bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phytochemical analysis and insight into insecticidal and antifungal activities of Indian hawthorn leaf extract
Authors: Khamis Wael M. , Behiry Said I. , Marey Samy A. , Al-Askar Abdulaziz A. , Amer Ghoname , Heflish Ahmed A. , Su Yiming , Abdelkhalek Ahmed , Gaber Mohamed K.
Published: October 2023

Fungicides or insecticides are popular means of controlling a variety of pathogens and insect pests; however, they can cause harmful effects on both human health and the environment. Different researchers have suggested using plant extracts, which have shown promise in managing fungi and insects. The purpose of this investigation was to explore the antifungal activities of an acetone extract made from the leaves of Indian Hawthorn (HAL) against phytopathogens that are known to harm maize crops,Fusarium verticillioides(OQ820154) andRhizoctonia solani(OQ820155), and to evaluate the insecticidal property againstAphis gossypiiGlover aphid. The HAL extract demonstrated significant antifungal activity against the two fungal pathogens tested, especially at the high dose of 2000 µg/mL. Laboratory tests on the LC20of HAL extract (61.08 mg/L) versus buprofezin 25% WP (0.0051 mg/L) were achieved onA. gossypiiGlover. HAL extract diminished the nymph's production over 72 h and their total reproductive rate. This extract was like buprofezin 25% WP in decreasing the daily reproductive rate, reproductive period, and mean survival percentage. Nevertheless, the newly-born nymphs of treated females with HAL extract attained the highest reduction in survival percentage at 46.00%. Equalized prolongations on the longevity of nymphs to 9.33, 8.33, and 7 days and the total life cycle to 15.00, 14.00, and 12.67 days were realized by HAL extract, buprofezin 25% WP, and the control, respectively. The olfactory choice test on the aphids showed the minimum attraction rate to HAL extract. The HPLC of HAL extract comprised an abundance of phenolic compounds (ferulic acid, gallic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, salicylic acid, ellagic acid, and pyrogallol), and the concentrations of these compounds vary widely, with salicylic acid being the most concentrated at 25.14 mg/mL. Among the flavonoids, epicatechin has the highest concentration at 11.69 mg/mL. The HAL extract GC–MS consists of various organic compounds, including sesquiterpenes, cyclopropenes, fatty acids, steroids, alcohols, ketones, esters, bufadienolides, opioids, and other organic compounds. The most abundant compounds in the sample aren-hexadecanoic acid (12.17%), followed by 5α, 7αH, 10α-eudesm-11-en-1α-ol (9.43%), and cis-13-octadecenoic acid (5.87%). Based on the findings, it can be inferred that the HAL extract may be a viable option for plants to combat both fungal and insect infestations. This presents an encouraging prospect for utilizing a natural and sustainable approach toward long-term pest management in plants.
Birefringence-derived artifact in optical coherence tomography imaging of the lamina cribrosa in eyes with glaucoma
Authors: Miura Masahiro , Makita Shuichi , Yasuno Yoshiaki , Nakagawa Hayate , Azuma Shinnosuke , Mino Toshihiro , Miki Atsuya
Published: October 2023

We investigated birefringence-derived artifacts that potentially mimic focal defects of the lamina cribrosa (focal LC defects) in optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging of eyes with glaucoma. This study included 74 eyes of 48 patients with glaucoma. Five horizontal line B-scan images of the optic disc were obtained using commercial swept-source OCT. From a dataset of prototype swept-source polarization-diversity OCT, we calculated the following types of OCT images: polarization-dependent, polarization-dependent attenuation-coefficient, polarization-independent, and polarization-independent attenuation-coefficient. We assessed the commercial OCT images for the presence of birefringence-derived artifacts by comparison with the polarization-diversity OCT images. Commercial OCT showed suggestive findings of focal LC defects in 17 of 74 eyes. Reevaluation using polarization-independent OCT revealed that the focal LC defects in one of 17 eyes (5.9%) were actually birefringence-derived artifacts. This study demonstrated the existence of birefringence-derived artifacts mimicking focal LC defects in commercial OCT imaging and indicated that polarization-diversity OCT is an effective tool to evaluate the presence of these artifacts.
Larvicidal potential, toxicological assessment, and molecular docking studies of four Egyptian bacterial strains against Culex pipiens L. (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Mansour Tokaa , Radwan Wafaa H. , Mansour Menna , Gomaa Mohamed , Farouk Farouk , Shepl Mohamed , Soliman Ahmed G. , Abd-Elhalim Basma T. , El-Senosy Mohamed M. K. , Bakry Ashraf , Ebeed Naglaa M. , Alsenosy Neima K. , Elhariry Hesham , Galal Ahmed , El-Sayed Salwa M. , Adly Eslam , Abu-Hussien Samah H.
Published: October 2023

