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Background: Studies have shown an association between parental problematic substance use (PSU) and children's out-of-home care (OHC). But there is little researech on the kind of urban neighbourhoods in which such associations typically show up. This study aims to shed light on the associations between neighbourhood characteristics, parental PSU and children's OHC. Using register data, we explore the spatial concentration of parental PSU and children's OHC in urban areas. Methods: Register data of all children born in Finland in 2002 and their biological parents living in 14 Finnish cities were used to follow the children from birth until their 18th birthday or first OHC episode. The study looks at parental PSU andother individual-level indicators as well-as the sociodemographic neighbourhood characteristics. Cox proportional hazards modelling was used as the analysis method. Results: Parental PSU increased the probability of children's OHC regardless of neighbourhood type. The probabilty was highest if both parents had PSU (hazard ratio [HR] = 8.05, 95% confidence interval [Cl] 6.38–10.16), but this outcome did not look the same for all neighbourhoods. The risk of children's OHC placements was higher in suburbs compared to city centres (HR = 1.76, 95% Cl 1.38–2.25). Conclusion: As parental substance use is a complex problem that is often intertwined with other life challenges, such as financial difficulties and mental health problems, it is insufficient to treat caregiver conditions, such as problematic substance use in isolation. Services that increase positive, pro-social connections may be lacking in the neighbourhoods with the most challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal accumulation has been a hot topic of many studies in recent years, as they are toxic elements that can be highly harmful to human health and the environment. The metal concentrations of some trees used for monitoring air quality give information about the pollutant sources in the ambient atmosphere. In this study, P. pinaster, C. arizonica, P. orientalis, C. atlantica, and P. menziesii were determined to investigate their use as biomonitors for air quality. Metallic bismuth and bismuth compounds, which have been widely used in several industries, have low toxicity to humans, although bismuth toxicity can show over-dosage depending on its application. The variability of bismuth levels in the organs of the species was investigated to explain atmospheric deposition over the years. The bismuth accumulation of C. arizonica and P. pinaster increases depending on time interval. The ascending-descending trend in other species could not be obtained clearly via dry and wet deposition of atmospheric metals. Our analysis reveals that the total deposit (barks and wood) of P. pinaster, C. arizonica, P. orientalis, C. atlantica, and P. menziesii were 134, 115, 94, 131, and 148 mg/kg, respectively, and they have been quite clearly reflected atmospheric bismuth deposition. The bismuth concentration has significantly increased since the 1983 sampling; P. menziesii can be valuable bioindicators for highlighting polluted areas. Compared with the traditional air samplers, the proposed P. menziesii bioindicator is proven to be more effective, low cost, and sustainable and thus has broad application prospects in bismuth concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Latin American countries have shifted from traditional diets rich in micronutrients to a Westernized diet rich in high energy-dense foods and low in micronutrients. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of adequate micronutrient intakes in urban populations of 8 Latin American countries. Method: Micronutrient dietary intake data were collected from September 2014 to August 2015 from 9216 men and women aged 15.0 to 65.0 years living in urban populations of 8 Latin American countries. Dietary intake was collected using two 24-hour recalls on nonconsecutive days. Micronutrient adequacy of intake was calculated using the Estimated Average Requirement cut-off method. Results: In general terms, the prevalence of inadequate intake of thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folate, cobalamin, iron, phosphorus, copper, and selenium ranged from 0.4% to 9.9%. In contrast, the prevalence of inadequacy of pyridoxine, zinc, vitamin C, and vitamin A ranged from 15.7% to 51.5%. The nutrients with a critical prevalence of inadequacy were magnesium (80.5%), calcium (85.7%), and vitamin D (98.2%). The highest prevalence of inadequate intakes was observed in the low educational level, participants with overweight/obesity, in men, and varies according to socioeconomic status. Conclusions: There is an urgent need to define direct regional actions and strategies in Latin America aimed at improving micronutrient adequacy, either through staple food fortification programs, agronomic biofortification, or food policies that facilitate economic access to micronutrient-rich foods. Plain language title: Description of the Vitamin and Mineral Consumption Status in Urban Cities of Latin America: Results of the Latin American Health and Nutrition Study. Plain language summary: Vitamins and minerals are essential for maintaining good health. However, traditional Latin American diets are changing to include foods that have a lot of sugar and fat but fewer vitamins and minerals. This study was designed to analyze the consumption of these nutrients in urban cities of 8 Latin American countries. We collected food consumption information from September 2014 to August 2015 from 9216 men and women between 15 and 65 years old using a method called 24-hour recall. To find out if participants were consuming the necessary daily amounts of vitamins and minerals, intakes were compared with the daily recommended amounts suggested by the Institutes of Medicine of the United States. We found that Latin American urban populations consume fewer vitamins and minerals than recommended. In some cases, few people do not consume the required amounts of vitamins and minerals, but in other cases, many do not. For example, few do not consume enough thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folate, cobalamin, iron, phosphorus, copper, and selenium. However an intermediate number of people do not consume enough pyridoxine and zinc, a high number consume little vitamin C and vitamin A, and many people consume very little magnesium, calcium, and vitamin D. We found that the people who consume fewer vitamins and minerals are mostly males, overweight/obese, have lower education and varies according to their financial resources. A deficient intake of vitamins and minerals showed up in most age groups, from adolescence to adulthood. To improve vitamins and minerals intake, it is important that some foods that are frequently eaten are fortified or that the price of foods that are high in vitamins and minerals is lowered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to minimize human–wildlife conflicts, long-term and data-based management plans need to be developed. We aimed at assessing wild boar (Sus scrofa, Linnaeus, 1758) density within selected areas of Warsaw, the capital city of Poland. Wild boar abundance was estimated based on snow tracking conducted within 19 well-defined sectors, varying in habitat structure and location within the city. Moreover, in two forest reserves, wild boar population density was assessed with the use of camera traps and a random encounter model. The wild boar density index (n tracks/100 m/24 h) in Warsaw varied from 0 to 3.58 depending on the sector (0 to 4.0 ind./100 ha). In turn, it was 1.8 ind./100 ha for all the forested areas, which did not seem high compared to the other wild boar populations in Poland. The REM-derived estimates were higher than the snow-tracking-based estimates. Wild boars were mostly present in forests, especially those with oak stands, while the species was absent from central districts and mostly urbanized areas. We argue that the snow tracking method reflected the general distribution of wild boars across the city and in different habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Limited access to health services and low educational levels are factors in the rural population that are associated with the development of oral pathologies. However, the specific risk indicators contributing to erosive tooth wear (ETW) in these populations remain unclear. The objective of this study was to identify risk indicators associated with the prevalence of erosive tooth wear (ETW) in schoolchildren aged 8–12 years from rural and urban areas in the State of Mexico. