. Combined cost-effectiveness (CEA) and cost-benefit (CBA) analysis was performed to evaluate the net benefit of the HPV genotype testing program among women aged 30–54 in Bulgaria and to compare its cost-effectiveness with the current practice. ICER was presented separately for only direct costs and direct + indirect costs. The CBA analysis for the age group 30-54 shows that the benefit/cost ratio of DNA-HPV primary screening is 1.03 and the net present benefit accounts for 373,023 euro thus making the program beneficial for the healthcare system. CEA shows that HPV screening is cost-effective over the current practice of PAP testing with ICER 1634 euro/LYG when considering only direct costs and—8020 euro/LYG for direct and indirect costs. The ICER in terms of the sensitivity rate of the testing methods is 1316 euros. The LYG earned with the HPV testing account for 4989 for the observed women. Primary hrHPVDNA-based screening is an important scientific and clinical advance since it offers better reassurance of low cancer risk compared to cytology-only screening conducted at the same interval. Primary hrHPV screening can be considered as a dominant alternative to current cytology-based cervical cancer screening approaches including cytology alone and contesting and providing better benefit.

#1377 Evaluation of state-wide health system implementation of renal supportive care shows substantial net benefits

Abstract Background and Aims In 2016, the New South Wales (NSW) Health system implemented a service to make the principles and practice of palliative medicine comprehensively available to patients receiving chronic kidney disease (CKD) care across NSW. Summative evaluation of the economic value that this multi-disciplinary State-wide RSC service provided following implementation was prospectively planned in the domains of patient experience and economic value. This abstract reports the first cost-benefit analysis of a RSC service. Method De-identified patient-level data was extracted from the NSW Renal Supportive Care Register (a linked dataset comprising admitted patient, non-admitted patient, emergency department episodes and death registrations). Data was compared between 2015/16, prior to implementation of the State-wide RSC service; and 2018/19, following settled operation of the service. A cost-benefit analysis model was constructed to estimate the economic value of the RSC service between 2015/16 and 2018/19; and the projected value to 2029/30 under different scenarios. Multivariate Cox regressions were estimated to measure survival benefits, and a polynomial regression model was employed to estimate the impact of RSC on the share of patients receiving dialysis. Results Considering the actual impact of the NSW RSC service; in 2015/16, 5% (n = 443) of all ESKD patients, (defined as receiving dialysis &amp;gt;3 months, non-dialysis conservative care or in receipt of a functioning transplant) received any RSC service. By 2018/19, 16% (n = 1460) of all ESKD patients had received RSC within NSW. The proportion of patients receiving RSC from a non-dialysis conservative care or dialysis context remained stable between 2015/16 and 2018/19 at 41% and 29% respectively. Patients receiving RSC were estimated to have increased survival by 3-21 weeks, depending on patient characteristics, compared to the scenario of no RSC service. Considering the projected value of ongoing RSC services; scenarios with different assumptions were modelled. Assuming that the proportion of patients receiving different ESKD modalities and the costs of care remained stable, the RSC service would deliver a net financial benefit to the commissioning health system (avoided costs of service minus RSC costs) of ${\$}$109 million Australian Dollars (AUD), with a return on investment of 212%, compared to the scenario of no RSC service. When the economic value for the whole NSW community from increased survival benefit was included, the projected value was ${\$}$275 million AUD, with return on investment of 535%. The projected economic value of RSC was modelled under scenarios of increasing access to the service by ESKD patients (Figure). Increasing RSC access from the achieved 16% to 20% of ESKD patients was projected to deliver maximal economic value, with a 3% fall in ESKD patients receiving dialysis, increasing survival benefit (${\$}$221 million AUD) and economic value ${\$}$94 million AUD. As access to RSC expands further, modelling indicates that additional dialysis substitution becomes less likely but benefits still accrue from survival up to a maximum viable rollout of 50% of the ESKD population receiving RSC, when survival benefits plateau. Conclusion Economic evaluation of this implementation of the Statewide RSC service across NSW Health shows it has been associated with both a net economic benefit and survival benefits four years after implementation. It is projected to provide an economic value of ${\$}$275 million AUD over ten years, which would increase with greater participation of ESKD patients suitable for RSC.

