Risk Assessment Research Articles

Sustainable bonds as a sustainable financial instrument: thematic insights and future prospects

Purpose This study aims to explore the development and significance of sustainable finance instruments, mainly sustainable bonds. The purpose is to provide policymakers, regulators and researchers with insights into the current state of sustainable finance research and also provide future research directions. Design/methodology/approach This study used Scientific Procedures and Rationales for Systematic Literature Reviews as a review protocol and addressed four research questions concerning publication and citation trends, major themes and future research directions in sustainable bonds. Findings This study indicated growing attention in sustainable bond research, with increasing publication and citation trends. Along with identifying research themes, the findings include future direction on pricing and risk assessment, market dynamics and growth potential, policy and regulatory environments and global perspectives with local context. Research limitations/implications Although this study provides a robust analysis of the current literature, it relies on existing publications and may not capture the latest developments in sustainable bond research. However, policymakers can benefit from insights into the growth and dynamics of sustainable bonds, enabling them to implement effective policies and regulations. Investors and businesses can use this research to inform their environmental, social and governance investment strategies and decision-making processes. Originality/value This paper suggests a comprehensive overview of the state of research in sustainable bonds, highlighting the emerging trends and research priorities. It also underlines the significance of sustainable finance in achieving sustainability goals and provides a roadmap for future research.

Risk minimizing framework for solar photovoltaics

The complexity of risk assessment and the challenges in decision-making often impede the application of various models to renewable energy systems. This study introduces a comprehensive framework designed to streamline this process, facilitating informed decisions regarding the estimation of risks associated with solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies. Leveraging data and information available in the literature, the framework is particularly useful for manufacturers in selecting materials that balance low environmental risk with high efficiency. The framework emphasizes early-stage risk minimization by integrating changes during PV development, thereby promoting cleaner production systems. It’s interconnected components encompass various approaches to risk assessment, control, and management, providing a structured methodology for risk reduction. Based on available information, the defined steps guide users through evaluating and mitigating risks. Applying risk minimization by metal substitution approach lowers the oral-ingestion and dermal-contact risk by a magnitude of four and six times, respectively. This framework will guide regulatory bodies throughout each step of the product life cycle, suggesting necessary changes and assessment strategies aligned with the perspectives of various stakeholders. By facilitating the identification and implementation of the most effective risk management strategies, the framework aims to advance the development of sustainable and safe PV technologies.

Benchmarking numerical simulation of induced fault slip with semi-analytical solutions

AbstractPore pressure fluctuation in subsurface reservoirs and its resulting mechanical response can cause fault reactivation. Numerical simulation of such induced seismicity is important to develop reliable seismic hazard and risk assessments. However, modeling of fault reactivation is quite challenging, especially in the case of displaced faults, i.e., faults with non-zero offset. In this paper, we perform a systematic benchmarking study to validate two recently developed numerical methods for fault slip simulation. Reference solutions are based on a semi-analytical approach that makes use of inclusion theory and Cauchy-type singular integral equations. The two numerical methods both use finite volume discretizations, but they employ different approaches to represent faults. One of them uses a conformal discrete fault model (DFM) while the other employs an embedded (non-conformal) fault model. The semi-analytical test cases cover a vertical frictionless fault, and inclined displaced faults with constant friction and slip-weakening friction. It was found that both numerical methods accurately represent pre-slip stress fields caused by pore pressure changes. Moreover, they also successfully cope with a vertical frictionless fault. However, for the case with an inclined displaced fault with a constant friction coefficient, the embedded method can not converge for the post-slip phase, whereas the DFM successfully coped with both constant and slip-weakening friction coefficients. In its current implementation, the DFM is therefore the model of choice when accurate simulation of local faulted systems is required.

