Economically Research Articles

Environmental and Economic Analysis of Reusable and Single‐Use Food Packaging Formats in University Campus Food Services

ABSTRACTThe purpose of this study is to assess the environmental and economic impacts of the various food packaging systems offered in university food services in Canada. Toronto Metropolitan University's food service was chosen as a test case. Three systems exist in this setting: single‐use polypropylene (PP) containers, reusable PP clamshells and compostable bagasse clamshells. The goal is to understand which system has the most favourable impact regarding the Tool for the Reduction and Assessment of Chemical and other environmental Impacts' (TRACI 2.1) 10 impact categories and which system is the most financially viable through a cost analysis. The scope includes a cradle‐to‐grave life cycle assessment (LCA) consisting of raw material extraction and production, transportation, usage and end‐of‐life disposal. This study investigates the environmental impact of each packaging system for 10 000 meals consumed by students. This research follows two ISO standards, 14044:2006, and 14040:2006. These standards involve defining the goal and scope, completing a life cycle inventory (LCI) analysis, completing a life cycle impact assessment (LCIA) and interpreting the life cycle. LCI information is extracted using SimaPro v9.0. The study results reveal that the reusable PP clamshell has the least environmental impact when compared to the two other single‐use packaging alternatives for nine of the 10 environmental impact categories. The single‐use PP container has the most significant environmental impact due to its harmful material extraction, production processes and end‐of‐life emissions. The sensitivity analysis determined that if reused a minimum number of 37 times, the reusable clamshell (RU) remains favourable to the single‐use formats in nine of the 10 impact categories. Furthermore, the cost analysis reveals that the reusable packaging format is the most financially favourable when reused 16 times or more. This research concludes that single‐use food packaging options have a more significant environmental impact than reusable PP clamshells. Based on the research findings, purchasing a less harmful detergent, sourcing the packaging locally and reducing the loss rate of reusable PP clamshells could produce an even more favourable environmental impact for the reusable food packaging system.

Comparative study of thermal performance improvement of parabolic trough solar collector using different heat transfer fluids, economic and environmental analysis of power generation

The use of nanofluids (NFs) as heat transfer fluids (HTFs) is one way of improving the thermal performance of parabolic trough solar collectors (PTSCs). This study presents a comparative analysis of the thermal performance of a PTSC using nanofluids as HTF. Two categories of nanoparticles (NPs) (green and conventional) and two base fluids (water and Syltherm 800) giving eight nanofluids are used in a one-dimensional quasi-static thermal model, simulated from a numerical code written in Matlab. After numerical validation of the proposed model, the comparative analysis in static and dynamic regimes linked to solar radiation shows that green NPs present not only differentiated positive but also negative effects on thermal performance depending on the base fluids compared to conventional NPs, and that the combination of green nanoparticles with high thermal capacity base fluids presents more positive than negative thermal effects. The impact of conventional NPs is more significant with water, at around 0.005 MWh, than with Syltherm 800, which averages around 0.002 MWh. The use of HTF configurations based on Syltherm 800 increases production by around 1 MWh more than that of water. HTF configurations based on Syltherm 800 generate around $0.004/kWh less than water on average. HTFs based on Syltherm 800 produce around 7.5 kgCO2/year more than water.

What Is the Potential Value of a Randomized Trial of Different Thresholds to Initiate Invasive Ventilation? A Health Economic Analysis.

To estimate the expected value of undertaking a future randomized controlled trial of thresholds used to initiate invasive ventilation compared with usual care in hypoxemic respiratory failure. Publicly funded healthcare payer. Critical care units capable of providing invasive ventilation and unconstrained by resource limitations during usual (nonpandemic) practice. We performed a model-based cost-utility estimation with individual-level simulation and value-of-information analysis focused on adults, admitted to critical care, receiving noninvasive oxygen. In the primary scenario, we compared hypothetical threshold A to usual care, where threshold A resulted in increased use of invasive ventilation and improved survival compared with usual care. In the secondary scenario, we compared hypothetical threshold B to usual care, where threshold B resulted in decreased use of invasive ventilation and similar survival compared with usual care. We assumed a willingness-to-pay of 100,000 Canadian dollars (CADs) per quality-adjusted life year. In the primary scenario, threshold A was cost-effective compared with usual care due to improved hospital survival (78.1% vs. 75.1%), despite more use of invasive ventilation (62% vs. 30%) and higher lifetime costs (86,900 vs. 75,500 CAD). In the secondary scenario, threshold B was cost-effective compared with usual care due to similar survival (74.5% vs. 74.6%) with less use of invasive ventilation (20.2% vs. 27.6%) and lower lifetime costs (71,700 vs. 74,700 CAD). Value-of-information analysis showed that the expected value to Canadian society over 10 years of a 400-person randomized trial comparing a threshold for invasive ventilation to usual care in hypoxemic respiratory failure was 1.35 billion CAD or more in both scenarios. It would be highly valuable to society to identify thresholds that, in comparison to usual care, either increase survival or reduce invasive ventilation without reducing survival.