A cost-benefit analysis of WildFireSat, a wildfire monitoring satellite mission for Canada.

In anticipation of growing wildfire management challenges, the Canadian government is investing in WildFireSat, an Earth observation satellite mission designed to collect data in support of Canadian wildfire management. Although costs of the mission can be reasonably estimated, the benefits of such an investment are unknown. Here we forecast the possible benefits of WildFireSat via an avoided cost approach. We consider five socio-economic components: suppression costs (fixed and variable), timber losses, property, asset and infrastructure losses, evacuation costs, and smoke related health costs. Using a Monte Carlo analysis, we evaluated a range of possible changes to these components based on expert opinions. The resulting Net Present Value (NPV) estimates depend on the presumed impact of using WildFireSat decision support data products, with pessimistic and conservative assumptions generating mission costs that typically exceed potential benefits by 1.16 to 1.59 times, while more optimistic assumptions generate benefits in excess of costs by 8.72 to 10.48 times. The analysis here excludes some possibly significant market and non-market impacts expected from WildFireSat due to data limitations; accounting for these additional impacts would likely generate positive NPVs under even cautious impact assumptions.

A Prospective Study of Publicly Funded Molecular Testing of Indeterminate Thyroid Nodules: Canada's Experience.

Indeterminate thyroid nodules (ITNs) lead to diagnostic surgeries in many countries. Use of molecular testing (MT) is endorsed by several guidelines, but costs are limitative, especially in public healthcare systems like in Canada. Primary objective: evaluate the clinical value of Thyroseq® v3 (TSv3) using benign call rate (BCR) in a real-world practice. Secondary objective: assess cost-effectiveness of MT. This is a multicentric prospective study. This study was conducted in 5 academic centers in Quebec, Canada. 500 consecutive patients with Bethesda III (on 2 consecutive cytopathologies) or IV and TIRADS 3 or 4 nodules measuring 1 to 4 cm were included. MT was performed between November 2021 and November 2022. Patients with a positive TSv3 were referred to surgery. Patients with a negative TSv3 were planned for follow-up by ultrasonography for a minimum of 2 years. The BCR, corresponding to the proportion of ITNs with negative TSv3 results, was assessed. 500 patients underwent TSv3 testing, with a BCR of 72.6% (95% CI: 68.5-76.5; p<0.001). 99.7% of patients with a negative result avoided surgery. The positive predictive value of TSv3 was 68.2% (95% CI: 58.5-76.9). The cost-benefit analysis identified that the implementation of MT would yield cost savings of $6.1 million over the next 10 years. Use of MT (TSv3) in a well-selected population with ITNs led to a BCR of 72.6%. It is cost-effective and prevents unnecessary surgeries in a public healthcare setting.

Evaluation of Different Hybrid Tea Roses (Rosa x hybrida) under Prayagraj Agro-climatic Conditions

An experiment was carried out in the Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, from November, 2022 to March, 2023. The experiment was conducted in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with fifteen hybrids, replicated thrice. It was reported that hybrid H4 (Fatura) performed better in parameters like plant height (71.2 cm), number of branches (5), stalk length (35.10 cm), stalk girth (5.4 mm), bud diameter (2.7 cm), number of cut flowers per plant (5), vase life of the cut flowers (11 days), number of cut flowers per hectare (1,02,040), gross return (Rs 5,10,200 per ha), net return (Rs -2,36,354 per ha) and benefit cost ratio (0.7:1). However, days taken to first bud initiation (36 days) and days taken to first bud initiation to tight bud stage (13 days) were better in hybrid H5 (Brazil). Hence for quality cut flower production, vase life, yield, and economics, hybrid Fatura performed better under Prayagraj agro-climatic conditions.

