Socio-economic Considerations Research Articles

Socioeconomic and Cultural Factors and Juvenile Delinquency in Pakistan: A Critical Analysis of Structural Theories

The article is a critical discourse on the immigration of youth crime in Pakistan as understood by structural theories. It leverages a variety of literature and empirical studies tries to show how the meeting of structural inequalities, gender norms, and individual experiences forms the background for the antisocial nature of young people, particularly in Pakistan. The practice framework integrates the strain model, social learning theory, and rational choice theory, among others, to provide the practitioner with a broader perspective of the various things that contribute to delinquency in children. The evaluation of present policies, programs, and interventions is done in a review, which checks whether they are able to address such underlying issues and recommendations on policy reforms are proposed. By emphasizing the community-specific socio-economic and cultural contexts, the work has underlined the need for a responsibility-tailored solution that integrates cultural and socio-economic considerations. The identified research shows that the requirements for community efforts to be made are a partnership among researchers, policymakers and community leaders who organize evidence-based interventions to create a more equal and fair juvenile criminal justice system in Pakistan.

Integrating socioeconomic and ecological data into restoration practice.

Driven by the United Nations Decade on Restoration and international funding initiatives, such as the Mangrove Breakthrough, investment in mangrove restoration is expected to increase. Yet, mangrove restoration efforts frequently fail, usually because of ad hoc site-selection processes that do not consider mangrove ecology and the socioeconomic context. Using decision analysis, we developed an approach that accounts for socioeconomic and ecological data to identify sites with the highest likelihood of mangrove restoration success. We applied our approach in the Biosphere Reserve Marismas Nacionales Nayarit, Mexico, an area that recently received funding for implementing mangrove restoration actions. We identified 468 potential restoration sites, assessed their restorability potential based on socioeconomic and ecological metrics, and ranked sites for implementation with spatial optimization. The metrics we used included favorable conditions for propagules to establish and survive under sea-level rise, provision of ecosystem services, and community dynamics. Sites that were selected based on socioeconomic or ecological metrics alone had lower likelihood of mangrove restoration success than sites that were selected based on integrated socioeconomic and ecological metrics. For example, selecting sites based on only socioeconomic metrics captured 16% of the maximum attainable value of functioning mangroves able to provide propagules to potential restoration sites, whereas selecting sites based on ecological and socioeconomic metrics captured 46% of functioning mangroves. Our approach was developed as part of a collaboration between nongovernmental organizations, local government, and academics under rapid delivery time lines given preexisting mangrove restoration implementation commitments. The systematic decision process we used integrated socioeconomic and ecological considerations even under short delivery deadlines, and our approach can be adapted to help mangrove restoration site-selection decisions elsewhere.

Development of a decision support tool to compare diagnostic strategies for establishing the herd status for infectious diseases: an example with Salmonella Dublin infection in dairies

The diagnosis of infectious diseases at herd level can be challenging as different stakeholders can have conflicting priorities. The current study proposes a “proof of concept” of an approach that considers a reasonable number of criteria to rank plausible diagnostic strategies using multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) methods. The example of Salmonella Dublin diagnostic in Québec dairy herds is presented according to two epidemiological contexts: (i) in herds with no history of S. Dublin infection and absence of clinical signs, (ii) in herds with a previous history of infection, but absence of clinical signs at the moment of testing.Multiple multiparty exchanges were conducted to determine: 1) stakeholders’ groups; 2) the decision problem; 3) solutions to the problem (options) or diagnostic strategies to be ordered; 4) criteria and indicators; 5) criteria weights; 6) the construction of a performance matrix for each option; 7) the multi-criteria analyses using the visual preference ranking organization method for enrichment of evaluations approach; 8) the sensitivity analyses, and 9) the final decision.A total of nine people from four Québec’s organizations (the dairy producers provincial association along with the DHI company, the ministry of agriculture, the association of veterinary practitioners, and experts in epidemiology) composed the MCDA team. The decision problem was “What is the optimal diagnostic strategy for establishing the status of a dairy herd for S. Dublin infection when there are no clinical signs of infection?”. Fourteen diagnostic strategies composed of the three following parameters were considered: 1) biological samples (bulk tank milk or blood from 10 heifers aged over three months); 2) sampling frequencies (one to three samples collection visits); 3) case definitions to conclude to a positive status using imperfect milk- or blood-ELISA tests. The top-ranking diagnostic strategy was the same in the two contexts: testing the bulk tank milk and the blood samples, all samples collected during one visit and the herd being assigned a S. Dublin positive status if one sample is ELISA-positive. The final decision favored the top-ranking option for both contexts.This MCDA approach and its application to S. Dublin infection in dairy herds allowed a consensual, rational, and transparent ranking of feasible diagnostic strategies while taking into account the diagnostic tests accuracy, socio-economic, logistic, and perception considerations of the key actors in the dairy industry. This promising tool can be applied to other infectious diseases that lack a well-established diagnostic procedure to define a herd status.