How Has the Treatment of Polish Children with Dravet Syndrome Changed? Future Perspectives.

This report focuses on the treatment histories of 21 patients diagnosed with Dravet syndrome (DRVT) under the care of the Mother and Child Institute in Warsaw. This paper aims to present typical treatment schemes for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy, as well as to highlight the influence of genetic diagnosis on pharmacotherapeutic management and to present an economic analysis of hospitalization costs. This paper will also summarize the effectiveness of the latest drugs used in DRVT. Clinical data were collected retrospectively from available medical records. The effectiveness of anticonvulsant treatment was assessed based on epileptic seizure diaries and observations by caregivers and pediatric neurologists. The study group (n = 21) consisted of patients aged 3-26 years. Orphan drugs dedicated to Dravet syndrome were introduced in all patients due to the genetic diagnosis, which significantly improved the patients' clinical conditions. The breakthrough drugs were stiripentol (in 16/21) and fenfluramine (in 3/21). In recent years, molecular genetics has rapidly developed in Poland, along with a steady increase in knowledge of Dravet syndrome among the medical profession. Early and precise diagnosis provides the opportunity to target treatment with drugs dedicated to Dravet syndrome with high efficacy.

Enhanced solar energy utilization of thermal energy storage tanks with phase change material and baffle incorporating holes

In response to the pressing need for more efficient thermal energy storage solutions, this study investigates the strategic implementation of baffles in phase change material (PCM) tanks to enhance thermal performance. PCM offers a promising solution for efficient thermal energy storage (TES); however, ensuring uniform temperature distribution inside the tanks remains challenging. Horizontal baffles with holes of varying diameters were introduced in Tanks 02, 03, and 04, while an inclined baffle with holes was used in Tank 05. The Tank 06 benefitted from an inclined baffle with holes of different diameters. A comprehensive analysis of all Tanks was evaluated by assessing PCM and water heat flux, PCM and water static enthalpy, Richardson number, velocity vectors, temperature, and liquid fraction contours. The results demonstrated that significant improvements were achieved with the addition of baffles. Tank 01, without a baffle, exhibited a melting time of 2860 s. However, the introduction of baffles resulted in reduced melting times for Tanks 02 to 06: 2360 s (17.48 %), 2350 s (17.83 %), 2400 s (16.08 %), 2320 s (18.88 %), and 2240 s (21.67 %), respectively; which led to enhance TES efficiency, and a quicker energy storage process. The study also includes a comprehensive economic analysis, evaluating the total cost (Ctotal) and performance-economic ratio (Pc). Tank 06 shows superior economic performance, with a Pc value of 0.26 despite a slightly higher cost than Tank 01 by $2 USD. These findings highlight the baffle design’s effectiveness in achieving better heat transfer and uniform temperature distribution within PCM tanks, making them more efficient for TES applications.

