Implementation Cost Research Articles

Barriers And Challenges of Sustainable Logistics in Automobile Industry using AHP Method

Sustainable logistics in the automobile industry faces numerous barriers and challenges that hinder its successful implementation. This study utilizes the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method to identify and prioritize these obstacles. The research delves into factors such as inadequate infrastructure, high implementation costs, lack of technological advancements, and limited stakeholder commitment, which impede the integration of sustainable practices in the industry. By applying the AHP method, the study aims to systematically evaluate these barriers and provide insights into overcoming them to enhance the sustainability of logistics operations in the automobile sector. Keywords: sustainable logistics, automobile industry, barriers, challenges, AHP method.

Neuro-inspired hardware solutions for high-performance computing: A TiO2-based nano-synaptic device approach with backpropagation

Computer-based machine learning algorithms that produce impressive performance results are computationally demanding and thus subject to high energy consumption during training and testing. Therefore, compact neuro-inspired devices are required to achieve efficiency in hardware resource consumption for the smooth implementation of neural network applications that require low energy and area. In this paper, learning characteristics and performances of the nanoscale titanium dioxide (TiO2) based synaptic device have been analyzed by implementing it in the hardware-based neural network for digit classification. Our model is experimentally validated by using 32-nm CMOS technology and the results demonstrate that the model provides high computational ability with better accuracy and efficiency in resource consumption with low energy and less area. The proposed model exhibits 20% energy gain and 16.82% accuracy improvement and 18% less total latency compared to the state-of-the-art Ag:Si synaptic device-based neural network. Furthermore, when compared to the software-based (i.e., computer-based) implementation of neural networks, our TiO2-based model not only achieved an impressive accuracy rate of 90.01% on the MNIST dataset but also did so with reduced energy consumption. Consequently, our model, characterized by a low hardware implementation cost, emerges as a promising neuro-inspired hardware solution for various neural network applications. The proposed model has further demonstrated outstanding performance in experiments involving both the MNIST and Fisher’s Iris datasets. On the latter dataset, the model exhibited notable precision (94.5%), recall (91.5%), and an impressive F1-score (92.9%), accompanied by a commendable accuracy rate of 93.04%.

Full state observer-based pole placement controller for pulse width modulation switched mode voltage-controlled buck Converter

Switched mode DC-DC converters play an important role in today's renewable energy systems, electric Vehicles, consumer electrical appliances, and many more. While many researchers have designed controllers for DC-DC converters, achieving low implementation cost remains a significant hurdle. This paper proposes a cost-effective observer-based pole placement controller for a PWM voltage-controlled Buck converter with clear step by step design approach. The state space averaged model of the DC-DC power converter is used to design pole placement with integrator compensator and full state observer. Pole placement is employed to improve the transient and steady state behavior of Voltage reference tracking response and full state observer is applied to extract the inductor current with the aim of removing the actual current sensor. Design specifications are set to a settling time of less than 5 msec and an overshoot of less than 5 %. While designing Observer-Controller combination, the separation principle, designing the controller and observer independently, is utilized by placing the observer poles far to the left of the controller poles for the Observer to converge faster. The designed controller and observer is verified with simulation in MATLAB/SIMULINK software and design of developed controller and observer are realized using low-cost analog electronics circuit components The results shows that the proposed system's strength in tracking the reference output voltage even in the presence of input voltage disturbance and the mean value of inductor current is well extracted having only the output voltage and MOSFET gate signal.