Contemporary Prevalence of Oral Clefts in the US: Geographic and Socioeconomic Considerations.

Background: Socio-economic status, living environments, and race have been implicated in the development of different congenital abnormalities. As orofacial clefting is the most common anomaly affecting the face, an understanding of its prevalence in the United States and its relationship with different determinants of health is paramount. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine the modern prevalence of oral-facial clefting in the United States and its association with different social determinants of health. Methods: Utilizing Epic Cosmos, data from approximately 180 US institutions were queried. Patients born between November 2012 and November 2022 were included. Eight orofacial clefting (OC) cohorts were identified. The Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) was used to assess social determinants of health. Results: Of the 15,697,366 patients identified, 31,216 were diagnosed with OC, resulting in a prevalence of 19.9 (95% CI: 19.7-20.1) per 10,000 live births. OC prevalence was highest among Asian (27.5 CI: 26.2-28.8) and Native American (32.8 CI: 30.4-35.2) patients and lowest among Black patients (12.96 CI: 12.5-13.4). Male and Hispanic patients exhibited higher OC prevalence than female and non-Hispanic patients. No significant differences were found among metropolitan (20.23/10,000), micropolitan (20.18/10,000), and rural populations (20.02/10,000). SVI data demonstrated that OC prevalence was positively associated with the percentage of the population below the poverty line and negatively associated with the proportion of minority language speakers. Conclusions: This study examined the largest US cohort of OC patients to date to define contemporary US prevalence, reporting a marginally higher rate than previous estimates. Multiple social determinants of health were found to be associated with OC prevalence, underscoring the importance of holistic prenatal care. These data may inform clinicians about screening and counseling of expectant families based on socio-economic factors and direct future research as it identifies potential risk factors and provides prevalence data, both of which are useful in addressing common questions related to screening and counseling.

Adoption of ICT4D and its determinants: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Various Digital Agricultural Technologies (DAT) have been developed and implemented around the world. This study aims to estimate the overall adoption rate and identify the determinant factors for a better adoption perspective after decades of innovation and dissemination. A systematic review was conducted on published studies that reported adoption rates and determinant factors using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol. We used meta-regression and the partial correlation coefficient to estimate the effect size and establish the correlation between socioeconomic characteristics and the adoption of various technologies reported. Fifty-two studies with 32400 participants met the selection criteria and were included in the study. The results revealed an overall pooled adoption rate of 39 %, with the highest adoption rates in developing countries in Africa and South America. Socioeconomic factors such as age, education, gender, and income were found to be the main determinants and should be considered when designing technology for sustainable adoption. The study also found that young farmers were more susceptible to adoption. Moreover, farmers with higher income levels and educational attainment are more likely to use technology linked to agricultural production, market access, and digital advising, implying that high-income farmers with more education are more tech-savvy. However, this does not exclude low-income and low-educated farmers from adopting the technologies, as many models and strategies with socioeconomic considerations were developed. It is one of the reasons behind the underlying enthusiasm for digital agricultural adoption in low and middle-income countries.