Specifics of Due Diligence procedure in mergers and acquisitions in the Russian Federation

Aim. To study the elements and main features of the Due Diligence procedure, including mandatory and additional stages of due diligence of Russian companies, as well as taking into account the peculiarities of the Russian legislation and regulatory bodies.Objectives. To perform an in-depth theoretical analysis of the main tasks of the Due Diligence procedure in M&A of enterprises; to develop proposals for improving the methodology of the Due Diligence procedure in the Russian Federation (RF).Methods. The authors used general scientific research methods, including data collection and processing, content analysis, generalization, systematization, analysis of legislation and legal practice in the field of mergers and acquisitions, as well as the experience of Russian enterprises in conducting the Due Diligence procedure.Results. The Due Diligence procedure is an important stage of corporate transactions in the M&A process in Russia. The article shows that one of the key features is the necessity to take into account specific legal and tax aspects of the Russian legislation when conducting due diligence. It is necessary to take into account not only the risks, but also the influence of state regulators and regulatory bodies on the results of the transaction. Based on the results of the analysis and systematization of the information obtained, general methods and recommendations in the course of the Due Diligence procedure were determined. The statistical data on M&A transactions in Russia are considered, the attention is emphasized on the importance of Due Diligence at the rapid growth of M&A transactions. It is proved that the Due Diligence procedure increases the transparency of Russian companies and contributes to the improvement of the investment climate in the country.Conclusions. The study of the peculiarities of Due Diligence in M&A in Russia allows us to focus on the importance of legal analysis, financial and economic evaluation, as well as personnel and corporate culture assessment. Legal analysis provides an opportunity to identify and assess legal risks and problems related to the company's operations. Financial and economic analysis and audit help to identify and assess financial risks and problems, current and potential. Personnel and corporate culture assessment helps to understand how well they are aligned with the business objectives and strategy of the transaction. All three areas of assessment must comply with the requirements of domestic legislation and take into account the specifics of the labor market in Russia. A proper Due Diligence assessment of all three areas will help to detect possible risks and problems related to legal, financial and personal aspects of the company's activities, as well as provide a reliable basis for making correct and informed decisions regarding the M&A transaction.

Economic and Environmental Benefit Analysis between Crumb Rubber Concrete and Ordinary Portland Cement Concrete

Although manifold empirical studies have identified the mechanical properties of crumb rubber concrete (CRC), a comparative analysis of economic and environmental benefits between CRC and ordinary Portland cement concrete (OPCC) is not explored. In this paper, a quantitative meta-analysis between CRC and OPCC is conducted to explore optimized design strength, and a comparative analysis of the economic and environmental benefits of the two materials is undertaken. Considering cost price as the economic index and CO2 emissions per cubic meter of concrete as the environmental index in the materialization stage, CRC and OPCC were compared with different mix designs to achieve grades of similar strengths. Upon replacing less than 20% of natural fine aggregates in concrete with crumb rubber, while retaining the cement content, an increase of 6% in the cost price was achieved for CRC with 30–40 MPa strength grade. Apart from the aspect of mining and transportation of natural aggregates, the reduction of CO2 emissions by means of CRC adoption was verified in the treatment process of waste tire incineration. The results show that CO2 emissions from CRC decreased by 15–17% when compared with OPCC for 30~40 MPa grade concrete. The research conclusion can serve as a theoretical basis for the engineering application of CRC with the same strength, and make certain contributions to the industrial application of crumb rubber aggregates and the sustainable treatment of waste tires.

SELECTION OF OPTIMAL PARAMETERS OF A LIGHTWEIGHT FLAT FLOOR WITH VOIDS MADE OF PLASTIC BALLS

Formulation of the problem. Architectural and construction design of buildings using reinforced concrete has led to an increase in the number of objects with an individual space-planning structure, a rich variety of facade and volumetric solutions. Today the question of the effectiveness of using flat prefabricated monolithic lightweight floors in the construction of multi-storey buildings with individual space-planning and architectural solutions is relevant. In a market economy interest in the issue of rational use of resources, namely the cost of concrete and reinforcement in construction, has sharply increased, which is directly related to attracting investment. As it is known, when designing buildings from prefabricated monolithic reinforced concrete, in contrast to prefabricated concrete, there is greater freedom in adopting the space-planning parameters of the building, and there may also be simpler design solutions, in particular for floors. The constructive solution of floors depends on numerous requirements for the building as a whole and directly for the floor. One of the requirements that influences the attraction of investments is a small material-intensive floor covering with significant spans of buildings of various structural systems. The effective use of lightweight precast monolithic reinforced concrete floors with voids made of plastic balls in construction requires a comprehensive technical and economic analysis of this innovative solution for the precast monolithic reinforced concrete floor structure. The purpose of the article is to perform a technical and economic comparison of various design options for a flat lightweight prefabricated monolithic floor. The influence of floor parameters on the consumption of concrete and reinforcement is considered. Conclusion. As a result of the research, it was established that it is rational to use hollow balls made from recycled materials as a material for making voids from balls in flat floors. Moreover, all studied floor options with spans of 6 m, 7 m, 8 m and void sizes made of balls with diameters of 180 mm, 315 mm and 50 0mm meet the requirements of the first and second groups of limit states.

