Advances in Research
Not a member yet
1523 research outputs found
Sort by
Study on Carbon Emissions during the Construction Phase of Steel Slag Asphalt Pavement
No full textAgainst the backdrop of the increasing scarcity of natural mineral aggregates and the underutilization of excessive steel slag resources, extensive research has confirmed the applicability of steel slag as a road aggregate and its favorable pavement performance properties. However, systematic quantitative assessments of steel slag asphalt pavement (SSAP) across multiple dimensions, including environmental and economic benefits, remain relatively limited. Among SSAP with 100% replacement of coarse aggregates by steel slag, the material production stage exhibits the lowest energy consumption and carbon emissions; this is followed by SSAP with a 60% steel slag replacement ratio, while conventional asphalt pavement (CAP) with 0% replacement demonstrates the highest values. When the transportation distance for natural aggregates is 180 km and for steel slag is 60 km, SSAP with 100% steel slag replacement shows the minimal energy consumption and carbon emissions during the transportation stage, whereas CAP with 0% replacement records the highest. Notably, this relationship reverses in the construction stage. The total carbon emissions generated during the construction period for SSAP with steel slag replacement ratios of 0%, 60%, and 100% are 142,841.16 kg, 122,775.15 kg, and 119,220.11 kg, respectively. Specifically, CAP (0% replacement) exhibits the maximum total energy consumption and carbon emissions during construction, while SSAP with 100% steel slag replacement presents the minimum values. These results demonstrate that replacing natural aggregates with steel slag can effectively reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions during the construction of asphalt pavements
Leveraging Anthropocene Indian Disasters with Python
No full textThe work encompasses the analysis and visualisation of the patterns, impact, and trends of disasters, comprising records of 783 disaster incidents that were analysed using Python. The anthropogenic, tectonic, stratification and climate change impacts cause floods, cyclones, droughts, earthquakes, epidemics and chemical disasters. To better understand these events and their consequences, a dataset is needed. Using a long-term (124-year) dataset and utilising geospatial analysis (Q-GIS/RS) with data science libraries (Pandas, Matplotlib) constitutes a solid and scientifically valid approach for disaster informatics. The main finding that climate change-related phenomena (floods and cyclones) are recurrent and catastrophic in certain states (Odisha, Gujarat) is in accordance with extant climate literature relating to the Indian subcontinent and can, therefore, be considered credibleIt provides a reproducible framework for researchers and practitioners to identify disaster-prone areas and recurrent high-impact events like floods and cyclones by utilising Python-based geospatial analysis and visualisation. This thorough analysis has the power to force management authorities to adopt a proactive approach to risk reduction, infrastructure development, and disaster preparedness rather than a reactive, relief-focused one. This will directly support international initiatives such as the Sustainable Development Goals for the real-world applicability of Python as a geospatially versatile tool. The future projections shall comply with Sustainable Development Goal 11.5, comprising Sustainable Cities and Communities, specifically in target 11.5, SDG 13 (Climate Action)
Stimuli-responsive Chromic Textiles: Mechanisms, Fabrication Strategies, and Emerging Applications
No full textChromic textiles, fabrics that change colour in response to external stimuli, have attracted considerable interest for their potential in smart clothing, sensors, protective gear, and aesthetic design. These stimuli include light (photochromism), temperature (thermochromism), electric field (electrochromism), pH (halochromism), solvents (solvatochromism), mechanical stress (mechanochromism), among others. This review synthesizes recent developments in chromic textiles: the molecular and material mechanisms of chromism, methods for incorporating chromic functionality into textile substrates, evaluation of performance metrics, applications across sectors, current limitations, and future research directions. Recent advances in multifunctional and dual-/multi‐stimuli responsive systems are emphasized. Notably, recent studies have achieved wash durability up to 100 cycles and response times below 1 second, demonstrating significant improvements in performance reliability. Attention is also given to the environmental sustainability and scalability of chromic textile production, critical factors for their commercial and ecological viability. The objective is to provide a thorough resource and to highlight both the promise and the gaps that need addressing for real‐world deployment, particularly the need for standardized testing protocols, long-term durability assessments, and the development of sustainable, scalable chromic systems for next-generation smart textiles
Functional Correlation between Floral Style Length and Ovipositor Length in Ficus benghalensis – Eupristina masoni Mutualism across South India
No full textThe present study aimed to quantify the functional relationship between floral style length (stigma + style) in Ficus benghalensis and the ovipositor length of its obligate pollinator Eupristina masoni across ecologically distinct populations in South India. A total of Twenty-five receptive-phase flowers and 25 emerging female pollinating wasps were measured per site. Floral style length was recorded under a stereomicroscope, while ovipositor length was measured using an ocular micrometer. Summary statistics, Pearson’s correlations, ANOVA, and mismatch analyses were performed. Floral style length (mean = 1.76 mm) exceeded ovipositor length (mean = 1.50 mm) in most flowers, with only 38.5% of flowers having style length ≤ ovipositor length. Individual-level correlation between style and ovipositor length was statistically significant but modest (r = 0.313, P < .001), whereas site-level mean traits were strongly correlated (r = 0.817, P < .001). Both traits varied significantly among populations, with ovipositors showing lower within-site variation compared to floral styles. The Ficus benghalensis–Eupristina masoni mutualism exhibits strong but imperfect morphological matching. Geographic covariation suggests coevolution and local adaptation, but the consistent floral advantage (styles deeper than ovipositors) indicates an evolutionary balance favouring increased seed production over wasp brood success.