Mosquito control in Egypt depends on applying chemical synthetic pesticides that impact negatively on human health and the environment as well as the development of antibiotic and chemical resistance. This study aims to control the 3rd and 4th instars of Culex pipiens larvae using four bacterial strains. According to Phenotypic and molecular identification, the four isolates were identified as Bacillus subtilis MICUL D2023, Serratia marcescens MICUL A2023, Streptomyces albus LARVICID, and Pseudomonas fluorescens MICUL B2023. All strains were deposited in GenBank under accession numbers OQ764791, OQ729954, OQ726575, and OQ891356, respectively. Larvicidal activity of all microbial strain metabolites against a field strain of C. pipiens explored low LC50 results and reached its lowest values on the 3rd day with values of 6.40%, 38.4%, and 46.33% for P. fluorescens, S. albus, and S. marcescens, respectively. In addition, metabolites of P. fluorescence were more toxic than those of S. albus, followed by S. marcescens. B. subtilis shows no larvicidal effect on both field and lab mosquito strains. Microscopic alterations of 3rd and 4th instars showed toxic effects on different body parts (thorax, midgut, and anal gills), including losing external hairs, abdominal breakage, and larvae shrinkage, as well as different histological malformations in the digestive tract, midgut, and cortex. GC–MS analysis detected 51, 30, and 32 different active compounds from S. albus, S. marcescens, and P. fluorescens, respectively. GC detected 1, 2-BENZEA2:A52NEDICARBOXYLIC ACID, 2-Cyclohexene-1-carboxylic-acid-5-2-butenyl-methyl ester, and 3 octadecahydro2R3S4Z9Z-11R-12S from S. albus, S. marcesens, and P. fluorescens, respectively. Total protein, Total carbohydrate, and Acetylcholine esterase activity indicated significantly low levels on the 3rd day. All strain metabolites were safe against HSF cell lines. The docking results confirmed the role of the produced metabolites as larvicidal agents and Acetylcholine esterase inhibition. Such a problem need more studies on applying more and more natural pesticides.
Effect of hyperthermia on intestinal microecology, immune function, and progression-free survival in patients with advanced unresectable lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Tian Jin , Long Lin , Zang Jianhua , Liu Wei , Liu Peng , Zhao Lili , Liang Xin , Xiao Jun
Published: October 2023

This study aims to investigate the effects of hyperthermia on intestinal microecology, immune function, and progression-free survival of patients with advanced unresectable lung adenocarcinoma. A total of twenty patients with lung adenocarcinoma in the study group received the advanced standard first-line treatment protocol, which included pemetrexed + cisplatin combined with sintilimab immunotherapy and hyperthermia. Additionally, twenty patients with lung adenocarcinoma in the control group received the advanced standard first-line treatment protocol, which included pemetrexed + cisplatin combined with sintilimab immunotherapy. The T-lymphocyte subpopulation and CD4/CD8 cell ratio of each sample were detected using flow cytometry. The intestinal flora was evaluated using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The study observed the changes in the abundance, distribution, composition, and structure of fecal gut microorganisms before and after the treatment in both groups of patients. Significant differences were observed in the intestinal flora between the two groups. The patients in the study group showed improved immunity after treatment, whereas there was no significant change in the immunity of the control group before and after treatment. However, the difference in progression-free survival between the two groups was not statistically significant. Hyperthermia has a significant impact on improving the microecology of intestinal flora and the immunity of patients, but it does not have a significant effect on prolonging the progression-free survival of patients.
A novel noble metal stent coating reduces in vitro platelet activation and acute in vivo thrombosis formation: a blinded study
Authors: Sandell Mikael , Ericsson Anna , Al-Saadi Jonathan , Södervall Billy , Södergren Erika , Grass Stefan , Sanchez Javier , Holmin Staffan
Published: October 2023

Inherent to any stenting procedure is the prescription of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) to reduce the platelet response. Clinical guidelines recommend 6–12 months of DAPT, depending on stent type, clinical picture and patient factors. Our hypothesis is that a nanostructured noble metal coating has the potential to reduce protein deposition and platelet activation. These effects would reduce subsequent thrombo-inflammatory reactions, potentially mitigating the need for an extensive DAPT in the acute phase. Here, a noble metal nanostructure coating on stents is investigated. Twelve pigs underwent endovascular implantation of coated and non-coated stents for paired comparisons in a blinded study design. The non-coated control stent was placed at the contralateral corresponding artery. Volumetric analysis of angiographic data, performed by a treatment blinded assessor, demonstrated a significant thrombus reduction for one of the coatings compared to control. This effect was already seen one hour after implantation. This finding was supported by in vitro data showing a significant reduction of coagulation activation in the coated group. This novel coating shows promise as an implant material addition and could potentially decrease the need for DAPT in the early phases of stent implementation.
Mapping canopy traits over Québec using airborne and spaceborne imaging spectroscopy
Authors: Miraglio Thomas , Coops Nicholas C. , Wallis Christine I. B. , Crofts Anna L. , Kalacska Margaret , Vellend Mark , Serbin Shawn P. , Arroyo-Mora Juan Pablo , Laliberté Etienne
Published: October 2023