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in public schools in rural and urban areas. The prevalence of ETW was evaluated using the Basic Erosive Wear Examination (BEWE). The risk indicators studied were gastroesophageal reflux, vomiting, vitamin C, food, beverages, dental hygiene, bruxism, and hyposalivation. Logistic regression models were used to calculate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: The prevalence of ETW was higher in the rural area (77.3%) compared to the urban area (51.2%) (p = 0.001). The odds of presenting ETW were more than twice in schoolchildren from rural areas compared to those from urban areas (OR: 2.25, 95% CI: 1.11–3.98). Risk indicators varied between rural and urban populations, with different factors such as the consumption of fresh tomato sauce, orange, tangerine, atole (artisanal corn-based drink), and teeth grinding in the rural area, and lemon, soft drink, fruit juice consumption, and the simplified oral hygiene index in the urban area (p < 0.05). Conclusions: To prevent ETW, strategies offering tailored dietary and hygiene advice should be proposed, considering the specific conditions of each geographic area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On a global scale, urban areas struggle with various environmental, social, and economic problems due to rapidly growing populations and rapid urbanization processes. In this context, nature-based solutions (NbS) offer an important perspective for the sustainability and livability of urban areas alongside traditional infrastructure systems. This study aims to investigate how NbS can address environmental issues in urban areas, tackle various urban challenges using a multi-perspective approach, and examine the potential and applicability of NbS approaches in solving problems in urban areas. With emphasizing the importance of NbS and an ecological perspective in solving problems in urban areas and presenting recommendations and challenges that can be applied in urban planning and management processes, the current study also encourages the adoption of nature-compatible approaches to contribute to the sustainability of urban areas and ensure a livable environment for future generations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrification of transport is a step towards the transition to efficient, cleaner, and low-carbon mobility, as it decreases negative environmental effects and greenhouse gas emissions. In many countries, the adoption and the deployment of electric vehicles was based on a combination of policy measures and incentives. To promote the uptake of electrification, it is important to understand consumers' opinions about electric vehicles. The aim of the present research is to investigate the factors influencing EV purchase decisions in a city of Greece. The analysis of this paper was based on the data collected using a structured questionnaire, addressed to the active population of Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece. A small percentage of the respondents own an electric vehicle. Appropriate statistical analysis identified correlations between the intention to purchase an electric vehicle and a number of critical factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban green spaces are crucial for the exchange of energy fluxes, particularly sensible heat (QH) and latent heat (QE) fluxes. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the characteristics of plant communities in urban green areas that affect turbulent fluxes, specifically QH and QE. The energy balance was measured using an eddy covariance system tower set up in three green areas at Kasetsart University: the Varunawan Garden (S1), the 100-Year Garden of Luang Suwan Vajokkasikit (S2), and the Phaholyothin Garden (S3). The results show that the canopy coverages of trees in S1, S2, and S3 were 526.23, 895.81, and 756.70 m2, respectively. The Bowen ratios (QH/QE) during the daytime in S1, S2, and S3 were 1.75, 1.09, and 1.43, respectively. These relationships suggest that dense trees, a dense canopy layer top, and the presence of water sources within the green areas resulted in a higher latent heat flux and a lower proportion of sensible heat flux. The findings of this study can be used as a guideline for the development and improvement of plant community structures in green areas within urban climate change adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The invasion of Anopheles stephensi into Africa poses a potential threat to malaria control and elimination on the continent. However, it is not clear if the recent malaria resurgence in Ethiopia has linked to the expansion of An. stephensi. We obtained the clinical malaria case reports and malaria intervention data from the Ethiopian Ministry of Health (MoH) for the period 2001–2022. We analyzed clinical malaria hotspots and investigated the potential role of An. stephensi in the 2022 malaria outbreaks. Clinical malaria cases in Ethiopia decreased by 80%, from 5.2 million cases in 2004 to 1.0 million cases in 2018; however, cases increased steadily to 2.6 million confirmed cases in 2022. Plasmodium vivax cases and proportion have increased significantly in the past 5 years. Clinical malaria hotspots are concentrated along the western Ethiopian border areas and have grown significantly from 2017 to 2022. Major malaria outbreaks in 2022/2023 were detected in multiple sites across Ethiopia, and An. stephensi was the predominant vector in some of these sites, however, it was absence from many of the outbreak sites. The causes of recent upsurge in malaria in Ethiopia may be multi-factorial and it is a subject of further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