Total value of benefits and financial costs from independent oil palm plantations in Seruyan regency in 2023

Independent palm oil growers have participated in meeting the world's palm oil needs as well as contributing to economic development by increasing income and reducing poverty. Therefore, knowing the total value of benefits and financial costs from independent oil palm plantations is very important. This research aims to determine the total value of benefits and financial costs of independent oil palm plantations in Seruyan Regency. The Slovin method was used in selecting the sample size. The research method uses an exploratory research method, with benefit-cost analysis in the form of calculating Net Present Value (NPV), benefit-cost ratio (B/C Ratio) and Internal Rate of Return (IRR). The results show that independent oil palm plantations in 2023 in Seruyan Regency are financially feasible to implement, this is indicated by the value of benefits greater than the value of costs, namely the total value of PV benefits IDR 1,409,358,175,296.54 and the total value of PV costs IDR 44,466,996,210.44; a positive NPV value of IDR 1,501,380,296,994.71 and a B/C ratio of 3.169 and an IRR of 11 %. Where this analysis has shown that the benefit value is greater than the cost value, so financially independent oil palm plantations can provide benefits for improving community welfare. However, this prosperity does not last forever, because the value of the benefits provided will decrease in the long term, this shows that oil palm plantation activities are not feasible in the long term, to change this condition can be overcome by preparing to carry out replanting.

Socioeconomic distributional impacts of evaluating flood mitigation activities using equity-weighted benefit-cost analysis

Socioeconomic distributional impacts of evaluating flood mitigation activities using equity-weighted benefit-cost analysis

Introduction of enhanced weekend physiotherapy for patients with hip fracture is associated with improved early mobility outcomes.

To assess whether enhanced daily weekend physiotherapy (EWP) for patients with hip fracture was associated with improved clinical outcomes. We retrospectively analysed all previously ambulatory adults admitted with hip fracture to our tertiary hospital, comparing 'usual' ('control') care (09/19-03/20) to EWP (09/20-03/21). Outcomes included Day-7 mobility ≥20 m (primary), additional mobility measures, specified postoperative complications, new residential facility placement, acute length-of-stay (LOS) and 30-day death. Amongst 235 eligible patients (128 control, 107 EWP), 66% were female, mean age was 80.4 years (SD 10.5), 20% from residential care and 49% (114/235) were mobilising without aid at baseline (no between-group differences; all p ≥ .20). Median acute LOS was 10 days (IQR 6-15), total hospital LOS was 21 days (IQR 12-37) and 3% (n = 6) died by Day 30. Median Day-7 distance mobilised was 25 m (IQR 7-50) with EWP versus 10 m (3-40) (p = .06). No EWP patients developed pressure injury (0 vs. 6, p = .02); other outcomes were similar between groups. Adjusting for age, residence, baseline cognitive impairment, American Society of Anesthesiologist score and preadmission mobilisation without aids, EWP was independently associated with increased likelihood of mobilising ≥20 m at Day 7 (aOR 1.83, 95% CI 1.04-3.23, p = .03). Enhanced daily weekend physiotherapy was associated with improvement in early mobility, but not other outcomes assessed. These data would be strengthened by randomised controlled trial data exploring more intense physiotherapy, cost-benefit analysis and patient experience measures.

Genetic Variability of Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.) under Climatic Condition of Prayagraj

An Experiment on Black cumin was conducted during September to March 2023-2024, in horticulture Research field, Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, and Technology &amp; Sciences Prayagraj(UP) India. The results of the investigation, regarding the performance of the 7 variety of black cumin i.e. NS-44, NS-32, Ajmer Nigella-1, Ajmer Nigella-20, Azad kalonji, Local variety -1, Local variety- 2 obtained from different sources to find out the best performance in terms of growth and yield in Prayagraj agro-climatic conditions. The experiment was conducted in Randomized Block design, were each variety replicated thrice the results from the present investigation concluded that black cumin genotype Azad kalonji was recorded with maximum number of flowers/plant (78.33), Seed/ capsule (93.67), Seed yield (1.85 t/ha) and with maximum gross return, net return and cost Benefit Ratio of (3.75) which was found to be more productive and economically viable.