 
The Urban Heat Island Problem of Greater Kolkata, India
No full textKolkata, a major metropolitan area in India, is vulnerable to the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect due to rapid urbanisation and industrialisation. The city’s geographical and climatic conditions further exacerbate this phenomenon, resulting in significant impacts on the urban climate and public health. The UHI effect reflects the influence of climate change and human-induced stress on the natural environment, resulting in adverse health outcomes and higher energy consumption. This study examines the role of urban design and planning in contributing to UHI formation. It highlights the importance of integrating green infrastructure and energy-efficient solutions to reduce its effects.
Landsat-9 Level-2 Surface Reflectance and Thermal Infrared Sensor (TIRS) data were used to analyse UHI patterns and vegetation dynamics through indices such as the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Normalised Difference Built-up Index (NDBI), Land Surface Temperature (LST), and a standardised UHI Z-score. LST was derived by converting the thermal infrared band to brightness temperature and applying emissivity correction.
The results showed clear temperature differences between urban and rural areas, with certain regions experiencing strong UHI effects. The rise of the average temperature of 4.4 °C highlighted the need for improved urban planning and the use of green infrastructure to reduce the negative impacts of UHI. Recommendations are the construction of Green Mark commercial buildings, skyrise greenery, gardens, and national parks to reduce building-related environmental damage. Incorporating these measures into current planning and construction practices to support micro-climatic improvements in the Kolkata metropolitan city that contribute to its sustainable development
Chemical Analysis and Cost of Production of Probiotic Ambil Using Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) Flour
No full textThe present study was conducted at the Dairy Science Laboratory, Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairy Science, College of Agriculture, Dr. BSKKV, Dapoli (M.S.), to evaluate the quality parameters of Sorghum-based Probiotic Ambil enriched with varying levels (20%, 30%, 40%, and 50%) of Probiotic curd (L. acidophilus). The investigation focused on chemical composition, including total solids, fat, protein, ash, and crude fiber. Increasing the proportion of probiotic curd led to a decrease in total solids (12.75%) and crude fiber (1.49%), while fat (1.83%), protein (2.86%), and ash (1.33%) contents increased, enhancing the nutritional value. Cost analysis demonstrated that production cost increased with higher probiotic levels, with the most acceptable formulation (T3) costing Rs. 49.31/L. This study highlights the potential of Sorghum-based Probiotic Ambil, standardized with 40% L. acidophilus curd, as a nutritious and consumer-appealing traditional beverage
Farmers Purchasing Behaviour, Problems and Preference towards Various Brand of Chlorpyriphos 20% EC Insecticide for Castor Crop in Upleta Taluka of Rajkot District, Gujarat, India
No full textIndian agriculture is vital to the nation’s economy, employing a large portion of the population and contributing significantly to GDP. The sector uses both traditional and modern farming methods, supported by diverse climatic zones suitable for various crops. However, challenges such as small landholdings, erratic monsoons and limited irrigation persist. Pests like stink bugs and armyworms further threaten yields, leading farmers to rely heavily on insecticides like chlorpyriphos 20% EC. A study was conducted in Upleta Taluka, Rajkot, Gujarat, to understand farmers\u27 purchasing behavior and brand preferences. The survey of 200 farmers showed most are small-scale, middle-aged males with low to moderate education and income. Traditional irrigation is common and private dealers are the main source of insecticides. Key factors influencing purchases include price, quality and past experience, while financial constraints and limited credit pose significant challenges. Brand awareness is low, with farmers relying on dealers and peers for information
Nutraceuticals as a Natural Strategy for Diabetes Management
