Resources In Areas Research Articles

Conservation of the Mount Bawakaraeng Water Resources Area as a Form of Water Resources Management Through Sustainable and Environmentally Sound Development Strategies

Objective: To assess the impact of land cover change on the problems of erosion, sedimentation, flooding, and water scarcity in the Jeneberang watershed and to formulate comprehensive policy and strategy recommendations for the conservation and sustainable management of water resources in the Mount Bawakaraeng area. Metode: This research use of method of conducting legal research known as normative – empirical method, which combine aspects of normative law with data or empirical components. This method is also used to learn how normative legal provisions (laws) are applied to each specific legal event that takes place in community. Results: The change in land use has led to an increase in erosion, sedimentation, flooding, and water scarcity in the Jeneberang Watershed. Deforestation and forest degradation in the upstream area of the Jeneberang watershed have caused various problems related to unsustainable water resource management. Conclusion: the need for a comprehensive and integrated approach in water resources management in the Mount Bawakaraeng area, guided by Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the principles of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM). This includes: Strengthening legal and regulatory frameworks for forest and land conservation, Promoting sustainable land management practices among local communities, Improving coordination and collaboration among stakeholders in watersheds, Improving monitoring, data collection, and evidence-based decision-making, Providing alternative livelihood opportunities to reduce pressure on natural resources.

An Attribution Analysis of Runoff Alterations in the Danjiang River Watershed for Sustainable Water Resource Management by Different Methods

Determining the relative roles of climatic versus anthropogenic factors in runoff alterations is important for sustainable water resource utilization and basin management. The Danjiang River watershed is a crucial water resource area of the middle route of the South-to-North Water Transfer Project. In this study, four widely used quantitative methods, including the simple linear regression, the double mass curve, the paired year with similar climate conditions, and an elasticity method based on the Budyko framework were applied to detect the relative contribution of climatic and anthropogenic factors to runoff variation in the Danjiang River watershed. The calculation processes of each method were systematically explained, and their characteristics and applications were summarized. The results showed that runoff decreased significantly (p < 0.05) with an average change rate of −3.88 mm year−1 during the period of 1960–2017, and a significant change year was detected in 1989 (p < 0.05). Generally, consistent estimates could be derived from different methods that human activity was the dominant driving force of significant runoff reduction. Although the impacts of human activity estimated by the paired year with similar climate conditions method varied among paired years, the other three methods demonstrated that human activity accounted for 80.22–92.88% (mean 86.33%) of the total reduction in the annual runoff, whereas climate change only contributed 7.12–19.78% (mean 13.67%). The results of this study provide a good reference for estimating the effects of climate change and human activities on runoff variation via different methods.

Knowledge mapping of research on sustainable utilization of landscape resources: a case study of Guilin National Innovation Demonstration Zone for sustainable development in China

Worldwide interest has increasingly focused on the sustainable utilization of landscape as a resource in urban areas, emphasizing its ecological, cultural and social significance. This study examines Guilin City, China, as a representative case study due to its rich landscape resources and status as a national innovation demonstration zone for implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This study uses bibliometric visualization tools like CiteSpace and VOSviewer to analyze research trends from 1980 to 2021 in the Chinese Academic Journal Network Publishing Database (CNKI). The results show increasing academic interest over three stages: initiation (1982–1997), exploration (1998–2004), and diversified development (2005–2021). Contributions are predominantly from local academic and tourism sectors, indicating a strong regional influence; however, relatively weak interinstitutional collaboration occurs, suggesting potential for more integrated research efforts. Primary research is also concentrated within economic disciplines, particularly tourism-related ones. The evolution of research frontiers reveals three main paths: urban development strategies, industrial economic theories and empirical validation, and ecosystem analysis and evaluation. A multidisciplinary approach and stronger collaborative efforts are crucial to enhance research on ecological values and empirical models while supporting evidence-based urban development strategies in Guilin City and comparable cities globally.