Geographies and determinants of rent burden: A regional economic analysis of the U.S. metropolitan landscape

Rental housing affordability, a growing topic in interdisciplinary scholarship, remains relatively peripheral to geography and regional science. This article focuses on geographies of rent burden and factors affecting it at the metropolitan level in the conterminous U.S. By conducting cartographic and regression analyses, we examine relationships between rent burden and numerous related aspects derived from scholarly work. Besides offering a new measurement of rent burden, we put a special emphasis on regional economic specializations as potential predictors of rent burden’s intensity. The relationship between these two have not been studied in existing scholarship. Our results indicate that the most consistent determinants of more intense rent burden in numerous models include higher housing values and poverty rates, substantial shares of racial/ethnic minorities, and family structure represented by lower percent married. Regarding economic specializations, we find that manufacturing is a strong predictor of lower rent burden in most models, with its effect demonstrating an opposite direction—higher rent burden occurs in metropolises not specializing in manufacturing. Simultaneously, metropolises with substantial concentrations of employment in (i) education and medicine and (ii) arts, entertainment, and recreation exhibit higher rent burden and most of these metropolises are mid- and small-sized.

Global selection appraisal study for heat pump system of electric vehicle based on energetic, economic, and environmental analysis

The development of electric vehicles (EVs) exhibits rapid and remarkable progress nowadays, serving as a crucial route to accomplish the target of mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. As an integral part of the thermal management system oriented toward electric vehicles, the heat pump air conditioning system for electric vehicles is the result of a comprehensive choice that trades off the cooling and heating performance, environmental performance and economic cost. Particularly, different regions around the world suffer varying cooling and heating challenges due to the complicated climatic characteristics. Thus the most suitable refrigerant and system cycle structure may differ. This paper focuses on evaluating both the refrigerants and cycle structures to screen the most suitable choice. According to the climate conditions of different cities, the annual energy consumption, life cycle climate performance, and economic cost of the basic system (Base), two-stage compression system (TSC,IC), and vapor injection (VI) system with CO2, R134a, and R1234yf refrigerants respectively, are quantitatively analyzed and evaluated. Subsequently, through comparative analysis, a comprehensive selection map for heat pump systems in electric vehicles worldwide is developed and the most suitable heat pump air conditioning system for each cites is determined. The results can provide a selection reference and decision-making for the air conditioning system of electric vehicles from regional considerations. It was found that the CO2 HPACVI was recommended for cold regions to meet both environmental and economic requirements. In warm region, the R1234yf HPACBase system was recommended to be used. For regions transitioning from cold to warm climates, the R1234yf HPACVI system was suggested. In hot region, the R1234yf AC system was recommended.

Reductive Immobilization of Hexavalent Chromium in Soil Using Hydrazine – Kinetics, Process Optimization, Sonochemical Enhancement, and Cost Estimation

ABSTRACT The presence of hexavalent chromium in soil poses a grave hazard to the environment and human health. This study explores the effectiveness, mechanism, and economic viability of remediation of Cr(VI)-contaminated soil by hydrazine. Soil-phase batch kinetic experiments were performed to examine the feasibility of reducing Cr(VI) while finding the effects of relevant process parameters, such as initial Cr(VI) concentration, hydrazine dosage, pH, soil-to-water ratio, and temperature. The materials were thoroughly characterized to gain insight into the mechanism. TCLP tests were done to affirm the immobilization stability. Complete Cr(VI) reduction was achieved within 3 h using a moderate 326% excess of hydrazine at neutral pH. Sonication of the soil mixed with hydrazine using a probe-type sonicator accelerated the reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III). Kinetic data could be adequately fitted in a second-order rate model, where the rate constant shows a linear dependency on the soil-to-water ratio. Additionally, the logarithmic rate constant demonstrates linearity within the pH range. The leaching toxicity of Cr(VI) and Crtotal complied with the USEPA regulatory limit and remained stable for 75 d. Hydrazine alone and its combination with ultrasound are sustainable and economically feasible for effective remediation of Cr(VI)-contaminated soil. The statistical analysis using RSM indicated a 99.4% reduction, aligning closely with the calculated optimized value. The optimal process conditions are easy to implement for field application at a competitive cost compared to other reductants. A simplified economic analysis was done to check the competitive acceptability of the technique, considering the construction cost of the remediation plant and its daily operational and maintenance expenses. The results show that the proposed technique will be a competitive one for field applications for the remediation of soil contaminated with Cr(VI). The data and kinetic rate equation will be useful for the process design of the remediation of soil contaminated with Cr(VI).