The advent of new spaceborne imaging spectrometers offers new opportunities for ecologists to map vegetation traits at global scales. However, to date most imaging spectroscopy studies exploiting satellite spectrometers have been constrained to the landscape scale. In this paper we present a new method to map vegetation traits at the landscape scale and upscale trait maps to the continental level, using historical spaceborne imaging spectroscopy (Hyperion) to derive estimates of leaf mass per area, nitrogen, and carbon concentrations of forests in Québec, Canada. We compare estimates for each species with reference field values and obtain good agreement both at the landscape and continental scales, with patterns consistent with the leaf economic spectrum. By exploiting the Hyperion satellite archive to map these traits and successfully upscale the estimates to the continental scale, we demonstrate the great potential of recent and upcoming spaceborne spectrometers to benefit plant biodiversity monitoring and conservation efforts.
Diospyros montana mediated reduction, stabilization, and characterization of silver nanoparticles and evaluation of their mosquitocidal potentiality against dengue vector Aedes albopictus
Authors: Malla Rajesh Kumar , Chandra Goutam
Published: October 2023

Recent research has focused on nanoparticles. Aedes albopictus is a potential vector that transmits fatal diseases. Recently, Phyto-reduced silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were shown to be mosquito larvicides. This study aimed to synthesize silver nanoparticles using Diospyros montana leaf extract, characterize them, and test their efficacy as larvicide and pupicide against Ae. albopictus mosquitoes, determine their duration of effectiveness as a larvicide, identify plant compounds that help to synthesize nanoparticles, and assess their effects on non-target organisms. Quercetin, luteolin, kaempferol, gallocatechin gallate, epigallocatechin gallate, and capsaicin are among the novel reducing and capping agents found in D. montana leaf through LCMS analysis. The color shift and distinctive peak in UV–Vis spectroscopy made it simple to see how biogenic AgNPs were produced by converting Ag+ ions into Ag0. Substantial negative value (− 19.10 mv) of zeta potential demonstrated the long-term stability of AgNPs. A moderate range (8.72 − 50.75 nm) of particle size distribution pattern was obtained using the DLS technique. SEM and TEM images depicted the quasi-spherical (or polyhedral) and spherical shape of the nanoparticles, having approximately 16.75 nm average size. Synthesized AgNPs had a low LC90 value (< 10 ppm) for all larval instars and pupae of Ae. albopictus and had negligible mal effect on non-target organisms. Regression equations showed dose-dependent mortality by the positive correlation between mortality rate and AgNPs concentration, and each time the regression coefficient (R2) value was larger than zero. This study shows that D. montana leaf extract is an environment-friendly and sustainable source of an effective reducing and capping agent to synthesize highly stable, ecologically acceptable silver nanoparticles and their application as mosquitocide.
Quantifying left ventricular myocardial strain in patients with different CAD-RADS levels based on computed tomography feature tracking technology
Authors: Li Na , Zhang Lijie , Wu Hongying , Liu Jia , Cao Yukun , Li Yumin , Yu Jie , Han Xiaoyu , Shao Guozhu , Yang Ming , Gu Jin , Chen Lina , Wang Jiangtao , Shi Heshui
Published: October 2023

To evaluate myocardial strain in patients with different coronary artery disease-reporting and data system (CAD-RADS) levels using the computed tomography (CT) feature tracking technology and to investigate the relationship of myocardial strain with coronary artery calcium scores (CACs) and the degree of coronary artery stenosis. We prospectively enrolled 237 consecutive patients to undergo coronary CT angiography. The participants were divided into the following groups: control (n = 87), CAD-RADS 1 (n = 43), CAD-RADS 2 (n = 43), CAD-RADS 3 (n = 38), and CAD-RADS 4 and above (n = 26). Myocardial strains were analyzed by commercial software, and CACs and coronary stenosis were assessed on post-processing stations. Differences between multiple groups were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance or the Kruskal–Wallis test. Logistic regression were used to analyze the effects of dichotomous variables. As the CAD-RADS level increased, the global circumferential strain (GCS), global longitudinal strain (GLS) and global radial strain (GRS) of the left ventricle based on CT gradually decreased. A significant correlation was observed between global myocardial strain and CACs (GRS: r =  − 0.219, GCS: r = 0.189, GLS: r = 0.491; P < 0.05). The independent predictors of obstructive CAD were age (β = 0.065, odds ratio [OR] = 1.067, P = 0.005), left ventricular ejection fraction (β = 0.145, OR = 1.156, P = 0.047), and GLS (β = 0.232, OR = 1.261, P = 0.01). CT-derived GLS of the left ventricle is correlated with CAD-RADS levels and CACs. It may be a better indicator than CACs to reflect the severity of CAD.
Effect of high-speed sintering on the marginal and internal fit of CAD/CAM-fabricated monolithic zirconia crowns
Authors: Lee Seulgi , Choi Gyujin , Choi Jinhyeok , Kim Youngjun , Kim Hee-Kyung
Published: October 2023

