Site Selection Research Articles

How to make cardiology clinical trials more inclusive.

Cardiovascular clinical trials continue to under-represent children, older adults, females and people from ethnic minority groups relative to population disease distribution. Here we describe strategies to foster trial representativeness, with proposed actions at the levels of trial funding, design, conduct and dissemination. In particular, trial representativeness may be increased through broad recruitment strategies and site selection criteria that reflect the diversity of patients in the catchment area, as well as limiting unjustified exclusion criteria and using pragmatic designs that minimize research burden on patients (including embedded and decentralized trials). Trial communications ought to be culturally appropriate; engaging diverse people with lived experience in the co-design of some trial elements may foster this. The demographics of trialists themselves are associated with participant demographics; therefore, trial leadership must be actively diversified. Funding bodies and journals increasingly require the reporting of sociodemographic characteristics of trial participants, and regulatory bodies now provide guidance on increasing trial diversity; these steps may increase the momentum towards change. Although this Perspective focuses on the cardiovascular trial context, many of these strategies could be applied to other fields.

Archaeological cognition of the Eastern mausoleum of Qin state using integrated space-ground observation tools

The Eastern Mausoleum of Qin State is a significant component of the Qin Dynasty's royal tombs, reflecting the social development level during the Warring States period (475 BC ~ 221 BC) in China. At the onset of our investigation, we mapped the site's boundaries utilizing Corona satellite imagery and employed the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Normalized Difference Moisture Index (NDMI) to identify archaeological features. Additionally, this study is the first to propose the use of thermal infrared band data from the SDGSAT-1 satellite to explore thermal archaeological traces, demonstrating their viability for archaeological site analysis. Subsequently, electromagnetic (EM) prospection was utilized to validate the presence of an ancient burial chamber passage. Landscape monitoring and analysis of the No.1 Mausoleum were performed using Corona and Google Earth images, revealing the accuracy of the Geomancy Theory of Chinese mausoleums through dynamic remote sensing of surface changes. Furthermore, our employment of space-to-ground observational modalities and resultant Digital Elevation Models (DEM) have been used to provided new insights into the application of Remote Sensing (RS) and Geomancy in archaeology, thereby emphasizing the pivotal role of site selection in heritage preservation. This research underscores the promise of synergistic space-ground observations in both exploiting the archaeological riches of cultural heritage sites and ensuring the enduring conservation of these irreplaceable patrimonial assets.

Application of a GIS-Based Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Approach to the Siting of Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion Power Plants: A Case Study of the Xisha Sea Area, China

In order to achieve the goals of carbon neutrality and reduced carbon emissions, China is increasingly focusing on the development and utilization of renewable energy sources. Among these, ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) has the advantages of small periodic fluctuations and large potential reserves, making it an important research field. With the development of the “Maritime Silk Road”, the Xisha Islands in the South China Sea will see a growing demand for electricity, providing the potential for OTEC development in this region. Optimal site selection of OTEC power plants is a prerequisite for developing thermal energy provision, affecting both the construction costs and future benefits of the power plants. This study establishes a scientific evaluation model based on the decision-making frameworks of geographic information systems (GISs) and multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods, specifically the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) for assigning weights, the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) to reclassify the factors, and weighted linear combination (WLC) to compute the suitability index. In addition to commonly considered factors such as temperature difference and marine usage status, this study innovatively incorporates geological conditions and maximum offshore distances of cold seawater based on cost control. The final evaluation identifies three suitable areas for OTEC development near the Xuande Atoll and the Yongle Atoll in the Xisha Sea Area, providing valuable insights for energy developers and policymakers.

Fair allocation of small-scale finfish mariculture zones in multi-use MPAs using multi criteria evaluation with stakeholder preferences

