Site Investigation Research Articles

Structural basis of S-adenosylmethionine-dependent allosteric transition from active to inactive states in methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase

Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is a pivotal flavoprotein connecting the folate and methionine methyl cycles, catalyzing the conversion of methylenetetrahydrofolate to methyltetrahydrofolate. Human MTHFR (hMTHFR) undergoes elaborate allosteric regulation involving protein phosphorylation and S-adenosylmethionine (AdoMet)-dependent inhibition, though other factors such as subunit orientation and FAD status remain understudied due to the lack of a functional structural model. Here, we report crystal structures of Chaetomium thermophilum MTHFR (cMTHFR) in both active (R) and inhibited (T) states. We reveal FAD occlusion by Tyr361 in the T-state, which prevents substrate interaction. Remarkably, the inhibited form of cMTHFR accommodates two AdoMet molecules per subunit. In addition, we conducted a detailed investigation of the phosphorylation sites in hMTHFR, three of which were previously unidentified. Based on the structural framework provided by our cMTHFR model, we propose a possible mechanism to explain the allosteric structural transition of MTHFR, including the impact of phosphorylation on AdoMet-dependent inhibition.

The response of Canada's clinical health research ecosystem to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The response of Canada's research community to the COVID-19 pandemic provides a unique opportunity to examine the country's clinical health research ecosystem. We sought to describe patterns of enrolment across Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)-funded studies on COVID-19. We identified COVID-19 studies funded by the CIHR and that enrolled participants from Canadian acute care hospitals between January 2020 and April 2023. We collected information on study-and site-level variables from study leads, site investigators, and public domain sources. We described and evaluated factors associated with cumulative enrolment. We obtained information for 23 out of 26 (88%) eligible CIHR-funded studies (16 randomized controlled trials [RCTs] and 7 cohort studies). The 23 studies were managed by 12 Canadian and 3 international coordinating centres. Of 419 Canadian hospitals, 97 (23%) enrolled a total of 28 973 participants - 3876 in RCTs across 78 hospitals (median cumulative enrolment per hospital 30, interquartile range [IQR] 10-61), and 25 097 in cohort studies across 62 hospitals (median cumulative enrolment per hospital 158, IQR 6-348). Of 78 hospitals recruiting participants in RCTs, 13 (17%) enrolled 50% of all RCT participants, whereas 6 of 62 hospitals (9.7%) recruited 54% of participants in cohort studies. A minority of Canadian hospitals enrolled the majority of participants in CIHR-funded studies on COVID-19. This analysis sheds light on the Canadian health research ecosystem and provides information for multiple key partners to consider ways to realize the full research potential of Canada's health systems.

Towards Sustainable Education by Design: Evaluating Pro-Ecological Architectural Solutions in Centers for Environmental Education

The imperative shift towards ecological consciousness in architectural design, driven by the pressing need to mitigate energy consumption and carbon emissions while fostering user well-being, has propelled the discourse on sustainable architecture to the forefront of contemporary dialogue. Concepts such as ecological architecture, sustainable, green, and regenerative design have emerged as pivotal frameworks aimed at aligning architectural practices with environmental imperatives. In this evolving architectural landscape, the centers for ecological education (CEEs) play an important role, embodying the intersection of architecture and ecological education. These centers, with their diverse educational initiatives, provide dedicated spaces for comprehensive ecological education. However, a gap exists in the literature regarding studies focusing on CEEs and the evaluation criteria for such facilities. This article seeks to bridge this gap by evaluating buildings designated for ecological education, aiming to present ecological content while exemplifying sustainable architectural principles. The study employs a research by design approach, combining a literature review with site investigations and qualitative assessments to elucidate the unique challenges and opportunities inherent in designing CEEs. Criteria for assessing the ecological quality of buildings are formulated. Through a comparative analysis, the article identifies key parameters for evaluating CEEs, considering their dual function as educational spaces and architectural exemplars. The evaluation framework developed in this study provides a valuable tool for architects, designers, and policymakers seeking to promote ecological education and sustainable architectural practices.