\nHIGHLIGHTSThis research examines particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5) and ozone (O3) variation across the climatic mesoregions of Alagoas. Mean PM2.5 and O3 concentrations across three mesoregions were as follows: East (5.91; 44.22 μg.m−3), Hinterland (6.90; 44.18 μg.m−3), and Arid (7.03; 44.23 μg.m−3). Spatial and temporal variations were observed, with PM2.5 concentrations highest in the northwest (NW) and O3 concentrations in the east (E), influenced by local sources, weather, and transportation. Differences between rainy and dry years were noted, attributed to biomass burning and dust particle transport. This study establishes a baseline for understanding air quality, lacking monitoring stations, aiding policymaking. It provides insights into PM2.5 and O3 dynamics, with PM2.5 concentrations highest in the NW and lower O3 concentrations in the E. Temporal variations emphasize the need for dynamic monitoring. Positive correlations between PM2.5 and O3 highlight complex relationships. Practical implications include proactive policymaking and the necessity for monitoring stations. Rigorous statistical methodologies inform model selection, enhancing environmental data understanding. Despite changes in land use, studies on extreme probability distributions are limited, emphasizing the need for robust methodologies for environmental data analysis to address air pollution challenges effectively in Alagoas. Spatio-temporal variability of the airborne pollutant criteria measured in Alagoas.Database of air pollutants of the state of Alagoas.Significant difference in the concentration of air pollutants between the dry and rainy seasons.Correlation between air pollutantsSpatio-temporal variability of the airborne pollutant criteria measured in Alagoas.Database of air pollutants of the state of Alagoas.Significant difference in the concentration of air pollutants between the dry and rainy seasons.Correlation between air pollutants [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is of great significance to carry out accurate identification of urban shrinkage and comparative analysis of its influencing factors in large national regions, to reduce the error based on administrative area identification. By constructing the VANUI index, calculating the one-dimensional linear regression coefficient of the DN value of night light and the WorldPop population grid data, and based on the overlay of the regression coefficient of the DN value of night light, and the regression coefficient of the WorldPop population grid data, the urban areas of East Germany and Northeast China in the two stages of 2000-2009 and 2010-2018 were divided into four types: absolute growth, smart shrinkage, negative growth and absolute shrinkage. This pa‐ per then studied and compared the spatio-temporal distribution and transformation path of the two stages of absolute shrinkage and smart shrinkage in the two regions, and constructed a panel regression model from population growth, scientific and technological development level, medical service level and other aspects to conduct a comparative analysis of the influencing factors of the two stages of urban shrinkage in the two regions. The results show that the absolute shrink‐ age areas in the two regions have a great similarity in spatiotemporal distribution and transformation path; the smart shrinkage areas are similar in spatiotemporal distribution, but different in transformation path; the absolute shrinkage areas in the two regions and two stages is relatively small; the mechanism of population growth in the two regions has both similarities and differences, and has different connotations due to differences in national conditions. This study shows that: (1)Urban shrinkage areas have the potential for short-term growth, and their development rights should be treated equally; (2)The absolute shrinking areas should be given special attention and governance, while the smart shrinking areas should be regarded as a reasonable development model for urban shrinking areas; (3)Continuously improving the level of medical, elderly care services and research investment, steadily promoting the transformation of living environment and infrastructure in existing areas, and reasonably controlling incremental development can help alleviate the phenomenon of urban shrinkage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes is a serious public health issue in developing countries, particularly in urban regions. Heat exposure, measured by residential area land surface temperature (LST), may contribute to the risk of diabetes among urban dwellers due to rapid urbanisation and climate change. This might be useful to predict urban diabetes risk. However, this relationship has not been thoroughly assessed in developing countries. Additionally, residential area greenery may mitigate the detrimental effects of high LST. This study examines the association between residential area LST and diabetes among adults (aged ≥ 18 years) in urban regions of Bangladesh and whether residential area greenness modifies the association. Study data were derived from the latest Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey 2017–2018, and survey cluster-level LST and enhanced vegetation index (i.e. greenness) were used to define residential area-level environmental features. A binary logistic regression was used to estimate the association, and stratified analysis was performed to examine the effect modification role of greenness. Living in areas with a greater LST increased the odds of having diabetes (AOR 1.23, 95% CI 1.01–1.50, p value = 0.035), whereas residing in areas with greater greenness decreased the odds of having diabetes (AOR 0.07, 95% CI 0.01–0.88, p value = 0.039). The effect of LST on diabetes was more pronounced in adults who lived in urban areas with less greenery (AOR 1.31, 95% CI 1.01–1.71, p value = 0.048). This evidence has significant ramifications for local communities, and the improvement of green infrastructure may reduce heat exposure-related health risks in the context of climate change and urbanisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cross-sectional study was conducted with three aims: (1) to determine the degree of compliance with physical activity recommendations among adolescents according to sex and place of residence, (2) to determine the perceived support of family and friends for physical activity among adolescents according to sex and place of residence, and (3) to analyse the influence of family and friends support on compliance with physical activity recommendations among adolescents according to sex and place of residence. A total of 694 adolescents from an inland area of Spain (14.06 ± 1.27 years) participated. Four one-day physical activity questionnaires were administered to assess physical activity and the Parental Support Scale and Peer Support to measure perceived support from family and friends regarding physical activity. Chi-square, Crammer's V and Student's tests were calculated to identify differences between variables according to sex and municipality of residence. Moreover, the initial binary logistic regression model was constructed to predict the physical activity compliance. Differences in adherence to physical activity recommendations were found according to the sex of the students (rural area: x2 = 4.192, p < 0.05; V = 0.106, p < 0.05; urban area: x2 = 8.999, p < 0.05; V = 0.167, p < 0.01). There were also sex differences in rural areas on items related to families providing transport (t = 3.878, p ≤ 0.001; d = 0.40) and doing physical activity together (t = 4.974, p ≤ 0.001; d = 0.50). It is concluded that most adolescents do not comply with physical activity recommendations. In addition, 30.4% of urban girls' compliance was predicted by the perception that their family members saw them doing physical activity and doing it with friends. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrification of transport is a step towards the transition to efficient, cleaner, and low-carbon mobility, as it decreases negative environmental effects and greenhouse gas emissions. In many countries, the adoption and the deployment of electric vehicles was based on a combination of policy measures and incentives. To promote the uptake of electrification, it is important to understand consumers’ opinions about electric vehicles. The aim of the present research is to investigate the factors influencing EV purchase decisions in a city of Greece. The analysis of this paper was based on the data collected using a structured questionnaire, addressed to the active population of Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece. A small percentage of the respondents own an electric vehicle. Appropriate statistical analysis identified correlations between the intention to purchase an electric vehicle and a number of critical factors.