An Estimation Method of High-Order LC Circuits in Power Electronic Converters

This paper proposes a parameter estimation method for high-order LC circuits conducted during the power-OFF of power electronic converters. It is based on a battery-powered compact signal injection unit and a circuit modeling method to estimate the LC circuit parameters. The proposed method aims for LC component condition monitoring in applications with routine-based maintenance or frequent ON/OFF operation (e.g., wind power, photovoltaic, traction systems). Compared to LCR meters and impedance analyzers, the proposed method has a significantly lower implementation cost and does not require disassembly of components. Moreover, it is a converter-level method in which the signal injection unit only needs to connect the converter inputs or outputs. Compared to power-ON LC parameter estimation methods, the proposed one is non-invasive without adding any hardware or software algorithm that may introduce new risks to converter operation. This method can handle the converters with high-order LC structures (e.g., <inline-formula xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$2^{nd}$</tex-math></inline-formula> to <inline-formula xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$4^{th}$</tex-math></inline-formula> -order) in converter power-OFF state, which has not been achieved by existing power-OFF solutions. Therefore, the proposed method is promising for the specific applications of interest mentioned above. The parameter estimation algorithm and signal injection unit design are presented. The experimental results indicate that the estimation errors of the <inline-formula xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$2^{nd}$</tex-math></inline-formula> -order equivalent circuit, <inline-formula xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$3^{rd}$</tex-math></inline-formula> -order equivalent circuit, and <inline-formula xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$4^{th}$</tex-math></inline-formula> -order equivalent circuit are lower than 1.6%, 2.5%, and 3%, respectively. The estimated LC parameters can be further used as inputs for operation optimization or condition monitoring of the converters.

Balancing the trade-off between data center development and its environmental impacts: A comparative analysis of Data Center Policymaking in Singapore, Netherlands, Ireland, Germany, USA, and the UK

Data centers' deployment rate has raised concerns about high natural resource consumption. The scholarship has examined the scale of negative environmental impacts but focused to a lesser degree on policy responses enacted to improve data center sustainability. We analyze these policy responses in terms of (i) the degree of policy change undertaken, (ii) the duration of policy changes, and (iii) the effects on data center deployment rates. This work investigates six data center hubs - Singapore, Netherlands(Amsterdam), Ireland, Germany(Frankfurt), USA(Virginia), and the UK(London) – identifying three policy responses: moratorium, adjustment, and continuation. All six locations changed their data center deployment strategies. In three cases, data center policy adjustments were preceded by significant short-term disruptions of digital infrastructure growth (e.g., halts to new permits), demonstrating the challenges in managing high-growth sectors under environmental and infrastructural constraints. Among the three cases, only two have introduced long-term measures, i.e., adjustments through stricter environmental standards, showing that moratoriums better work as a temporary measure to stabilize natural resource consumption while buying time for long-term adjustments. Conversely, in the two cases opting for a continuation of data center deployment (e.g., redirecting new permits to less resource-constrained areas), the strategy lowered implementation costs but has been subject to a lingering opposition process. Beyond response specificities, the six cases also present general policymaking patterns. First, stricter energy accuracy standards may facilitate planning sustainable data center growth. Second, policy responses may yield better results when paired with multi-regional infrastructural strategies matching IT infrastructure needs with available energy capacity.

The Startup Analysis Canvas: Smartfill RFID System

Abstract: In today's fast-paced world, convenience and efficiency are paramount, extending to mundane tasks like refueling vehicles. Traditional gas station payment methods involvingcash or credit cards can be cumbersome and time-consuming. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology offers a promising solution to expedite gas station transactions, enhancing the customer experience. An RFID-based payment system leveragestags affixed to vehicles or issued as cards. Upon pulling up to an RFID-enabled pump, the reader automatically identifies the customer's vehicle or card, retrieving linked account information. The customer simply authorizes fueling, and the designated amount is seamlessly deducted from their account. This eliminates the need to exit the vehicle, searchfor wallets or cards, and swipe or insert them at the pump, significantly reducing transaction times. The benefits of an RFID-based payment system are manifold. First and foremost, it offers unparalleled convenience. Customers can streamline the fueling process without fumbling for cards or cash, leading to a more pleasant and time-efficient experience.Furthermore, RFID technology translates to shorter queues and improved customersatisfaction at gas stations. Reduced transaction times at pumps lead to faster throughput,benefiting both customers and gas station operators. Security is another significant advantage of RFID-based payments. Unlike traditional methods susceptible to fraud, RFID tags are tamper-proof and difficult to replicate. This significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized transactions and fraudulent activity, enhancing financial security for both customers and gas station businesses. Additionally, RFID technology offers potential for integration with loyalty programs. The system can be designed to automatically identify customers and credit their accounts with loyalty points based on their purchases. This fosters customer engagement and incentivizes repeat business, creating a win-win situation for both gas stations and their patrons. While RFID-based payment systems hold immense promise, there are challenges to consider. Implementation costs associated with equipping gas stations with RFID readers and potentially issuing tags to customers need to be carefully evaluated. Additionally, customer adoption is a crucial factor.Encouraging widespread acceptance of this new technology may require educational campaigns to highlight the benefits and dispel any misconceptions

