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Adaptation pathways for climate change mitigation using nature-based solutions: assessing retention ponds for flood hazard mitigation in the Tamnava Basin
No full textAs climate change exacerbates water-related hazards in rural and urban areas, the need for robust, flexible solutions to mitigate risks and enhance resilience has become increasingly urgent. Traditional ‘grey’ infrastructure has long dominated flood risk management; however, nature-based solutions (NBS) are gaining traction due to their adaptability, multifunctionality, and ability to provide co-benefits. This study quantified the effectiveness of retention ponds as NBS for reducing flood hazard and risk under current and future climate conditions, employing adaptive pathways and tipping point frameworks for implementing NBS measures in response to climate change. This was applied in Tamnava Basin, Serbia, using a three-step approach: development of future sub-daily rainfall depth–duration–frequency curves (DDF), NBS performance assessment and identification of tipping points and development of adaptive pathways. Coupling HEC-HMS and HEC-RAS models with GIS tools, the study estimated reductions in flood area, volume, and damage costs by 20–27%, 28–35%, and 40–47%, respectively, over the period from the present to 2100, depending on the retention pond configurations. Different adaptive pathway maps were developed, for rainfall return periods. These maps provide decision-makers with flexible, actionable options for implementing NBS measures, bridging the gap between short-term evaluations and long-term climate uncertainties
Experimental analysis of exposed concrete slabs through image analysis
No full textThe paper presents a comparative analysis of eight concrete slabs prepared under
laboratory conditions. The slabs were cast using formwork of varying quality, cured for 1 and 7
days, and compacted for 7s and 10 s. The comparison of properties, specifically the pore surface
area of different diameters, was conducted using image analysis software. The results show that
curing conditions had no significant effect on the surface characteristics of exposed concrete, while
both the type of formwork and compaction duration demonstrated a more significant influence
Risk Assessment in Road Work Zones Using Artificial Intelligence, Expert Evaluation, and Driver Surveys
No full textRoad work zones represent one of the most challenging segments in the traffic safety system, as they frequently involve sudden changes in traffic flow regulation, reduced vehicle speeds, the presence of construction machinery, and road workers operating within the roadway. Inadequate traffic signage and poorly marked work zones significantly increase the risk of traffic accidents, especially when drivers are not properly and timely informed. In order to analyze risk perception and assess safety in road work zones, a comprehensive study was conducted, covering three representative scenarios on three different road categories: state road category I (motorway), state road category II (main road), and an urban street (local road). The research included 146 drivers of various profiles (professional and non-professional drivers) and 15 experts from the fields of traffic and civil engineering. The results indicate a statistically significant difference in risk perception between the artificial intelligence model, drivers, and experts. Notably, drivers often underestimate the complexity and hazards present in both urban and non-urban work zones. Based on the findings, an integrated model is proposed, which can be implemented within navigation systems to provide real-time dynamic alerts to drivers and enhance safety in active work zones
Pyramid of Contribution Review: A Structured Model for Functional Literature Integration in Scientific Writing
No full textAlthough methodological innovations have reshaped many aspects of scientific writing, literature
reviews remain one of its most structurally underdeveloped and conceptually inconsistent components. Existing
approaches often fail to communicate the functional role of individual sources within the research argument,
leaving both readers and reviewers without a transparent sense of contribution, coherence, or originality. This
paper introduces the Pyramid of Contribution Review (PCR), a novel framework that visually and functionally
maps references according to their role in the manuscript (Introduction, Methodology, Results, Discussion, Gap)
and their level of relevance. Through a mixed-methods validation process, including expert-based Delphi design
(n = 28) and a large-scale evaluation survey (n = 118), the method was rigorously tested across disciplines.
Statistical analyses reveal that manuscripts perceived to employ the PCR model are 3.45 times more likely to be
rated as publishable compared to those relying on conventional narrative reviews. Experts overwhelmingly
endorsed the model for its clarity, strategic value, and pedagogical utility. This study positions the PCR framework
not only as a solution to a long-standing structural gap in scientific writing but as a forward-looking standard for
literature organization in high-impact research. The future of scholarly communication requires not just citation
density but citation precision, exactly what the PCR model provides
Industrial floor construction joint – Experimental and numerical analysis
No full textTransverse plane joints of concrete industrial ground floors are mostly constructed with various steel dowel geometry and arrangements to provide effective shear load transfer and prevent differential vertical movements. Several features of the construction joints can lead to the loss of the joint serviceability and resistance requirements, such as geometry misalignment, corrosion and joint lockup upon concrete casting. In addition, subsequent deterioration and damage of the exposed edges of the concrete surfaces have been indicated, influencing the serviceability of industrial floors and maintenance difficulties. Newly introduced construction joint geometry represents a functional solution of free-movement joints towards increasing construction efficiency and prevention of joint geometry misalignment and joint lockup upon concrete casting. The paper presents experimental tests and a comprehensive finite element analysis of the behaviour of the integral construction joint with steel dowels and embedded formwork. The experimental campaign covered testing of two orientations of the newly introduced construction joint to shear load. Numerical finite element analysis including the parametric study was performed to complement experimental results and reach a final stage of joint efficiency
Experimental investigation of RC frames with masonry infills decoupled from the frame using innovative rubber connection