Advancing geological modelling and geodata management: a web-based system with AI assessment in Singapore

ABSTRACT This paper outlines the development and deployment of the Geodata Modelling and Management System (GEM2S) in Singapore. GEM2S offers a sophisticated web-based platform for visualising and interacting with 3D geological models of Singapore. Beyond basic visualisation and interaction, GEM2S provides advanced features for geodata management, including the functionality to upload new borehole data with AI assessment and to integrate geophysical results. The paper begins by elucidating the data processing procedures, which involve extracting data from electronic site investigation records. Additionally, common data errors for cleaning and validation purposes are summarised. Subsequently, the paper presents the 3D geological modelling process and results. The architecture of the web-GIS geodata management system is detailed, outlining the data flow and functions for interactive queries. Furthermore, the paper investigates two AI-based prototypes for quality assessment of newly acquired borehole data. Incorporating virtual boreholes generated from the geophysics effectively enhances the quality of the resulting geological model. GEM2S can serve as a comprehensive and user-friendly platform, making it a valuable system for underground project design and a foundational database for future subsurface planning in Singapore.

Three-dimensional reconstruction of subsurface stratigraphy using machine learning with neighborhood aggregation

In engineering geology and geotechnical engineering, it is well recognized that subsurface soils/rocks are natural materials and exhibit variability in stratigraphy due to the complex geological formation processes they have undergone. Knowledge of subsurface soil stratigraphy is of great importance to geotechnical engineers. However, accurate and reliable interpretation of subsurface soil stratigraphy is challenging due to the limited number of site investigation boreholes available at the site and the highly heterogeneous properties of soil stratigraphy (e.g., interbedded or non-ordered layers). This paper proposes an improved data-driven machine learning framework boosted with the neighborhood aggregation technique for modelling three-dimensional (3D) subsurface soil stratigraphy in a more general and robust manner. Neighborhood aggregation, a technique often adopted in graph network learning, is integrated into this framework to regulate and improve the prediction results of classical machine learning models. The proposed framework is then cross-validated using 165 real site investigation boreholes for four selected machine learning models respectively. Cross-validation results suggest that the eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) and Random Forest (RF) models are more suitable for the task of soil stratigraphy prediction than Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and Support Vector Machine (SVM). Particularly, the XGBoost and RF are also amenable to neighborhood aggregation and can yield around 5% improvement in terms of average borehole prediction accuracy after introducing neighborhood aggregation. The improved machine learning framework allows for explicit 1D to 3D geological modelling, uncertainty quantification, and convenient visualization. The proposed framework facilitates digital transformation of geological and geotechnical site investigation.

Evaluation of the environmental and structural impacts on urban expansion using airborne geophysical data at Hurghada city, Northern Eastern Desert, Egypt.

Airborne gamma-ray spectrometric and magnetic data were processed and interpreted aiming to evaluate the environmental and structural impacts on urban expansion, Hurghada City, Northern Eastern Desert, Egypt. The eastern (coastal area), northern, and southeastern parts of the study area possess the lowest level of absorbed dose rate (ADR) and annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE), which were estimated from the airborne gamma-ray spectral data of this area. Consequently, these parts are considered as suitable sites for urban expansion from the radioactivity point of view. The relatively high level of ADR and AEDE is associated with granitic rocks, some parts of Gabir formation and recent Wadi sediments, situated at southwestern, central, and eastern parts of the study area. The ADR and AEDE of these parts are considered harmful to individuals. Airborne magnetic data were also used to detect major structures that may affect various construction projects in the study area in the future. The NNW-SSE, NW-SE, N-S, and NE-SW trends represent the common structures in the study area. The obtained results of airborne gamma-ray spectrometric and magnetic data illustrated that the urban expansion should not be constructed to the west of the ring road. However, site investigations must be carried out on this part of the study area before starting any construction projects there. The present study proved the important role of airborne gamma-ray spectrometric and magnetic surveys as useful tools to delineate the environmental and structural impacts on urban expansion.

Development of a speargun projectile penetrometer in soil

This study investigates the applicability of a speargun projectile penetrometer (SPP) for offshore site investigation purposes using experimental testing. The SPP can shoot penetrometers using an elastic/pneumatic force. The speargun is easy to handle, can generate significant kinetic energy, and requires a single operator to perform the test. A laboratory test platform was utilised to hold the SPP and ensure vertical launch, while a laser displacement sensor was employed to monitor the penetration depth and record the corresponding time history. The result demonstrated that the speargun-launched method achieves significantly higher embedment depth compared to an equivalent free-falling penetrometer. In particular, the new method produces sufficiently deep penetration in dense sand, thus overcoming the typical penetrometer tilting issue caused by shallow penetration. These findings provide a preliminary insight into the SPP, allowing for exploration beyond the boundaries of traditional penetrometers in laboratory testing and offshore site investigation.