Prevention and Treatment of Glucocorticoid-Induced Osteoporosis in adults: Recommendations From the European Calcified Tissue Society

Abstract Introduction This report presents the recommendations of the European Calcified Tissue Society (ECTS) for the prevention and treatment of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIOP) in adults. Our starting point was that the recommendations be evidence based, focused on non-bone specialists who treat patients with GC and broadly supported by ECTS. Methods The recommendations were developed by global experts. After a comprehensive review of the literature, twenty-five recommendations were formulated, based on quality evidence. For stratifying fracture risk and the most appropriate first line of treatment, we have classified patients into 3 categories: those at medium risk of fractures i.e. adults without a recent (in the last 2 years) history of fracture, those at high risk of fractures i.e. adults with recent history of fracture, and/or at least one vertebral fracture (grade ≥ 2 according to Genant classification), and those at very high risk of fractures i.e. adults aged ≥ 70 years with a recent hip fracture, pelvis fracture, and/or at least one vertebral fracture (grade ≥ 2 according to Genant classification) . The subtopics in the recommendations include Who to assess, How to assess, Who to treat, How to treat, and Follow-up and Monitoring. Results General measures are recommended for all patients who are being prescribed glucocorticoids (GCs) for > 3 months: i.e. calcium and protein intake should be normalized, a 25(OH) vitamin D concentration of 50-125 nmol/L should be attained, and the risk of falls be minimized. 1)Who to assess? (R1-2) A preliminary assessment of fracture risk should be routinely performed in patients likely to receive oral GCs for ≥ 3 months: (i) women and men ≥ 50 years and (ii) patients at increased risk of fracture (history of fragility fracture and/or have comorbidities or are on medications that are frequently associated with osteoporosis. 2)How to assess (fracture risk)? (R3-6) Clinical risk factors including history of fragility fracture, systematic vertebral imaging, and GCs dose-adjusted FRAX, measurement of BMD by DXA, fall risk, and biochemical testing. 3) Who to treat? (R7-12) Anti-osteoporosis treatment is indicated for women and men ≥ 50 years with (i) the presence of a recent history of vertebral and/or non-vertebral fracture (less than 2 years) (ii)and/or a GCs dosage ≥ 7.5 mg/day, (iii)and/or age ≥ 70 years (iv)and/or a T-score ≤ -1.5, (v)and/or 10-year probability risk above the country specific GC dose-adjusted FRAX® thresholds. In premenopausal women and men < 50 years with a Z-score ≤ -2 and/or a history of fragility fracture, it is recommended to refer the patient to a bone specialist. 4) How to treat? (R13-18) In women and men ≥ 50 years, (i) alendronate or risedronate is preferred as the first line of treatment in patients at medium risk of fractures, (ii) zoledronic acid or denosumab in patients at high risk of fractures, and (iii) teriparatide in patients at very high risk of fractures. It is imperative that sequential therapy be implemented in individuals receiving denosumab or teriparatide as their first-line treatment regimen. 5) Follow-up and Monitoring (R19-25): In patients receiving anti-osteoporosis treatment, monitoring of clinical risk factors (e.g., history of fragility fracture), systematic vertebral imaging, fall risk, BMD measurement using DXA, and biochemical testing should be performed regularly during follow-up. Conclusions The new, evidence-based recommendations by the ECTS for the prevention and treatment of GIOP provide clear and pragmatic advice to all health practitioners especially those who are not bone specialists.

Electromagnetic side-channel attack risk assessment on a practical quantum-key-distribution receiver based on multi-class classification