This study compared the marginal and internal fit of zirconia crowns fabricated using conventional and high-speed induction sintering. A typodont mandibular right first molar was prepared and 60 zirconia crowns were fabricated: 30 crowns using conventional sintering and 30 crowns using high-speed sintering. We presented a new evaluation methodology to measure the marginal and internal fit of restorations through digital scanning, aligning the two datasets, and measuring the distance between two arbitrary point sets of the datasets. For the marginal fit, we calculated the maximum values of the shortest distances between the marginal line of the prepared tooth and that of the crown. The calculated values ranged from 359 to 444 μm, with smaller values for the high-speed sintered crowns (P < 0.05). For the internal fit, we employed mesh sampling and computed the geodesic distances between the prepared tooth surface and the crown intaglio surface. The measured values ranged from 177 to 229 μm with smaller values for the high-speed sintered crowns, but no significant difference was found (P > 0.05). Based on our results, the high-speed sintering method can be considered a promising option for single-visit zirconia treatment in dental practice.
Advantages, Limitations, Future Expectations, and Commercialization Challenges of Surfactant Sensors
Authors: Karpagavinayagam P. , Alwin David S. , Vedhi C.
Published: October 2023

A device that responds to a variety of external signals is known as a sensor. In recent years, there has been a lot of interest in the academic literature for various sensor applications. The comprehensive highlights of the fundamentals associated with these assemblies and the impact of these surfactants on the properties and sensing mechanisms are still quite alarming, despite the critical role these surfactants play in sensing applications. By providing crucial insights into the advantages, limitations, future expectations, and commercialization challenges of these surfactant sensors, this chapter attempts to organize the extensive literature in this field.
Affinity- and activity-based probes synthesized from structurally diverse hops-derived xanthohumol flavonoids reveal highly varied protein profiling in Escherichia coli
Authors: Webber Lucas C. , Anderson Lindsey N. , Paraiso Ines L. , Metz Thomas O. , Bradley Ryan , Stevens Jan F. , Wright Aaron T.
Published: October 2023

Xanthohumol, the principle prenylflavonoid found in hops (Humulus lupulus) and a reported anti-inflammatory agent, has great potential for pharmaceutical interventions related to inflammatory disorders in the gut.
White sustainable luminescent determination of nifuroxazide using nitrogen–sulphur co-doped carbon quantum dots nanosensor in bulk and various pharmaceutical matrices
Authors: Elnaggar Mai M. , El-Yazbi Amira F. , Belal Tarek S. , Elbardisy Hadil M.
Published: October 2023

Nifuroxazide (NFX) fluorimetric determination via quenching nitrogen–sulphur co-doped carbon quantum dots (NSC-dots) luminescence intensity.
Novel side chain functionalized polystyrene/O-PBI blends with high alkaline stability for anion exchange membrane water electrolysis (AEMWE)
Authors: Hager Linus , Hegelheimer Manuel , Stonawski Julian , Freiberg Anna T. S. , Jaramillo-Hernández Camilo , Abellán Gonzalo , Hutzler Andreas , Böhm Thomas , Thiele Simon , Kerres Jochen
Published: October 2023

A new material comprising a functionalized polystyrene and O-PBI showing excellent stability and performance in anion exchange membrane water electrolysis is introduced.
Specific capacitance of graphene oxide–metal interfaces at different deoxygenation levels
Authors: Hossein-Babaei Faramarz , Naemidehkharghani Mehrdad , Razmand Reza
Published: October 2023

GO/M interfaces are categorized into two distinct types with 10−4 times different specific capacitances.
Enhancement of thermoelectric properties of CuFeS2 through formation of spinel-type microprecipitates
Authors: Tippireddy Sahil , Azough Feridoon , Bhui Animesh , Mikulska Iuliia , Freer Robert , Biswas Kanishka , Vaqueiro Paz , Powell Anthony V.
Published: October 2023

Efforts to substitute chromium into chalcopyrite, CuFeS2, lead to preferential formation of chromium-rich spinel-type microprecipitates, which alter the transport properties and increase zT by a factor of three.
Catalytically proficient ceria nanodots supported on redox-active mesoporous hosts for treatment of inflammatory bowel disease via efficient ROS scavenging
Authors: Wang Hailing , Wang Liucan , Chen Yuhua , Huang Jixi , Xing Yuxin , Wang Lu , Zhang Jixi , Yang Hua
Published: October 2023

Efficient IBD therapy was achieved using a ROS scavenger consisting of ceria nanodots supported on redox-active mesoporous hosts. This work paves a new avenue for manipulating Ce3+/Ce4+ redox pairs toward reshaping the immune microenvironment.
A supercapacitive all-inorganic nano metal–oxide complex: a 180° super-bendable asymmetric energy storage device
Authors: Bansal Love , Kandpal Suchita , Ghosh Tanushree , Rani Chanchal , Sahu Bhumika , Rath Deb Kumar , Kumar Rajesh
Published: October 2023

A complementary redox-pair, WO3 and Co3O4, was used to study their charge storage abilities by making a solid-state flexible device. The device shows 100% retention of device parameters even after 180 degree bending.
Dicyanobenzene passivated perovskite solar cells with enhanced efficiency and stability
Authors: Nurzhanov Merlan , Mathur Avi , Li Yaoyao , Khamgaonkar Saikiran , Jeon Sung Jae , Maheshwari Vivek , Li Yuning
Published: October 2023

Dicyanobenzene (DCB), a weak Lewis base, effectively passivates perovskite films by eliminating residual PbI2, enhancing crystallinity, and reducing trap state density, thus enhancing perovskite solar cell performance and stability.
Urban ecological framework as an optimal mechanism for managing the development of urban areas
Authors: Tolovenkova Darya
Published: October 2023