Evaluating the impact ofthe Community Helpers Program on adolescents 12-18 years old in Edmonton, Canada.

Alberta Health Services (AHS) Community Helpers Program (CHP) to enhance mental health among youth. Identifying the impact of CHP on mental illness-related acute care use among adolescents aged 12-18 years in Edmonton and determining cost avoidance. Using administrative data from AHS, public school catchment area data from theEdmonton Public School Board, and area-level socioeconomic deprivation status indicators from the Pampalon deprivation index, we applied geographical regression discontinuity design to estimate the effect of CHP implementation on depression-, anxiety-, and suicide-related acute care use (emergency department visits and inpatient admissions). Cost data were derived from Interactive Health Data Application of Alberta Health. The study period (2002-2022) included pre (2002-2011) and post (2012-2020) CHP implementation periods. CHP had statistically significant impact when distance from the boundary (catchment area identifier to divide the sample into treated and control groups) was between 600 and 800 m. About 90 and 80 fewer anxiety- and depression-related visits (per 1000 visits) were observed among individuals aged 12-15 and 16-18 years, respectively, in catchment areas of the public schools where CHP was implemented. Impact of CHP on suicide-related visits was only statistically significant among individuals aged 12-15 years. Annual cost reduction ranged from $161,117 to $269,255 for anxiety- and depression-related visits. Findings show contextual effect of CHP; i.e., being potentially exposed to the program reduced the likelihood of anxiety- and depression-related visits. Costs of CHP implementation could be compared with the avoided costs to assess economic benefits of implementing CHP.

Формування та реалізація стратегій сталого розвитку територій на засадах проєктної діяльності

The article examines the peculiarities of the formation and implementation of strategies for the sustainable development of territories based on project activities. It was determined that, by its very nature, project activity in public administration can be considered in two conventional planes: 1) as a documented complex of organizational-technical, socio-economic, material-resource and informational-communicative justification and planning of time-limited activities specially created for this purpose temporary organizational unit of the authority or local self-government to achieve a clearly set goal; 2) as the direct activity of such a unit as a part of a public governance body with a clear internal hierarchy and close interaction both within the project team and between the project group, the local council and the external community, the existence of which is limited to a defined time and ends from the moment of the final realization of the set goal of the project. It was determined that the design activity can be used for the implementation of any projects in all areas and directions of territorial development, solving the problem of attracting investments in local development and control both by state bodies and the public regarding the targeted use of funds, terms and costs for implementation of project ideas. In a strategic plan, the project activity provides an opportunity to direct the efforts of the relevant public authorities to solve the urgent problems of the future development of the united territorial community, region, and state in its key directions. It was established that the content and essence of aspects of project analysis are not always adequately understood, which leads to insufficient quality of substantiation of the social utility of projects, incomplete consideration of the risks of their implementation. It is proved that the issue of implementation of project management in local self-government bodies is relevant, where the real result of work is evaluated not only by higher authorities and controlling bodies, but also directly by residents of the territories. Keywords: project activity, strategy of sustainable development of territories, effectiveness of project activity, united territorial community, level of community readiness for project activity, financial capacity.

Implementation costs of the appraise alcohol brief intervention (ABI) for male remand prisoners: A micro-costing protocol and preliminary findings.