NCI MATCH (EAY131) arm Z1D: Retrospective evaluation of attributions of adverse events experienced on nivolumab in patients with MSI-high tumors.

e14711 Background: Machine learning algorithms for prediction of Adverse Events (AEs) due to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) rely on clinically annotated data to serve as gold standards. Clinical trials are the best sources of such data, but audits to assess validity are rare, compromising future machine learning efforts. We reviewed AEs reported on the National Cancer Institute Molecular Analysis for Therapy Choice (NCI-MATCH) EAY-131 Arm Z1D. Patients matched to Arm Z1D due to MSI-high status were treated with nivolumab. Routine and serious AEs were reported to NCI. Attribution data from AEs on 29 patients with tumor genomics suitable for machine learning approaches were obtained and reviewed retrospectively. Methods: Documented AEs were sorted by grade via the Common Terminology for Adverse Events (CTCAE) system and categorized as related or unrelated to ICIs. Primary source data reported to NCI were reviewed. If any ambiguity was found, trial sites were queried to provide additional information and documentation. Decisions were made by an experienced NCI medical officer with the benefit of additional data and site responses. All serious AEs and a subset of ambiguous routine AEs were assessed to determine if attribution conformed to expected attribution per the nivolumab package insert. Uncertain attribution required additional queries, including email or phone correspondence. Grade 1 or 2 events were only evaluated to determine if any attribution to ICIs was possible. If a higher grade event was attributed to ICIs, there was no further query for lower grade events on the same patient. Results: A total of 639 Grade 1, 152 Grade 2, 75 Grade 3, 10 Grade 4, and 5 Grade 5 events were reported among the 29 patients. One Grade 5 event, 5 Grade 4 events, 13 Grade 3 Events, 9 Grade 2 events, and 6 Grade 1 events were considered less likely to be attributed to ICIs compared with the initial sponsor or site investigator assessment of possibly, probably, or definitely related. Two Grade 4 events, 1 Grade 2 event, and 8 Grade 1 events were considered to be possibly, probably, or definitely due to ICIs compared with the initial sponsor or site assessment of less likely or unrelated. Site responsiveness to retrospective queries from the sponsor varied. Additional lab values, primary source documentation, and communication with site investigators were necessary to make modifications. A total of 11 AEs required additional queries to site investigators. Conclusions: Retrospective reviews of real-time site and sponsor assessments of attribution exhibit significant modification of initial attribution to ICIs in this review of 29 patients on Arm Z1D of the NCI MATCH trial. Machine learning approaches for prediction of AEs on patients treated with ICIs may require careful assessments of primary source data to develop adequate training sets, given the paucity of gold standard data available.

A phase 1 dose escalation study of a novel coupled CAR T cell therapy, GCC19CART, for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer.