Mariculture zones in MPAs are primarily determined based on cost-effective/environmental criteria and rarely incorporate local community preferences. This study proposed a GIS-based site selection model to solve the conflicting issues in designing mariculture zones to support small-scale finfish farmers in MPAs. The work was undertaken in the Anambas Archipelago MPA to represent a commonly populated small-island MPA in Indonesia and other developing countries. A three-stage site selection model (constraint, site suitability, and stakeholder preference) with various criteria was employed using a modified parameter-specific suitability function (PSSF) with a non-weighted geometric mean. The stakeholder preference was used to counterbalance the dominance of environmental sub-models. The first stage analysis using the constraint sub-model determined that only 10.16% (1199.70 km2) of the total extent of the study area (11,811.77 km2) was categorized as feasible for finfish mariculture. The subsequent site suitability sub-model determined that only 32.3% (387 km2) and 30.1% (361.6 km2) of the feasible areas were classed best for finfish mariculture in dry and wet seasons, respectively. Areas classified as good covered 41.25% (494.9 km2) and 40.1% (481.65 km2) of the total feasible areas in the dry and wet seasons, respectively. The stakeholder preference sub-model had classified 33.21 km2 (2.77%) of the feasible area as the best sites that could be allocated as mariculture zones for the local community. The site selection model successfully incorporates multiple site selection parameters, addresses poor data availability and improves fair allocation of mariculture zone in the MPA via two specific approaches. The nature of the geometric mean prevents the allocation of suitable areas in the MPA-specific zones, such as core zones. Second, the stakeholder preference improves the fairness of the mariculture zone allocation due to the incorporation of local fish farmers' preferences. The proposed site selection model could be used to designate mariculture zones in a data-poor MPA environment and facilitate local communities in developing sustainable small-scale finfish mariculture in MPAs.

Nest site selection by an endangered raptor, the Grey Goshawk (Accipiter novaehollandiae), in a hostile anthropogenic landscape

ABSTRACT The Grey Goshawk is an endangered raptor occurring at low densities throughout its Tasmanian range. Nesting ecology and conservation requirements of the species are poorly understood. Thus, knowledge of nest site selection and breeding habitat preferences is needed to inform conservation management strategies. Here, we investigate nest site selection in a modified anthropogenic landscape in south-east Tasmania, Australia based on 75 active nest sites. Our logistic regression models show that nest site selection is influenced by a range of variables at the landscape, nest stand and nest site level, which likely relate to territoriality, food availability and forest structure. We also used environmental and disturbance-related variables to deliver a management-specific model, which indicated distance to track, dwelling and drainage lines were significant predictors of nest site selection. Our results can be used to improve conservation management and planning strategies.

Landfill site selection using analytical hierarchy process and GIS: a case study in Al-Zubair district, Basrah, Iraq

Landfill site selection using analytical hierarchy process and GIS: a case study in Al-Zubair district, Basrah, Iraq

Use of Wireless Sensor Networks for Area-Based Speed Control and Traffic Monitoring

This paper reviews the potential of low-power wireless networks to improve road safety. The authors characterized this type of network and its application in road transport. They also presented the available technologies, highlighting one that was considered the most promising for transport applications. The study includes an innovative and proprietary concept of area-based vehicle speed monitoring using this technology and describes its potential for enhancing road safety. Assumptions and a model for the deployment of network equipment within the planned implementation area were developed. Using radio coverage planning software, the authors conducted a series of simulations to assess the radio coverage of the proposed solution. The results were used to evaluate the feasibility of deployment and to select system operating parameters. It was also noted that the proposed solution could be applied to traffic monitoring. The main objective of this paper is to present a new solution for improving road safety and to assess its feasibility for practical implementation. To achieve this, the authors conducted and presented the results of a series of simulations using radio coverage planning software. The key contribution of this research is the authors′ proposal to implement simultaneous vehicle speed control across the entire monitored area, rather than limiting it to specific, designated points. The simulation results, primarily related to the deployment and selection of operating parameters for wireless sensor network devices, as well as the type and height of antenna placement, suggest that the practical implementation of the proposed solution is feasible. This approach has the potential to significantly improve road safety and alter drivers′ perceptions of speed control. Additionally, the positive outcomes of the research could serve as a foundation for changing the selection of speed control sites, focusing on areas with the highest road safety risk at any given time.

Climate change favors expansion of three Eucalyptus species in China.