AbstractWhile quantum key distribution (QKD) is a theoretically secure way of growing quantum-safe encryption keys, many practical implementations are challenged due to various open attack vectors, resulting in many variations of QKD protocols. Side channels are one such vector that allows a passive or active eavesdropper to obtain QKD information leaked through practical devices. This paper assesses the feasibility and implications of extracting the raw secret key from far-field radiated emissions from the single-photon avalanche diodes used in a BB84 QKD quad-detector receiver. Enhancement of the attack was also demonstrated through the use of deep-learning model to distinguish radiated emissions due to the four polarized encoding states. To evaluate the severity of such side-channel attack, multi-class classification based on raw-data and pre-processed data is implemented and assessed. Results show that classifiers based on both raw-data and pre-processed features can discern variations of the electromagnetic emissions caused by specific orientations of the detectors within the receiver with an accuracy higher than 90%. This research proposes machine learning models as a technique to assess EM information leakage risk of QKD and highlights the feasibility of side-channel attacks in the far-field region, further emphasizing the need to utilise mechanisms to avoid electromagnetic radiation information leaks and measurement-device-independent QKD protocols.

GINGIVAL STATUS AND ORAL HYGIENE HABITS IN CHILDREN BETWEEN 10-12 YEARS

Introduction: Children's adolescence is characterized by dynamically changing indicators of periodontal and oral health, related mainly to the eruption of the permanent dentition and stabilization of the periodontal space. This age period is also characterized by an increased incidence of gingival diseases, with the dental biofilm being the main risk factor for the inflammatory process. Aim: The aim of this study is to assess the relationship between gingival status, oral hygiene habits and knowledge on topics related to oral health in children aged 11-13. Material and methods: The subject of the study was 106 children aged 11-13 years. All children overwent a clinical periodontal examination and periodontal risk assessment at 4 levels. An electronic periodontal probe PA ON (Orangedental) with specially designed software was used to assess periodontal and oral hygiene status. The study included a survey method for assessing children's knowledge on topics related to oral health with periodontal focus. The survey consists of 38 questions divided into eight topics. Results: All the children aged 11-13 years had an initial form of gingival inflammation, against the background of plaque accumulation affecting more than 69% of tooth surfaces, unstable and irregular oral hygiene habits, as well as insufficient knowledge of oral/periodontal health. Through appropriate preventive programs, this age is best suited to create consciously motivated behavior for proper oral hygiene and oral health.

Quantitative Risk Assessment of Wellbore Collapse of Inclined Wells in Formations with Anisotropic Rock Strengths

Quantitative Risk Assessment of Wellbore Collapse of Inclined Wells in Formations with Anisotropic Rock Strengths

Recommendations for Research to Develop a Patient‐Centered Clinical Follow‐Up Protocol for Oral Epithelial Dysplasia

ABSTRACTOral epithelial dysplasia (OED) is the primary histological marker for assessing the progression of oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) to cancer. Despite challenges in grading and low inter‐pathologist reproducibility, OED severity remains the key predictor of malignant transformation. However, globally accepted guidelines for OED monitoring are lacking, despite calls for individualized management based on host and lesion characteristics. The proposed research protocol involves acquiring high‐quality intraoral images, assessing oral hygiene and periodontal status, eliminating chronic mechanical irritation and Candida infections, and applying adjunctive diagnostic methods like toluidine blue staining, optical evaluation, and brush cytology. Tailored follow‐up regimens based on individual risk assessments are emphasized, with frequent monitoring for high‐grade dysplasia or patients at higher risk of progression. Therefore, effective OED management should consider the patient's immune status, dietary habits, and oral microbiota, aiming to develop personalized treatment strategies that optimize patient‐centered care.

Socio-economic risk assessment of the setback zone in beaches threatened by sea level rise induced retreat (Peloponnese coast- Eastern Mediterranean)

Abstract Beaches play a pivotal role in supporting the socio-economic sector, particularly within the 'Sun, Sea, and Sand' (3S) tourism model. Valued for their ecosystem services, these coastal landforms are among the most dynamic and vulnerable environments, facing significant pressure from various climate challenges, which is further intensified by extensive anthropic exploitation. Their sustainable use is intrinsically linked to balancing the 3Ps: Planet, People, and Profit. To address the need for protection and sustainable utilization of coastal areas, the European Union has introduced the Protocol on Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) in the Mediterranean, specifically recommending in Article 8(2) the establishment of a setback buffer zone where permanent constructions are prohibited. This paper explores the application of risk mapping in the context of coastal setback policies, focusing on their effectiveness in managing beach retreat and adapting to climate change, particularly rising sea levels. The study examines selected beach areas in Peloponnese, Greece, influenced by various socio-economic factors. Through this analysis, the paper aims to contribute to the discourse on coastal management strategies that balance environmental sustainability with socio-economic benefits.

