Local Transportation Research Articles

Preparedness and Public Health: an Italian Local Health Authority plan for a mass gathering in 2023

Abstract Issue Mass gatherings represent an important Public Health challenge. The increased number of people present in a specific area puts local health systems under stress (i.e.workload of emergency services, environmental health and food safety) and at the same time it rises the risks of a potential mass casualty incident. Effective planning and disaster preparedness have to be achieved through collaboration among local health authorities(LHA) and other stakeholders (event planners, law enforcement, local transportation services). Problem Every year, for 3 days, the Italian Alpine troops gather in a different city to remember First World War fallen. During those days, the city centre transit is not allowed to car (in specific areas even to emergency vehicles).In May 2023 this event occurred in Udine, a city in the North East of Italy with almost 100.000 inhabitants. For that year at least 300.000 participants were expected. LHA had to reorganize preparing itself to manage a temporary quadrupled catchment area. Results In the previous months, local authorities met local health representatives and other stakeholders in order to define a single emergency response plan. For healthcare services it was decided to: institute first aid points within the city; reorganise patients’ emergency transport system; increase hospitals’ treatment capacity (beds, life support equipment); increase healthcare professional availability; empower drugstores (opening times, drugs procurement); strengthen human and animal health surveillances;activate alternative communication systems. During the event, LHA updated other authorities involved three times a day about hospital and emergency system situation. At the end of the event,a multiprofessional debriefing meeting was held and no critical situations were reported. Lessons Preparedness requires a great commitment in terms of resources and time, but it is confirmed to be essential to guarantee adequate assistance even in extraordinary conditions. Key messages • Mass gathering s events put under stress all the main areas of public health system. • Public health preparedness cannot be effective without a strong involvement of other public and private stakeholders.

The Applicability of Improvement Gap Analysis to Understand Pre‐ and Post‐Covid‐19 Foreign Tourists’ Satisfaction at a Heritage Destination

Tourist satisfaction is one of the most important factors for a destination's perpetual survival. The stakeholders seek to understand how to enhance tourist satisfaction. Prior research highlighted various methods to measure tourist satisfaction, but the use of Improvement Gap Analysis (IGA) has been found more effective in positioning the key destination satisfaction attributes in a grid form. The aim of this study is to analyze the attributes that influence the overall satisfaction of foreign tourists visiting Varanasi, which is a leading tourist destination in India. This study used IGA to distinguish and position 21 destination satisfaction attributes. Further, the statistically significant difference between average expected satisfaction and average current satisfaction is examined using the Wilcoxon signed rank test. The results provide a deeper understanding of the current satisfaction status of a heritage destination, but also provide scope for possible improvements by introducing new attributes. Furthermore, the study identifies critical areas of improvement for the following attributes: “maintenance of historical structures and monuments,” “convenient local transportation,” “sight‐seeing prices in terms of tourist satisfaction” in the context. The attributes used in the study to examine satisfaction of heritage destination can be used in similar contexts and adds knowledge to the existing body of tourism marketing literature.

Forecasting the volume of urban freight traffic

The efficient development of transportation vehicles in conditions of stiff competition and global digitalization depends on the correct methodology and forecasting of freight transportation. A review of scientific literature showed that all studies are directed towards the railway mode of transportation. The research conducted in this work focuses on freight transportation by road transport in the city of Almaty, where trucks remain the sole means of delivering goods from one point to another at the local transportation level. The main goal of the research presented in this article is to analyze statistical indicators of transportation volumes and freight turnover by road transport and develop software aimed at forecasting the expected volume of freight transportation. In logistics planning and management, the moving average method is employed to predict truckload volumes and freight turnover for the next year. This method works by averaging data points to smooth out random fluctuations, thereby providing a more stable forecast. This phenomenon arises from replacing the original levels of the time series with arithmetic means calculated for certain time intervals. To facilitate transportation volume planning and substantiate the optimality of freight transportation, it is necessary to have up-to-date statistical data. These statistic data serve as the basis for constructing a dynamic representation of automobile traffic volumes and freight turnover in the city of Almaty. The growth rates of indicators are calculated to assess dynamics. The forecasting aspect of freight transportation volume is addressed by developing an algorithm based on the moving average method.