This paper documents the methods used to assess the implementation costs of the APPRAISE alcohol brief intervention (ABI) delivered to male remand prisoners across two study sites in Scotland and North East England. We first developed a comprehensive taxonomy of the activities constituting the APPRIASE ABI. Next, data were collected for each activity about the study staff and the subject time spent, in addition to the other resources used and unit costs. From the pilot data collection it was possible to construct a narrative, for both study sites, for how the intervention was delivered and the time required for each activity. The ABI was delivered by Change Grow Live and Humankind intervention staff and staff salaries were obtained from both organizations to calculate the staff delivery costs for each site. Other costs, such as the printing of materials, were estimated based on APPRAISE study records. Due to the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions and limited access to prison resources and staff, there were significant deviations from the initial study protocols. As a result, we document the costs of implementing the ABI as delivered rather than as planned. This paper provides the first estimates of the implementation costs of an ABI delivered in criminal justice setting in the UK. Although these costs are from a pilot implementation that was heavily impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, this paper nonetheless provides useful, policy-relevant information on the potential costs of providing ABI to remand prisoners. It also serves as a methodological template, guidance, and proof of concept for future micro-costing studies of ABIs in criminal justice settings.

Breaking the Double Tax Paradigm

The success story of economic globalization is often linked to an increased freedom of capital movement, facilitated by the existence of more than 3,000 bilateral tax treaties, the primary purpose of which is to prevent double taxation. Even the most outspoken critics of the international tax regime subscribe to the notion that double taxation is detrimental to global growth, development and welfare. Yet, they argue that, all things considered, tax treaties might not be worth signing. Based on an extensive review of the available tax policy and economics literature, this article shows that there is not enough of a normative or empirical basis for thinking that double taxation will necessarily restrict capital flows, provided that the combined effective tax burden is kept at a reasonable level. At the same time, treaties seem to provide investors with a legal certainty that is key to cross-border business activity. This article posits that there should be more emphasis on the legal certainty aspect of tax treaties and less on their limited capacity to prevent double taxation. In fact, relaxing the double tax paradigm could help to significantly improve tax treaties, with a view to preserving their role in fostering international commerce and investment. In this respect, the authors propose a simplified tax treaty model that, by allowing an agreed overlap between home-state and host-state taxes, would diminish overall implementation costs while increasing legal certainty and reducing the risk of lengthy tax disputes, thus benefiting both taxpayers and tax administrations. The article further demonstrates that this approach is superior to the current Pillar One proposal and other popular systemic reform suggestions in the literature, specifically the destination-based cashflow tax (DBCFT) and global formulary apportionment.

Brain-age estimation with a low-cost EEG-headset: effectiveness and implications for large-scale screening and brain optimization.

Over time, pathological, genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors can age the brain and diminish its functional capabilities. While these factors can lead to disorders that can be diagnosed and treated once they become symptomatic, often treatment is difficult or ineffective by the time significant overt symptoms appear. One approach to this problem is to develop a method for assessing general age-related brain health and function that can be implemented widely and inexpensively. To this end, we trained a machine-learning algorithm on resting-state EEG (RS-EEG) recordings obtained from healthy individuals as the core of a brain-age estimation technique that takes an individual's RS-EEG recorded with the low-cost, user-friendly EMOTIV EPOC X headset and returns that person's estimated brain age. We tested the current version of our machine-learning model against an independent test-set of healthy participants and obtained a correlation coefficient of 0.582 between the chronological and estimated brain ages (r = 0.963 after statistical bias-correction). The test-retest correlation was 0.750 (0.939 after bias-correction) over a period of 1 week. Given these strong results and the ease and low cost of implementation, this technique has the potential for widespread adoption in the clinic, workplace, and home as a method for assessing general brain health and function and for testing the impact of interventions over time.