Background: A community-based study on childhood injuries would provide valuable information on the epidemiology of injuries to undertake appropriate preventive measures. Therefore, the current study was conducted in urban poor resettlements of Rishikesh to estimate the prevalence of unintentional injuries and to document the sociodemographic risk factors associated with unintentional injuries among under-five children. Aims and Objectives: Estimation of the prevalence of unintentional injuries and their risk factors among under-five children of urban poor resettlements in Rishikesh. Materials and Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in urban poor resettlement areas of Rishikesh for a period of 1 year. It included 300 children selected using a simple random sampling technique to collect data on injury status. Results: The prevalence of unintentional injury among study participants was 16%. Falls were (64.6%) the major cause of injury, followed by dog bites (12.5%). The major sites of the injury were the head (25%), face (22.9%), upper limb (27.1%), and lower limb (18.8%).75% of the injuries happened at home. 66% of injuries happened when the child was playing alone or playing with peers. About 20.8% of injuries were bruises or superficial injuries. 39.6% of children had cut/bite/open wound injuries. Fractures happened in 14.6% of injured children. More than half (54.2%) of children did not develop any physical disability due to injury. Among children who developed a disability, more than 90% are able to recover completely. The majority of study participants were taken to nearby hospitals (66.6%) or health centers (10.4%). Only one of them went to a traditional bone setter, rest all visited either a general practitioner or pharmacy. The median expenditure for the treatment of the injured child was INR 425 (175-2750). The age of the child and unintentional injury showed a statistically significant association. Conclusion: The prevalence of the injury was 16% (12–20.7%) similar to a number of similar studies. Although the majority of the injuries were mild in severity, injuries have also contributed to temporary disability among children and have led to loss of school days.

The creation of natural lawns is a means of optimizing costs for maintaining green infrastructure in the city by including natural biodiversity in lawns, which will increase the stability of plant communities in lawns and the quality of ecosystem services. Purpose. Determine the predominant species of plant groups of natural phytocenoses, which are further appropriate for planting in semi-natural lawns to ensure the stability of territories.. Methods. The Ramensky method was employed to determine the quantitative composition of natural lawns in the study areas, while the Raunkiær classification was utilized to identify persistent and perennial plant species. Results. The geobotanical investigation enabled the identification of dominant species in the study areas, providing insights into the phytocoenological composition of natural lawns for the city of Kyiv. This served as the foundation for developing recommendations for a plant catalogue tailored to the creation of such lawns in Kyiv. The grass stand at Lysa Hora exhibited the highest stability, with a significant presence of native species. Adventitious species were less dominant in this area, likely due to their conditional pathogenicity. Conversely, Trukhaniv Island displayed dominance by typical species, albeit with the occasional presence of azonal species. Mount Shchekavytsia showed competition between azonal and typical species. Surveys of recreational areas, including Lysa Hora, Mount Shchekavytsia, and Trukhaniv Island, underscored the presence of native, azonal, and adventive species. The study identified common native hemicryptophytes, including filamentous fescue, grey fescue, and creeping wheatgrass. A developed plant catalogue is poised to enhance ecosystem regulation services, such as microclimate regulation, water and wind erosion control, biodiversity maintenance, and social services through increased territorial attractiveness. Conclusions. When creating a natural lawn, the best species are considered to be indigenous, which allows for the sustainability of plant communities. The study identified the following native species that will successfully complement lawn coverings in the city: gray and filamentous fescue, ground fescue, creeping thyme, green strawberry, field carnation, and oak sage. The recommendations can be applied in other cities of Ukraine with similar physical and geographical conditions.

The radioactive pollutant could migrate to the downstream urban area under the action of atmospheric dispersion due to the turbulent mixing under actual pollution accidents. A scenario in which radioactive contaminants from the upstream (for example, a nearshore nuclear power plant accident) migrates to the downstream urban blocks have been considered in this study. Numerical simulations using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) are then conducted to investigate the effects of the urban morphology (building packing density and layout) on the atmospheric dispersion of radioactive pollutants in this scenario. The building packing density and structure can significantly affect urban areas' mean flow pattern and the turbulent kinetic energy (TKE). The flow pattern and the TKE distribution influence the radioactive pollution dispersion. It is found that the radioactive pollution at the urban canyons is significantly affected by the vertical transport at the canyon. A comparison of the distributions of radioactive and traditional non-radioactive pollutants is also provided.