e15572 Background: GCC19CART is a multitargeted CAR-T cell therapy designed to overcome the limitations of conventional CAR-T cells in solid malignancies by pairing a solid tumor targeting CAR with additional CD19-targeting CARs. This addition is meant to amplify proliferation, activation, and persistence of the CAR-T cells with a goal to overcome the inherent resistance of solid tumors to CAR-T cells. Guanylate cyclase-C (GCC) has been reported to be expressed in over 80% of colorectal cancers with normal expression largely restricted to the luminal side of the GI tract, making it an appealing target for CAR-T cell therapy. A Phase 1 investigator-initiated clinical trial in China reported preliminary results with an ORR of 15.4% (2/13), mOS of 13.3 months in dose level 1 (1x106 CAR-T cells/kg) and 50% (4/8), mOS of 26.1 months in dose level 2 (2x106 CAR-T cells/kg). Common adverse events included cytokine release syndrome (CRS), diarrhea/colitis, and immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS). Methods: A phase 1 study in the United States was initiated in August, 2022, for patients with refractory metastatic colorectal cancer. As of a data cutoff of December 31, 2023, with a prespecified analysis after the DLT window for the first patient treated at dose level 2, 5 subjects have been reinfused: 4 in dose level 1 and 1 in dose level 2. Subjects were screened for GCC expression. Over 95% of participants screened positive, so this requirement was removed. Eligible subjects underwent leukapheresis, lymphodepleting chemotherapy with a single dose of fludarabine 30mg/m2 and cyclophosphamide 300mg/m2, and infusion of GCC19CART. Responses were assessed by RECIST v1.1 by site investigator and an independent third-party imaging review. Results: Five subjects have been treated, 4 in dose level 1 (1x106 cells/kg) and 1 in dose level 2 (2x106 cells/kg), and have completed the 30 day DLT period. The most common CAR-T related adverse events were CRS in 5/5 subjects (grade 1: 2/5 (40%) and grade 2: 3/5 (60%)), diarrhea in 4/5 subjects (grade 1: 1/5 (20%), grade 2: 2/5 (40%), and grade 3: 1/5 (20%)), and ICANS (grade 2: 1/5 (20%)). All adverse events resolved with therapy. The ORR was 40% (2/5) by independent review: 2 subjects demonstrated a partial response however 1 additional subject had partial metabolic response on PET/CT with stable disease. Progressive disease was seen in 2 participants by RECIST 1.1, but 1 has a falling tumor marker suggesting tumor flare. Conclusions: Preliminary results demonstrate that GCC19CART has an acceptable safety profile and meaningful clinical activity in refractory metastatic colorectal cancer. This trial is ongoing and updated data will be presented, including from patients treated at dose level 2 (2x106 CAR-T cells/kg). Clinical trial information: NCT05319314 .

Iron-doping regulated light absorption and active sites in LiTaO3 single crystal for photocatalytic nitrogen reduction

In contrast to research on active sites in nanomaterials, lithium tantalate single crystals, known for their exceptional optical properties and long-range ordered lattice structure, present a promising avenue for in-depth exploration of photocatalytic reaction systems with fewer constraints imposed by surface chemistry. Typically, the isotropy of a specific facet provides a perfect support for studying heteroatom doping. Herein, this work delves into the intrinsic catalytic sites for photocatalytic nitrogen fixation in iron-doped lithium tantalate single crystals. The presence of iron not only modifies the electronic structure of lithium tantalate, improving its light absorption capacity, but also functions as an active site for the nitrogen adsorption and activation. The photocatalytic ammonia production rate of the iron-doped lithium tantalate in pure water is maximum 26.95 μg cm−2 h−1, which is three times higher than that of undoped lithium tantalate. The combination of first-principles simulations with in situ characterizations confirms that iron doping promotes the rate-determining step and changes the pathway of hydrogenation to associative alternating. This study provides a new perspective on in-depth investigation of intrinsic catalytic active sites in photocatalysis and other catalytic processes.

The Glass Wall: Gendered Authorship Disparities in CD 19 and BCMA CAR-T Clinical Trials for Lymphoma and Myeloma

IntroductionExisting literature suggests that women are significantly underrepresented in the field of hematology-oncology. Women make up 35.6% of hematologists and data on females as site investigators for pivotal trials and authors in publications of pivotal trials in hematologic malignancies, specifically in the novel niche of Chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T), is sparse. MethodsWe examined the proportion of women in pivotal trials, screening a total of 2180 studies from PubMed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. 2180 initially searched records were filtered by date (2017-2023) and clinical trial status, yielding 149 records. Following a manual review, we included 15 studies that led to the approval of or anticipated approval of CD19 and BCMA CAR-T therapies in lymphoid and plasma cell malignancies. We examined overall number of female authors, number of lead female authors, and ratio of all authors to female authors in the 15 trials, which were all high impact, cited on average 1314 times. ResultsOf the 436 authors assessed, 132 were female, correlating to 29.5% female authorship. The only study with female authorship >50% was ELIANA, a 2017 pediatric study. 7 of the 15 studies had female lead authors; notably, 6 out of 7 of these studies were published in 2021 or later. ConclusionIn conclusion, our data suggests gender iniquities for female investigators exist in the field of immune effector cell therapy. We suggest further investigation and strategies to decrease gendered authorship disparities.