Eucalyptus has become one of the most widely planted species in tropical and subtropical regions in China, with important economic, ecological, and social values. However, it is currently unclear how climate change will affect different Eucalyptus species. Therefore, it is urgent to investigate the potential distribution and dynamics of Eucalyptus under current and future climate scenarios. In this study, we analyzed the potential distribution patterns of the three main Eucalyptus species (Eucalyptus grandis, Eucalyptus urophylla, and Eucalyptus tereticornis) under current and future climatic conditions (2041-2060 and 2061-2080) using the optimized MaxEnt model, which integrates a variety of environmental data including climate, topography, soil, and human influence. We also identified the main factors affecting the potential distributions of the three main Eucalyptus species. The model indicated that E. grandis exhibited heightened sensitivity to the mean temperature of the coldest quarter (7.0-20.0 °C) and annual mean temperature (11.9-24.2 °C), whereas E. urophylla displayed heightened sensitivity to precipitation of the warmest quarter (272-1694mm) and annual precipitation (812-2624mm). Conversely, E. tereticornis demonstrated heightened sensitivity to annual mean temperature (12.7-24.5°C) and temperature seasonality (63.8-598.9). Under the current climate, E. tereticornis had the widest suitable distribution area (124.91 × 104 km²), followed by E. grandis (124.89 × 104 km²) and E. urophylla (119.81 × 104 km²). Under future climate change scenarios, the suitable ranges of E. grandis, E. urophylla and E. tereticornis will continue to expand. This study highlights the importance of climate change in Eucalyptus distribution and provides quantified potential distribution maps for three Eucalyptus species under current and future climate conditions in China. This research offers valuable scientific insights pertinent to the management and rational site selection for Eucalyptus plantations.

The Influence of Logistics Activity on Sustainable Performance of Air Cargo Business in Thailand

This research applies logistics management concepts to sustainable business operations in the context of air cargo businesses in Thailand. The study aims to understand how logistics activities impact the sustainable performance of air cargo businesses. The objectives of this study were to examine: 1) logistics activities in air cargo businesses in Thailand, and 2) the influence of logistics activities on the sustainable performance of the air cargo business. This study consists of descriptive research, utilzing a questionnaire for data collection. The sample consisted of 424 employees of air cargo businesses operating in Thailand. The findings reveal that all 9 logistics activities significantly influenced the sustainable performance of air cargo businesses in Thailand, in terms of economic, social, and environmental performance, where Customer Services and Support (CSS) had the highest average value with a mean value of 5.90 (S.D. = 0.723). Regarding the results of the study of influences, Facilities Site Selection, Warehousing, and Storage (FWS) was found to strongly impact Economic Performance (ECOP) with a β value of .740. Meanwhile, Reverse Logistics (RL) had the greatest impact on Social Performance (SOCP) with a β value of 0.843, and Transportation (TRAN) had the greatest influence on Environmental Performance (ENVP), with a β value of 0.749. The findings can support the introduction of business guidelines to enhance competitiveness and enable the achievement of sustainable success, offering encouragement for Thailand as a key air cargo hub for Southeast Asia. Moreover, the study can be used to enhance academic knowledge in the field of logistics and contribute to the future sustainable performance of the air cargo business.

Assessment of Wind Energy Potential and Optimal Site Selection for Wind Energy Plant Installations in Igdir/Turkey

Wind energy is an eco-friendly, renewable, domestic, and infinite resource. These factors render the construction of wind turbines appealing to nations, prompting numerous governments to implement incentives to augment their installed capacity of wind turbines. Alongside augmenting the installed capacity of wind turbines, identifying suitable locations for their installation is crucial for optimizing turbine performance. This study aims to evaluate potential sites for wind power plant installation via a GIS, a mapping technique. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) was employed to assess the locations, including both quantitative and qualitative aspects that significantly impact the wind farm suitability map. Utilizing the GIS methodology, all datasets were examined through height and raster transformations of land surface temperature, plant density index, air pressure, humidity, wind speed, air temperature, land cover, solar radiation, aspect, slope, and topographical characteristics, resulting in the creation of a wind farm map. The correlation between the five-year meteorological data and environmental parameters (wind direction, daily wind speed, daily maximum and minimum air temperatures, daily relative humidity, daily average air temperature, solar radiation duration, daily cloud cover, air humidity, and air pressure) influencing the wind power plant in Iğdır province, including Iğdır Airport, Karakoyunlu, Aralık, and Tuzluca districts, was analyzed. If wind energy towers are installed at 1 km intervals across an area of roughly 858,180 hectares in Igdir province, an estimated 858,180 GWh of wind energy can be generated. The GIS-derived wind power plant map indicates that the installation sites for wind power plants are located in regions susceptible to wind erosion.