Distinct roles for the domains of the mitochondrial aspartate/glutamate carrier citrin in organellar localization and substrate transport

ObjectiveCitrin, the mitochondrial aspartate/glutamate carrier isoform 2, is structurally and mechanistically the most complex SLC25 family member, because it consists of three-domains and forms a homodimer. Each protomer has an N-terminal calcium-binding domain with EF-hands, followed by a substrate-transporting carrier domain and a C-terminal domain with an amphipathic helix. The absence or dysfunction of citrin leads to citrin deficiency, a highly prevalent pan-ethnic mitochondrial disease. Here, we aim to understand the role of different citrin domains and how they contribute to pathogenic mechanisms in citrin deficiency. MethodsWe have employed structural modelling and functional reconstitution of purified proteins in proteoliposomes to assess the transport activity and calcium regulation of wild-type citrin and pathogenic variants associated with citrin deficiency. We have also developed a double knock-out of citrin and aralar (AGC1), the two paralogs of the mitochondrial aspartate/glutamate carrier, in HAP1 cells to perform mitochondrial imaging and to investigate mitochondrial localisation. ResultsUsing 33 pathogenic variants of citrin we clarify determinants of sub-cellular localization and transport mechanism. We identify crucial elements of the carrier domain that are required for transport, including those involved in substrate binding, network formation and dynamics. We show that the N-terminal domain is not involved in calcium regulation of transport, as previously thought, but when mutated causes a mitochondrial import defect. ConclusionsOur work introduces a new role for the N-terminal domain of citrin and demonstrates that dysfunction of the different domains contributes to distinct pathogenic mechanisms in citrin deficiency.

Healthcare Needs of Provincially Uninsured Migrant Families with Newborn Infants: A Qualitative Descriptive Study

Aim: This project aimed to explore the healthcare needs of provincially uninsured migrant families with newborns receiving care at a nurse practitioner (NP)-led clinic in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The findings of this study are intended to guide primary healthcare professionals and administrators in understanding and addressing the specific needs of these families, enabling them to tailor their services appropriately. Background: Newborns of provincially uninsured migrant families in Quebec can experience delays in accessing provincial health insurance, preventing timely access to primary care services. In Montreal, a publicly funded NP-led clinic was created to enable newborns without provincial health insurance to access recommended well-baby visits in the first 4 months of life. There exists a paucity of literature on the specific healthcare needs of uninsured families with newborn infants, making tailored care difficult. Methods: A qualitative descriptive study was undertaken. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the parents of provincially uninsured Quebec-born newborns being treated at a NP-led clinic. Ten interviews were conducted with a total of 13 participants between October 2023 and January 2024. Socio-demographic data were collected. Content analysis was undertaken to identify important themes. Findings: Two overarching themes were identified including (a) healthcare service needs related to newborn care, maternal postpartum care, and family healthcare; (b) healthcare access needs related to navigating the local healthcare system, transportation, and provincial health insurance. Conclusion: Provincially uninsured migrant families with newborns in Quebec face barriers to accessing healthcare. This study provides information on the healthcare services and access-related needs of these families and provides recommendations including how NP-led clinics can facilitate access to the healthcare services needed by these families.

Measuring the sustainability of electric vehicles in Cyprus using PESTEL analysis

The high living standards and rapid urbanization have changed local infrastructure and transportation. Electric cars are introduced dynamically in the global and particularly the Cypriot market as they have lower carbon dioxide emissions during movement compared to combustion engines cars. However, a variety of obstacles to the development and acceptance of electric vehicles have emerged. To identify and overcome these obstacles, this paper applies the Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Environmental and Legal (PESTEL) framework to analyse the macro-environment of the electric vehicle industry in Cyprus. The PESTEL factors in the electric car sector were assessed according to the local and European legislation and policies, the difficulties and concerns of the public and the environmental issues in an island where the main source of electricity is the burn of fossil fuels. Finally, a seven year analysis of the fuels prices has also assisted in the identification of the drawbacks and possibilities of this emerging market.

Community and multisector partner engagement in US Vision Zero plan development

BackgroundVision Zero aims to eliminate serious and fatal road injuries using a Safe System approach. Safe System principles establish that safety is a shared responsibility; this involves both multisector partners...