Genetic Engineering in Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.): Current Progress and Future Directions for Enhanced Crop Improvement

Genetic tools have revolutionized mustard improvement strategies, offering innovative avenues to enhance its agronomic traits and quality parameters. CRISPR technology, exemplified by research at the National Institute of Plant Genome Research in India, has enabled precise manipulation of glucosinolate levels in mustard plants, improving mustard oil quality. The Barnase-barstar gene system has facilitated the development of mustard hybrids, increasing yield and resilience. Additionally, Microsatellites have emerged as indispensable tools for understanding genetic relationships within mustard populations. These genetic tools hold promise for addressing agronomic challenges and meeting market demands in mustard cultivation. However, their deployment raises ethical, regulatory, and socio-economic considerations that require careful consideration. Responsible stewardship and transparent deployment of these technologies are essential to realize their full potential in enhancing mustard crops and ensuring a sustainable future for food production. In conclusion, genetic engineering offers exciting avenues for mustard improvement, with CRISPR, the Barnase-barstar gene system, and Microsatellites playing pivotal roles in enhancing crop quality, yield potential, and resilience. As mustard continues to play a crucial role in global agriculture and food security, the responsible utilization of these genetic tools holds promise for meeting the evolving needs of farmers and consumers worldwide. Furthermore, the paper briefly discusses the application of these genetic tools in enhancing Dhara Mustard, a popular variety in Indian agriculture, emphasizing its potential impact on addressing agricultural challenges and meeting consumer demands.

Quantifying Executive Functions: Bilingual Education's Cognitive Impact in Special Education

This research examines how bilingual education affects the cognitive executive skills of kids in special education. The research investigates the correlation between bilingual proficiency and EFs, taking into account the moderating influence of demographic factors such as age, gender, and socioeconomic position (SES). The sample consisted of 120 kids who were part of special education programs. The study included evaluations of their multilingual competence and executive functions. Statistical methods such as t-tests, ANOVA, regression, correlation, and ANCOVA were used to investigate the relationships between bilingualism, executive functions (EFs), and demographic variables. The results show a strong positive correlation between bilingual proficiency and executive functions (EFs), indicating that increased proficiency is linked to improved EF performance. Moreover, socioeconomic status (SES) was shown to be a major predictor of executive functions (EFs), underscoring the relevance of including socioeconomic considerations when evaluating cognitive results. The findings highlight the cognitive benefits of bilingual education for kids in special education and provide valuable information for educational practice, policy, and future study.

Association between Socioecological Status, Nutrient Intake, and Cancer Screening Behaviors in Adults Aged 40 and Over: Insights from the Eighth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES, 2019).

Cancer screening is pivotal for early detection and improved survival rates. While socio-ecological factors are known to influence screening uptake, the role of lifestyle, dietary habits, and general health in shaping these decisions remains underexplored. Utilizing the 2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES), this study examined the myriad of factors impacting cancer screening utilization. Data from 274,872 adults aged 40 years or older were scrutinized, highlighting demographics, income, lifestyle behaviors, health-related variables, nutrient intake, and dietary quality. A combination of descriptive statistics and logistic regression helped us ascertain influential determinants. Higher educational attainment and income quartiles were positively correlated with cancer screening rates. Regular walkers, those engaged in moderate physical activity, and individuals with a previous cancer diagnosis were more likely to get screened. High-risk drinkers and smokers were less inclined towards screening. Dietary habits also influenced screening decisions. Notably, participants with healthier eating behaviors, indicated by factors such as regular breakfasts and fewer meals out, were more likely to undergo screening. Additionally, nutrient intake analysis revealed that those who had undergone screening consumed greater quantities of most nutrients, bar a few exceptions. For individuals aged 50-64, nutritional assessment indicators highlighted a higher mean adequacy ratio (MAR) and index of nutritional quality (INQ) value among those who participated in screening, suggesting better nutritional quality. This study elucidates the complex socio-ecological and nutritional landscape influencing cancer screening decisions. The results underscore the importance of a holistic approach, emphasizing lifestyle, dietary habits, and socio-economic considerations. It provides a roadmap for policymakers to craft more inclusive screening programs, ensuring equal access and promoting early detection.