Modulating the Microstructure and Surface Acidity of MnO2 by Doping-Induced Phase Transition for Simultaneous Removal of Toluene and NOx at Low Temperature.

It is a great challenge to remove VOCs and NOx simultaneously from flue gas in nonelectric industries. This study focuses on the construction of Fe-MnO2 catalysts that perform well in the simultaneous removal of toluene and NOx at low temperatures. Utilizing the Fe-induced phase transition of MnO2, Fe-MnO2-F&R catalysts with a composite morphology of nanoflowers and nanorods were successfully prepared that provided an abundant microporous structure to facilitate the diffusion of molecules of different sizes. Through in-depth investigation of the active sites and reaction mechanism, we discovered that Fe-induced phase transition could modulate the surface acidity of Fe-MnO2-F&R. The higher concentration of surface Mn4+ provided numerous Brønsted acid sites, which effectively promoted the activation of toluene to reactive intermediates, such as benzyl alcohol/benzoate/maleic acid. Simultaneously, Fe provided a large number of Lewis acid sites that anchor and activate NH3 species, thereby inhibiting NH3 nonselective oxidation. Furthermore, additional Brønsted acid sites were generated during the simultaneous reaction process, enhancing toluene activation. Consequently, the simultaneous removal of toluene and NOx was achieved through regulation of the physical structure and the concentration of acidic sites. The present work provides new insights into the rational design of bifunctional catalysts for the synergistic control of VOCs and NOx emissions.

Low Bacterial Diversity and Nitrate Levels in Cores from Deep Boreholes in Pristine Karst.

This study investigates the nitrate gradients within the deep biosphere of karst carbonate rocks and their resident microbiota. Samples were taken from borehole cores at depths down to 350 m below the surface, collected during geological site investigations for proposed railway tunnels and analysed using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing analysis revealed relatively low microbial diversity, which can serve as a reliable indicator of the pristine nature of deep karst. However, some local hotspots of diversity are independent of depth. Pseudomonadota dominated the samples, with Gammaproteobacteria dominating at the class level. The low nitrate content in deep karst, in contrast to higher values closer to the surface, serves as an additional marker of its undisturbed and unpolluted status. Based on the prediction of functional profiles from 16S rRNA sequencing data, nitrates remain low due to indigenous microbial denitrification and assimilatory nitrate reduction. Pathways related to nitrogen fixation, ammonia assimilation, and nitrification were not confirmed. When elevated nitrate levels are observed in karst, they are most probably related to anthropogenic activities. Environmental factors other than depth and nitrate content play an important role in shaping bacterial communities.

Molecular Markers and Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns of Extraintestinal Pathogenic Escherichia coli from Camel Calves Including Colistin-Resistant and Hypermucoviscuous Strains.

Extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli (ExPEC) strains are capable of causing various systemic infections in both humans and animals. In this study, we isolated and characterized 30 E. coli strains from the parenchymatic organs and brains of young (<3 months of age) camel calves which died in septicemia. Six of the strains showed hypermucoviscous phenotype. Based on minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values, seven of the strains were potentially multidrug resistant, with two additional showing colistin resistance. Four strains showed mixed pathotypes, as they carried characteristic virulence genes for intestinal pathotypes of E. coli: three strains carried cnf1, encoding cytotoxic necrotizing factor type 1, the key virulence gene of necrotoxigenic E. coli (NTEC), and one carried eae encoding intimin, the key virulence gene of enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC). An investigation of the integration sites of pathogenicity islands (PAIs) and the presence of prophage-related sequences showed that the strains carry diverse arrays of mobile genetic elements, which may contribute to their antimicrobial resistance and virulence patterns. Our work is the first to describe ExPEC strains from camels, and points to their veterinary pathogenic as well as zoonotic potential in this important domestic animal.

