Reduce Transport Time Research Articles

Current Advancements in Drone Technology for Medical Sample Transportation

Background: The integration of drone technology into healthcare logistics presents a significant opportunity to enhance the speed, reliability, and efficiency of medical sample transportation. Methods: This paper provides a narrative review of current advancements in drone technology, focusing on its application in the rapid and secure delivery of medical samples, particularly in urban and remote regions where traditional transportation methods often face challenges. Drawing from recent studies and case reports, the review highlights the role of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI)-driven navigation systems, real-time monitoring, and secure payload management in mitigating logistical barriers like traffic congestion and geographical isolation. Results: Based on findings from various case studies, the review demonstrates how drones can significantly reduce transportation time and costs, while improving accessibility to healthcare services in underserved areas. Conclusions: This paper concludes that, while challenges such as regulatory hurdles and privacy concerns remain, ongoing technological advancements and the development of supportive regulatory frameworks have the potential to revolutionize medical logistics, ultimately improving patient outcomes and healthcare delivery.

Enhancing Donor Transport Success: Lessons From the Iranian Experiences.

Organ transplant is a complex process that involves various medical, legal, and social factors. The organ demand continues to outweigh the supply, leading to global challenges in the expansion of transplant programs. Ischemic time is crucial for the viability of organs, and efforts are being made to reduce transport time to improve transplant success rates. The viability and quality of the organ for transplant depends on minimized ischemic time. A new method is presently being implemented in Iran, in which, instead of transfer of organs, leading to reduced organ quality due to ischemic time, the donors themselves are transferred to transplant centers with the help of a trained team after brain death is confirmed and with the consent of the family. During the transfer process, an anesthesiologist or nurse specialized in donor care performs the relevant pretransplant procedures. The successful transportation of donors to centers for organ procurement requires meticulous planning, trained personnel, and adherence to safety protocols. Quality assurance measures, including audits and safety protocols, are in place to ensure the timely and safe delivery of donated organs. Ultimately, improvements in the transportation process for organ donation can enhance transplant success. Successful transportation of donors to organ procurement units is crucial for reducing ischemic time and improving the success rate and quality of organ transplants. Careful planning, communication, and collaboration among health care professionals are necessary for the timely and safe delivery of donated organs.

A novel discrete zeroing neural network for online solving time-varying nonlinear optimization problems.

To reduce transportation time, a discrete zeroing neural network (DZNN) method is proposed to solve the shortest path planning problem with a single starting point and a single target point. The shortest path planning problem is reformulated as an optimization problem, and a discrete nonlinear function related to the energy function is established so that the lowest-energy state corresponds to the optimal path solution. Theoretical analyzes demonstrate that the discrete ZNN model (DZNNM) exhibits zero stability, effectiveness, and real-time performance in handling time-varying nonlinear optimization problems (TVNOPs). Simulations with various parameters confirm the efficiency and real-time performance of the developed DZNNM for TVNOPs, indicating its suitability and superiority for solving the shortest path planning problem in real time.

Research on the Optimization of Cross-Border Logistics Routes under the Belt and Road Initiative

Within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, optimizing cross-border logistics routes is essential for enhancing the efficiency of logistics services and reducing transportation costs. This paper analyzes the current state of logistics networks in countries along the Belt and Road route, identifying major obstacles to the efficiency of cross-border logistics such as uneven infrastructure development, complex transnational policies and regulations, and significant geographical and political risks. The study further introduces the theoretical foundation of logistics route optimization and discusses the application of various optimization models and algorithms, such as linear programming and network flow analysis. The paper also highlights the role of modern technologies, such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things, in route optimization. These technologies enhance route selection and freight scheduling through real-time data processing and predictive models. Based on these analyses, specific strategies and implementation suggestions are proposed to reduce transportation time and costs by optimizing the logistics network configuration.