The perspectives of eye care professionals on the integration of artificial intelligence in eye care practices: A systematic review

Artificial intelligence (AI) technology has recently been integrated into the health-care industry, including in optometry and ophthalmology. This systematic review assessed the opinions (i.e., perspectives, concerns, and degrees of acceptance) of eye care professionals regarding AI integration into eye care practices. The literature search was conducted using the PubMed and MEDLINE databases. A total of 780 related articles were identified. Among these articles, 304 duplicates were removed, 450 articles were excluded after reviewing the abstract, and 18 articles were excluded after reviewing the full text as these articles were not relevant and/or did not report surveys. The remaining eight included studies were assessed accordingly. Most ophthalmologists and optometrists had a positive perception toward incorporating AI into eye care practices, and these professionals shared that AI would effectively enhance clinical eye care practices. However, certain eye care professionals were concerned about the diagnostic accuracy of AI, the high implementation costs, privacy issues, and the quality of AI-integrated patient care. Several eye care professionals also expressed concerns that AI technology could eventually replace some of their major responsibilities in the practice, suggesting that stakeholders should essentially address these concerns and ensure that AI integration in eye care practices is implemented thoughtfully and ethically to maximize its benefits while preserving the quality of patient care. Nonetheless, this systematic review highlighted the predominantly positive attitude among eye care professionals toward AI integration into eye care practices, warranting further research and collaboration between AI developers and eye care professionals to effectively address the current challenges.

Cost, market, and policy constraints on mitigating climate change through afforestation in China

Afforestation is a promising nature-based climate solution for mitigating climate change, but it is subject to a complex web of biophysical, cost-benefit, market, and policy processes. Although its biophysical feasibility has been established, the cost, market, and policy constraints that affect climate change mitigation through afforestation are still unclear. Here, we estimate such cost, market, and policy constraints on the basis of biophysical feasibility. Our findings reveal that implementation costs are a more relevant constraint than opportunity costs on mitigating climate change through afforestation. The China Certified Emission Reduction market currently provides only a 0.308 % incentive for climate change mitigation through afforestation, due to market access constraints. The current market prices of China Certified Emission Reduction, China Carbon Emissions Trading Exchange, and Nature Based Carbon Offset in Voluntary Carbon Market constrain 88.15 %, 87.95 %, and 85.75 % of CO2 removal actions through afforestation, compared to the carbon price scenario (US$62.97 tCO2-1) of the EU Emissions Trading System. Moreover, land policy under the scenarios of prohibiting conversion of cultivated land to forest and forest restoration in degraded areas exhibit 8.87–29.59 % and 65.16–74.10 % constraints, respectively, on mitigating climate change through afforestation compared to land-use freedom conversion scenarios from 2020 to 2060. Thus, enhancing the incentive price of CO2 removal, addressing the market access barrier, strengthening cooperation between global carbon markets, and exploring carbon–neutral and food multi-oriented land policies can be valuable sources of mitigation efforts over the next 40 years.

Design and Development of an Intuitive Android Application for Smart Farming

Farmers face challenges in adapting to environmental changes, yet with decreasing implementation costs and a growing accessibility to technical expertise, progress is evident. This research introduces KisanVishwa, an Android app designed for smart farming. KisanVishwa optimizes precision agriculture systems, enabling farmers to monitor their fields in real time and address agricultural constraints. Tailored to meet the specific needs of today's farmers, the app provides user-friendly tools and the latest information on farm equipment, fertilizers, chemicals, technological advancements, and local distributors and retailers. By integrating KisanVishwa into their operations, farmers can overcome challenges associated with the adoption and maintenance of precision agriculture. KisanVishwa adopts a user-centric design for compatibility across diverse Android devices, integrating monitoring tools and collaborating with agricultural research institutions. Empowering farmers, the app addresses contemporary challenges, fostering informed decisions and efficiency. With its user-friendly interface, KisanVishwa promotes the adoption of precision agriculture, essential resources, and sustainable practices in the agricultural sector. Convincing traditional farmers to adopt advanced technologies may pose challenges. Functionality may depend on reliable internet, posing challenges in areas with limited connectivity.

