The melon culture is one of the Brazilian horticultural crops, due to its productive potential and socio-economic role. It is recommended for the State of Goiás and the Federal District for it is easy to plant and having need of zoning of climatic conditions and thus, being able to perform their sowing. The present work used the Sarazon program to perform the water balance of the melon crop, for the 2nd, 4th and 6th five-day sowing dates in August, September and October and in relation to the water reserves in the soil of 50 mm and 75 mm. The data were spatialized using the SPRING 4.3 program. It was observed that the producers are performing in practice what can be demonstrated in theory that the period October 16–20 is the most indicated for sowing in soils of 50 mm of water reserve and October 6–10 the beginning of sowing in soil of 75 mm of water reserve for the cultivation of melon and have adequate profitability.

The expansion of road networks, taken place during the last decades, was driven by technological progress and economic growth. The most innovative products of this trend—modern motorways and international road corridors—provide an excellent level of service, traffic safety and necessary information to travelers. However, despite this undeniable progress, major impediments and respective challenges to road authorities and operators still remain. The present paper analytically presents the main current challenges in the road engineering field, namely: a) financing new projects, b) alternative energy resources, especially renewable energy, c) serviceability, including maintenance of road infrastructure, traffic congestion and quality of the network, d) climate change hazards due to greenhouse gas emissions increase, e) environmental impacts, f) safety on roads, streets and motorways, and g) economy and cost-effectiveness. In each country and over each network, challenges and concerns may vary, but, in most cases, competent authorities, engaged in road development policies, have to deal with most of these issues. The optimization of the means to achieve the best results seems to be an enduring stake. In the present paper, the origin and the main features of these challenges are outlined as well as their tendency to get amplified or diminished under the actual evolving economic conditions worldwide, where growth alternates with crisis and social hardship. Moreover, responses, meant to provide solutions to the said challenges, are suggested, including research findings of Aristotle University and innovative technological achievements, to drive the transition to a more sustainable future.

This paper argues for a novel approach to financing infrastructure needs in Arab countries. It first describes the context of rising public debt in the region, contrasting it with the vast infrastructure needs. It then discusses the challenges in meeting these needs with traditional financing. The paper then makes the case for maximizing finance for development by using public-private partnerships and presents a few successful examples in Arab countries. Finally, the paper explores the way forward and concludes on the need for strong state capacity and integrity to promote the “maximizing finance for development” approach.

Segregating the scavenging processes from the lubrication methodology is a very effective way of improving two-stroke cycle engine durability. The application of stepped or twin diameter pistons is one such method that has repeatedly shown significantly greater durability over comparable crankcase scavenged engines together with an ability to operate on neat fuel without any added oil. This research study presents the initial results observed from a gasoline/indolene fuelled stepped piston engine ultimately intended for Hybrid Electric Vehicle and/or Range Extender Electric Vehicle application using hydrogen fuelling. Hydrogen fuelling offers the potential to significantly reduce emissions, with near zero emission operation possible, and overcoming the serious issues of range anxiety in modern transport solutions. The low environmental impact is discussed along with results from 1-d Computational Fluid Dynamic modelling. The engine type is a low-cost solution countering the financial challenges of powertrain duplication evident with Hybrid Electric and Range Extender Electric Vehicles.

This research looks into the differences in technological practices across Gen-X, Gen-Y, and Gen-Z employees in the workplace, with an emphasis on motivation, communication, collaboration, and productivity gaps. The study uses a systematic literature review to identify factors that contribute to these variations, taking into account each generation’s distinct experiences, communication methods, working attitudes, and cultural backgrounds. Bridging generational gaps, providing ongoing training, and incorporating cross-generational and technology-enhanced practices are all required in today’s workplace. This study compares the dominating workplace generations, Gen-X and Gen-Y, with the emerging Gen-Z. A review of the literature from 2010 to 2023, which was narrowed down from 1307 to 20 significant studies, emphasizes the importance of organizational management adapting to generational changes in order to increase productivity and maintain a healthy workplace. The study emphasizes the need of creating effective solutions for handling generational variations in workplace.