Comparison of Interfacility Transfer of Critically Ill Pediatric Patients by Helicopter Versus Ground Ambulance in a Remote and Rural Domain

ObjectiveSince 2018, Thailand's helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS) has been used to transport critically ill pediatric patients from Tak Province's community hospitals to the tertiary care hospital. This article describes a pilot study to look at the feasibility of comparing mortality rates and complications during transport. MethodsThis retrospective pilot study used data from the medical records of the referring and receiving hospitals. Participants were critically ill patients under 18 years of age who were transferred between facilities using HEMS or ground emergency medical services (GEMS) between January 2018 and December 2022. HEMS transported 9 patients, whereas GEMS transported 52. ResultsThe predominant age group was newborns. Respiratory-related conditions were the most common diagnoses. The majority of patients underwent intubation and displayed abnormal respiratory rates and levels of consciousness before flight. Approximately one third were hypotensive or required vasoactive drugs. Cardiac arrest requiring cardiopulmonary resuscitation was the most common significant complication during transport in the HEMS group (22.2%). Meanwhile, changing hospital destination because of an unstable patient condition was the most common complication during transport in the GEMS group (3.9%). Hypotension was the most common complication upon arrival at the receiving hospital in both groups (25% versus 8%). HEMS demonstrated shorter transport times. ConclusionHEMS reduced transport times compared with GEMS. However, there was a higher incidence of cardiac arrest requiring cardiopulmonary resuscitation during transfer and hypotension upon arrival.

Feasibility of tele-rehabilitation in low resource setting: perceived barriers and facilitators among physiotherapy professionals

Background: Robust evidence illustrates the significance and efficacy of telerehabilitation to optimize the participation in rehabilitation program taking into account organisational, geographical and transportation aspects. Despite knowing the remarkable benefits, there exist an array of challenges to implement telerehabilitation services in a setting with meagre resources. In order to augment the uptake of telerehabilitation services, our study aims to explore the perceived barriers and facilitators to telerehabilitation among Physiotherapy professional in a resource limited setting. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among physiotherapy professionals in Maharashtra using a questionnaire with a content validation index of 0.95. The survey sought to ascertain the awareness, barriers, facilitators and strategies to improve practice of telerehabilitation. Results: A total of 450 Physiotherapists were invited, of which, 201 participated in the study. The major barriers to telerehabilitation were inaccuracy in obtaining adequate information (n=149, 74%), lack of face-to-face monitoring (n=131, 65%) and physical limitation in older adults (n=114, 57%); on the other hand, the facilitators were reduced transportation time to hospital/clinic (n=132, 67%) and improved accessibility to healthcare services (n=125, 62%). The factors that enabled the patients to participate were flexible appointment schedule (n=139, 69%) and minimal transportation costs (n=129, 64%). Furthermore, the participants majorly considered encouraging patients’ appropriate environment, insurance coverage, training and upskilling of clinicians as the strategies to improve practice. Conclusions: The implementation of telerehabilitation program has been limited due to perceived constraints associated with various organizational, geographical and patient factors. However, physiotherapists reported strategies to improve practices could be implemented to accelerate the utilization of telerehabilitation services.

FMEA Model in Risk Analysis for the Implementation of AGV/AMR Robotic Technologies into the Internal Supply System of Enterprises

In the evolving economic landscape, Industry 4.0 emphasizes strategic planning and operational progress for large enterprises. This transformation relies on smart robotization technologies like AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles) and AMRs (Autonomous Mobile Robots) for reducing transportation time, thereby reducing energy costs per unit of production, increasing energy efficiency, as well as replacing combustible-fuel-powered tools with electric ones. A number of concerns arise with their introduction into the production cycle. This research aims to provide a methodical basis for averting substantial mistakes when executing projects centered around the incorporation of AGVs/AMRs into in-house logistics systems. The FMEA method and empirical analysis were employed to achieve a more accurate risk assessment. APIS and MS Excel softwares were chosen. We investigated the potential hazards related to the incorporation of mobile robotic solutions and identified both external and internal threats. To streamline and improve project efficiency, a risk management algorithm for high-tech projects is presented in the paper. Integrating FMEA into projects implementing robotic technologies can lead to significant enhancements in risk reduction, and therefore cost savings, efficiency, safety, and quality, while fostering a culture of collaboration and problem solving. The research contributes to the literature by introducing an AMR planning and control framework to guide managers in the decision-making process, thereby supporting them to achieve optimal performance. Finally, we propose an agenda for future research within the field of interest.