Uncovering Blockchain's Potential for Supply Chain Transparency: Qualitative Study on the Fashion Industry

With the capacity to increase security and transparency, blockchain technology is being used as an interesting subject of investigation in the fashion industry. This underscores the importance of this current research endeavour. In terms of supply chain transparency, the fashion industry faces considerable barriers, thus requiring new approaches such as blockchain that can address issues such as child labour, unethical payment practices, and environmental impact. Main objective of this research is to identify how blockchain technology can improve transparency, accountability, and compliance with ethical standards. However, knowledge of the specific ways in which blockchain technology can improve transparency in the fashion supply chain, including the drivers and barriers, needs to be improved. The research method is described through a qualitative approach that includes in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis to collect data from various stakeholders in the industry, including manufacturers, distributors, and consumers. Explanation provides an overview of how the researcher collected and analysed data to achieve the research objectives. Blockchain increases transparency through the provision of verifiable and durable product records and fosters consumer-brand trust. Blockchain facilitates accountability and compliance with environmental and ethical standards, according to key findings. Research detected significant barriers, including exorbitant costs for implementation, limited knowledge of technology, and difficulties in fostering collaboration among relevant parties. Results of this study have far-reaching consequences, providing valuable insights to fashion industry stakeholders on how to overcome barriers to blockchain adoption. Long-term benefits of enhanced supply chain transparency and strategic recommendations ensure a smooth implementation process.

The business case for hospital mobility programs in the veterans health care system: Results from multi-hospital implementation of the STRIDE program.

To conduct a business case analysis for Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) program STRIDE (ASsisTed EaRly MobIlization for hospitalizeD older VEterans), which was designed to address immobility for hospitalized older adults. This was a secondary analysis of primary data from a VA 8-hospital implementation trial conducted by the Function and Independence Quality Enhancement Research Initiative (QUERI). In partnership with VA operational partners, we estimated resources needed for program delivery in and out of the VA as well as national implementation facilitation in the VA. A scenario analysis using wage data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics informs implementation decisions outside the VA. This budget impact analysis compared delivery and implementation costs for two implementation strategies (Replicating Effective Programs [REP]+CONNECT and REP-only). To simulate national budget scenarios for implementation, we estimated the number of eligible hospitalizations nationally and varied key parameters (e.g., enrollment rates) to evaluate the impact of uncertainty. Personnel time and implementation outcomes were collected from hospitals (2017-2019). Hospital average daily census and wage data were estimated as of 2022 to improve relevance to future implementation. Average implementation costs were $9450 for REP+CONNECT and $5622 for REP-only; average program delivery costs were less than $30 per participant in both VA and non-VA hospital settings. Number of walks had the most impact on delivery costs and ranged from 1 to 5 walks per participant. In sensitivity analyses, cost increased to $35 per participant if a physical therapist assistant conducts the walks. Among study hospitals, mean enrollment rates were higher among the REP+CONNECT hospitals (12%) than the REP-only hospitals (4%) and VA implementation costs ranged from $66 to $100 per enrolled. STRIDE is a low-cost intervention, and program participation has the biggest impact on the resources needed for delivering STRIDE. ClinicalsTrials.gov NCT03300336. Prospectively registered on 3 October 2017.

EFFECT OF USING LIME AND FLY ASH AS A CEMENT SUBSTITUTE FOR SOIL STABILITY

Subgrade is the lowest layer that receives the load on it if it does not have carrying capacity that is allowed then need for soil stabilization. Chemical soil stabilization is often done with the addition of cement but the use of cement material will cost quite high, it is necessary to alternate other materials for the substitution of cement to reduce the implementation costs incurred. Cement will be replaced as a stabilizing material in this research with additional materials like lime and fly ash. In this research, soil material was taken from the Sentul – Karawang Toll Road Project STA 24+300, with fly ash from PT PUSRI as the stabilization material, and lime material obtained from the market in Yogyakarta. The stabilization material will be used with a fixed lime percentage of 4.2% of the dry weight of the soil, and fly ash at 1.4%, 2.1%, 2.8%, 3.5%, and 4.2% of the dry weight of the soil. The soil samples were tested for physical and mechanical properties, including Standard Proctor and California Bearing Ratio (CBR). All test results were compared to select one variation, which was then designated as the Optimum Mix Design (OMD) sample. The test results of the soil sample + 4.2% lime + 2.1% fly ash yielded a CBR value of 15.52%, indicating an increase of 1078.02% from the initial 1.44%, and were formally designated as an OMD sample. The CBR value satisfies the subgrade requirements, namely &gt;6%.