The urban ecological framework is the systematisation of several frameworks in the city and beyond, connected with each other by actual bonds. However, they are often torn apart and not joined in urban planning documents and rules. This especially affected the Soviet and post-Soviet school of planning, both in theory and in practice. Having a rich knowledge base in practical and scientific fields, there are systemic inconsistencies in regulatory documents. This seriously impacts on the design and implementation results. Strong negative consequences of not being connected into a single mechanism of urban-ecological frameworks are revealed during the operation of finished objects. All this leads to an increase in costs in the long run. All these factors add up to negative consequences for human health and together result in economic losses and costs. The outcomes summed up by economists and doctors only fix the actual state, but medical and economic theory does not have methods for changing the situation in cities seriously. This requires an alliance with the methods of planning and development of urban and adjacent territories, as well as making changes to the regulatory and legal documents of cities.
Territories selection criteria for integrated development of residential areas in Russian cities
Authors: Maksimov Sergey , Zasyad-Volk Vladimir , Shelest Ksenia
Published: October 2023

The relevance of the article is determined by the development of projects and programs implementation for the integrated development of territories (IDT) in Russian cities. A necessary condition for the IDT effectiveness as a form of urban development is a methodological basis of the territories selection, involved in the integrated development, taking into account main stakeholders of the urban community: population, city authorities, business. etc. Authors have made an analysis of the current practice of implementing IDT projects in different regions of Russia, positions presented in the expert community on this issue and propose their own approach, according to which the IDT mechanism should be primarily applied to depressed urban areas. The article defines depressive territories, their signs and criteria of allocation. The urban development potential of the territory was assessed, taking into account its significance for the city. As a result of the research, there was proposed an assessment of the economic efficiency of the IDT as an investment project, on the basis of which a decision of its implementation could be made, taking into account necessary and possible participation of city authorities and other stakeholders involved in the process.
Cooperative development of cities and universities of the Russian Federation in the new economic space
Authors: Jixiang Gao , Zhemulin Sergey , Glezman Ludmila , Fedoseeva Svetlana
Published: October 2023

The importance of education, knowledge and science in today’s world cannot be overstated. The competitiveness of an educational organisation depends on the development of the urban space in which it is located. Transformation processes in society have led to changes in the formats of interaction in the system “city-university” from the perspective of considering the city as a consumer of highly qualified personnel and commercialised innovations, and universities as an environment for creating innovations, knowledge and a source of highly qualified personnel, actualising the trend of their joint development in order to build up intellectual and innovative potential. Based on the comparative analysis and comparison of data from open scientific publications and the most famous world and Russian ratings, the paper studies Russian cities and universities, which occupy a leading position in the country in the field of education from the viewpoint of their attractiveness for education at the national and global levels. The peculiarities of the most attractive Russian cities for education are outlined. The necessity of stimulating the demand for innovative education on the part of urban business structures within the Triple Helix concept is highlighted.
A systematic framework for evolutionary multi-objective optimization to complex building design problems at the early design stage
Authors: Sahnoune Sara , Benhassine Nassira
Published: October 2023

As in biology, multi-objective evolutionary algorithms cross-reference various design parameters in the search to maximize or minimize one or more specific objectives, thus finding the best solution for the specified purposes. In addition, it is possible to perform the appendment of many variables simultaneously and make numerous real-time simulations. This paper proposes a systematic framework for evolutionary multi-objective optimization to complex building design problems at the early stage. The framework is demonstrated by optimizing the courtyard geometry as a case study. The methods include generating courtyard geometry (i.e., height/width ratios and orientations) as design variables according to solar geometry. Simulations are explored, providing recommendations to maximize solar access in winter and filled shade during summer. The outcomes are a framework resumed systematically to address the contrasting objectives of the given building problems. The framework’s application can adapt to each case’s architectural, environmental, and technical criteria.
Post Occupancy Evaluation of the Luminous Environment in Algerian University Classrooms
Authors: Benharkat Sarah , Benhalilou Karima , Bouarroudj Radia
Published: October 2023

The luminous environment is one of the most important physical parameters in a teaching space (classroom) due to its impact on the intellectual performance of students, their health and their behavior. The aim of this study is to evaluate the luminous environment in university classrooms located in Constantine, the main university hub of the East of Algeria. A Post Occupancy Evaluation (POE) based on the objective and subjective assessment was carried out at the Department of Psychology of Constantine 2 University in North and West facing classrooms. This study was conducted during the three periods: winter, spring and summer, under clear sky and overcast sky conditions. The objective variables measured by a luxmeter during each course session are: indoor illuminance levels (Ei) on work plan, vertical illuminance levels on boards (Ev), uniformity index (Uo) and outdoor illuminance levels (Ex). At the same time, students perception and satisfaction were reported by a longitudinal questionnaire (N=1221) using subjective scales. The objective assessment shows that the mean interior illuminance is dependent of the sky-type, and it varies with outdoor illuminance. We notice that illuminance levels in north classroom are below the recommended value especially under overcast sky. The illuminance levels in west facing classroom are excessive during the afternoon under clear sunny sky. However, students show a remarkable degree of adaptation to different light levels. They use controls to modify the light level at their work plans.
Feasibility study of the UXindoor framework in two public office buildings: A standardized approach to scoring indoor user experience with qualitative and quantitative techniques
Authors: Andreou Eleni , Vartholomaios Aristotelis , Antoniou Angeliki , Axarli Kleoniki
Published: October 2023