Economic Analysis of Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Systems Utilizing Natural Gas as Fuel

Solid oxide fuel cell power generation systems are devices that utilize solid electrolytes to transfer ions for electrochemical energy conversion. A wide range of gases can be used as fuel gas, including hydrogen, natural gas, and carbon monoxide. Considering the high cost of pure hydrogen, hydrogen production from natural gas reforming has become a hot research area. In this study, the 4F-LCA method was employed to construct an evaluation framework, with a particular emphasis on the cost analysis of solid oxide fuel cell power generation systems, and uses a bottom-up approach to build a system economic analysis model to visualize the major costs involved in the system. An economic benefit analysis and sensitivity analysis were carried out for the 2 kW natural gas solid oxide fuel cell as a case by taking the financial net present value (NPV), internal rate of return (IRR) and payback period into account. In this study, the investment cost and payback period of a 2 kW solid oxide fuel cell system are obtained, which can provide a reference for the project construction and operation of solid oxide fuel cell systems.

Performance test and economic analysis of paddy direct seed planter modified pulled by tractor (amator) in tidal swamp, South Sumatra

Abstract Lack of labor is another obstacle to the characteristics of the tidal swamp land itself so that the use of agricultural equipment and machinery such as Amator can be used as solution. This paper aims to analyze the use of the amator in terms of technical and economic aspects of the equipment so that it is known whether it is efficient and profitable for farmers. Data collection was carried out through observation of equipment performance tests in the field and key informant interviews. This research was carried out in Sri Katon Village, Air Salek District, Banyuasin Regency. The data observed are technical performance including work capacity and work efficiency, as well as economic analysis in the form of basic costs and break-even point of using equipment. The results of the performance test show that the amator has a high efficiency (87.52%) with an effective working capacity value of 0.6244 ha hr−1 (1.6012 hr ha−1). The basic cost incurred for the use of the amator is IDR 193.145 ha−1 with a BEP of 16,8 ha yr−1. The use of amator with seeds only 35 kg ha−1 can save planting costs of IDR 200,000 ha−1 compared to the farmer practice.

Experimental and computational modeling analysis of double slope solar still with a trapezoidal channel for preheating

In specific locations in India, water scarcity is an important issue, therefore several efforts are made to produce treated water so that rural and urban areas have access to safe and sustainable drinking water. The solar still method is the most affordable water purification option available in these hot areas. This research aims to enhance the performance of passive double-slope solar stills by analyzing the effects of preheated water on evaporation and yield rates. A new method was adopted to maintain the lowest water depth in the basin of a solar still by using a channel attachment to move the feed water. Additionally, the study investigates the impact of a trapezoidal channel attachment within the solar still, a first-time innovation, on its efficiency and yield rate. Computational fluid dynamics and experimental data collected on February 10, 2024, in Kattankulathur was analyzed to assess temperature variations and yield rates. A three-dimensional full-scale simulation was carried out using Ansys Fluent with a two-phase (evaporation and condensation) model, where the flow in the channels of the rate varied from 0.87 × 10-4 to 5.21 × 10-4 Ls−1 and the highest yield is achieved at flow rate of 1.74 × 10-4 Ls−1. The accuracy of the simulation technique was evaluated by comparing it to experimental data, and found a good match. The results demonstrated that solar still with trapezoidal channels significantly increased the overall yield rate. Optimal performance was achieved under specific environmental conditions, with a cumulative yield of 2.45 Lm−2 at a basin water depth of 10 mm, marking a 37.64 % increase over the conventional solar still. Economic analysis indicated a reduction in the payback period to 299 days, affirming the system’s cost-effectiveness. The trapezoidal channel design is limited to a cross-section of 10 mm2, and positioned at a 17° angle on the middle sidewall to minimize the shadow formation on the basin of still and maintain high yield and evaporation–condensation rates. The novelty of this work is to integrate trapezoidal channels on the double slope solar still and to optimize its design and flow rate to maximize the overall production.