The environmental challenges of urban living: Why willingness to pay for apartments matters

This study aims to understand the willingness of urban communities in Jabodetabek (Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, Tangerang, Bekasi) to move to apartment dwellings, and a study was conducted using a quantitative survey method. The study aimed to analyze the sociodemographic factors influencing the decision to switch to vertical housing. The survey collected data from a sample of individuals representing the entire population in Jabodetabek. The participants in the study were selected from various locations within Jabodetabek, including Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, Tangerang, and Bekasi. These areas were chosen to comprehensively represent the metropolitan region and its urban communities. By including participants from different locations within Jabodetabek, the study aimed to capture individuals' diverse perspectives and experiences in this region. The survey covered a range of sociodemographic factors such as gender, income, education level, marital status, occupancy, and residence ownership. The participants were divided into two groups: those willing to pay for an apartment and those who wereilling to pay for an apartment and those not. By comparing the characteristics of these two groups, the study aimed to identify significant differences and understand the factors influencing the willingness to move to apartment dwellings. The study results showed significant differences in income level, education level, marital status, and occupancy between the two groups. Income level was the most significant factor affecting an individual's willingness to pay for an apartment. Additionally, the perception of better apartment productivity, which includes reduced transportation time and costs associated with work or other business purposes, increased the demand for apartments. The study found that income level was the most significant factor affecting an individual's willingness to pay for an apartment. The perception of better apartment productivity also increased demand for apartments, as it reduces transportation time and costs associated with work or other business purposes. The study suggests that vertical development in metropolitan areas can provide a solution to increase population density and overcome the problem of limited land availability. The government can use the findings from this study to support policies that promote vertical development in cities.

Machine learning-based analysis of regional differences in out-of-hospital cardiopulmonary arrest outcomes and resuscitation interventions in Japan

Refining out-of-hospital cardiopulmonary arrest (OHCA) resuscitation protocols for local emergency practices is vital. The lack of comprehensive evaluation methods for individualized protocols impedes targeted improvements. Thus, we employed machine learning to assess emergency medical service (EMS) records for examining regional disparities in time reduction strategies. In this retrospective study, we examined Japanese EMS records and neurological outcomes from 2015 to 2020 using nationwide data. We included patients aged ≥ 18 years with cardiogenic OHCA and visualized EMS activity time variations across prefectures. A five-layer neural network generated a neurological outcome predictive model that was trained on 80% of the data and tested on the remaining 20%. We evaluated interventions associated with changes in prognosis by simulating these changes after adjusting for time factors, including EMS contact to hospital arrival and initial defibrillation or drug administration. The study encompassed 460,540 patients, with the model’s area under the curve and accuracy being 0.96 and 0.95, respectively. Reducing transport time and defibrillation improved outcomes universally, while combining transport time and drug administration showed varied efficacy. In conclusion, the association of emergency activity time with neurological outcomes varied across Japanese prefectures, suggesting the need to set targets for reducing activity time in localized emergency protocols.

Impact of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor on the China-Europe and China-Middle East trading route selection.

This research examines the potential impact of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) on the selection of trading routes between China, the Middle East, and Europe, with a specific focus on the transportation of a 40-foot standard container carrying general commodities. The study compares traditional routes with the new CPEC routes in terms of time, distance, and cost. The findings indicate that the new CPEC routes offer reduced travel time and distance when compared to the traditional routes across all provinces involved. The research reveals that the cost of road transportation along the new CPEC route is lower for Xinjiang province, but higher for the other provinces. By utilizing the new CPEC routes, the time required for goods to travel from China to the Middle East and Europe will be reduced by 10 to 20 days. Furthermore, the distance covered in this trade route will be shortened by 3,000 to 10,000 kilometres. Specifically, the province of Xinjiang in western China stands to benefit significantly from the new CPEC routes, saving approximately $2,000 on trade with the Middle East and Europe. These findings highlight the potential advantages and economic benefits that can be realized by leveraging the CPEC for trade between China, the Middle East, and Europe, particularly in terms of reduced transportation time and distance.