Perceptions of Antenatal Care among Ghanaian Mothers

In Ghana, some pregnant women may not seek antenatal care due to the unavailability of such services in their communities, although preventive service can help reduce maternal mortality with high-quality care. This study aimed to understand the antenatal care opinions of Ghanaian mothers who sought antenatal care, the barriers they faced, and their suggestions for improvement in antenatal care in Ghana. This study’s data were collected in the Central and Ashanti regions in Ghana from June 2023 to January 2024. Four hundred and fifty mothers in Ghana who indicated that they had given birth within the last 10 years of the data collection period took part in the study. Our findings revealed that 93.6% of Ghanaian mothers perceived their antenatal care to be of good quality due to proper examinations, friendly provider–patient interactions, reassurance, fair treatment, and proper education, whereas 6.5% of Ghanaian mothers perceived their care to be of poor quality due to long wait times, impersonal interactions, inadequate facility resources, and barriers to communication. For Ghanaian mothers to receive better outcomes for themselves and their children, it is worth improving healthcare facilities, healthcare provider preparedness, local transportation, and addressing financial constraints to go from suboptimal to optimal health services.

Spatiotemporal of Particulate Matter (PM2.5) and Ozone (O3) in Eastern Northeast Brazil

ABSTRACT This research examines particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5) and ozone (O3) variation across the climatic mesoregions of Alagoas. Mean PM2.5 and O3 concentrations across three mesoregions were as follows: East (5.91; 44.22 μg.m−3), Hinterland (6.90; 44.18 μg.m−3), and Arid (7.03; 44.23 μg.m−3). Spatial and temporal variations were observed, with PM2.5 concentrations highest in the northwest (NW) and O3 concentrations in the east (E), influenced by local sources, weather, and transportation. Differences between rainy and dry years were noted, attributed to biomass burning and dust particle transport. This study establishes a baseline for understanding air quality, lacking monitoring stations, aiding policymaking. It provides insights into PM2.5 and O3 dynamics, with PM2.5 concentrations highest in the NW and lower O3 concentrations in the E. Temporal variations emphasize the need for dynamic monitoring. Positive correlations between PM2.5 and O3 highlight complex relationships. Practical implications include proactive policymaking and the necessity for monitoring stations. Rigorous statistical methodologies inform model selection, enhancing environmental data understanding. Despite changes in land use, studies on extreme probability distributions are limited, emphasizing the need for robust methodologies for environmental data analysis to address air pollution challenges effectively in Alagoas.

Karacak Valley Tourism Development Strategy, Garut District, West Java

Garut Regency has great potential for tourism development thanks to its wealth of natural resources. However, many tourist destinations in this region are unsustainable due to a lack of adequate understanding and capacity in their management. Wana Wisata Karacak Valley, is one of the destinations managed by BKPH Cibatu KPH Garut Perum Perhutani Divre West Java and Banten. Even though it has attractive natural beauty, the number of visitors to Karacak Valley has decreased drastically during the COVID-19 pandemic. Observations show that Karacak Valley has attractions in the form of natural beauty, dense vegetation and waterfalls, but there has been no in-depth study of its development strategy. This research aims to develop a management strategy for the Karacak Valley Tourism Area using a SWOT analysis approach. The results of the study show that the potential of the Karacak Valley includes the beauty of pine vegetation, diversity of animals, accessibility supported by local transportation, and adequate accommodation. The proposed development strategy includes collaboration with regional and village governments, increasing promotion through educational tourism programs and social media, as well as improving security facilities in the waterfall tourist area. With this strategy, it is hoped that the Karacak Valley can be developed optimally and sustainably, providing economic benefits for local communities, as well as preserving its natural environment. Good management will ensure that Karacak Valley remains an attractive and competitive tourist destination in the future.

Dynamic Rupture and Strong Ground-Motion Simulations of the 8 January 2022 Ms 6.9 Qinghai Menyuan Earthquake

Abstract The 2022 Ms 6.9 Qinghai Menyuan, China, earthquake is the most destructive earthquake to have occurred near the Lenglongling fault at the western segment of the Qilian–Haiyuan fault since 2016 Ms 6.4 Menyuan earthquake. The 2022 earthquake generated surface rupture measuring about 30 km with an unexpected maximum offset larger than 2.6 m in the epicentral area, and severely damaged the local infrastructure and transportation. To analyze the possible causes of the large surface slip and to reveal the rupture process, we modeled the dynamic rupture and strong ground motion of the 2022 Menyuan earthquake using the curved-grid finite-difference method. In the simulation, the geometry of the fault is constructed based on the observed trace of the surface ruptures. The background tectonic stress field is assumed to be uniform, and the slip-weakening law with the constant friction coefficients is adopted. Our modeling results showed that the rupture model with a focal depth of 6 km and a rupture width of 10 km provides a good fit to the observed surface slips and the field records. We also investigated the effects of the focal depth and the rupture size on the surface slips. It is found that under the same conditions, the dynamic rupture models with a larger rupture size generated greater coseismic slips at the surface. However, only the model with a relatively smaller rupture width produced an Mw∼6.7 event similar to the Menyuan earthquake. In contrast, the influence of the focal depth is less significant. The decrease of the focal depth only leads to a slight increase in surface slip. Our results illustrated that a surface-breaking rupture with a relatively narrow width may physically control the general characteristics of the earthquake. This study provides a new insight into the rupture dynamics of the 2022 Menyuan earthquake.