Achieving the 2030 Agenda: Mapping the Landscape of Corporate Sustainability Goals and Policies in the European Union

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) were introduced in 2015 to advance the 2030 Agenda of sustainable development in all supporting countries. The SDGs are applicable to countries, non-governmental organizations, industries, and companies. In this article, we focus on the contribution of listed companies headquartered in the European Union (EU) to the SDGs. The EU intends to be the front-runner in the race for sustainable development and has adopted comprehensive strategies that mirror the UN SDGs. For this reason, we collected relevant data points from the Refinitiv Eikon database for 1156 companies headquartered in EU countries for the financial year 2022. The data collected refer to contributions to each SDG and the adoption of corporate sustainability policies. Data were statistically analyzed per country and sector to generate a comprehensive image of industry contributions to the SDGs in the EU. By applying a comparative analysis of country-level achievements and policies, the results point to four EU countries that are significant contributors to the SDGs through their economic activities. At the same time, other EU countries are still facing significant challenges in this domain. The socioeconomic considerations for these cases are laid out in the Discussion section. The present article offers a snapshot of corporate contributions to the SDGs as climate and geopolitical challenges become more prominent.

From Field to Feed trough: Examining the Drivers of Feed and Fodder Technologies Uptake among Pastoral Beef Farmers in Kenya

Adoption of technologies and effective management practices in the pastoral beef systems are necessary for improved productivity and resilient agricultural systems. This study examined the factors influencing the adoption of Technology Innovations and Management Practices (TIMPs) among pastoral beef farmers in Isiolo and Kajiado counties. Employing a cross-sectional approach and utilizing the Seemingly Unrelated Regression (SURe) model, the research explores the intricate dynamics that shape farmers' decisions regarding three key TIMPs; planted fodder, feed supplementation, and fodder conservation. Using a systematic sampling technique, a sample size of 619 pastoral farmers was adopted. This research seeks to uncover the underlying motivations and barriers, understanding the complex relationships between resource accessibility, socio-economic considerations, and the role of extension services in facilitating technology adoption. The research underscores the importance of addressing specific barriers, including limited access to resources and socio-economic constraints faced by these farmers. The evidence-based strategies derived from this research paves the way for scientifically informed interventions to propel the livestock sector in Kenya towards a sustainable future. The study's recommendations emphasize the need for targeted policies that prioritize market accessibility, technology awareness and information access, thus effectively supporting the adoption of TIMPs among pastoral beef farmers. Implementing these recommendations contributes to strengthening of resilience of the livestock sector and the advancement of sustainable agricultural practices in Kenya.

Guillain–Barre syndrome: small-volume plasmapheresis versus intravenous immunoglobulin—3rd level hospital experience

BackgroundSpecific treatment for Guillain–Barre syndrome is based on plasma exchange and intravenous immunoglobulin (IvIg). In developing countries such as Morocco, we are often confronted with constraints in terms of price and availability of substitutes. Comparative studies of these two therapeutic modalities have been conducted particularly in severely extensive forms.ResultsOur study compared small-volume plasmapheresis (SVP) with intravenous Immunoglobulin over a nine-year period in the neurology department of the University Hospital Center of Marrakech in terms of efficacy and safety in Moroccan patients with GBS of varying degrees of severity.We included 76 patients who were hospitalized for GBS. Forty-six patients were treated with SVP and 30 were treated with IvIg. The therapeutic choice depended on contraindications, socioeconomic considerations, patient choice, and availability of treatment. The clinical and paraclinical evaluations of the two groups were statistically comparable, including factors that may influence the prognosis (p > 0.05). The efficacy of IvIg and SVP did not show a statistically significant difference except for a longer neurology department stay with plasmapheresis (p < 0.001). This efficacy is evaluated by the evolution of the Hughes and MRC sum scores one month after treatment, length of hospital stay, use of mechanical ventilation and its duration, and mortality rate.ConclusionThe results selected further encourage the use of SVP because of its efficacy and safety, which are comparable to those of IvIg. And the review of the literature confirms our recommendations.