Uncertainty reduction strategies to enhance geotechnical site characterization: a case study of the red roof landslide in Wyoming

This study presents a method for identifying strategic locations to drill additional boreholes by quantifying and reducing subsurface uncertainties in geotechnical site investigations. The case study is the Red Roof landslide site located near milepost 140 on US Highway 26/89 in Teton County, Wyoming. A landslide remediation report had recommended additional boreholes before completion of the project. Two primary sources of uncertainty in geomaterials, namely geological and ground, are evaluated to determine the locations for these additional boreholes. The study aims to enhance site characterization and improve the accuracy of geotechnical assessments by strategically selecting and drilling additional boreholes that will reduce these subsurface uncertainties. The method involves reviewing and collecting the available site investigation data. An extensive geostatistical simulation is conducted based on the available data to identify spatial locations at the site that have uncertain subsurface conditions. Data from the additional boreholes could be utilized in these areas to reduce the uncertainty. This approach aligns with the current multi-phasing of site investigation in engineering practice, where a preliminary investigation is conducted before a detailed investigation. The results show that the locations of additional boreholes identified using this method differ from the ones earlier recommended, showcasing the effectiveness of the methodology in this application. This study also provides insights into effective strategies for reducing uncertainties through strategic borehole placement in similar geotechnical investigations. By quantifying geological and ground uncertainties, the method enables informed decision-making for slope stability analysis and risk assessment, with implications for infrastructure stability and geohazard mitigation.

Qualitative assessment of optimizing the well spacings based on the economic analysis

The design of well spacing significantly influences the sustainability and economic benefit of geothermal energy extraction. However, most studies have predominantly employed heat production-related parameters as indicators of well spacing, and a comprehensive analysis of well spacing design based on an economic model is necessary for practical implementation. In this study, an economic indicator considering the benefits derived from heat production and operating costs is proposed and applied in the Caofeidian, a typical abandoned oilfield in the Bohai Bay Basin. It offers a refined portrayal of directional wells, moving beyond rudimentary representations, to capture their appropriate degree of complexity and behavior in drilling configurations. First, by integrating thermophysical information and site investigation data from previous oil investigations, a heterogeneous 3D model is constructed to forecast the 30-year temperature and pressure evolution. Then, a modified levelized cost of heat (LCOH-HT) is proposed to perform economic analysis in optimizing the well spacing, revealing an optimal range of 300–600 m for the different selected wells. In comparison with results derived solely from heat production considerations, drilling and pumping costs contribute to a 300 m reduction in the optimal well spacing based on the proposed approach, as a larger well spacing leads to increased hydraulic losses and drilling cost, necessitating greater pumping efforts and costs. This finding underscores the need to balance economic and thermal considerations. In addition, we found the difference in the optimal well spacing in space is also caused by the porosity variations. Porosity affects fluid temperature and pressure, leading to changes in the benefits and costs associated with pressure fluctuations. Notably, this novel economic analysis method is not limited to spacing optimization; it can also be used to optimize operating parameters, such as the flow rate, which could provide practical strategies for geothermal energy extraction.

Investigation of potential sites for coal-to-nuclear energy transitions in the United States

To achieve deep decarbonization in the U.S., the rapid deployment of clean energy resources is crucial. Coal Power Plants (CPPs), a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, are being phased out in many countries, including the U.S. As part of this transition, there is a need to repurpose retired CPPs to alternative clean sources, -- one possibility is nuclear energy. This study systematically evaluates the potential for Coal-to-Nuclear (C2N) energy transitions in the U.S using the Siting Tool for Advanced Nuclear Development (STAND). Through an extensive analysis of 245 operational CPPs in the U.S., categorized into two groups based on their nameplate capacity, a comprehensive siting assessment has been provided in this paper. The findings reveal a varied feasibility landscape: for smaller sites (Group-01), the most suitable CPP, “R M Schahfer” in Indiana, scored an overall feasibility objective function value of 84.31, while “SIUC” in Illinois was the least suitable at 51.52. For larger sites (Group-02), feasibility scores ranged from 47.29 at “New Madrid” in Missouri to 76.62 at “AES Petersburg” in Indiana. Safety, socioeconomic factors, and proximity attributes are significant determinants in feasibility scoring. The diversity in nuclear restrictions and energy prices across sites significantly influenced their suitability for nuclear deployment. The study also highlights the importance of regional attributes. It provides a targeted approach for policymakers, utilities, and energy modelers in prioritizing C2N transitions, marking a critical step toward the United States’ deep decarbonization goals.