A human-centered strategy is crucial for effective energy retrofits, as the subjective experience of occupants directly affects the energy performance of buildings. To address this, we introduce UXindoor, a standardized scoring framework for assessing the User eXperience (UX) of Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ). UXindoor is a key component of the PRIME Energy-Indoor project, which aims to guide integrated building energy retrofits based on real energy usage and IEQ data. The framework utilizes questionnaires, handheld instruments, and IoT environmental sensors in a unitary assessment framework. This feasibility study presents the results of the pilot-testing of the framework in two public buildings in Thessaloniki, Greece over a six-month period from September 2022 to February 2023. The study discusses the advantages of the proposed system as well as its limitations.
Enhancement of indigenous microalgae culture using cheese whey as growth media for bioenergy and coproducts production
Authors: Amouri Mohammed , Belkhodja Sara , Masrour Soraya , Kaidi Fayrouz , Aziza Majda
Published: October 2023

This study investigates the use of cheese whey to enhance the microalgae cultivation for bioenergy and coproducts in the framework of circular economy and pollution attenuation. A local isolated indigenous Chlorella vulgaris strain using a growth medium containing BG11 and cheese whey (BG11/CW) was used. Algae density, dry weight, organic carbon consumption, biochemical composition, fatty acid profile, Total pigments were investigated. The best growth is obtained in the BG11/CW culture media, with a dry biomass and cell density of 2.5 g/L, 6.5×107 Cells/ml, respectively. This represents 5 times the dry biomass obtained in the BG11medium (0.45 g/L, 1.68×107 cells/ml). Indigenous Chlorella vulgaris growth is favored by glycose availability after lactose degradation with a consumption of 62% on the 7th day. Pigments content was improved with an average value of 34.5 mg/gDW and 9 mg/mgDW for total chlorophylls and carotenoids, respectively. Chlorella vulgaris cultivation on BG11/CW has showed a high protein content with a value of 46%. Indigenous Chlorella vulgaris was able to accumulate a suitable lipid content that could reach 23%, which are rich in C16:00, C18:00, C18:1. This strain is a potential candidate for a sustainable bioenergy and coproducts that could contribute efficiently to promote the circular economy.
Review of composite environmental indicators
Authors: Gareiou Zoe , Gizani Nectaria , Laskari Iro , Mavromati Irene , Zervas Efthimios
Published: October 2023

Indicators are used in almost every scientific field to quantify and/or record and/or follow the evolution of a specific parameter. Environmental indicators are related to the environment quality and are specifically used to monitor the quality of the environment and to measure the environmental performance. They can be categorized into specific, composite and personal environmental indicators. A review of the composite environmental indicators used in the literature are presented here. Composite environmental indicators include indicators coming from the synthesis of specific indicators or cover the relationships between the environment and the economic and social sectors. The main composite environmental indicators reported in the literature are: Sustainable Development Goals Index, Ecological Footprint, Environmental Performance Index, Environmental Sustainable Index, Air Quality Index, Policy Performance Index, Genuine Progress Indicator, Living Planet Index and Bhutan Gross National Happiness Index.
Capitalist Discourse framing of environmental issues
Authors: Amaglobeli Givi
Published: October 2023

The article discusses the issue of framing of Environmental Issues from an ideological perspective(s). We will try to show how the main ideological paradigms identify, frame and present the basic issues of ecology, in general. The theoretical basis for our deliberation is a concept of discourse analysis, where specific issues are being examined though a language use. For this purpose, we mainly focus on a specific type of discourse – a Capitalist Discourse and try to show how it manages to frame all important environmental issues in a specific manner in terms of justifying the current status quo, that is – economic necessity/utility/profitability principles. The notion of Capitalist Discourse is borrowed from J. Lacan’s Theory of Four Discourses, where the notion under discussion is being identified as an additional, fifth type of discourse which is a variation of discourse of the master, which takes a hysterical position in order to create an impression that it stands on the side of those who are subject to the discourse of the master, when in fact, it secretly serves and pursues the interests of the later. Another endeavor in examining the subject is to focus/identify specific linguistic strategies intended to frame/re-frame the environmental issues using various euphemisms
Impact of land use types on soil moisture dynamics of loamy soils
Authors: Maleknia Parisa , Ugwonoh Nelson , Czigány Szabolcs
Published: October 2023