No full textReinforced concrete (RC) frame structures with masonry infill walls are widely used in regions susceptible to earthquakes. During seismic events, infill walls are subjected to both in-plane and out-of-plane forces, often resulting in significant damage. Research has highlighted the combined impact of these forces, which not only endangers the infill walls but also the structur-al integrity of the building. Conventional mortar-based connections frequently fail under such stresses, leading to the collapse of the walls and increased shear forces on RC columns. To tackle this problem, a novel system called INODIS was introduced, utilizing recycled rubber strips to isolate the infill wall from the RC frame. This innovative approach was tested on full-scale models under quasi-static cyclic in-plane and out-of-plane loads. Initial cracking was ob-served at 2% drift, demonstrating the system’s ability to limit wall damage and reduce repair costs. Further testing under actual earthquake conditions on a shaking table revealed that a drift of 2.6% was achieved without any damage to the infill walls. A detailed experimental pro-gram confirmed that the INODIS system enhances seismic resilience while offering economic advantages by reducing the need for excessive reinforcement and concrete in structural com-ponents. The straightforward design approach ensures ease of implementation in practical ap-plications
Impact of the water-curing time on the carbonation initiation period of high-volume limestone powder concrete
No full textThe high-volume limestone powder concrete (HVLPC) is one of the potential CO2 mitigation strategies within ready-mixed concrete sector. As with other low-clinker concretes, its durability related properties, carbonation resistance especially, could present a problem in the structural applications. This work deals with the influence of the water-curing time on the carbonation initiation period of HVLPC. An experimental campaign was designed which included various curing times, from 1 day to 28 days. Beside the reference mix (ordinary Portland cement concrete - OPC), HVLPC mixes with three different percentages of limestone powder (LP) in the powder phase (47%, 58% and 65%), and with two different LP particle size distributions within each group, were designed to have similar compressive strength. All mixes were tested under accelerated and natural carbonation conditions. Test results showed significant impact of the curing time on the HVLPC carbonation resistance, but different from OPC. The Model Code 2020 prediction model was tested against test results and it was found that it largely overestimated the impact of curing duration for short curing times (1 and 3 days), while underestimated this impact for 14 and 28 days of curing. New expression for the execution transfer parameter kc was proposed based on the own experimental results
Advancing 3D reconstruction: Evaluating surveying techniques for medium-sized heritage objects
No full textThe spatial reconstruction of cultural heritage elements, based on reliable and optimally conducted measurements, plays a crucial role in their protection and preservation. Advances in measurement technologies, such as photogrammetry and laser scanning, have significantly improved 3D reconstruction and preservation of historic structures and artifacts. This paper presents a novel classification framework for medium-sized heritage objects to guide the selection of the most suitable 3D surveying techniques based on accuracy, cost-effectiveness, and preservation needs. Additionally, it provides a comprehensive comparative analysis of Terrestrial Laser Scanning and high-precision Close-Range Photogrammetry, with Industrial Scanning used as a reference standard. The proposed classification framework provides a structured approach for selecting the most suitable 3D reconstruction technique based on specific project requirements, aiding researchers and practitioners in making decisions regarding heritage documentation and conservation. As a case study, a late antique sacrificial Altar from Singidunum was surveyed using Terrestrial Laser Scanning and Close-Range Photogrammetry. The comparative analysis demonstrates that Close-Range Photogrammetry offers a highly detailed, accessible, and affordable solution, achieving sub-millimeter uncertainty, whereas Terrestrial Laser Scanning provides millimeter-level accuracy. Given its balance of accuracy, practicality, and cost, CRP proves optimal for scientific research and conservation strategies. Furthermore, the study confirms the applicability of the proposed classification framework for a wide range of small and medium-sized heritage objects. This framework enables standardized and informed decision-making when selecting 3D documentation techniques, thus contributing to more effective heritage documentation and preservation practices
Finite Element Method Analysis of Seismic Response of Confined Masonry Walls with Openings Built Using Polyurethane Glue
No full textThe seismic response of confined masonry (CM) walls, built from innovative hollow clay blocks featuring large thermal insulation cavities and bonded with polyurethane glue instead of thin-layer mortar, was investigated. A 3D micro-model was subsequently developed in Abaqus and validated against results from cyclic shear tests on fullscale CM wall specimens. Once validated, the model was utilized in an extensive parametric study to investigate the effects of openings on the walls. This parametric study considered the size of the opening, its position, the aspect ratio of the walls, and different sizes of tie-columns. The results showed that the size and placement of openings substantially and negatively affected seismic response, and that the detrimental effects can be alleviated by placing strong tie-columns next to the openings
Development of High-Precision Local and Regional Ionospheric Models Based on Spherical Harmonic Expansion and Global Navigation Satellite System Data in Serbia
No full textThe relationship between ionospheric research and global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) can be analysed through two approaches. The direct approach utilises ionospheric models to mitigate its influence, while the indirect approach leverages GNSS data to model ionospheric parameters. This study presents an indirect approach in which the total electron content (TEC), a fundamental parameter for ionospheric conditions, is modelled as a harmonic function using spherical harmonic (SH) expansion. Station-specific (local) and regional ionospheric models are developed by decomposing ionospheric influence into deterministic and stochastic components. GNSS data from seven evenly distributed stations in Serbia were used to estimate TEC coefficients. Local models were provided in the ION format as SH coefficients, allowing TEC determination at any epoch, while regional models had a 0.5∘×0.5∘ spatial and 2 h temporal resolution. The TEC root mean square (RMS) values ranged from 0.2 to 0.5 TECU (total electron content unit), with a mean of 0.3 TECU. Validation against global ionospheric maps showed agreement within 5.0 TECU. The impact of the SH expansion degree and order on TEC values was also analysed. These results refine regional ionospheric modelling, improving GNSS positioning accuracy in Serbia and beyond.This article belongs to the Special Issue GNSS Remote Sensing in Atmosphere and Environment (2nd Edition