Enhanced cerebral blood flow similarity of the somatomotor network in chronic insomnia: Transcriptomic decoding, gut microbial signatures and phenotypic roles

Chronic insomnia (CI) is a complex disease involving multiple factors including genetics, gut microbiota, and brain structure and function. However, there lacks a unified framework to elucidate how these factors interact in CI. By combining data of clinical assessment, sleep behavior recording, cognitive test, multimodal MRI (structural, functional, and perfusion), gene, and gut microbiota, this study demonstrated that enhanced cerebral blood flow (CBF) similarities of the somatomotor network (SMN) acted as a key mediator to link multiple factors in CI. Specifically, we first demonstrated that only CBF but not morphological or functional networks exhibited alterations in patients with CI, characterized by increases within the SMN and between the SMN and higher-order associative networks. Moreover, these findings were highly reproducible and the CBF similarity method was test-retest reliable. Further, we showed that transcriptional profiles explained 60.4 % variance of the pattern of the increased CBF similarities with the most correlated genes enriched in regulation of cellular and protein localization and material transport, and gut microbiota explained 69.7 % inter-individual variance in the increased CBF similarities with the most contributions from Negativicutes and Lactobacillales. Finally, we found that the increased CBF similarities were correlated with clinical variables, accounted for sleep behaviors and cognitive deficits, and contributed the most to the patient-control classification (accuracy = 84.4 %). Altogether, our findings have important implications for understanding the neuropathology of CI and may inform ways of developing new therapeutic strategies for the disease.

Comparing life cycle environmental impacts of food access and consumption pre- and during COVID 19 in New York State's Capital Region

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly influenced household food shopping, food consumption, and food waste generation. However, the dietary environmental impacts for different income groups during COVID-19 remain unknown. To analyze dietary environmental impacts for various income groups, a process-based life cycle assessment (LCA) was conducted based on two electronic food access surveys implemented in the New York State's Capital Region during the COVID-19 pandemic and public and proprietary databases. We found that life cycle global warming potential, cumulative energy demand, acidification potential, and water resource depletion of per capital food consumption in the studied area tended to be lower during COVID-19 than pre-COVID-19. In contrast, life cycle eutrophication during COVID-19 was slightly higher than pre-COVID-19. The environmental impacts occurring at the food production stage were higher than those at the local transportation and waste disposal stages. The lowest income group had the lowest dietary environmental impacts due to their lowest food consumption of all the food categories. The second-highest income group had the highest dietary environmental impacts, since they consumed the most red meat which has a high impact intensity. This is the first study to our knowledge to investigate the differences in dietary environmental impacts among income groups during COVID-19.

The oxidative potential of fine ambient particulate matter in Xinxiang, North China: Pollution characteristics, source identification and regional transport

Atmospheric fine particulate matter (PM2.5) can trigger the production of cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can trigger or exacerbate oxidative stress and pulmonary inflammation. We collected 111 daily (∼24 h) ambient PM2.5 samples within an urban region of North China during four seasons of 2019–2020. PM2.5 samples were examined for carbonaceous components, water–soluble ions, and elements, together with their oxidative potential (represent ROS–producing ability) by DTT assay. The seasonal peak DTTv was recorded in winter (2.86 ± 1.26 nmol min−1 m−3), whereas the DTTm was the highest in summer (40.6 ± 8.7 pmol min−1 μg−1). WSOC displayed the highest correlation with DTT activity (r = 0.84, p < 0.0001), but the influence of WSOC on the elevation of DTTv was extremely negligible. Combustion source exhibited the most significant and robust correlation with the elevation of DTTv according to the linear mixed–effects model result. Source identification investigation using positive matrix factorization displayed that combustion source (36.2%), traffic source (30.7%), secondary aerosol (15.7%), and dust (14.1%) were driving the DTTv, which were similar to the results from the multiple linear regression (MLR) analysis. Backward trajectory analysis revealed that the major air masses originate from local and regional transportation, but PM2.5 OP was more susceptible to the influence of short–distance transport clusters. Discerning the influence of chemicals on health–pertinent attributes of PM2.5, such as OP, could facilitate a deep understanding of the cause–and–effect relationship between PM2.5 and impacts.