No full textDiabetes affects around 589 million adults worldwide between the ages of 20 and 79. In this particular age group, this amounts to 11.1% of the global population. With 83.8 million people having diabetes. India is the world\u27s diabetic capital. Moreover, it is estimated that India will have 156.7 million people with diabetes in 2050. According to projections, 853 million adults (13%) will have diabetes worldwide by 2050. In 2024, diabetes claimed the lives of more than 3.4 million people. This is equivalent to 9.3% of all deaths around the world, million diabetic patients, and 136 million pre-diabetic patients, or 17% of all diabetic patients worldwide. India is quickly becoming the world\u27s diabetic capital. The present study aimed to promote preventive measures for optimising type 2 diabetes mellitus through evidence-based information. Diabetes raises the possibility of further comorbidities such as damage to the kidneys, nerves, heart, and eyes. Incorrect lifestyle choices, such as unhealthy eating patterns and insufficient exercise, are the primary factors contributing to the rising incidence of diabetes. Therefore, an exhaustive lifestyle adjustment is necessary to manage diabetes and requires changes to basic or core behaviours. Throughout the years, nutraceuticals have been studied to combat the severe consequences of diabetes. Foods, food ingredients, or dietary supplements with health or medicinal claims are referred to as nutraceuticals. The commercial term "nutraceutical" is derived from the terms "pharmaceutical" and "nutrient". Herbal nutraceuticals are plant-based foods or portions of foods, such as oils, berries, roots, seeds, and flowers, that are meant to support health and heal illnesses. Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), Fenugreek seeds (Trigonella foenum-graecum), Dried ginger (Zingiber officinale), Curry leaf (Murraya koenigii), Jamun seeds (Syzygium cumini), Swertia chirayita (Gentianaceae) and Vijaysar (Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb) are some of the herbal nutraceuticals reported by researchers to have a wide spectrum of pharmacological properties, and they are anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory. With this knowledge, it will be possible to treat and manage type-2 diabetes more effectively, increasing its benefits to health and enhancing well-being
Advancements in the Use of Bayer Red Mud as a Sustainable Cementitious Material in Concrete: Challenges and Opportunities
No full textBayer red mud is an industrial waste residue formed in the alumina process produced by the Bayer process in the alumina plant. At present, the main disposal method of red mud is to send it to red mud dam for storage. Due to its high alkali content, it causes serious pollution to the surrounding environment and becomes an ecological problem to be solved urgently. In this paper, the application progress of Bayer red mud in concrete is summarized. This paper focuses on the possibility of red mud as a cementitious material and deeply discusses the influence of red mud on the working performance and mechanical properties of concrete. Finally, the shortcomings in the current research of red mud concrete are pointed out, to provide a reference for the research direction of Bayer red mud in concrete
Innovations and Challenges in Bast Fibre Extraction for Sustainable Development
No full textBast fibres, derived from the inner bark of plants such as jute, flax, hemp, and kenaf, play a significant role in various industries, including textiles, composites, and bioplastics. The extraction of these fibres is a crucial step that affects their quality and sustainability. However, traditional extraction methods, such as water and dew retting, while cost-effective, pose environmental challenges and yield inconsistent fibre quality. More advanced methods, including enzymatic, biological, and mechanical extractions, offer promising alternatives but come with their own set of challenges, such as high costs and process control issues. This review examines the current methods for bast fibre extraction, focusing on their limitations and the potential for innovation. Future research should aim at developing cost-effective enzymatic and biological retting techniques, recycling chemical effluents to minimize pollution, and integrating mechanical and enzymatic methods to optimize fibre quality. By addressing these challenges, it is possible to create a more sustainable and efficient extraction process for bast fibres, thereby improving their applicability in environmentally conscious industries