Background Outdoor and indoor air temperature affects human health and wellbeing. Climate change projections suggest that global temperatures will continue to increase, and this poses a threat to health. Buildings (for housing and business purposes) that can protect humans from the adverse effects of temperature are essential, especially in the context of climate change. Method In this cross-sectional study, we measured the indoor temperature inside shipping containers comprising a seven-storey block of apartments and businesses in Johannesburg, South Africa for 14 days. We assessed indoor temperature and relative humidity; evaluated measured temperatures in relation to thresholds known to be associated with adverse health risks; and sought to understand heat-health perceptions and symptoms of people living and working in shipping container units. Results Median indoor apparent temperature (AT) (a combination of temperature and relative humidity) was 16°C with values ranging from 6°C (observed at 8:00) to 42°C (observed at 17:00). Insulated units had temperatures between 2°C and 9°C cooler than the uninsulated unit. Heat-health risks from AT exposure were likely in all units, although there was variation in the number of occurrences that AT measurements exceeded the four symptom bands of caution, extreme caution, danger and extreme danger. Indoor AT was found to be 7°C higher on average when compared to outdoor AT. Some participants believed that their units were hot during hot weather and most people opened windows or did nothing during hot weather. Few participants reported experiencing adverse heat-health impacts, except for experiencing headaches (58%) and feeling tired or weak (40%). Conclusion Residents, tenants, or business owners using shipping containers should consider insulation installation and adequate windows/air conditioning for ventilation, especially in hot climates. Further research and awareness regarding heat-health risks of living or working in these spaces is needed.

An expansion of impervious surfaces in urban areas leads to increases of nutrient loads discharged with the surface runoff to receivers. A study of a different density of urban development impact on total nitrogen (TN) and phosphorus (TP) loads from the city of Lublin (eastern Poland) with the use of the SWAT (Soil & Water Assessment Tool) model was performed. To distinguish between areas with high and low density of urban development (UHD and ULD), a special analysis of hydrological parameters has been proposed. Moreover, to investigate the impact of climate change, four variant scenarios were taken into account, combining the RCP (representative concentration pathway) 4.5 and 8.5 forecasts and the adopted time horizons (2026–2035 and 2046–2055). The results showed a much higher share of TN and TP from UHD compared to ULD (86%—32 022 kg/year and 89%—2574 kg/year, respectively). In addition, the variant scenarios showed that the forecasted increase in precipitation and temperature will result in increased loads of nutrients from UHD and ULD up to 30%. Furthermore, the current increase of inhabitant number, due to the Ukrainian war migration and the common tendency to convert agricultural land to residential areas, could contribute to further expansion of UHD and ULD areas and an additional increase of nutrient loads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

City-wide near-miss data can be beneficial for traffic safety estimation. In this study, we evaluate urban traffic safety and examine spatial patterns by incorporating city-wide near-miss data (59,277 near-misses). Our methodology employs a grid-based method, the Empirical Bayes (EB) approach, and spatial analysis tools including global Moran's I and local Moran's I. The study findings reveal that near-misses have the strongest correlation with observed crash frequency among all the variables studied. Interestingly, the ratio of near-misses to crashes is roughly estimated to be 1957:1, providing a potentially useful benchmark for urban areas. For other variables, an increased number of intersections and bus stops, along with a greater road length, contribute to a higher crash frequency. Conversely, residential and open-space land use rates show a negative correlation with crash frequency. Through spatial analysis, potential risk hotspots including roads linking bridges and tunnels, and avenues bustling with pedestrian activity, are highlighted. The study also identified negative local spatial correlations in crash frequencies, suggesting significant safety risk variations within relatively short distances. By mapping the differences between observed and predicted crash frequencies, we identified specific grid areas with unexpectedly high or low crash frequencies. These findings highlight the crucial role of near-miss data in urban traffic safety policy and planning, particularly relevant with the imminent rise of autonomous and connected vehicles. By integrating near-miss data into safety estimations, we can develop a more comprehensive understanding of traffic safety and, thus, more effectively address urban traffic risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of homogeneity in the real estate market is a well-known analysis aspect, yet it remains a significant challenge in practical implementation. This study aims to fill this research gap by introducing the HELIOS concept (Homogeneity Estate Linguistic Intelligence Omniscient Support), presenting a new approach to real estate market analyses. In a world increasingly mindful of environmental, social, and economic concerns, HELIOS is a novel concept grounded in linguistic intelligence and machine learning to reshape how we perceive and analyze real estate data. By exploring the synergies between human expertise and technological capabilities, HELIOS aims not only to enhance the efficiency of real estate analyses but also to contribute to the broader goal of sustainable and responsible data practices in the dynamic landscape of property markets. Additionally, the article formulates a set of assumptions and suggestions to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of homogeneity analysis in mass valuation, emphasizing the synergy between human knowledge and the potential of machine technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban ecosystems are areas subject to constant changes due to human activities, characterized by spatial heterogeneity and temporal dynamics, which translates into disorder and reduction of biodiversity. Diversity is lower in urban and agroecosystems than in conserved ecosystems, transition zones become highly diverse due to the complexity of vegetation and opportunities as a new environment. Ants can adapt to urban environments, they tend to be generalist, dominant and with aggressive behavior, these environments have a greater number of introduced species. These organisms have been little studied in urban environments despite their importance and interactions they have with other organisms. In order to know the species of ants in parks of the Guadalajara Metropolitan Zone, 13 parks of Agencia Metropolitana de Bosques Urbanos were selected, one visit was made to each park between February and July 2021. Six points were marked in each park, four baits were placed in each point (two with tuna and two with walnut) and two hours of manual collection were carried out in the morning, from 9:00 to 11:00 am. The material was taken to the laboratory where it was separated and determined and deposited in the Colección Entomológica of Cento de Estudios en Zoología of the Universidad de Guadalajara. An annotated checklist of the ant species found was prepared. 