Energy optimization of hydrogen liquefaction process via process knowledge combined with multivariate Coggin's algorithm

Sustainable and cost-effective transportation of hydrogen is one of the major challenges to futuristic hydrogen value chain. Hydrogen, in its produced form, exhibits low energy density and large volume, rendering it highly unsuitable for transportation, particularly over extended distances. Liquefaction is one of the promising approaches to improve hydrogen's energy density and to make it more compact. However, liquefaction is an energy intensive process, raising the cost of transportation. In this study, the specific energy consumption of the hydrogen liquefaction process is aimed to reduce through knowledge-based optimization followed by optimization using the multivariate Coggin's algorithm to improve energy and economic profiles of the process. Design variables, composite curve, exergy, and economic analyses are performed to evaluate and compare the thermodynamic, economic, and environmental feasibility of the optimized process. The results depict a significant reduction (14.3%) in specific energy consumption to 9.40 kW/kgLH2 without increasing process complexity. Further key improvements include a massive drop in refrigerant flowrates (9.2%), annualized cost (m$ 0.15), and annual CO2 emissions (1008.45 tCO2/annum). The largest exergy destruction is observed in CHX-201, reflecting further room for improvement. These results underscore the potential for optimizing hydrogen liquefaction processes to enhance energy efficiency, process economics and environmental impact, providing valuable insights for researchers and industry professionals seeking to advance hydrogen liquefaction technologies. However, challenges remain in the comprehensive evaluation of chemical exergy for ortho- and para-hydrogen and in conducting advanced exergy analyses to further optimize hydrogen liquefaction processes without adding complexity.

Integrating Theology into Migration Studies for Ethical Perspectives and Collaborative Solutions

This study explores the intersection of theology and migration studies and provides a comprehensive framework for theologians and researchers to engage with the ethical dimensions of global migration. It addresses the need for an integrated perspective that goes beyond socio-political and economic analyses. The study identifies a gap in the literature in the integration of theology into migration studies and proposes specific tasks for theologians and researchers. Theologians should integrate theology into migration studies, engage in critical theological reflection, understand ethical imperatives, and reinterpret religious texts. Researchers should develop frameworks that challenge conventional discourses and translate theological principles into actionable guidelines. Key tasks for researchers include interdisciplinary collaboration, analysing language and perceptions, political advocacy and social engagement. The study's unique contribution is a roadmap that integrates theology into migration studies and provides scholars with a guide to navigate the complex challenges of migration.

Disparities in the EU-27 Regarding Pollution and Generated Waste

Abstract The paper explores the transition to a circular economy within the European Union, focusing on maintaining the value of products and resources in the economic cycle and reducing waste production (pollution and generated waste). EU environmental policy emphasizes ecologically sound waste management and responsible use of secondary materials, forming the basis for a circular economy. While viewing waste as future resources remains challenging, the concept of "waste management, prevention, and utilization" is the cornerstone of this approach, requiring significant investments in innovation, research, and economic development. The article underscores the impact of pollution as a barrier to socio-economic development and highlights the importance of efficient waste management for environmental protection. The economic analysis, based on simple linear regression, reveals disparities among EU member states regarding pollution levels and waste generation. The increasing quantities and diverse nature of waste generated in the EU pose growing challenges. Municipal waste, representing a substantial proportion, exhibits significant variations in management practices among member states. To achieve sustainability, an integrated approach within the EU is essential, requiring substantial efforts from member states to accelerate the transition to a circular economy. The conclusions highlights the importance of efficient waste management and the need for concrete measures to reduce pollution and promote a sustainable economy.