Assessing the Impact of Transport Modality on Prehospital Times for Victims of Motorcycle Road Traffic Collisions in the Scottish Highlands

ObjectiveDispersed population, mountainous topography, and extreme weather present logistical challenges for the emergency services providing care to the resident population and tourists visiting the Scottish Highlands. Debate over the value of air ambulances has left uncertainty over when they benefit patients and when their use may inadvertently prolong transfer times in rural settings. The primary objective of this study was to find a provisional threshold at which air ambulances are likely to improve time from injury to arrival at the emergency department for this rural patient cohort using motorcycle road traffic collisions as a single trauma etiology. MethodsA retrospective search of Scottish Trauma Audit Group data was undertaken within the time frame of January 1, 2019, to September 30, 2020, inclusive to identify adult motorcyclists who had sustained traumatic injuries on highland roads resulting in a transfer to the single trauma unit located within the territorial health board of NHS Highland. For inclusion to the Scottish Trauma Audit Group audit, injuries sustained had resulted in a hospital stay of 3 or more days or death with an Injury Severity Score calculated post–computed tomography/operating room diagnosis. The method of arrival to the hospital was categorized as 1 of the following: road ambulance only, road ambulance (+ prehospital doctor), any involvement of air resources, or self-presentation to hospital. ResultsForty-two cases were identified. The mean on-scene times were longer for patients who were transported by air by 43 minutes. Within an isochrone of 77 minutes (road transfer time) around Raigmore Hospital in Inverness, transfer by land ambulance was faster than air. The majority of patients received definitive care at Raigmore Hospital and did not require further onward transfer. ConclusionFor adult motorcyclists with traumatic injuries in the Highlands, helicopter transfer appears to reduce transport times when the estimated journey to the trauma unit by land is greater than 77 minutes or approximately 49 miles. Patients injured closer to the hospital should be transferred by land to achieve an earlier arrival time. On-scene times were shorter for patients conveyed by land rather than helicopter, and the presence of a physician during the prehospital phase did not prolong on-scene time.

Tocopherols, Phylloquinone, Ascorbic Acid, and Sugar Contents in Hydroponically Grown Lettuce

Growing vegetables in controlled environments (CEs), such as hydroponics, aquaponics, and vertical structures, is a rapidly expanding industry in Florida and the United States, especially in nearby urban areas. Although lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is still mostly produced in fields, growing in CEs proximal to urban areas has become increasingly popular because it may facilitate reduced transportation time and associated postharvest degradation. Lettuce is among the top-most consumed vegetables in the United States and could provide some of the nutrition missing in the US diet. This research was planned to understand the levels of some vitamins that are key for human health, including vitamin E (tocopherols), vitamin K1 (phylloquinone), and vitamin C (ascorbic acid), in lettuce grown in greenhouse hydroponics. Lettuce germplasm was grown using the hydroponic nutrient film technique system in three greenhouse experiments: at the beginning, middle, and end of the Florida, USA, growing season (from Aug 2020 to Mar 2021). Genetic variation for these vitamins were found among the germplasm tested in the four morphological types of lettuce, romaine, Boston, Latin, and leaf. In addition, a sugar analysis was conducted in this germplasm, of which fructose was the most abundant sugar. A significant genotype × environment (G × E) interaction was observed, indicating that the levels of these compounds, especially vitamins, was environment dependent. However, the presence of certain non-crossover G × E interactions indicates that selecting lettuce in a representative environment could result in new cultivars with higher vitamin content. This research marks the initial steps to improve lettuce for these vitamins, which can contribute to better health of US consumers, not for the highest amount of these compounds in lettuce but for the offset due to its high consumption.

AI enhanced collaborative human-machine interactions for home-based telerehabilitation.