The Impact of Islamic Thought on Creating Space in the Residence: Case Study of Suhaimi’s and Sibai’s Houses

This study investigates the factors influencing Islamic residence design, with a focus on understanding the cultural, religious, environmental, and socio-economic considerations that shape architectural practices in Islamic communities. Through a multidisciplinary approach, the research examines the interplay between Islamic beliefs, functional requirements, historical heritage, and contemporary design principles in the creation of residential spaces that reflect Islamic values and traditions. Drawing on architectural analysis, case studies and corpus analysis, the study identifies key factors influencing Islamic residence design, including cultural and religious beliefs, functional requirements, climate adaptation, architectural heritage, sustainability, and socio-economic dynamics. The findings highlight the importance of integrating Islamic principles into residential design, engaging with local communities, promoting sustainable practices, preserving architectural heritage, and advancing research and education in the field of Islamic architecture. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of Islamic residence design and provides valuable insights for architects, designers, policymakers, and researchers seeking to create culturally sensitive and contextually appropriate residential environments in Islamic communities.

IMPLEMENTING AI-DRIVEN WASTE MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS IN UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES IN THE USA

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies holds immense potential for revolutionizing waste management systems in underserved communities across the United States. This concept paper explores the feasibility, benefits, challenges, and implications of implementing AI-driven waste management systems in these communities. By leveraging AI capabilities such as predictive analytics, optimization algorithms, and IoT sensors, innovative solutions can be developed to enhance waste collection, recycling efficiency, and environmental sustainability. However, successful implementation requires careful consideration of socioeconomic factors, community engagement, privacy concerns, and infrastructure limitations. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the opportunities and considerations associated with deploying AI-driven waste management systems in underserved communities, ultimately striving to promote equitable access to efficient and sustainable waste management solutions. This concept paper provides a comprehensive framework for implementing AI-driven waste management systems in underserved communities in the USA. It examines various aspects including socioeconomic considerations, community engagement, privacy concerns, infrastructure requirements, policy frameworks, financing options, and sustainability measures. Through careful planning, collaboration, and innovation, AI technologies can be harnessed to address the unique challenges faced by underserved communities, ultimately leading to more efficient, equitable, and sustainable waste management practices.&#x0D; Keywords: AI, Community, Waste, USA.

The need for nonuniform risk acceptability across climate change scenarios.

Climate change risk assessment studies focus on identifying and analyzing different risks considering several climate change scenarios and on evaluating the cost-effectiveness of different adaptation measures. However, risk acceptability is often not reflected on in the context of climate change risk studies. Noting that the different climate change scenarios depict drastically contrasting images of the future in terms of population growth, economic development, and changes to life expectancy, this article uses risk acceptance criteria that are based on socioeconomic considerations to highlight the need for nonuniform risk acceptability across climate change scenarios. For this purpose, the optimum implied cost of averting a fatality derived based on the life quality index concept and the value of a quality-adjusted life year derived based on the time principle of acceptable life risk are assessed in three different climate change scenarios for Sweden. Additionally, an illustrative example that assesses the acceptable probability of failure of a steel rod under axial tension in the different climate change scenarios is presented. It is shown that risk acceptance criteria can vary considerably across the different climate change scenarios (e.g., more than 190% variation in the acceptable probability of failure for Sweden in the considered example). This article demonstrates that the ability of societies to afford risk-reducing measures may vary considerably across the different climate change scenarios. Hence, it can be concluded that (1) in the context of climate change risk assessments, risk acceptance criteria need to be developed to account for the different climate change scenarios, and (2) these criteria may vary considerably across the different climate change scenarios. Finally, relevant challenges and research needs are also provided.