In the last decades, drought has been a significant climate hazard in the Carpathian Basin. In this study, we investigated the soil moisture dynamics (SM) of three different land use types (pasture, ploughland, and orchard) in the Transdanubian Hills (SW Hungary). The soil moisture, matric potential and rainfall were measured between January 1, 2019 and February 28, 2023. Two monitoring stations were installed at each study site on the shoulder and at the toeslope positions. The study has revealed that the textural types of the study sites were silt loam, clay loam, and silt. The pasture had the most positive water balance, whereas the orchard had the most negative, especially in 2022 when trees were removed. The mean soil moisture values were 0.26, 0.21, and 0.21 for the pasture, ploughland and orchard for 10 cm, and 0.3, 0.22, and 0.22 for the pasture, ploughland and orchard for 30 cm, respectively. Moisture differences were relatively minor between the three sites, however, soil moisture dynamics were influenced by farming practices. Hence, site-specific mapping and analyses of factors responsible for efficient moisture retention are indispensable for the maximization of agricultural productivity and the optimization of the efficiency of ecosystem services. Our results could be used for the promotion of sustainable agricultural activities where loamy soils and subhumid continental climates prevail.
Financing for the protection and development of forests and the forest environment in Greece
Authors: Giakoumi Eleni , Arabatzis Garyphallos
Published: October 2023

This paper investigates the contribution of Greek forestry financing to the conservation, protection and restoration of the country’s forest ecosystems and the utilization of available financial resources in the formulation of forestry policy. The structure of national financial resources in the forestry sector and their allocation to the country’s forestry services for the implementation of corresponding projects are examined. Particular emphasis is placed on the financing of the country’s forestry services from national resources of the Public Investment Program. The data are processed with the hierarchical grouping method of multivariate statistics in combination with descriptive statistics. The allocations of funding and their respective absorptions are analysed by clusters. The identification of clusters contributes to the creation of a clearer perception of the problems of the mountainous area and to the assessment of the possibilities of its more rational development, creating the conditions for the selection of alternative solutions. This typological survey of forestry financing is considered important in the context of the effort to correctly capture the needs and possibilities of exploiting financial resources, as well as for the accurate planning and programming of actions in the field of forestry per regional unit.
The Effect of Urban Green Spaces on Air Pollution Reduction: A Case of Ahmedabad
Authors: Suhane Shweta , Polara Rujvi , Gajjar Avni , Agrawal Ritu , Sharma Utpal
Published: October 2023

Ahmedabad city struggles with one of the highest ambient air pollution levels in India. To reduce the air pollutants, urban green spaces can be considered one of the best options. In the study, few physical variables, like plant stature and morphology, are considered. This paper covers the aspect of vegetation for analysing pollution mitigation. Four Urban Forest (UF) sites from four different zones, differentiated by the land use of each site, of the city of Ahmedabad have been selected, Physical variables of each of these Urban Forest sites were collected. Consequently, an air monitoring station was selected from within 4 km radius of these sites. The selected urban forests were introduced in 2019-20. Pollutant concentration data from before UF and after UF (2016-2021) of each site was extracted from all the stations. This data was then compared with the physical variables of UF to determine the AQI change in the area throughout the years. The findings showed improved the concentration of pollutant in each of the 4 sites. Factors like number of trees and tree species in each site played an important role in pollutant reduction. To understand the role of urban forests, NDVI analysis was conducted of the sites.
Road network, CO2 emissions, linked to sustainable development: A European analysis
Authors: Asimakopoulou Maria Nikoletta , Kehagia Fotini
Published: October 2023

The issue of road transport and the environment is paradoxical. Road mobility provides substantial socioeconomic benefits, supporting the mobility demands of passengers and freight. On the other side, road transport activities are associated with negative environmental impacts. The transport sector is responsible for approximately one quarter of greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, the transport sector accounted for 57% of global oil demand and 28% of total energy consumption. The main aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between investment in road infrastructure and CO2 emissions, in the European countries, depending on the level of economic development of a country. The analysis was conducted in three separate groups: low-income, middle-income and high-income countries, according to their Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The latest IRF World Road Statistics (WRS) edition of 2022, covering data for the years 2015 to 2020, is the database which provide data for the analysis of the connection between the road networks and environmental consequences, expressed in specific indicators, in different countries.
A scientometric analysis of cycling and the case study of the city of Ioannina
Authors: Anagnostopoulos Apostolos , Tsompikos Andreas , Kehagia Fotini
Published: October 2023

In urban areas, cycling as a sustainable mode of transport contributes to creating more liveable and vibrant urban environments. They take up less space than cars, reduce noise pollution, and create a human-scale, people-friendly atmosphere. This paper provides an environmental and sustainable scan of the literature on bicycles using established systematic literature review approach. The main issues the existing literature is dealing with according to the identified clusters can be categorized into four main categories that rely on environment-oriented, infrastructure-oriented, safety-oriented and health-oriented research fields, where the majority of research has been focused during the analysis period. Moreover, in this study, the implementation and use of cycling in the city of Ioannina is examined. The technical characteristics of the existing cycling paths in the city, the policy and the behavioral aspect of the people are presented by analyzing the responses of 102 residents of Ioannina in a structured questionnaire.
Design for urban biodiversity: Flourishing the vertical plane
Authors: Geropanta Vasiliki , Ampatzoglou Triantafyllos , Parthenios Panagiotis , Karagianni Anna
Published: October 2023