Acquired dysfunction of CFTR underlies cystic fibrosis-like disease of the canine gallbladder.

Mucocele formation in dogs is a unique and enigmatic muco-obstructive disease of the gallbladder caused by the amassment of abnormal mucus that bears striking pathological similarity to cystic fibrosis. We investigated the role of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulatory protein (CFTR) in the pathogenesis of this disease. The location and frequency of disease-associated variants in the coding region of CFTR were compared using whole genome sequence data from 2,642 dogs representing breeds at low-risk, high-risk, or with confirmed disease. Expression, localization, and ion transport activity of CFTR were quantified in control and mucocele gallbladders by NanoString, Western blotting, immunofluorescence imaging, and studies in Ussing chambers. Our results establish a significant loss of CFTR-dependent anion secretion by mucocele gallbladder mucosa. A significantly lower quantity of CFTR protein was demonstrated relative to E-cadherin in mucocele compared with control gallbladder mucosa. Immunofluorescence identified CFTR along the apical membrane of epithelial cells in control gallbladders but not in mucocele gallbladder epithelium. Decreases in mRNA copy number for CFTR were accompanied by decreases in mRNA for the Cl-/[Formula: see text] exchanger SLC26A3, K+ channels (KCNQ1, KCNN4), and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide receptor (VIPR1), which suggest a driving force for change in secretory function of gallbladder epithelial cells in the pathogenesis of mucocele formation. There were no significant differences in CFTR gene variant frequency, type, or predicted impact comparing low-risk, high-risk, and definitively diagnosed groups of dogs. This study describes a unique, naturally occurring muco-obstructive disease of the canine gallbladder, with uncanny similarity to cystic fibrosis, and driven by the underlying failure of CFTR function.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulatory protein (CFTR) genomic variants and expression of mRNA, protein, and electrogenic anion secretory activity of CFTR were characterized in dog gallbladder. Acquired inhibition of CFTR expression by gallbladder epithelium was identified as underpinning a naturally occurring muco-obstructive disease of the dog gallbladder that bears striking pathological similarity to animal models of cystic fibrosis.

Securing Your Eggs in Multiple Baskets — Assuring a Resilient and Secure Supply Chain

AbstractThe global supply chain is a complex system of systems made up of and relying on other complex systems of systems (SoS) to achieve its goals. To take a typical example, Enterprise A is supplied essential parts on a regular basis to manufacture its products. To place the order requires global financial systems, integrated email systems, the internet, multiple telecommunications systems, and supply software provided by large companies. To deliver the parts may require air and maritime transportation systems, the rail network, interstate highway systems, road haulage companies, state and local transportation systems and so forth. When any of these complex systems fail, the impact can be global, and the results catastrophic. Recent examples include the shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) during the COVID pandemic, computer chip shortages delaying the assembly and sales of cars, and, most recently, the baby formula shortage. These were due to disruptions in the supply chain caused by an overreliance on single sourced suppliers who failed to deliver, transportation disruptions, outsourcing of critical parts, supplies, medicines to distant countries, and/or an overreliance on “Just In Time” for inventory management. This is the case of placing too many eggs in too few baskets, and often just one basket. Counterfeit or substandard parts and products can enter the supply chain via graft, breaks in chain of custody, or carelessness. This has included critical mechanical parts on aircraft, chips containing spyware, and substandard or out of date medicines substituted for the real thing resulting in serious illness and death. This complex SoS needs to be examined, studied, and understood in the same way as a mission critical system; threats, vulnerabilities, and risks need to be identified and mitigated and assurance cases defined to ensure a solid and reliable supply chain. This paper will look at the supply chain of an example factory system to determine how some of these problems can be predicted, prevented, mitigated, and solved using the UAF, RAAML and assurance case techniques.