Prospect, Legal, and Socio-economic Implication of Metaverse Operation in Nigeria

The metaverse, a digital realm blending virtual environments with reality, holds immense potential across sectors. In Nigeria, understanding its implications necessitates exploration from various angles. Firstly, the legal landscape demands scrutiny, with existing regulations evaluated for their applicability and efficacy. Secondly, socio-economic considerations assume paramount importance, given the metaverse's potential to reshape societal norms and economic activities. Concerning this, the employ a hybrid research methodology that focus on the potentials of metaverse's emergence, legal framework, and socio-economic effects within Nigeria. 308 questionnaire were distribute to respondents residing in Nigeria. The collected data underwent descriptive and analytical analysis. The findings underscore that permitting the operation of the metaverse in Nigeria holds promise for enhancing the nation's economy and facilitating digital interactions. However, the study also reveals potential pitfalls notably that the existing legal framework may prove insufficient in addressing the unique challenges posed by the metaverse. Moreover, the metaverse's transformative impact on the Nigerian economy may carry adverse consequences. Consequently, the study concludes by recommending the imperative need for a novel legal framework tailored to address the distinctive intricacies presented by the metaverse for its effective operation in Nigeria.

Sustainable solid waste management challenges in hill cities of developing Countries: Insights from eastern Himalayan smart cities of Sikkim, India

Rapid urbanization and the growing tourism industry in the Himalayan region have raised significant concerns about the sustainable handling and management of solid waste in the area. This concern is particularly pronounced in the unique and vulnerable ecosystem of cities nestled in the eastern Indian Himalayas, where geography, ecology, and socio-economic factors converge to create distinctive challenges. This study undertakes a thorough investigation of solid waste management practices and challenges in two smart cities nestled in the eastern Himalayan region of India, specifically Gangtok and Namchi. The primary objective was to unveil the complex challenges confronting these cities by conducting an in-depth exploration of waste management practices. This comprehensive investigation was achieved through the collection of samples, conducting surveys within each ward of the cities, and performing physicochemical characterization analyses. The study also proposes a solution-oriented approach leveraging life cycle analysis. Despite the Himalayan backdrop, waste generation varies significantly, with Gangtok producing substantially more waste (50 tons per day (TPD)) compared to Namchi (4.6 TPD). Both cities excel in waste collection, but Gangtok leads in proactive treatment, with 22% (11 TPD) undergoing composting and recycling. However, shared challenges at riverside disposal sites, including overfilled dumpsites and leachate contamination, pose potential environmental hazards amid the Himalayan allure. Organic waste predominates at 40.9% and 40.01% in both cities, indicating composting potential. Plastic closely at 22.25% (Namchi) and 22.65% (Gangtok) was way above the global (12 %) and national (8.4 %) average respectively, emphasizing the urgency of plastic waste reduction strategy. The 16.95% cardboard in Gangtok highlights potential commerce-related waste. The study also highlights the importance of comprehensive policies for informal sector well-being. The lifecycle assessment of Namchi and Gangtok reveals significant methane emissions (99%) from waste anaerobic decomposition potentially due to poor source segregation. Implementing a futuristic waste strategy reduces emissions by 38% in Namchi and 40% in Gangtok, through biogas utilization and renewable energy adoption. The findings advocate for citizen engagement, improved collection, targeted campaigns, and circular economy principles. To ensure sustainability and resilience in waste management within mountain regions, tailored strategies such as material recycling facilities, community engagement initiatives, and landfill diversion mandates should integrate ecological, socioeconomic, and logistical considerations, fostering awareness and participation among communities.

Understanding consumer choices and attitudes toward electric vehicles: A study of purchasing behavior and policy implications

AbstractElectric vehicles (EVs) hold promise for curbing emissions and promoting sustainable urban development in India, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, their uptake remains below expectations. This study delves into factors influencing EV adoption, exploring socioeconomic determinants, technical specifications, cost considerations, and policy impacts. It also assesses the role of charging infrastructure accessibility, demographic disparities, and battery end‐of‐life perceptions. The research identifies key socio‐economic factors driving consumer choices and perceptions of EVs through a comprehensive survey and logistic regression analysis. The findings will guide policymakers and businesses in developing effective strategies to promote EV use, supporting SDGs related to sustainable cities, communities, and economic growth. The insights gained from this study can inspire private sector growth and innovation, leading to new business opportunities that benefit companies and consumers. This research represents a crucial milestone in advancing sustainable transportation solutions in India and creating a better future.