Effects of coal mining disturbance on spatial and temporal distribution of soil water content in Northwest China‐based on 3D EBK model

AbstractNorthwest China is both an important coal storage base and an ecologically fragile area, and soil water content (SWC) is a key factor limiting the ecological development of Northwest China. Revealing the characteristics of spatial and temporal distribution changes of soil water content in mining areas under coal mining disturbance and the influencing mechanism is crucial for the protection of water resources in mining areas. In this study, the soil water content (depth 0–1000 cm) of a typical coal mine subsidence area in the western part of Shendong Coal Group was monitored in situ for 1 year after mining, and the absolute value, variability, and spatial distribution of soil water content were temporally analysed by combining classical statistics, 2D Ordinary Kriging and 3D Empirical Bayesian kriging spatial interpolation. sequence analysis. The results showed that the shallow SWC (0 ~ 60 cm) was distributed horizontally in bands, and gradually increased along the direction from northwest to southeast; with the increase of coal mining time, the absolute value of SWC decreased by 0.81% ~ 33.58%, and the coefficient of variation decreased and then increased, with the range of variation from 2.19% ~ 34.49%. The deep SWC (100 ~ 1000 cm) was stratified vertically and increased with soil depth, and the shallow and deeper soil moisture would gradually migrate to the middle layer under the influence of coal mining. In addition, this paper accurately portrays the three‐dimensional spatial and temporal distribution of soil water content by the 3D EBK model, which further reveals the mechanism of coal mining's influence on soil water content. This study can provide technical and data support for predicting and evaluating the potential impacts of mining activities on the water cycle, and help mining areas to formulate policies for managing and protecting water resources.

Characteristics of the Traditional Techniques Used in the Management of Water Resources in the semi arid Doukkala Area (Morocco)

Characteristics of the Traditional Techniques Used in the Management of Water Resources in the semi arid Doukkala Area (Morocco)

Drought Assessment based on Different Metrological Drought indices in Sulaymaniyah Governorate, KRG, Iraq

Drought is a dangerous situation that lowers individual standards of living. It is considered a devastating natural event. This study intends to thoroughly examine the occurrence and characteristics of drought events in the Sulaymaniyah Governorate from 1985 to 2015. The study employed three standardized indices: the standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI), the standardized precipitation index (SPI), and the Reconnaissance Drought Index (RDI). These indices were utilized at different periods, namely 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. According to findings, the maximum percent of extremely dry highlighted in Sulaymaniyah and Dukan stations for SPI index and time scale three months was 48% and 30%, respectively; the maximum percent of severely dry highlighted using RDI index and time scale three months with 41%, 32%, 44% in Sulaymaniyah, Dukan, and Darbandikhan stations respectively. Results revealed that the years 1998, 1999, 2000, 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2010 saw a drought for the used indices, Dukan station has the maximum severity of 112.25 for SPEI12 for the event happened from Nov. 2007 to Sep 2015. The maximum durations were observed at Dukan station using SPI and SPEI as well, and Darbandikhan station has the highest drought frequency. The correlations of drought indices, using the coefficient of determination ( ) showed the lowest and highest agreement between SPI-SPEI and SPI-RDI, respectively. The findings revealed that water resources in the study area are at risk of depletion due to drought. Therefore, water management techniques are required to mitigate drought in the study area.

Equity And Inclusion For Access To The Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS)

The concept of equity in the Unified Health System (SUS) is crucial for ensuring a fair distribution of resources and health opportunities, taking into account the specific needs of different population groups. This principle aims not only to ensure universal access to health services but also to adjust these services to address socioeconomic, geographic, and cultural inequalities. Equity in SUS involves providing additional support to the most vulnerable populations, such as individuals with low income, those living in remote areas, and groups facing cultural and language barriers. Significant challenges include regional disparities, with inadequate health infrastructure in rural and peripheral areas, and socioeconomic inequalities that hinder access to care due to indirect costs and lack of information. To address these challenges, SUS must adopt multifaceted strategies, including increased funding and resources for underserved areas, public policies to reduce socioeconomic inequalities, and investments in transportation and health education. Inclusion in SUS is equally fundamental, requiring the removal of physical and social barriers, the promotion of a culture of respect and cultural competence among health professionals, and the active participation of diverse groups in health policy formulation. Additional strategies involve interinstitutional collaboration, community engagement, and the collection and analysis of disaggregated data to inform targeted policies. These approaches aim to create a fairer and more inclusive health system capable of meeting the needs of the entire Brazilian population