Utilizing Building Information Modelling Technology To Modelling Abutment: Revit

Building Information Modeling (BIM) has transformed the construction industry by offering a robust platform that integrates design, analysis, and construction processes within a single digital environment. This research explores the application of BIM technology, explicitly using Autodesk Revit, in modeling bridge abutments—an essential component in bridge construction that supports and distributes loads from the superstructure to the foundation. The study aims to demonstrate how BIM enhances the efficiency, accuracy, and sustainability of abutment design and construction. The methodology involves a comprehensive review of existing literature on BIM and bridge abutment design, focusing on technological advancements, case studies, and best practices. Additionally, practical implementation of BIM using Revit is conducted to develop detailed 3D models of abutments, incorporating architectural, structural, and geotechnical elements. The benefits of BIM in this context include improved collaboration among multidisciplinary teams, enhanced visualization capabilities for design optimization, and early detection of clashes and constructability issues. The research investigates the integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) with BIM to enhance site selection and environmental assessment phases, ensuring informed decision-making throughout the project lifecycle. Innovations in materials science, such as the use of fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP) and ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC), are also considered for their potential to enhance the durability and longevity of bridge abutments. Ultimately, this study contributes to advancing the application of BIM in civil engineering, particularly in bridge construction, by showcasing Revit's capabilities in creating accurate, data-rich models that improve project outcomes.

Optimal Site Selection for Solar PV Systems in the Colombian Caribbean: Evaluating Weighting Methods in a TOPSIS Framework

Optimal Site Selection for Solar PV Systems in the Colombian Caribbean: Evaluating Weighting Methods in a TOPSIS Framework

Spatial variability in residence time of Beryllium in the Indian Ocean

Residence time of an element in the ocean is a consequence of its chemical behaviour and the various biogeochemical processes governing its distribution, sources, and sinks. Precise estimation of the residence time of beryllium(Be) is necessary for its application as a tracer for understanding present and paleo-environmental processes. We utilise cosmogenic 10Be and terrestrially derived 9Be measurements from surface sediments to estimate the residence time of Be in the Indian Ocean. Significant variation in Be residence time is observed, which ranges between 370 and 620 years in the central Indian Ocean, 64–205 years in the Bay of Bengal, 41–117 years in the Andaman Sea, and 179–443 years in the Arabian Sea. Large heterogeneity in the residence time of Be can be attributed to its variable scavenging efficiency in different regions. Active scavenging of Be by sediment particles contributed through various major rivers draining into the northern Indian Ocean results in short residence time of Be. The results of this study have significant implications for the selection of sample sites and the use of Be as a tracer in paleo reconstructions.

Site selection for suitability of dam construction using analytic hierarchy process (AHP): A review study on rihand dam, uttar pradesh, india

Site selection for suitability of dam construction using analytic hierarchy process (AHP): A review study on rihand dam, uttar pradesh, india

Study On Real Estate Location Based on GIS Technology

Through a review of relevant literature,this study categorizes factors affecting real estate site selection into three main categories: environmental, social, and economic, termed as the "triple bottom line." Based on the "triple bottom line," a PUM (Portfolio Underwriting Model) model was constructed. Meanwhile, GIS technology was utilized to identify the locations of public transportation stations, medical institutions, schools, and fire stations within Xiamen City. Additionally, different regions were delineated into suitable residential areas based on slope, aspect, land type, and per capita GDP. Combining the PUM model with GIS technology ultimately aids in real estate market site selection. The research findings indicate that integrating the PUM model and GIS technology for real estate site selection allows for a more scientific and comprehensive evaluation of various site selection factors, thereby providing important decision-making support for developers and investors.

Examining the Safety of Dorsogluteal and Ventrogluteal Sites for Intramuscular Injection in Older Adults.