Transforming Tax Compliance with Machine Learning: Reducing Fraud and Enhancing Revenue Collection

The integration of machine learning (ML) in tax administration has the potential to revolutionize tax compliance, enhancing fraud detection and optimizing revenue collection. This literature review explores the application of ML in tax systems, emphasizing its transformative role in addressing the limitations of traditional, labor-intensive compliance methods. Justification for adopting a literature review approach is rooted in the need to consolidate diverse perspectives, address research gaps, and provide an informed synthesis of existing findings. The study highlights the criteria used for selecting case studies and research papers, ensuring a robust analysis of ML’s ability to automate detection processes, improve risk assessment, and enable predictive analytics for efficient tax administration. Despite its potential, ML adoption is challenged by data quality issues, privacy concerns, technical infrastructure demands, and ethical considerations, which must be systematically addressed. This paper also identifies literature gaps, particularly the lack of balanced discourse, and provides recommendations for overcoming barriers, including enhancing data management practices, adopting ethical frameworks, and fostering cross-border collaboration. By addressing these challenges, ML can equip tax authorities with tools for creating efficient, adaptive, and fair systems. This research underscores ML’s growing importance in transforming global tax compliance, setting the stage for a future of more responsive and effective revenue administration.

CTN-0138: adaptation, implementation, and cluster randomized trial of a Community Pharmacy-Based Prescription Drug Monitoring Program Opioid Risk Assessment Tool—a protocol paper

Abstract Background As the opioid epidemic continues to have a major negative impact across the US, community pharmacies have come under scrutiny from legal systems attempting to hold them accountable for their role in over dispensing and lack of patient intervention. While the most available tool for monitoring patients’ opioid use is Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMP), these do not provide pharmacists with actionable information and decision support. Our study addresses this gap through three objectives: [1] incorporate validated opioid risk metric thresholds into a PDMP platform to create the Opioid Risk Reduction Clinical Decision Support (ORRCDS) tool; [2] assess ORRCDS’ ability to reduce patient opioid risk; [3] assess ORRCDS’ sustainability and viability for broader dissemination in community pharmacy. Methods For objective 1, our team is partnering with leadership from the largest US PDMP organization and a top-five pharmacy chain to implement ORRCDS into the pharmacy chain’s workflow following the Guideline Implementation with Decision Support (GUIDES) framework. For objective 2, our team will conduct a type-1 implementation mixed methods study using a 2-arm parallel group clustered randomized design. We anticipate enrolling ~ 6,600 patients with moderate and high opioid use risk during the 6-month enrollment phase across 80 pharmacies. This sample size will provide 96.3% power to detect a 5% or greater difference in responder rate between the intervention and control arm. Responders are patients with moderate-risk at baseline who reduce to low-risk or those with high-risk at baseline who reduce to moderate or low-risk at 180 days post last intervention. To accomplish objective 3, we will use the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to develop and execute cross-sectional qualitative interviews with pharmacists (n = 15), pharmacy leaders (n = 15), and PDMP leaders (n = 15) regarding long term adoption and sustainability of the ORRCDS tool. Conclusions A PDMP tool that addresses moderate- and high-risk opioid use is not available in community pharmacy. This study will implement ORRCDS in a large retail pharmacy chain that will include additional screening and guidance to pharmacy staff to address risky opioid medication use. Our results will make critical advancements for protecting patient health and addressing the opioid epidemic.