Challenges And Strategies In Healthcare Confronting Population Aging In Brazil

The concept of equity in the Unified Health System (SUS) is essential for ensuring a fair distribution of resources and health opportunities, taking into account the specific needs of different population groups. Equity goes beyond universal access to healthcare services, encompassing the adaptation of these services to address socioeconomic, geographic, and cultural inequalities. In SUS, this means providing additional support to vulnerable populations, such as low-income individuals, residents of remote areas, and groups with cultural and linguistic barriers. Key challenges include regional disparities, such as inadequate healthcare infrastructure in rural and peripheral areas, and socioeconomic inequalities that hinder access due to indirect costs and lack of information. To overcome these challenges, SUS should adopt comprehensive strategies, such as increasing funding and resources for underserved areas, implementing public policies that address socioeconomic inequalities, and investing in transportation and health education. Inclusion is equally crucial, requiring the removal of physical and social barriers, the promotion of a culture of respect and cultural competence among healthcare professionals, and the active participation of diverse groups in policy formulation. Furthermore, promoting interinstitutional collaboration, community participation, and the collection and analysis of disaggregated data to guide targeted policies is important. These strategies aim to create a fairer and more inclusive health system, capable of adequately serving the entire Brazilian population

Improving fault zones hydrodynamic characterization and simulation in karstified carbonate environments with GLM and IES invers methods

A quantitative and qualitative estimation of groundwater resources is a challenge for water management in the world, especially in carbonated and karstified aquifers. Within these aquifers, fault zones exert a significant influence on groundwater hydrodynamics and transport. Improving the management of this type of aquifer involves better assessment of its hydrodynamics properties. Sustainability and management solutions can be estimated through numerical modeling. In this study hydrodynamic parameter of fault zone in karstified carbonate environments are estimated from cross-hole pumping test data. These estimations allow the simulation and forecasting of fault zone flow and transport. For this purpose, a flow and transport model has been set up using MODFLOW6 and MODPATH7 codes. Inverse modeling of hydrodynamic parameters is performed with the PEST++ code suite, with both the Gauss-Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm (GLMA) and the iterative ensemble smoother (IES) which is a recent approach with few applications so far. Simulation, parameter estimation, and forecasts of drawdown and pollutant travel time through the fault zone have been first evaluated on a synthetic fault zone and are eventually applied to a real-world fault zone of interest in karst carbonate environments. A comprehensive comparison and analysis of GLMA and IES results are performed for parameter estimation, parametric and predictive uncertainties, ensuring a thorough assessment of results. The findings reveal satisfactory levels of uncertainty associated with the hydraulic conductivity field and both flow and transport forecasts. This approach demonstrates its ability to estimate the hydrodynamic parameter field with a high level of accuracy within the internal structures of the fault zone. This study constitutes valuable and reproducible insights into the simulation and forecasts of fault zones in karst carbonate aquifers. The findings are a step forward in groundwater flow and transport simulation of fault zones and provide relevant practical help for the management and protection of water resources in these critical areas of interest.

Pre-and post-landslide analyses for sustainable development in Kiarapandak area, Bogor, West Java, Indonesia

Abstract The landslide in Kiarapandak has destroyed several dwellings, impaired farming and agriculture, and critical land formation. Analysing the conditions before and after the landslide is essential for supporting sustainable development, protecting the community, and mitigating environmental damage. This investigation employs Google Earth imagery, site surveys, field observations, landslide typology, and vulnerability assessments. The research area, Kiarapandak, is categorized as a landslide-prone typology Zone B with a predominantly 21%–40% slope and more than 40%. The vulnerability level is high. In the critical land created by the landslide, there is a reduction in soil fertility due to surface stripping, increased erosion, and surface runoff, causing sedimentation and river flooding. Land rehabilitation efforts are necessary to improve the quality of land resources in the post-landslide area and support the ecosystem while generating economic value for affected landowners. An agroforestry system, with a vertical arrangement of species strata, can be implemented in the post-landslide location to serve ecological and financial functions and optimize land resource quality through fertilizer application.