The use of robots in a telerehabilitation paradigm could facilitate the delivery of rehabilitation on demand while reducing transportation time and cost. As a result, it helps to motivate patients to exercise frequently in a more comfortable home environment. However, for such a paradigm to work, it is essential that the robustness of the system is not compromised due to network latency, jitter, and delay of the internet. This paper proposes a solution to data loss compensation to maintain the quality of the interaction between the user and the system. Data collected from a well-defined collaborative task using a virtual reality (VR) environment was used to train a robotic system to adapt to the users' behaviour. The proposed approach uses nonlinear autoregressive models with exogenous input (NARX) and long-short term memory (LSTM) neural networks to smooth out the interaction between the user and the predicted movements generated from the system. LSTM neural networks are shown to learn to act like an actual human. The results from this paper have shown that, with an appropriate training method, the artificial predictor can perform very well by allowing the predictor to complete the task within 25s versus 23s when executed by the human.

Improving the efficiency of multimodal transportation of chemical products from the Volgograd region to the near and far abroad

Introduction. The industrial sector of Russia is the most important segment of the country’s economy. Until the beginning of the 21st century, large chemical enterprises in Russia were focused on the domestic market. There was a so-called supply strategy formed back in the USSR for the Union Socialist republics. The products of the chemical industry were mainly transported by road around the city and to neighboring regions, the main cargo traffic for longer distances was mastered by rail and river transport. Currently, the largest chemical industry enterprise in the Volgograd region, AO Kaustik, is actively exporting to Europe, South America and Asia. To carry out international transportation of the company’s products, hired tractors with semi-trailers that meet all modern standards of environmental safety are used. The interaction of road transport with rail, river, and sea is actively taking place, effective logistics multimodal systems for the delivery of chemical products are being organized. Road and rail transportation of products is organized with Asian countries, with European countries – by road, rail and sea, with South American countries – by sea. Today, the company’s transport carries out international multimodal transportation to the near and far abroad. The issue of improving the efficiency of road transport is relevant. The paper considers the links of the logistics system of transportation of chemical products of the enterprise between the countries, along the routes: Russia – Netherlands and Russia – Kyrgyzstan. The comparison of road and rail transportation by time and cost on Volgograd – Bishkek route is carried out. The full loading of the vehicle with transport packages according to the calculation takes place in compliance with the loads on the axles of the tractor and semi-trailer. Improving the efficiency of transportation depends on the organization of loading and unloading points, customs control points, movement along routes, and the work of drivers. The statistical regularities of the distribution of the execution time of elements and operations in the loading point of the enterprise are investigated. The ways of organizing the work of motor transport drivers on the international Volgograd – Bishkek – Volgograd route are considered, the calculation of the duration of the elements of the transportation process and their cost is presented.Materials and methods. The paper uses methods of statistical and economic analysis of data on the functioning of the chemical industry in the region. Graph-analytical methods are used to form transport packages and ensure that the car is fully loaded. Methods for determining the shortest distances and drawing up routes on the transport network are used. Methods of organizing the work of drivers are used to ensure single and tour work on the international route. The effectiveness of the proposed measures is evaluated by economic methods.Results. It is revealed that the chemical industry of the region has a stable economic situation that allows it to develop new international markets. The links of the multimodal logistics system for the delivery of the company’s products along Volgograd – Bishkek and Volgograd – Netherlands international routes are investigated. Improving the efficiency of transportation depends on the organization of loading and unloading points. A statistical analysis of the elements and stages of the transportation process of caustic soda was carried out. A scheme for placing transport packages with bags of caustic soda in a semi-trailer of a motor vehicle has been developed. International routes of transportation of products of AO Kaustik using road transport have been developed: Volgograd – Bishkek and Volgograd – Netherlands routes. The mode of operation of motor transport when performing international transportation using tour and single organization of drivers’ work is calculated. We recommend a tour trip as the most effective way to organize the work of drivers. Tour riding is recommended as the most effective way of organizing the work of road transport in the organization of international transportation to near and far abroad. The final price of 1 ton of transported products on the Volgograd – Bishkek route has been determined. The effective functioning of road transport in the international logistics system for the delivery of caustic soda allows you to reduce transport time, transport costs and reduce the cost of a unit of production for the end user.Conclusions. The article develops measures to improve the organization of international transportation of products of JSC «Caustic» using road transport. The final price of 1 ton of products in the Bishkek warehouse, taking into account the initial cost of granular caustic soda and transportation costs in the case of organizing a single driver’s ride, will be 83246 rubles/ton, and for tour driving, respectively, 81355 rubles/ton.