India's flood risk assessment and mapping with multi-criteria decision analysis and GIS integration

ABSTRACT India's diverse geography poses significant flood risks, addressed in this study through the geographic information system and multi-criteria decision analysis. This comprehensive flood risk assessment considers seven parameters: mean annual precipitation, elevation, slope, drainage density (DD), land use and land cover, proximity to roads, and distance to rivers. The findings indicate that flood vulnerability is primarily influenced by rainfall, elevation, and slope, with DD, land use, and proximity to roads and rivers also playing crucial roles. Experts weighed these factors to create a thorough flood risk map using the normalized rank index and normalized weight index, categorizing areas into five risk levels: very high, high, moderate, low, and very low. The study reveals that 3.40% of the area is at very high risk, 32.65% at high risk, 39.72% at moderate risk, 20.97% at low risk, and 3.25% at very low risk. These results highlight how human and natural factors interact to influence flood risk, with vulnerable areas characterized by low elevations, steep slopes, high drainage densities, and proximity to rivers or roads. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, scientists, and local authorities to develop strategies to mitigate flood losses across India's varied landscapes.

Determination of Multiple Pesticide Residues and Dietary Intake Risk Assessment of 35 Pesticides in Beet from Five Provinces of Northern China

Determination of Multiple Pesticide Residues and Dietary Intake Risk Assessment of 35 Pesticides in Beet from Five Provinces of Northern China

Integrating Multi-Source Remote Sensing Data for Forest Fire Risk Assessment

Forest fires are a frequent and destructive phenomenon in Southwestern China, posing significant threats to ecological systems and human lives and property. In response to the growing need for effective forest fire prevention, this study introduces an innovative method for predicting and assessing forest fire risk. By integrating multi-source data, including optical and microwave remote sensing, meteorological, topographic, and human activity data, the approach enhances the sensitivity of risk models to vegetation water content and other critical factors. The vegetation water content is derived from both Vegetation Optical Depth and optical remote sensing data, allowing for a more accurate assessment of changes in vegetation moisture that influence fire risk. A time series prediction model, incorporating attention mechanisms, is used to assess the probability of fire occurrence. Additionally, the method includes fire spread simulations based on Cellular Automaton and Monte Carlo approaches to evaluate potential burn areas. This combined approach can provide a comprehensive fire risk assessment using the probability of both fire occurrence and potential fire spread. Experimental results show that the integration of microwave data and attention mechanisms improves prediction accuracy by 2.8%. This method offers valuable insights for forest fire management, aiding in targeted prevention strategies and resource allocation.

Pre-diagnosis blood DNA methylation profiling of twin pairs discordant for breast cancer points to the importance of environmental risk factors

Abstract Background Assessment of breast cancer (BC) risk generally relies on mammography, family history, reproductive history, and genotyping of major mutations. However, assessing the impact of environmental factors, such as lifestyle, health-related behavior, or external exposures, is still challenging. DNA methylation (DNAm), capturing both genetic and environmental effects, presents a promising opportunity. Previous studies have identified associations and predicted the risk of BC using DNAm in blood; however, these studies did not distinguish between genetic and environmental contributions to these DNAm sites. In this study, associations between DNAm and BC are assessed using paired twin models, which control for shared genetic and environmental effects, allowing testing for associations between DNAm and non-shared environmental exposures and behavior. Results Pre-diagnosis blood samples of 32 monozygotic (MZ) and 76 dizygotic (DZ) female twin pairs discordant for BC were collected at the mean age of 56.0 years, with the mean age at diagnosis 66.8 years and censoring 75.2 years. We identified 212 CpGs (p < 6.4*10–8) and 15 DMRs associated with BC risk across all pairs using paired Cox proportional hazard models. All but one of the BC risks associated with CpGs were hypomethylated, and 198/212 CpGs had their DNAm associated with BC risk independent of genetic effects. According to previous literature, at least five of the top CpGs were related to estrogen signaling. Following a comprehensive two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis, we found evidence supporting a dual causal impact of DNAm at cg20145695 (gene body of NXN, rs480351) with increased risk for estrogen receptor positive BC and decreased risk for estrogen receptor negative BC. Conclusion While causal effects of DNAm on BC risk are rare, most of the identified CpGs associated with the risk of BC appear to be independent of genetic effects. This suggests that DNAm could serve as a valuable biomarker for environmental risk factors for BC, and may offer potential benefits as a complementary tool to current risk assessment procedures.