Reflectance spectroscopy analysis and lithium content estimation in lithium-rich rocks and stream sediments: Insights from Tuanjie Peak, Western Kunlun, China

Lithium, a rare metal of strategic importance, has garnered heightened global attention. This investigation delves into the laboratory visible-near infrared and short-wavelength infrared reflectance (VNIR-SWIR 350 nm–2500 nm) spectral properties of lithium-rich rocks and stream sediments, aiming to elucidate their quantitative relationship with lithium concentration. This research seeks to pave new avenues and furnish innovative technical solutions for probing sedimentary lithium reserves. Conducted in the Tuanjie Peak region of Western Kunlun, Xinjiang, China, this study analyzed 614 stream sediments and 222 rock specimens. Initial steps included laboratory VNIR-SWIR spectral reflectance measurements and lithium quantification. Following the preprocessing of spectral data via Savitzky-Golay (SG) smoothing and continuum removal (CR), the absorption positions (Pos2210nm, Pos1910nm) and depths (Depth2210, Depth1910) in the rock spectra, as well as the Illite Spectral Maturity (ISM) of the rock samples, were extracted. Employing both the Successive Projections Algorithm (SPA) and genetic algorithm (GA), wavelengths indicative of lithium content were identified. Integrating the lithium-sensitive wavelengths identified by these feature selection methods, A quantitative predictive regression model for lithium content in rock and stream sediments was developed using partial least squares regression (PLSR), support vector regression (SVR), and convolutional neural network (CNN). Spectral analysis indicated that lithium is predominantly found in montmorillonite and illite, with its content positively correlating with the spectral maturity of illite and closely related to Al-OH absorption depth (Depth2210) and clay content. The SPA algorithm was more effective than GA in extracting lithium-sensitive bands. The optimal regression model for quantitative prediction of lithium content in rock samples was SG-SPA-CNN, with a correlation coefficient prediction (Rp) of 0.924 and root-mean-square error prediction (RMSEP) of 0.112. The optimal model for the prediction of lithium content in stream sediment was SG-SPA-CNN, with an Rp and RMSEP of 0.881 and 0.296, respectively. The higher prediction accuracy for lithium content in rocks compared to sediments indicates that rocks are a more suitable medium for predicting lithium content. Compared to the PLSR and SVR models, the CNN model performs better in both sample types. Despite the limitations, this study highlights the effectiveness of hyperspectral technology in exploring the potential of clay-type lithium resources in the Tuanjie Peak area, offering new perspectives and approaches for further exploration.

Participatory evaluation and demonstration of furrow irrigation systems with full irrigation application on Onion (Allium cepa L.) yield, yield component and water use efficiency at Docha Dembela in Demba Gofa woreda, South Ethiopia

Poor irrigation water management is one of the major factors limiting crop production in Ethiopia. Field experiment was conducted at farmers filed at Docha Dambal kebele in Demba Gofa woreda, Gofa zone, South Ethiopia for two consecutive years (2019 & 2020) to evaluate and demonstrate the effect of furrow irrigation systems on onion yield and water use efficiency. The treatments consisted of three furrow irrigation systems (conventional, alternative and fixed). The irrigation treatments were laid out in randomized complete block design with six replications and participant farmers were used as a replication. Results indicated that highest mean value of marketable bulb yield (27758.2 kg ha-1) was brought under Conventional furrow system. However the lowest mean value of marketable bulb yield was recorded from the fixed furrow system (20482.5). However, Superior water use efficiency of 13.33kg/m3 was recorded from alternative furrow irrigation system. The lowest water use efficiency (7.78 kg/m3) was recorded from the Conventional furrow system. Therefore, It could be concluded that alternate furrow irrigation system maximized water use efficiency of onion with tolerable yield penalty at the study area. This result is important for farmers to irrigate supplemental lands with water saved, thus achieving a more efficient and rational use of land and water resources in the water limited area. If areas with no water scarcity, conventional furrow system could be a potential approach for promoting onion bulb yield under field conditions.

Prediction Models for HIV Infection in Infants: Analysis of Scoring Systems on Maternal, Infants, and Mode of Delivery Risk Factors.