Analysis of computer-aided tools for the freight transport options on selected examples

The article discusses issues related to the use of computer aided tools for the selection of transport options in the transport of goods. The article presents two case studies. One of them concerns the food transportation, and the other motor vehicles transportation. In both described cases, the selection of transport options is based on previous experience, without the use of specialized computer-aided tools to support the selection of transport options. A review and analysis of selected tools for computer aided selection of transport options allowed to distinguish an appropriate tool for the presented case studies. The article shows that the use of appropriate tools brings positive results in the form of reducing transport time and costs. The aim of the article is to review, analyse and select appropriate tools for computer aided selection of transport options in the carriage of goods for selected case studies.

JRCS: Joint Routing and Charging Strategy for Logistics Drones

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, are currently being used to combat the COVID-19 pandemic through applications, including the delivery of medical supplies, aerial spraying, and public space monitoring. In a pandemic, drone-based delivery is a promising and highly efficient method to reduce transportation time, cost, and exposure to infection. However, owing to both the limited battery lifetime and the limited functions of UAV in-flight missions, it is difficult to implement multiple deliveries over long distances in a single transportation mission. In this article, we study how to extend the drone flight time with charging stations and ensure multiple deliveries in a single mission. For multiple long-distance deliveries, optimization methods are required to design the delivery area networks of customers, charging stations, and delivery routes. We propose a joint routing and charging strategy (JRCS) comprising three phases to perform multiple deliveries in a single mission. We first split the customers of a delivery area using a clustering algorithm according to their distance from the nearest charging station and the maximum flight range. The second phase provides flight segmentation and intersegment routes between the depot, customer locations, and charging stations based on the maximum flight range and safe flight distance. The joint consideration of drone routes with charging stations minimizes the number of charging stations and ensures safe delivery. Finally, we formulate mixed-integer linear programming to solve the drone delivery route problem. According to simulation results, the proposed JRCS outperforms existing delivery approaches in terms of various performance metrics.

Experimental Implementation of NSER Mobile App for Efficient Real-Time Sharing of Prehospital Patient Information With Emergency Departments: Interrupted Time-Series Analysis.

BackgroundWith the aging society, the number of emergency transportations has been growing. Although it is important that a patient be immediately transported to an appropriate hospital for proper management, accurate diagnosis in the prehospital setting is challenging. However, at present, patient information is mainly communicated by telephone, which has a potential risk of communication errors such as mishearing. Sharing correct and detailed prehospital information with emergency departments (EDs) should facilitate optimal patient care and resource use. Therefore, the implementation of an app that provides on-site, real-time information to emergency physicians could be useful for early preparation, intervention, and effective use of medical and human resources.ObjectiveIn this paper, we aimed to examine whether the implementation of a mobile app for emergency medical service (EMS) would improve patient outcomes and reduce transportation time as well as communication time by phone (ie, phone-communication time).MethodsWe performed an interrupted time-series analysis (ITSA) on the data from a tertiary care hospital in Japan from July 2021 to October 2021 (8 weeks before and 8 weeks after the implementation period). We included all patients transported by EMS. Using the mobile app, EMS can send information on patient demographics, vital signs, medications, and photos of the scene to the ED. The outcome measure was inpatient mortality and transportation time, as well as phone-communication time, which was the time for EMS to negotiate with ED staffs for transport requests.ResultsDuring the study period, 1966 emergency transportations were made (n=1033, 53% patients during the preimplementation period and n=933, 47% patients after the implementation period). The ITSA did not reveal a significant decrease in patient mortality and transportation time before and after the implementation. However, the ITSA revealed a significant decrease in mean phone-communication time between pre- and postimplementation periods (from 216 to 171 seconds; −45 seconds; 95% CI −71 to −18 seconds). From the pre- to postimplementation period, the mean transportation time from EMS request to ED arrival decreased by 0.29 minutes (from 36.1 minutes to 35.9 minutes; 95% CI −2.20 to 1.60 minutes), without change in time trends. We also introduced cases where the app allowed EMS to share accurate and detailed prehospital information with the emergency department, resulting in timely intervention and reducing the burden on the ED.ConclusionsThe implementation of a mobile app for EMS was associated with reduced phone-communication time by 45 seconds (22%) without increasing mortality or overall transportation time despite the implementation of new methods in the real clinical setting. In addition, real-time patient information sharing, such as the transfer of monitor images and photos of the accident site, could facilitate optimal patient care and resource use.