Nature-based solutions (NBS) emphasize the importance of linking biodiversity conservation with climate-resilient and sustainable development plans. In the built environment, artificial ecosystems, such as vertical gardens (VG), cannot be considered NBS if factors such as biodiversity and sustainability are disregarded. This project demonstrates the workflow of incorporating the suitable plant composition in the process of designing a conceptual VG, in a case study in Athens, Greece, while additionally explores the vegetation influence in buildings’ microclimate. Initially, the process relies on digitizing data pertaining to suitable native plant species along with their growth and maintenance parameters; this further enables the establishment of criteria for selecting plants for VG within the architectural proposal. In the second part, a conceptual design experiment of a VG is conducted, where the selected plant species are evaluated in terms of site-specific characteristics, before reflecting on the prospects of the process, in the third part. As a result, this work demonstrates a design approach that is extended to harness local plant capital for the benefit of urban biodiversity. In doing so, it promotes transdisciplinarity by merging different concepts into a coherent, valuable research set that is replicable and accessible to all.
Measuring urban identity. Comparative analysis of previous studies
Authors: Apostolou Georgianna , Tasopoulou Anastasia
Published: October 2023

Urban identity is a composite idea that dates back to the 1960s and combines the concept of identity with urban features. It consists of both objective elements, such as a city’s characteristics, as well as subjective elements, such as perception, feeling and connection to a place. Urban identity has been mainly studied in relation to sense of place and place attachment, but it has also been studied, to a smaller extent, in relation to urban planning, public space and tourism. This study summarizes previously conducted research on urban identity, with a focus on studies that address the objective aspect of urban identity and especially those whose point of interest is on urban planning and public space. With a particular emphasis on quantitative research, the objective is to present the fields in which urban identity has been studied and the parameters that form it. The research reveals that urban identity requires further investigation in terms of urban planning and each of its components. This means that building codes, densities and land uses have a significant effect on urban identity and may even define it to some degree.
Adherence to guideline recommendations for Barrett's esophagus (BE) surveillance endoscopies: Effects of dedicated BE endoscopy lists
Authors: Beaufort I.N. , Milne A.N. , Alderlieste Y.A. , Baars J.E. , Bos P.R. , Burger J.P.W. , van Heel N.C.M. , Ledeboer M. , Lieverse R.J. , van de Meeberg P.C. , Meeuse J.J. , Naber A.H.J. , Pullens H.J.M. , Scheffer R.C.H. , Sikkema M. , Verbeek R.E. , Verhagen M.A.M.T. , van de Vrie W. , Willems M. , Weusten B.L.A.M.
Published: October 2023

Background and study aims For non-dysplastic Barrett’s Esophagus (BE) patients, guidelines recommend endoscopic surveillance every 3 to 5 years with four-quadrant random biopsies every 2 cm of BE length. Adherence to these guidelines is low in clinical practice. Pooling BE surveillance endoscopies on dedicated endoscopy lists performed by dedicated endoscopists could possibly enhance guideline adherence, detection of visible lesions, and dysplasia detection rates (DDRs).

Patients and methods Data were used from the ACID-study (Netherlands Trial Registry NL8214), a prospective trial of BE surveillance in the Netherlands. BE patients with known or previously treated dysplasia were excluded. Guideline adherence, detection of visible lesions, and DDRs were compared for patients on dedicated and general endoscopy lists.

Results A total of 1,244 patients were included, 318 on dedicated lists and 926 on general lists. Endoscopies on dedicated lists showed significantly higher adherence to the random biopsy protocol (85% vs. 66%, P <0.01) and recommended surveillance intervals (60% vs. 47%, P <0.01) compared to general lists. Detection of visible lesions (8.8% vs. 8.1%, P=0.79) and DDRs were not significantly different (6.9% and 6.6%, P=0.94). None (0.0%) of the patients scheduled on dedicated lists and 10 (1.1%) on general lists were diagnosed with esophageal adenocarcinoma (P=0.07). In multivariable analysis, dedicated lists were significantly associated with biopsy protocol adherence and adherence to surveillance interval recommendations with odds ratios of 4.45 (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.07–9.57) and 1.64 (95% CI 1.03–2.61), respectively.

Conclusions Dedicated endoscopy lists are associated with better adherence to the random biopsy protocol and surveillance interval recommendations.
Sieben auf einen Streich: Neuroprotektive (Mikro-)Nährstoffe
als kognitive Enhancer
Authors: Gröber Uwe , Friedrichsen Hans-Peter
Published: October 2023

Eine optimale kognitive Leistungsfähigkeit ist in allen Lebensphasen
für die Vitalität von hohem Stellenwert. Insb. in der Kindheit
und im Adoleszentenalter haben Ernährungseinflüsse
entscheidenden Einfluss auf die Hirnentwicklung und kognitive
Leistungsfähigkeit. Mikronährstoffe spielen daher nicht nur eine
essenzielle Rolle für die allgemeine Zellentwicklung und Zellfunktion,
sondern auch bei zahlreichen neurologischen Funktionen, wie der
Neurotransmittersynthese, Myelogenese sowie der Bildung von Neurotrophinen. Eine
adäquate diätetische Versorgung mit gehirnaktiven
(Mikro-)Nährstoffen wie Vitaminen, Mineralien und
ω-3-Fettsäuren ist daher bei Schulkindern von elementarer
Bedeutung für eine gesunde Hirnentwicklung.