Diagnosis for HIV in infants is hard to determine, particularly in limited- resource areas. A delay in the diagnosis of HIV-infected infants will lead to high morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this project is to construct a model of an HIV-positive infant and develop a useful and practical scoring system to estimate the likelihood of mother-to-child transmission that can be applied in the field. A cross-sectional study on 100 subjects through medical records of infants born to HIV-infected mothers was conducted at four hospitals and one community health center. Several models of risk prediction scores of HIV-infected infants were then made. Furthermore, the performed validation was performed on 20 subjects of infants born to mothers with HIV in three hospitals by comparing the scoring system and the result of the PCR RNA examination performed at the age of 6 weeks old. The risk of HIV-infected infants was higher in mothers who did not receive ARV through PMTCT programs (OR 33.6; 95% CI 4.0 to 282.2), pulmonary TB infection (OR 5.1; IK95% 1.6 to 16.0) and vaginal delivery (OR 9.2; IK95 2.2 to 38.0%). Two models can predict the occurrence of infected HIV infants effectively. Model 1 consists of maternal age, maternal ARVs, lung TB infection, gestational age, mode of delivery, and sex of the infants with sensitivity and specificity of 78.9% and 70.8% (AUC=0.817 [95% CI 0.709 to 0.926]) and likelihood ratio score of 4. Model 2 consists of ARVs to the mother, pulmonary TB infection, and mode of delivery with sensitivity and specificity of 73.7% and 86.1%; AUC value of 0.812 (95% CI 0.687 to 0.938) and likelihood ratio of 5. External Validation gave similar results to the Model 2 scoring system with PCR RNA. The prediction score of HIV-infected infants in Model 2 can be used in newborns of HIV-positive mothers as an effective and practical risk screening tool for HIV-infected infants before the gold standard examination by PCR.

Machine learning predictive insight of water pollution and groundwater quality in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia

This study presents an innovative approach for predicting water and groundwater quality indices (WQI and GWQI) in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, addressing critical challenges of scarcity and pollution in arid regions. Recent literature highlights the increasing attention towards WQI based on water pollution index (WPI) and GWQI as essential tools for simplifying complex hydrogeological data, thereby facilitating effective groundwater management and protection. Unlike previous works, the present research introduces a novel hybrid method that integrates non-parametric kernel Gaussian learning (GPR), adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS), and decision tree (DT) algorithms. This approach marks the first application of a non-parametric kernel for groundwater quality pollution index prediction in Saudi Arabia, offering a significant advancement in the field. Through laboratory analysis and the combination of various machine learning (ML) techniques, this study enhances prediction capabilities, particularly for unmonitored sites in arid and semi-arid regions. The study’s objectives include feature engineering based on dependency sensitivity analysis to identify the most influential variables affecting WQI and GWQI, and the development of predictive models using ANFIS, GPR, and DT for both indices. Furthermore, it aims to assess the impact of different data portions on WQI and GWQI predictions, exploring data divisions such as (70% / 30%), (60% / 40%), and (80% / 20%) for training and testing phase, respectively. By filling a critical gap in water resource management, this research offers significant implications for the prediction of water quality in regions facing similar environmental challenges. Through its innovative methodology and comprehensive analysis, this study contributes to the broader effort of managing and protecting water resources in arid and semi-arid areas. The result proved that GPR-M1 exhibited exceptional testing phase accuracy with RMSE = 0.0169 for GWQI. Similarly, for WPI, the ANFIS-M1 achieved high testing predictive skills with RMSE = 0.0401. The results emphasize the critical role of data quality and quantity in training for enhancing model robustness and prediction precision in water quality assessment.