Experimental and numerical study on fire development process and fire risk assessment of historic timber lounge bridges

AbstractHistoric timber lounge bridges are precious architectural heritages. But they are sensitive to fire. In order to obtain an adequate understanding of the fire vulnerability of historical timber lounge bridges for their better conservation, this paper proposes a framework based on experiment and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis. Dengyun Bridge, a typical timber lounge bridge with cantilever beams, was chosen to carry out study on the fire development process and fire risk assessment. Firstly, the structural form and fire loads of the bridge were obtained by conducting on-site survey, and then a complex pyrolysis model of ancient wood was established in the Fire Dynamic Simulator (FDS) according to the pyrolysis characteristic of the ancient wood replaced from the bridge during its renovation. Secondly, the fire development process in Dengyun Bridge was simulated and four crucial fire events were defined. Finally, the comprehensive fire risk index for the Dengyun Bridge under those fire events was calculated by applying the Analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and Entropy method, and some mitigation and prevention strategies were discussed accordingly. The obtained results indicated that the flashover point was a boundary of fire development. After the flashover, the comprehensive fire risk index increased and reached its peak value rapidly. In the 1084 s (peak heat release rate), the comprehensive fire risk index was about 1.7 times of that in 847 s (flashover point). Mitigation strategies, such as the flame-retardant treatment and water-mist extinguishing system, were proved to be effective to retard the developed fire. The results of this study can provide a scientific basis for fire risk assessment and conservation of inherited timber lounge bridges.

Risk factors for deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism: a comparative study between acute hospital care and mental health inpatient settings for older people

Purpose This study aims to establish if risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE) in older hospitalized psychiatric patients differ from geriatric inpatients and if the current risk assessment tools being used are suitable. Design/methodology/approach The authors undertook a single centre retrospective review of 75 records for presence of predetermined risk factors. In total, 55 discharged patients with thrombotic events within geriatric settings were compared with 20 from mental health settings. Differences in risk factors were determined using t-test and Fisher’s exact test. Findings VTE patients in geriatric units were older and had reduced mobility. Psychiatric patients were more likely to be dehydrated and treated with psychotropics. Whilst rates of VTE screening were comparable in both settings, geriatric inpatients were more frequently prescribed thromboprophylaxis. Research limitations/implications Older psychiatric inpatients differ from those in medical/surgical settings in their profiles and risk factors for VTE. Approaches for VTE risk management also differed. Practical implications The study suggests the need for VTE screening tools and treatment protocols specific to older psychiatric settings. Social implications Targeted approaches may improve outcomes specific to each group. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first attempt in comparing VTE risk factors across acute physical health care and mental health settings.

Allergens Causing Allergic Contact Dermatitis in Cosmetic Products: A Systematic Review