A40 Brecon bypass landslide: investigation, remediation and asset management for climate resilience

During February 2020, a 300 m 3 slope failure occurred within a trunk road earthwork at Brecon, Wales, leading to the initial closure of all four lanes of the dual carriageway. As part of Welsh Government's strategy for climate resilient infrastructure and in accordance with the CD622 Managing Geotechnical Risk framework, the site investigation commenced in 2020 and proceeded through various phases to the completion of remedial works in 2022. This paper discusses the approach to management of geotechnical risk for the scheme, from desk study through implementation of an on-slope ground investigation and interim risk mitigation, to design and implementation of the remedial measures. The paper describes the nature and trigger of the landslide case study, adaptations in the design phase to provide resilience to geohazards and future climatic conditions, the constraints that were overcome during the site works and measures taken to manage residual risk and ensure ease of maintenance. Thematic collection: This article is part of the Geo-resilience and infrastructure collection available at: https://www.lyellcollection.org/topic/collections/geo-resilience-and-infrastructure

Importance of building inspection on the seismic response of a severely damaged RC structure during the February 6, 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquake sequence

Large magnitude February 6, 2023 earthquakes in Türkiye created a devastating effect on the building stock on a vast region. For earthquakes of this magnitude, severe damage and collapses are indispensable to the old building stock with deficiencies certified in previous earthquakes. But unexpectedly, the newly constructed buildings that were designed by recent version of Turkish Building Seismic Code (TBEC 2018) also experienced severe damage. After conducting site investigations on one of the recently constructed and severely damaged RC building, a detailed numerical study was performed to identify the reasons for the observed seismic damage. This study pinpoints the main cause of such damage due to lack of thorough building inspections during construction to ensure the implementation of the seismic reinforcement detailing specified in blueprints for providing required ductility, as revealed by field investigations. Additionally, it identifies potential issues stemming from a lack of full comprehension of the seismic design philosophy within the code. The existing design pushes the limits on the axial load level on slender column elements and fall short in capturing the soft story irregularity. Although there is a soft base story in the investigated building, using structural walls only in one direction with moderately confined boundary zones increased its vulnerability. This example shows that in Türkiye, where seismic activity is very high and quite lethal, seismic design codes should set stricter limits and measures, and building inspection system must be strictly enforced.

Geotechnical assessments for renewable energy infrastructure: Ensuring stability in wind and solar projects

Geotechnical assessments are crucial for ensuring the stability and longevity of renewable energy infrastructure, particularly in wind and solar projects. This review explores the significance of geotechnical assessments in these projects, highlighting key considerations and challenges. Geotechnical assessments play a critical role in the design, construction, and operation of renewable energy infrastructure, providing essential information about the subsurface conditions that can impact the stability and performance of wind and solar projects. These assessments involve the evaluation of soil, rock, and groundwater conditions to assess their suitability for supporting renewable energy structures. In wind energy projects, geotechnical assessments are essential for determining the foundation design of wind turbines. The soil and rock conditions at the site can significantly impact the stability and load-bearing capacity of the foundation, affecting the overall performance and safety of the turbine. Similarly, in solar energy projects, geotechnical assessments are necessary for designing the foundation of solar panels and support structures, ensuring they can withstand environmental loads and maintain their efficiency over time. One of the key challenges in geotechnical assessments for renewable energy projects is the variability of subsurface conditions. Soil and rock properties can vary significantly over short distances, requiring detailed site investigations to accurately characterize the subsurface conditions. Additionally, the presence of natural hazards such as landslides, earthquakes, and floods can further complicate geotechnical assessments, necessitating robust risk mitigation strategies. Despite these challenges, geotechnical assessments are essential for ensuring the long-term stability and performance of renewable energy infrastructure. By providing valuable insights into subsurface conditions, these assessments help developers and engineers make informed decisions about site selection, foundation design, and risk management, ultimately contributing to the successful implementation of renewable energy projects. In conclusion, geotechnical assessments are vital for ensuring the stability and longevity of renewable energy infrastructure, particularly in wind and solar projects. By providing crucial information about subsurface conditions, these assessments help mitigate risks and ensure the safe and efficient operation of renewable energy projects. Keywords: Geotechnical Assessments, Renewable Energy, Infrastructure, Stability, Wind and Solar Projects.