Factors controlling the water quality of rock glacier springs in European and American mountain ranges

Rock glaciers (RGs) provide significant water resources in mountain areas under climate change. Recent research has highlighted high concentrations of solutes including trace elements in RG-fed waters, with negative implications on water quality. Yet, sparse studies from a few locations hinder conclusions about the main drivers of solute export from RGs. Here, in an unprecedented effort, we collected published and unpublished data on rock glacier hydrochemistry around the globe. We considered 201 RG springs from mountain ranges across Europe, North and South America, using a combination of machine learning, multivariate and univariate analyses, and geochemical modeling. We found that 35 % of springs issuing from intact RGs (containing internal ice) have water quality below drinking water standards, compared to 5 % of springs connected to relict RGs (without internal ice). The interaction of ice and bedrock lithology is responsible for solute concentrations in RG springs. Indeed, we found higher concentrations of sulfate and trace elements in springs sourcing from intact RGs compared to water originating from relict RGs, mostly in specific lithological settings. Enhanced sulfide oxidation in intact RGs is responsible for the elevated trace element concentrations. Challenges for water management may arise in mountain catchments rich in intact RGs, and where the predisposing geology would make these areas geochemical RG hotspots. Our work represents a first comprehensive attempt to identify the main drivers of solute concentrations in RG waters.

Trade-Off and Synergy Mechanism of Agricultural Water Resource Spatial Allocation in Monsoon Climate Areas Based on Machine Learning: A Case Study of Reservoir Layout Optimization in Shandong Province, China

Influenced by increasing global extreme weather and the uneven spatiotemporal distribution of water resources in monsoon climate areas, the balance of agricultural water resources supply and demand currently faces significant challenges. Conducting research on the spatial allocation trade-offs and synergistic mechanisms of agricultural water resources in monsoon climate areas is extremely important. This study takes the spatial layout of reservoir site selection in water conservancy projects as an example, focusing on Shandong Province as the research area. During the site selection process, the concept of water resource demand is introduced, and the suitability of reservoir siting is integrated. It clarifies ten influencing factors for suitability degree and five influencing factors for demand. A bi-objective optimization model that includes suitability degree and demand degree is established. Utilizing machine learning methods such as the GA_BP neural network model and the GA-bi-objective optimization model to balance and coordinate the supply and demand relationship of agricultural water resources in the monsoon region. The study found that: (1) in the prediction of suitability degree, the influencing factors are most strongly correlated with the regulatory storage capacity (regulatory storage capacity > total storage capacity > regulating storage coefficient); (2) compared with single-objective optimization of suitability degree, the difference between water supply and demand can be reduced by 74.3% after bi-objective optimization; (3) according to the spatial layout optimization analysis, the utilization of water resources in the central and western parts of Shandong Province is not sufficient, and the construction of agricultural reservoirs should be carried out in a targeted manner. This study provides new ideas for promoting the efficient use of water resources in monsoon climate zones and the coordinated development of humans and nature, reflecting the importance of supply and demand balance in the spatial allocation of agricultural water resources, reducing the risk of agricultural production being affected by droughts and floods.

Features of the application of geoinformation systems to increase the yield of agricultural land

The main problems in the effective use of land resources as an important factor of the country's development and population's food security are considered. The study was conducted in the northern region of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The object of the study was grain-growing farms in the Akmola region. The study concluded that satellite imagery and unmanned aerial vehicles should be used to monitor crops and assess yields in the Akmola region. These technologies allow for more efficient land management, prompt response to problems and informed decision-making. The experience of GIS application in the United States consists in the formation of database systems for all soil types that are of economic importance. There are 4 national soil databases, as well as several automated soil databases containing data on more than 13,400 soil varieties. The country's Soil Conservation Service has created soil geographic databases, including a geographic database on soil surveys, state soil associations, and major land resource areas. The economic efficiency of land conservation measures will be determined by the amount of net income, taking into account the prevented environmental damage in value form, using the efficiency coefficient of environmental costs relative to the total production and environmental costs. The acreage area in the Akmola region on average for 2018–2023 amounted to 26,264.32 thousand hectares, the average actual crop yield was 12.5 centner/ha. Based on the given system of formulas, the estimated crop yield on non-eroded soils (Yn) is 13.5 centner/ha, and the crop shortfall (V) due to land erosion is 871.88 thousand centners of grain, which is 69,750 thousand tenge at an average grain price of 80,000 tenge/t

A review of groundwater iodine mobilization, and application of isotopes in high iodine groundwater.