Isolated decompression for degenerative spondylolisthesis is less costly than fusion even with high revision rates

BACKGROUND CONTEXTIsolated decompression and decompression with instrumented fusion are accepted surgical treatments for lumbar spondylolisthesis. Although isolated decompression is a less costly solution with similar patient-reported outcomes, it is associated with higher rates of re-operation than primary fusion. PURPOSETo determine the costs associated with primary decompression, primary fusion, and decompression and fusion for degenerative spondylolisthesis. We further sought to establish at what revision rate is primary decompression still a less costly surgical treatment for degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis. STUDY DESIGN/SETTINGA retrospective database study of the Medicare Provider Analysis and Review (MEDPAR) limited data set. PATIENT SAMPLEPatients who underwent single-level fusion or decompression for degenerative spondylolisthesis. OUTCOME MEASURESCost of surgical care. METHODSAll inpatient stays that underwent surgery for single-level lumbar/lumbosacral degenerative spondylolisthesis in the 2019 calendar year (n=6,653) were queried from the MEDPAR limited data set. Patients were stratified into three cohorts: primary decompression (n=300), primary fusion (n=5,757), and revision fusion (n=566). Univariate analysis was conducted to determine cost differences between these groups and results were confirmed with multivariable regression. An economic analysis was then done to determine at what revision rate would primary decompression still be a less costly treatment choice. resultson univariate analysis, the cost of primary single-level decompression for spondylolisthesis was $14,690±9,484, the cost of primary single-level fusion was $26,376±11,967, and revision fusion was $26,686±11,309 (p<0.001). on multivariate analysis, primary fusion was associated with an increased cost of $3,751, and revision fusion was associated with increased cost of $7,502 (95%ci: 2,990-4,512, p<0.001). economic analysis found that a revision rate less than or equal to 43.8% would still result in primary decompression being less costly for a practice than primary fusion for all patients. CONCLUSIONSIsolated decompression for degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis is a less costly treatment choice even with rates of revision fusion as high as 43.8%. This was true even with an assumed revision rate of 0% after primary fusion. This study solely looks at cost data, however, and many patients may still benefit from primary fusion when appropriately indicated.

An economic analysis of low-energy contact x-ray brachytherapy for treatment of rectal cancer.

e15622 Background: Health Technology Wales sought to evaluate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of contact x-ray brachytherapy (CXB) in conjunction with external-beam radiotherapy (EBRT), compared to EBRT alone for early-stage (T2–3b, N0–1, M0) rectal cancer in a surgically fit population. Methods: An economic analysis was performed using a decision analytical, state transition model. Analysis was performed from a third-party payer perspective over a life-time horizon. The model was populated using data from the Organ Preservation in Early Rectal Adenocarcinoma (OPERA) trial. Results: . CXB was estimated to provide 0.2 quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) per patient at an additional cost of $1118 per person. CXB was cost-effective compared with external beam boost at a cost of $5623 per QALY gained. These findings did not change in deterministic sensitivity analysis and CXB was cost-effective in over 90% of probabilistic sensitivity analyses. Conclusions: CXB is likely to be cost-effective with a high degree of certainty in this patient population.

Waste to treasure: A sustainable technic to prepare high-performance lithium iron phosphate from laterite nickel tailings

The abundance of laterite nickel tailings after nickel extraction not only generate severe environmental contamination but also result in significant waste of metal resources, particularly iron (Fe). Herein, a promising technic of recycling tailings to high-value Fe-based energy storage materials is developed to address above challenges. The traditional hydrometallurgy is firstly applied to leach Fe source from laterite nickel tailings. By referencing the Eh-pH thermodynamic stability phase diagram of the phosphorus system, Fe could be preferentially precipitated in various metal elements, enabling the effective extraction of Fe as raw iron phosphate (FePO4). Notably, a two-step purification strategy is designed to remove residual impurity and adjust Fe/P ratio, subsequently obtaining the high-purity battery-grade FePO4. Finally, a solid-phase method is conducted to prepare nano lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) with outstanding electrochemical performance (1C > 150 mAh/g), meeting rigorous commercial standards. Economic analysis further confirms the significant value of implementing this scalable recycling technic, and the potential industrial application is highly anticipated. Thus, this research proposes a sustainable tailings recovery methodology, offering valuable insights for the recycling of other Fe-containing resources.