Background: The increasing use of cosmetics worldwide has led to a rise in allergic reactions, particularly due to inadequate risk assessment. Identifying common allergens in cosmetic products causing dermatitis is crucial for effective prevention and management strategies. Objectives: This systematic review aims to determine the list of allergens that most commonly cause allergic contact dermatitis in cosmetic products and to find the patch test positivity rate for cosmetic products. Methods: This systematic review, following the PRISMA guidelines, investigated patch test results on cosmetic-induced contact dermatitis from January 2013 to September 2023 on PubMed, Cochrane, and Medline databases. Inclusion criteria comprised retrospective cohort and clinical trial studies reporting patch test positivity rates and positive allergens in cosmetics, with eligibility determined through independent screening, full-text evaluation, and data extraction. Exclusion criteria comprised abstract-only publications, non-English or Indonesian languages, review articles, and studies with incomplete text. Result: 13 studies were included out of 2,162 initially screened articles, involving 111,097 participants. The selected studies encompassed ten retrospective studies and three clinical trials conducted in various locations, including India, Brazil, North America, Korea, Sweden, and the Czech Republic. The patch test positivity rate ranged from 13% to 100%. The predominant allergens identified in cosmetics were nickel sulfate, fragrance mix I, cobalt chloride, para-phenylenediamine base, potassium dichromate, and balsam of Peru. Conclusion: This systematic review highlights the diversity in patch test positivity rates and identifies key allergens responsible for allergic contact dermatitis in cosmetic products, emphasizing the need for comprehensive evaluation and awareness of cosmetic safety.

Love wave along the corrugated interface between an elastic half-space and the corrugated porous layer containing two fluids

This article presents a comprehensive analysis of Love wave propagation along the interface between a porous layer saturated with two immiscible fluids and an underlying elastic half-space. The study places particular emphasis on the corrugated nature of both the interface and the upper boundary of the porous layer. A complex dispersion relation, governed by appropriate boundary conditions, is derived and subsequently simplified into four distinct subcases. The effects of corrugation parameters at the upper boundary of the porous layer and the interface between the layer and the elastic half-space are investigated. The influence of the undulation parameter, which represents the combined effects of wave number and porous layer thickness is also analyzed on the phase speed of the Love wave. In the numerical discussion, a geological structure analogous to oil-contaminated sandstone aquifers in contact with sedimentary bedrock, a common formation in coastal regions, is considered as a realistic example. The key findings reveal that the phase speed of Love waves is highly sensitive to both the corrugation and undulation parameters. Increased corrugation at the upper boundary of the layer enhances phase speed, while corrugation at the interface decreases it. An increase in the undulation parameter decreases the phase speed of the Love wave. Additionally, the presence of oil and water within the porous sandstone significantly reduces phase speed, particularly at lower frequencies, due to higher viscosity and internal friction. This study provides valuable insights into wave propagation dynamics in complex geological settings, with implications for hydrogeology, environmental monitoring, and seismic risk assessment.

Characterization, source profiles and risk assessment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in urban dust of 14 Chinese cities

ABSTRACT Data for 16 USEPA priority PAHs were collected in urban dust from 14 cities in China between 2008 and 2022, and concentration, profile composition, and human health risk were investigated. The mean concentration of PAHs was 6.60 mg kg−1, ranging from 2.88 mg kg−1 to 13.88 mg kg−1, and it was higher than other important cities in neighboring countries of China. Among different individual PAHs, mean fluoranthene (Flr) was dominant, accounting for 15.04%, and low molecular weight PAH (LMW) was almost a third of high molecular weight PAH (HMW). The results of PAH composition profiles suggested that the proportion of different rings of PAHs increased in order: 2-ring PAHs (4.40%)< 6-ring PAHs (15.73%)< 3-ring PAHs (17.77%)< 5-ring PAHs (22.54%)< 4-ring PAHs (39.56%). The results of the source appointment suggested that pyrogenic sources and mixed sources, particularly wood, grass, coal, and diesel combustion, were the main sources of PAHs in urban dust. The results of the health risk assessment illustrated that children were more vulnerable to PAHs, and ingestion was the dominant exposure pathway to PAHs (78.152%, 67.519%, 73.206%, and 72.957% of children, adolescents, adults, and the total lifetime cancer risk (TLCR)). PAH pollution in urban dust from different cities in China was a commonly existing phenomenon, but the mean and maximum of TLCR were acceptable according to the standard established by USEPA (10−4). Based on Monte Carlo simulations, body weight (BW) was the most important uncertain input in three age groups (60.75%-91.22% contribution).