AI for Sustainable Development: Addressing Environmental and Social Challenges

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies holds significant promise in addressing pressing environmental and social challenges, thus contributing to sustainable development efforts worldwide. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the role of AI in tackling various aspects of sustainability, including environmental conservation, resource management, climate change mitigation, and social equity. By leveraging AI techniques such as machine learning, optimization, and data analytics, innovative solutions are being developed to monitor ecosystems, optimize energy consumption, enhance agricultural practices, and promote social inclusion. However, alongside these opportunities, there are also ethical, regulatory, and socio-economic considerations that must be carefully addressed to ensure that AI interventions contribute positively to sustainable development goals. This paper highlights recent advancements, challenges, and future directions in utilizing AI for sustainable development, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and stakeholder engagement in realizing the full potential of AI-enabled solutions.

An evaluation of the hydropower planning alternatives at the upper reaches of Yellow River by considering carbon footprints

As a precautionary tool for decision-makings towards sustainable development, strategic environmental assessment (SEA) is quite promising in coping with climate change by taking the advantage of alternatives evaluation as early intervention and planning optimization. Despite of the acknowledged merits, the current alternatives evaluation has presented a weakness when tackling with the climate factors in practice due to an evident lack of carbon-related indicators. The challenge is even more pronounced in hydropower planning for the most sensitive response to climate, the most complicated impacts to evaluate and the recent doubts about the nature as a clean energy. Considering the assignable carbon emissions from the hydropower engineering including pre-treatment, construction, operation and decommission, six indicators of carbon footprint were selected and integrated with the conventional eco-environment and socio-economic considerations for evaluating four alternatives in the SEA of Upper Yellow River hydropower planning in China. The total 24 indicators were marked by the invited experts, and weighted by employing the BP neural network. The ranked marks from invited experts and improved by BP neural network weighting showed that the alternative II is the best among the four, indicating the slightest environmental impacts, the minimal carbon emissions, and the highest socio-economic benefits. This study delivered an improved framework based on the conventional rapid impact assessment method (RIAM) and carbon footprint assessment, and provided a practical technical solution for evaluating planning alternatives in the context of green hydropower development.

A comprehensive review on the fate and impact of antibiotic residues in the environment and public health: A special focus on the developing countries.

The widespread application of antibiotics in human and veterinary medicine has led to the pervasive presence of antibiotic residues in the environment, posing a potential hazard to public health. This comprehensive review aims to scrutinize the fate and impact of antibiotic residues, with a particular focus on the context of developing nations. The investigation delves into the diverse pathways facilitating the entry of antibiotics into the environment and meticulously examines their effects on human health. The review delineates the current state of antibiotic residues, evaluates their exposure in developing nations, and elucidates existing removal methodologies. Additionally, it probes into the factors contributing to the endurance and ecotoxicity of antibiotic residues, correlating these aspects with usage rates and associated mortalities in these nations. The study also investigates removal techniques for antibiotic residues, assessing their efficiency in environmental compartments. The concurrent emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, engendered by antibiotic residues, and their adverse ecological threats underscore the necessity for enhanced regulations, vigilant surveillance programs, and the adoption of sustainable alternatives. The review underlines the pivotal role of public education and awareness campaigns in promoting responsible antibiotic use. The synthesis concludes with strategic recommendations, strengthening the imperative for further research encompassing comprehensive monitoring, ecotoxicological effects, alternative strategies, socio-economic considerations, and international collaborations, all aimed at mitigating the detrimental effects of antibiotic residues on human health and the environment. PRACTITIONER POINTS: Antibiotic residues are widely distributed in different environmental compartments. Developing countries use more antibiotics than developed countries. Human and veterinary wastes are one of the most responsible sources of antibiotic pollution. Antibiotics interact with biological systems and trigger pharmacological reactions at low doses. Antibiotics can be removed using modern biological, chemical, and physical-chemical techniques.