Design and Control of an Ultra-Low-Cost Logistic Delivery Fixed-Wing UAV

In contemporary logistics, the deployment of fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) as a transportation platform is experiencing rapid advancements, garnering substantial application within numerous logistic operations with pronounced efficacies. There are notable impediments to the utilization of commercial logistic-oriented fixed-wing UAVs, including elevated procurement and maintenance costs, extensive maintenance intervals, and unsuitability for small-volume, low-altitude transport tasks. These factors collectively exacerbate the risk associated with enterprise procurement and elevate the cost–benefit ratio. This study introduces the design and fabrication of a cost-efficient UAV for logistic delivery purposes, constructed primarily from cost-effective wood materials. This UAV is engineered to ferry payloads of up to 1000 g across a predefined aerial route at an altitude of 40 m. Upon reaching the designated location, the UAV is programmed to initiate the identification of the drop zone, thereafter descending to facilitate the release of the cargo. To mitigate the impact force during the landing phase, the payload was encapsulated within a sponge-damping layer, thereby preserving the integrity of the transported items. The empirical findings from outdoor delivery trials underscore the UAV’s ability to precisely execute payload drops at the targeted locations, confirming its potential to fulfill the logistical requirements for the transportation and delivery of small-volume items in a cost-effective, low-altitude framework. This investigation contributes to the burgeoning discourse on leveraging ultra-low-cost UAVs in logistics, offering a feasible solution to the challenges of cost and efficiency in UAV-operated delivery systems.

The content optimization of supplementary cementitious materials in coral sand-seawater cement mortar: A focus on mechanical properties and transportation costs

This study examines how supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) such as fly ash (FA), blast furnace slag (BFS), and metakaolin (MK) affect the mechanical properties and transportation costs of coral sand-seawater cement mortar (CSSC). The Dinger-Funk equation was used to obtain the most densely packed design and preparation of coral sand and cementitious materials. The mechanical properties of CSSC were assessed utilizing the RMT testing apparatus. A thorough examination of the mechanical properties and transportation costs of CSSC was undertaken using the principle of value engineering and the effectiveness coefficient approach. Research results show that BFS10 has outstanding mechanical qualities in the binary cementitious system. Within the ternary cementitious system, the mechanical qualities typically exceed those of the binary system, with FA15BFS15 demonstrating the highest performance. The best appropriate mix ratio is FA15BFS15, as determined by a thorough examination and cost-benefit analysis. This ratio offers temporal sensitivity and maximized transit capacity. The SVR model is highly proficient in forecasting the compressive strength of CSSC, showcasing accurate prediction and data interpretation abilities. The research findings provide practical evidence for optimizing the proportion of CSSC in calcium sulfoaluminate cement, considering transportation expenses and algorithm prediction needs.

Sustainable gains from inland waterway investments at port-city interface

The objective of this research is to identify and quantify the sustainable impacts resulting from transportation investments at the port-city interface. These investments encompass two main components: 1) restoring the local inland waterway fairway for navigation, and 2) constructing a new railway bridge that traverses the primary waterway at the entrance of the seaport. The study is centered on the local transportation system in the northwestern region of Poland. Sustainability is assessed using an analytical tool derived from societal cost-benefit analysis and simulation in the relevant market transport performance in options with and without investment. Economic effects are evaluated in terms of savings in generalized transportation costs, which include transport operating expenses and travel durations. Environmental considerations encompass transport-related air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and well-to-tank emissions. Social aspects focus on issues like transport congestion, traffic noise, and transport-related accidents. Each type of investment yields distinct sustainable gains and distributes them among stakeholders differently. Additionally, the enhanced capacity of the rail bridge reveals the potential for a modal shift in the local passenger transport system, wherein passengers may transition from buses/cars to a fast railway. Tangible gains expressed in monetary terms allow for a sustainable assessment of transport investments. The elaborated research scheme can be employed to assess the sustainable ramifications arising from investments in intermodal transport at any port-city interface. It provides decision-makers with comprehensive insights into the economic, environmental, and social implications of various transport policies and interventions.