Muscle, subcutaneous tissue and total tissue thicknesses are important factors in successful intramuscular injection. Muscle mass decreases and subcutaneous tissue increases with age. This may negatively affect the safety and effectiveness of intramuscular injection in older adults by increasing the risk of bone contact and subcutaneous drug administration. Intramuscular injection sites should be evaluated in this respect, but no previous study has evaluated the most appropriate sites for safe and effective intramuscular injection in older adults. This study aimed to examine the safety of dorsogluteal and ventrogluteal injection sites in older adults. This cross-sectional study included 171 older adults who presented to the radiology clinic of a hospital between November 2022 and February 2023. We collected the study data using a descriptive characteristics form and an ultrasonographic measurement form. To complete the descriptive characteristics form, we interviewed the participants and measured their waist circumference, hip circumference, weight and height. Muscle, subcutaneous tissue and total tissue thicknesses at the ventrogluteal and dorsogluteal sites were determined by ultrasonography. This study followed the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guideline. At the ventrogluteal and dorsogluteal sites, respectively, total tissue thicknesses were 59.43 ± 11.21 and 48.78 ± 9.68 mm, subcutaneous tissue thicknesses were 20.07 ± 6.64 and 22.97 ± 7.40 mm and muscle thicknesses were 40.13 ± 5.59 and 25.61 ± 4.30 mm. Tissue thicknesses at both sites differed according to sex, weight, hip circumference and waist circumference (p < 0.05). Although both sites were acceptable according to the tissue thickness thresholds for intramuscular injection given in the literature (subcutaneous tissue < 25 mm, total tissue > 35 mm), the ventrogluteal site was more advantageous in terms of greater muscle thickness and lower subcutaneous tissue thickness. The results of this study indicated that both the ventrogluteal and dorsogluteal sites are safe for intramuscular injections in older adults in terms of tissue thickness. However, the ventrogluteal site may be safer for older adults because of the lower risk of bone contact and subcutaneous injection. Further studies are needed on this subject. This study is important in terms of determining the safe and effective gluteal site for IM injection in older people aged 65 and over, preventing complications that may arise from site selection, and developing nursing policies that consider older people as a special group in the selection of IM injection sites.

Mn(I)-Catalyzed Site-Selective C-H Activation: Unlocking Access to 3-Arylated Succinimides from 2-Arylpyridines and Maleimides.

An efficient and cost-effective Mn(I)-catalyzed site-selective C-H activation of 2-arylpyridines with maleimides has been described. This approach facilitates the synthesis of 3-arylated succinimide derivatives with high site selectivity, chemoselectivity, catalytic efficiency, and outstanding tolerance to numerous functional groups. The practicality of this approach is further evidenced by its successful application in large-scale reactions and the conversion of the synthesized succinimide derivatives into other valuable compounds.

A new fuzzy location-based approach for fire station site selection in Tehran

A new fuzzy location-based approach for fire station site selection in Tehran

Nesting of White-rumped Vulture (Gyps bengalensis) in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala, India

Objectives: To study the breeding of critically endangered White-rumped vultures (Gyps bengalensis) in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, which is the only remaining natural habitat of vultures in Kerala State. Methods: A direct on-foot survey and a structured questionnaire survey were conducted among the residents within the sanctuary and forest department staff to locate the nesting locations. Findings: Three nesting locations of White-rumped Vultures were identified in three different forest ranges in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Nest was seen in three tree species, Adina cordifolia, Dalbergia latifolia, and Stereospermum tetragonum. There is no significant change in the altitude of nest selection, all the nests were at an altitude of 820 m to 860 m. The nests were observed between 14 to 28 meters above the ground. The breeding success of this species in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is 64.7 percent. Novelty: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is the only place in Kerala State where White-rumped vultures are breeding. The study results show that the number of vulture nests in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary has declined, which needs immediate intervention for the conservation of the remaining breeding population of the critically endangered White-rumped Vulture population of Kerala State. Keywords: White-rumped Vulture, Breeding, Nest site selection, Nesting trees, Breeding success

APC mutations dysregulate alternative polyadenylation in cancer

BackgroundAlternative polyadenylation (APA) affects most human genes and is recurrently dysregulated in all studied cancers. However, the mechanistic origins of this dysregulation are incompletely understood.ResultsWe describe an unbiased analysis of molecular regulators of poly(A) site selection across The Cancer Genome Atlas and identify that colorectal adenocarcinoma is an outlier relative to all other cancer subtypes. This distinction arises from the frequent presence of loss-of-function APC mutations in colorectal adenocarcinoma, which are strongly associated with long 3′ UTR expression relative to tumors lacking APC mutations. APC knockout similarly dysregulates APA in human colon organoids. By mining previously published APC eCLIP data, we show that APC preferentially binds G- and C-rich motifs just upstream of proximal poly(A) sites. Lastly, we find that reduced APC expression is associated with APA dysregulation in tumor types lacking recurrent APC mutations.ConclusionsAs APC has been previously identified as an RNA-binding protein that preferentially binds 3′ UTRs during mouse neurogenesis, our results suggest that APC promotes proximal poly(A) site use and that APC loss and altered expression contribute to pervasive APA dysregulation in cancers.