Excessive intake of iodine will do harm to human health. In recent years, high iodine groundwater has become a global concern after high arsenic and high fluorine groundwater. A deep understanding of the environmental factors affecting iodine accumulation in groundwater and the mechanism of migration and transformation is the scientific prerequisite for effective prevention and control of iodine pollution in groundwater. The paper comprehensively investigated the relevant literature on iodine pollution of groundwater and summarized the present spatial distribution and hydrochemical characteristics of iodine-enriched groundwater. Environmental factors and hydrogeological conditions affecting iodine enrichment in aquifers are systematically summarized. An in-depth analysis of the hydrologic geochemistry, physical chemistry, biogeochemistry and human impacts of iodine transport and transformation in the surface environment was conducted, the results and conclusions in the field of high iodine groundwater research are summarized comprehensively and systematically. Stable isotope can be used as a powerful tool to track the sources of hydrochemical components, biogeochemistry processes, recharge sources and flow paths of groundwater in hydrogeological systems, to provide effective research methods and means for the study of high iodine groundwater system, anddeepen the understanding of the formation mechanism of high iodine groundwater, the application of isotopic technique in high iodine groundwater is also systematically summarized, which enriches the method and theory of high iodine groundwater research. This paper provides more scientific basis for the prevention and control of groundwater iodine pollution and the management of groundwater resources in water-scarce areas.

What influences the implementation of clinical guidelines related to enteral nutrition in the intensive care unit: A mixed-methods systematic review.

To systematically evaluate and analyse literature concerning the factors influencing the implementation of clinical practice guidelines related to enteral nutrition in the adult intensive care unit. Guidelines serve as crucial tools for guiding clinical practice. However, a significant gap persists between current clinical practice and guidelines pertaining to enteral nutrition. It is essential to identify the reasons behind this disparity to foster clinical transformation. A mixed-methods systematic review. A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Medline, Cochrane, PsycINFO and CNKI databases to identify impediments and facilitators to the implementation of ICU clinical practice guidelines related to enteral nutrition. The types of studies included quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods studies. The search spanned from January 2003 to January 2024 and was updated in May 2024. The quality assessment of the included literature was conducted using the Mixed-Methods Study Evaluation Tool (MMAT). Data analysis was performed using a data-based convergent integration approach. The protocol for this study was prospectively registered (PROSPERO2023, CRD42023483287). Twenty papers were finally included, and 65 findings were extracted, integrating a total of three categories, Category 1: healthcare provider factors, including three sub-themes: knowledge of guideline-related knowledge and awareness of guideline application; social/professional roles and identity domains; beliefs, attitudes and self-efficacy; collaboration, Category 2: practice environments, including two sub-themes: environmental factors and resource areas; systems and behavioural norms, Category 3: patient values and nutritional support preferences including two sub-themes: patient disease status and value orientation. Healthcare professionals should analyse obstacles and facilitators to guideline implementation from multiple perspectives, strengthen healthcare collaboration, improve education and training systems, correct misperceptions and increase awareness of evidence-based practice.

Challenges encountered by SMMEs in accessing bank credit: a case of Vhembe District Municipality

Policymakers and scholars universally accept and recognize the influence of small, macro, and medium enterprises (SMMEs) on stimulating economic growth and job creation. To succeed and prosper, SMMEs need to establish a sound financial management function; therefore, it is vital to investigate the financial challenges these firms are experiencing. The objective of this paper was, to investigate possible challenges that SMMEs experience when applying for credit from banks. The study sought to answer the main research question - ‘What challenges are encountered by SMMEs when applying for credit from banks? The study adopted a qualitative research methodology. The population used in this research was derived from SMMEs and banking officials in the Vhembe District Municipality area. Stratified random sampling was used to select a sample of 10 research participants. An interview guide was used to gather data from the participants; the data was analyzed using Atlas.ti. The results indicated that most SMMEs in the Vhembe district are not adequately supported, especially in the areas of financial resources, as well as in financial literacy skills and expertise. Specifically, this study identified that the credit application challenges faced by SMMEs are related to - lack of collateral security, lack of financial application education, complex bank credit access regulations, non-satisfaction of banks’ qualifying criteria, as well as stringent credit system, and documentation requirements.