17,677 individuals belonging to 35 species were collected; of which 26 are native species and nine are introduced species. Eight species of ant were found in all the parks, three species were exclusive to only one park. The most diverse park had 26 species, and the least diversity were two parks, with 17 species each one. Paratrechina longicornis was the most abundant species, while Hypoponera opaciceps, Solenopsis subterranea and Strumigenys louisianae were the least abundant species with only one individual each one. Myrmelachista skwarrae is collected for the first time in urban environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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To clarify gaseous elemental mercury (GEM) in suburban megacities in the Yangtze River Delta region, China, we observed GEM concentrations from December 2019 to November 2020 in Wujing town, a suburban area of Shanghai. The annual mean GEM concentration was 1.44 ± 0.88 ng m–3. Compared with the historical monitoring data of GEM in Shanghai over the past 10 years, the concentration of GEM showed a decreasing trend. The monthly mean concentrations of GEM showed clear seasonal variation, with higher values in the spring and winter. In spring and winter, typical Hg pollution events were observed, which could be mostly associated with increased local anthropogenic activity and temperature inversion. The results of the correlation analysis of the daily mean GEM concentrations with the AQI and backward trajectory calculations indicate that mercury pollution at monitoring sites can be affected by local, regional and interregional influences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid growth of urban population and unplanned urbanization are reducing the number of urban parking spaces and increase traffic congestion. In China, due to the tripling of the number of motor vehicles in the last decade, the problem of finding a parking space has become very pressing. Increased difficulties are observed with short-term parking near public urban locations such as cinemas, shopping centers, universities and hospitals. In the telecommunications industry and other related fields, learning automata have been widely employed as adaptable devices for making decisions in unknowable settings. Their use in choosing a parking spot for a little time in cities hasn't been properly researched, nevertheless. The usage of learning automata in the created LAPS (Learning Automata Parking System) parking algorithm is discussed in this study in contrast to other algorithms. More specifically, the study will gain insight into the impact of factors such as vehicle count, space between vehicle arrivals in the parking lot, time of day, and the parking area that can be used for reservations on the average waiting time for a parking space and the likelihood of finding one. The paper presents the research findings determining the parking system's effectiveness based on learning automata in the urban areas of China. The experimental part of the study was performed using Arena simulation software on the parking lot model, with the maximum parking time under simulation conditions not exceeding 4 h. The paper evaluated such parking efficiency metrics as the average parking space waiting time and the probability of getting one, measuring the influence on these indicators on such factors as the number of motor vehicles, interval between the arrival of vehicles in the parking lot, time of day, as well as the parking area that can be used for reservations. The research findings suggested that the LAPS algorithm can be recommended for development of smart packing systems software in urban areas in China and other countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An important geological risk to which many towns in Puglia are exposed is sinking cavities in urban areas. For urban centers, studying, mapping, providing geological and speleological descriptions, classifying, and cataloging the forms and types of cavities is essential because cavities are linked to past local anthropic and natural processes at different sites. These circumstances could lead to the enhancement of existing underground cavities in urban areas through conservation and continuous monitoring. Unfortunately, in many cases, these underground cavities have been used as landfills and subsequently abandoned. In late March 2007, one of these cavities collapsed inside Gallipoli's inhabited center, causing damage to the structures but fortunately not human lives. In the area surrounding the collapsed cavity, a series of geophysical investigations were undertaken using ground penetrating radar in an attempt to delimit the area of collapse and develop possible interventions for restoration. In the same area, these measures were repeated 16 years later in December 2022 due to another collapse. The comparison between data acquired in these two periods shows that there were no strong changes apart from an increased presence of subsoil moisture in 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focused on the bryophyte flora of Maltepe University Central Campus, with samples collected between March 2023 and March 2024. Approximately 150 moss samples were collected from the study area, and through taxonomic identification, a total of 42 moss taxa belonging to 10 families and 26 genera were identified. Among these taxa, 19 represent new records for the province of Istanbul. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban areas consist of various land cover types, with a high proportion of artificial surfaces among them. This leads to unfavorable thermal environments in urban areas. Continuous research on the thermal environment, specifically on the sensible heat flux (Qh), has been conducted. However, previous research has faced temporal, spatial, and resolution limitations when it comes to detailed analysis of sensible heat flux in urban areas. Therefore, in this study, a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model combined with the LDAPS and the VUCM was developed to simulate Qh at one-hour intervals over a 1-month period in an urban area with various land cover types. Model validation was performed by comparing it with measurements, confirming the suitability of the model for simulating Qh. The land cover was categorized into five types: building, road, bare land, grassland, and tree areas. Qh exhibited distinct patterns depending on the land cover type. When averaging the Qh distribution over the target period, buildings, roads, and bare land areas showed a predominance of upward Qh values, while grassland and tree areas displayed dominant downward Qh values. Additionally, even within the same land cover types, slight Qh variations were identified based on their surroundings. The averaged Qh value for building areas was the highest at 36.79 W m−2, while that for tree areas was −3.04 W m−2. Moreover, during the target period, the time-averaged Qh showed that building, road, and bare land areas peaked at 14 LST, while grassland and tree areas exhibited very low Qh values. Notably, buildings reached a maximum Qh of 103.30 W m−2 but dropped to a minimum of 1.14 W m−2 at 5 LST. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distribution of air pollutants in urban areas is significantly influenced by the presence of various geometric structures, including buildings, bridges, and tunnels. In built-up environments, meteorological conditions may influence the accumulation or dispersion of air pollutants in specific zones. This study examines the impact of wind and atmospheric stability on the dispersion of air pollutants around an apartment building situated in close proximity to a busy boulevard in a residential district of Sofia, Bulgaria. A series of dispersion simulations were conducted using the Graz Lagrangian Model (GRAL v.22.09) for a range of meteorological conditions, defined as combinations of the direction and velocity of the approaching flow, and of stability conditions within the study area of 1 × 1 km, with a horizontal resolution of 2 m. The resulting spatial distribution revealed the presence of hotspots and strong gradients in the concentration field. A simulation with meteorological data was also conducted, which was aligned with a campaign to monitor vehicular traffic. The sensitivity tests indicate that GRAL is capable of reproducing high-resolution pollutant fields, accounting for building effects at relatively low computational costs. This makes the model potentially attractive for city-wide simulations as well as for air pollution exposure estimation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Central South University is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Traffic noise is emerging as major challenge for cities in India. It affects human health in terms of annoyance and other major health problems. This study aims to develop a traffic noise model for mid-sized cities. Vehicle noise and spot speed of individual vehicles were studied to develop a reference energy mean emission level (REMEL) by using the sound level meter from a reference distance of 7.5 m from the centerline of a nearby lane under free flow condition. This urban traffic noise model is specific to different geographical regions and depends on vehicle categories and characteristics of in use vehicles. Subsequently, mid-block studies were conducted for measuring traffic noise Leq (in dB(A)), average speed, and traffic volumes of different vehicle categories. To develop the traffic noise prediction model, physical condition of the road, carriageway width, width of the footpath, median size, number of lanes, and ground cover (hard or soft) need to be accounted for. A modified traffic noise prediction model has been developed using REMEL models and different adjustment factors. Subsequently, the correlation analysis was performed between predicted and observed Leq (in dB(A)) to check the model fitness by correlation coefficient R2 = 0.76 and mean absolute percentage error is ranged from 0.8 to 1.2% for the predicted and observed Leq at all the selected sites of measurement periods for the Kanpur city. With this calibrated model, a noise map has been developed to identify noise hotspots during different time intervals within the city. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urbanisation is widely considered as having a large impact on most native species. However, the species response to urbanisation varies among taxonomic groups, and its generalisation might lead to contradictory or incorrect management decisions in urban planning. Land snails, as an understudied group in this sense, are good subjects to study the impact of urbanisation due to their low dispersal capabilities and mobility. The study aimed to determine how land snail diversity patterns and community structure are influenced by urbanisation through an urban-to-rural gradient. A total of 59 terrestrial gastropod species and more than 4600 individuals were recorded at 24 alluvial sites distributed along an urban-to-rural gradient in three Slovak cities (Bratislava, Zvolen and Prešov). Most species belonged to euryecious, hygrophilous and forest specialist ecological groups; seven species were non-native to Slovakia. The results clearly highlight the negative effect of densely built areas on land snail community structure, since the proportion of indigenous and specialist species decreased progressively towards urban sites. The highest mean number of species was found in suburban zones and the lowest in urban zones, suggesting that most species favour intermediate levels of urbanisation. Some species (e.g. Arion vulgaris) were evenly distributed along the urbanisation gradient, supporting the importance of river floodplains as bio-corridors for the dispersal of gastropods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Distracted driving is a major cause of road traffic crashes in Yaoundé. This is partly due to the scarcity of enforcement and a lack of evidence and investigation using the distraction safety performance indicator (SPI), hindering evidence-based interventions. This study aimed to address this evidence gap by evaluating the distraction SPI using a proven methodology. Data on distracted driving (handheld mobile device; interaction; eating/smoking/drinking) were collected from roadside observations on 36 randomly selected road sections carefully spread to cover the city. SPIs were computed and weighted with traffic volume to ensure the representativeness of the values. A total of 41,004 drivers were observed (38,248 in cars; 1116 in vans; 977 in trucks; 663 in buses). The prevalence of distracted driving in Yaoundé is 13.69% for the three distractions type combined. The prevalence is 7.84% for interaction, 4.89% for handled mobile device usage and 0.96% for eating/smoking/drinking. Leveraging these insights, a seven year (2024–2030) fighting strategy aimed at halving the prevalence was developed. The strategy contains interventions including legislation/enforcement, which have been proven to be effective. This study, pioneered in Yaoundé, provides stakeholders with evidence of the issue and measures to implement and can also be used when developing a road safety strategy. Future research should consider investigation at national level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and Objective: It remains controversial whether vitamin D insufficiency is inversely proportional to body mass index, and there is still little information about vitamin D and its relationship with obesity in Brazilian schoolchildren. The objective was to evaluate the serum concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D in schoolchildren and identify its association with nutritional status. Materials and Methods: Cross-sectional study with 262 students (aged 6-10 years), regularly enrolled in public schools, with the primary outcome being serum vitamin D concentration, with data collection in the spring. A standardized questionnaire was applied to legal guardians and anthropometric and pubertal staging assessments were carried out, blood collection and 25-hydroxyvitamin D dosage (electrochemiluminescence; deficiency <20 ng/mL, insufficiency 20-30 ng/mL and normality >30 ng/mL). Results: The mean age was 8.7 ±1.3 years; 53% male; prepubertal majority (>80%). The average of 25- hydroxyvitamin D was 40.4 ±10.2 ng/mL, with a prevalence of normality of 85.1%; 29.4% were overweight, with no association with serum vitamin D. There was an association of 25- hydroxyvitamin D with the rural location of residence (p<0.01) and school (p<0.05), as well as with the habit of sun exposure (p<0.05). Conclusion: Prevalence of 25-hydroxyvitamin D deficiency/insufficiency was lower than in national and international studies; excess weight was similar to that found in a previous national study, without association with serum vitamin D. Children from the rural area had higher serum concentrations of 25- hydroxyvitamin D when compared to those from the urban area, as well as those who were exposed to the sun. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Road freight transport has the negative externalities of traffic congestion, traffic accidents, energy consumption, and environmental pollution. Therefore, understanding the factors of road freight transport mode choice is important for urban transport policy analysis. This study aims to analyze the influence of behavior patterns on mode choices in the logistics sector in Bali. Data have been collected by interviewing road freight transport operators by using questionnaires. Models have been constructed by using discrete choice analysis. The study results show that vehicle ownership, type of goods transported, and fuel costs significantly influence all freight mode choices. The estimated elasticity of choice analysis indicates that all modes are not sensitive to changes in all of that vehicle ownership, type of goods transported, and fuel costs. These may indicate the outcome of the expected success of policy measures. This study suggests that a time limit for the movement of goods should be proposed in order to ensure that freight vehicles only run at certain times, i.e. at night time or not during peak hours. In order to support this policy, further research on Origin-to-Destination (OD) analysis of freight transport is needed to analyze the pattern of road freight traffic over a given period and its impact on freight and fuel costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Caldasia is the property of Universidad Nacional de Colombia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background Outdoor and indoor air temperature affects human health and wellbeing. Climate change projections suggest that global temperatures will continue to increase, and this poses a threat to health. Buildings (for housing and business purposes) that can protect humans from the adverse effects of temperature are essential, especially in the context of climate change. Method In this cross-sectional study, we measured the indoor temperature inside shipping containers comprising a seven-storey block of apartments and businesses in Johannesburg, South Africa for 14 days. We assessed indoor temperature and relative humidity; evaluated measured temperatures in relation to thresholds known to be associated with adverse health risks; and sought to understand heat-health perceptions and symptoms of people living and working in shipping container units. Results Median indoor apparent temperature (AT) (a combination of temperature and relative humidity) was 16°C with values ranging from 6°C (observed at 8:00) to 42°C (observed at 17:00). Insulated units had temperatures between 2°C and 9°C cooler than the uninsulated unit. Heat-health risks from AT exposure were likely in all units, although there was variation in the number of occurrences that AT measurements exceeded the four symptom bands of caution, extreme caution, danger and extreme danger. Indoor AT was found to be 7°C higher on average when compared to outdoor AT. Some participants believed that their units were hot during hot weather and most people opened windows or did nothing during hot weather. Few participants reported experiencing adverse heat-health impacts, except for experiencing headaches (58%) and feeling tired or weak (40%). Conclusion Residents, tenants, or business owners using shipping containers should consider insulation installation and adequate windows/air conditioning for ventilation, especially in hot climates. Further research and awareness regarding heat-health risks of living or working in these spaces is needed.

The rise of microplastics (MPs) is a global concern jeopardizing environmental safety. Initial studies have extensively concentrated on aquatic ecosystems, leaving their presence in terrestrial environments unknown. Thus, this study was carried out to investigate the vertical distribution of MPs in farmland soils of Mabibo Bonde la Mchicha Farm (MBMF), Dar es Salaam. 39 soil samples collected from MBMF were investigated using a Stereomicroscope and QATR-S FTIR. Results herein showed that MPs were found in all soil samples in different depths up to 15 cm deep, ranging from 4.8 to 82.2 items g-1 dry weight (DW). There was a statistically significant difference in MP abundance in depths between 0–5, 5–10 and 10–15 cm layers (P = 0.033) at ὰ = 0.05. The observations were revealed by the observed colors, in which white (36.5 %) was the most frequently observed, followed by blue (21.4 %), brown (20.2 %), black (12.8 %) and red (9 %). Fibers (49.7 %), fragments (32.9 %) and films (17.3 %) were the dominant shapes. Polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) were the dominant polymers observed constituting 33 % each, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) 11 %, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) 8 %, polyester (PES) 7 %, polyamide (PA) 7 % and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) 1 %. It can be inferred that PE and PP exhibited greater vertical mobility. However, PA and PVC were only observed in the topsoil layer. This study reveals MPs' occurrence and vertical transfer in urban farmland soils of MBMF in Dar es Salaam.

The paper presents the groundwater resources of Katowice and the results of studies conducted to identify prospective areas in aquifers with sufficient water resources for the location of public water intakes. The city of Katowice is the capital of Upper Silesia, the largest urban-industrial area in Poland, the region with a highly developed hard coal mining and many other different industries covering almost the entire scope of the economy. Due to long term drainage of mines causing the depletion and deterioration of groundwater and surface water resources, the main municipal water intakes have been located outside Katowice. Most of the pumped mine water is discharged into surface waters, causing significant salinity of water and disallow its use for municipal or industrial purposes in Katowice. The water collection and supply system is very extensive and covers a significant part of the Silesian agglomeration which is why Katowice is supplied with water from surface water intakes located outside the city. According to older published materials, such as the Hydrogeological map of Poland, there were no aquifers in the city that could have been used to supply the city with drinking water, however recent studies have shown that groundwater in the Quaternary aquifers in the western part of the city can be used to supply the city with public water. Less productive, Quaternary aquifers in north-eastern parts of the city may constitute the basis for drinking water supply in emergency situations, when surface intakes cannot be used, such as toxic, radiological or viral contamination or damage to the water supply network eg. as a result of an earthquake or warfare.

Introduction: WHO has defined adolescence period as the phase of life between childhood and adulthood. This study aimed to estimate the percentage of girls absent from school during menstruation, investigate the underlying causes of this absenteeism, and determine the association between school absenteeism and various factors. Methods: In present community-based study, 473 school going adolescent girls studying in 9th to 12th standards were selected by multistage stratified random sampling method. We selected 3 private and 3 government schools. Adolescent girls were interviewed by pretested, predesigned, semi-structured questionnaire for data collection. Results: The mean age of the students was 16.64 ± 1.4 years. 29.2% participants were absent from school during menstruation. Dysmenorrhea was the most prevalent reason for school absence, quoted by 51(37%) of the participants. In present study positive association between school absenteeism and various socio-demographic factors like the type of school, socioeconomic status, mother's education level, access to hygienic menstrual products and health education was observed. Conclusion: Nearly one-third of the girls were absent in school during menstruation. The main reasons for school absenteeism reported by girls were dysmenorrhea, mother's restrictions, fear of staining cloth and difficulty in changing pads in school.