Localization and function of humanized F508del-CFTR in mouse intestine following activation of serum glucocorticoid kinase 1 and Trikafta

The CFTR modulator Trikafta has markedly improved lung disease for Cystic Fibrosis (CF) patients carrying the common delta F508 (F508del-CFTR) CFTR mutation. F508del-CFTR results in an apical trafficking defect and loss of function in CFTR-expressing epithelial cells. However, Trikafta has not resulted in improved gastrointestinal function in CF patients. A humanized mouse model of F508del-CFTR was recently generated to evaluate CFTR modulators and other compounds to treat human F508del-CFTR CF intestinal disease. Short-term (4 h) treatment of rats with Dexamethasone (Dex) potently activates serum glucocorticoid kinase 1 (SGK1) and increases CFTR apical traffic and ion transport in the native intestine. This study examined CFTR localization and ion transport in intestinal segments from humanized F508del-CFTR mice following treatment with Dex in the presence/absence of Trikafta. Dex treatment improved apical CFTR localization and function but was inconsistent along intestinal segments. Combined treatment with Dex and Trikafta was superior to Dex alone but inconsistently improved CFTR localization and function. These data suggest further optimization of humanized CF mouse models will be necessary to test the efficacy of compounds to treat human CF intestinal disease.

A plasma membrane-localized transporter remobilizes aleurone layer magnesium for seed germination in rice.

The aleurone layer in cereal grains acts as a major reservoir of essential mineral nutrients, significantly influencing seed germination. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the redistribution of nutrients from the aleurone layer in the germinating seed is still not well understood. Here, in rice, we identified a plasma membrane (PM) localized magnesium transporter, MAGNESIUM RELEASE TRANSPORTER 3 (MGR3), is critical for seed germination. OsMGR3 is predominantly expressed in the aleurone layer cells of endosperm, facilitating magnesium remobilization during germination. Non-invasive Micro-test Technology assay data demonstrated that the loss-of-function of OsMGR3 restrained magnesium efflux from the aleurone layer. In the embryo/endosperm grafting experiment, we observed that the mutation of OsMGR3 in the aleurone layer suppressed the growth and differentiation of the embryo during germination. Furthermore, magnesium fluorescence imaging revealed the osmgr3 mutant seeds showed impaired exportation of aleurone layer-stored magnesium to the embryo, consequently delaying germination. Importantly, we discovered that disrupting OsMGR3 could inhibit pre-harvest sprouting without affecting rice yield and quality. Therefore, the magnesium efflux transporter OsMGR3 in the aleurone layer represents a promising genetic target for future agronomic trait improvement.

Analyzing shared mobility markets in Europe: A comparative analysis of shared mobility schemes across 311 European cities

The progression of shared mobility across Europe is remarkable. While station-based car and bike sharing have a more extended history, particularly in major European (capital) cities, recent advancements in modal types and operational models have significantly transformed the shared mobility landscape. Rapid expansion by private organisations has broadened access to shared mobility services across Europe. However, not all European cities are considered potentially viable markets due to local factors such as stringent regulatory frameworks and unfavourable economic conditions. The composition of the local offerings influences how citizens use these services, impacting travel behaviour and the local transport networks differently. Therefore, understanding the availability of various shared mobility schemes across Europe is essential for comprehending the market structure, its development, the providers' decision drivers, and the potential consequences for local transportation systems.First, this paper presents data on various segments and features of the shared mobility market across European cities with more than 100.000 inhabitants. Second, two cluster approaches, i.e. k-means and latent class clustering analysis (LCCA), are conducted to structure this European market. Third, the contextual characteristics, such as socio-demographics, the built environment and the geography, are compared among the clusters using Dunn testing.The results depict that the market is very fragmented, ranging from cities with a minimal offer (i.e. one type of modality available) to cities with a very competitive market consisting of numerous modalities and operators.As expected, the most comprehensive offer of shared mobility is found in cities with the highest economic potential, measured by GDP per capita and population size. However, these cities tend to impose stricter regulations and invest in public schemes, especially for bike and car sharing, affecting the share of private operators. This may explain why private scooter sharing companies are willing to operate in smaller cities that initially seem to lack the economic conditions to accommodate a profitable sharing scheme. In cities where scooters are absent, mainly in Dutch cities, free-floating moped- and bike-sharing schemes have acted as a surrogate. Still, the comprehensiveness of the offer in these cities is considerable, suggesting that even with strict regulatory frameworks, other factors like infrastructure can create an attractive environment for operators. Overall, shared mobility is well-developed in European cities, meaning that many people are already aware of or have access to some form of shared mobility. This provides opportunities for other less-developed modalities, such as cargo bicycles, to further expand and offer specific use cases for car replacement. Therefore, future research could follow up on market developments to understand how various segments evolve and to examine the role of different policy frameworks more thoroughly.

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.