Time is money: Impact of China-Europe Railway Express on the export of laptop products from Chongqing to Europe

Transport time is valuable in international trade, especially for relatively high value-to-weight products. The China Railway Express (CRE) can be viewed as an outcome of a policy aimed at reducing transport time. This study focused on CRE's transport time reduction and its policy effect on international trade. Based on a special case examining the early stage of the Chongqing-Sinkiang-Europe Railway Express (CSERE), we adopted a synthetic control method (SCM) to investigate the extent of the effect of transport time reduction on the export of high value goods. We found that opening the CSERE led to an improvement of almost USD 23.18 billion of laptop exports from Chongqing to Europe in the first three years. The results showed the considerable value of the transport time reduction and the potentially vast bilateral trade flow between China and Europe that could be created by CRE. Our analysis also explored the micro mechanism of such effect. Only when the saved time costs cover the extra expense compared with ocean-borne cargo could CRE be a profitable choice for exporters and thus create new trade. Our findings offer insight for operators of CRE and local governments: matching and attracting the transport demand of suitable goods are key to successful market-oriented operation.

Intelligent Transportation System Applications and Logistics Resources for Logistics Customer Service in Road Freight Transport Enterprises

Road freight transport involves many adversities, along with the growing effect of carbon dioxide transmitted by vehicles on the natural environment, greenhouse gas emissions, or extensive energy use. Within the smart mobility concept, the acknowledged management of enterprises’ relationships with customers within their service is profoundly determined by the deployment of compelling Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITSs) applications in forming united cooperation with the customers. The paper proposes selected ITS applications as an advancement of logistics customer service in road freight transport enterprises that is divided into a group of six applications which are critical within the area of vehicle support, improving the energy efficiency of transport and reducing the negative impact of transport on the natural environment, reducing transport time but increasing connectivity and comfort, as well as a group of ten different applications chosen as crucial for general management support and increasing accessibility, cohesiveness, and control in management processes in road freight transport enterprises. The study also presents the effect of ITS applications on logistics customer service as dependent on an alignment between the group of ITS applications and logistics resources of road freight transport enterprises. The model proposed in the paper was analyzed based on the survey data obtained from 164 road freight transport enterprises in Poland.

Quality Analysis of Tuberculosis Specimens Transported by Drones versus Ground Transportation

There are many challenges that impact the current referral network for Tuberculosis (TB) sputum specimens in Mozambique. In some cases, health facilities are remote and the road infrastructure is poor and at times impassable, leading to delays in laboratory specimen transportation and long turn-around times for results. Drone transportation is a promising solution to reduce transportation time and improve access to laboratory diagnostics if the sample quality is not compromised during transport. This study evaluated the impact of drone transportation on the quality of TB sputum specimens with suspected Mycobacterium tuberculosis. 156 specimens were collected at five (5) health centers and sent to the Instituto Nacional de Saúde (INS) National TB Reference Laboratory. Specimens were then equally divided into two aliquots; one to be transported on land and the other by air using a drone. Control and study group specimens were processed using the NALC-NaOH method. Agreement between sample and control specimens was acceptable, indicating that drone transportation did not affect the quality of TB specimens. The authors recommend additional studies to validate drone transportation of TB specimens over a longer period of time to give further confidence in the adoption of drone delivery in Mozambique.