A cost-effectiveness analysis of using umbilical cord blood pH for the diagnosis and management of neonatal asphyxia in term high-risk pregnancy.

The objective was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of using umbilical cord blood pH (UC-pH) in combination with APGAR score for neonatal asphyxia, in terms of high-risk pregnancies, compared to using the APGAR score only. Neonatal outcomes and the proportions of patients admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) were evaluated. A cost-effectiveness ambispective analysis study was carried out, comparing (i) UC-pH combined with APGAR score and (ii) APGAR score only in 399 term pregnancies with a high risk for neonatal asphyxia. Costs included implementation, medical, and admission costs. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICER) were calculated. The proportions of patients admitted to the NICU were evaluated. UC-pH combined with APGAR score demonstrated a cost-effective outcome (3990.64 USD vs 5545.11 USD) and an ICER shown as saving 103.66 USD compared to the APGAR score alone. The need for NICU admission was less in the umbilical cord blood collection group (18 vs 33 cases). A combination of UC-pH with APGAR score assessment for neonatal asphyxia in a high-risk term pregnancy can effectively reduce costs and requirement for NICU admission.

Mitigating air pollution benefits multiple sustainable development goals in China

Achieving the United nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) remains a significant challenge, necessitating urgent and prioritized strategies. Among the various challenges, air pollution continues to pose one of the most substantial threats to the SDGs due to its widespread adverse effects on human health and ecosystems. However, the connections between air pollution and the SDGs have often been overlooked. This study reveals that out of the 169 SDG targets, 71 are adversely impacted by air pollution, while only 6 show potential positive effects. In China, two major atmospheric nitrogen pollutants, ammonia and nitrogen oxides, resulted in an economic loss of 400 billion United States Dollar (USD) in 2020, which could be reduced by 33% and 34% by 2030, respectively. It would enhance the progress towards SDGs in China by 14%, directly contributing to the achievement of SDGs 1 to 6 and 11 to 15. This improvement is estimated to yield overall benefits totaling 119 billion USD, exceeded the total implementation cost of 82 billion USD with ammonia as the preferential mitigation target. This study underscores the importance of robust scientific evidence in integrated policies aimed at aligning improvements in environmental quality with the priorities of sustainable development.

Internet of Medical Things and the Evolution of Healthcare 4.0: Exploring Recent Trends

Enhanced patient care and remote health monitoring have always been important issues. Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) is a subsection of Healthcare 4.0 that uses recent technologies like mobile computing, medical sensors, and cloud computing to track patients' medical information in real-time. These data are stored in a cloud computing framework that may be accessed and analyzed by healthcare experts. IoMT and Healthcare 4.0 have immense potential for revolutionizing patient care and diagnostics, despite facing numerous complex challenges. This paper thoroughly analyzes technical, structural, and regulatory obstacles encountered by the healthcare sector. Challenges in IoMT implementation include cost considerations, network stress, interoperability issues, ethical limitations, policy intricacies, security concerns, and vulnerabilities jeopardizing patient privacy. However, amidst these challenges, the study highlights the prospective long-term benefits, including diminished medical costs and enhanced patient care. In this study, we have portrayed a comprehensive exploration of the field of IoMT and different related technologies from more than 100 papers to represent the transformation and growth in this decade. We have illustrated some of the significant findings of applications and innovations in the domain of IoMT. This paper delves into IoMT's application in dementia detection and care, improved data management, fortified cybersecurity measures, and modernizing existing healthcare systems. The study also offers valuable insights into potential mitigation strategies, offered by ongoing research and innovation to address emerging trends and challenges, propelling the trajectory of Healthcare 4.0 towards an optimized and transformative future for patient well-being. Hence future research needs to integrate more prudent technologies addressing challenges including security, privacy, interoperability, and implementation costs.