bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formulation and evaluation of a novel controlled release mefenamic acid pluronic lecithin organogel
Authors: Madhuri Reddy Muppa  , Annabathula meghana  , Gandamala Chetan  , Eluduti himabindu  , Chakali Sai kiran  , Gonugoppula Rakesh
Published: August 2023

Based on pluronic lecithin, PLO gels were established in the present research as a topical carrier for the regulated delivery of mefenamic acid. To explore various factors utilizing In vitro diffusion experiments and in vivo study, ten organized formulations have been created using such methods that used lecithin as a lipophilic phase as well as pluronic F-127 as a hydrophilic phase in variable proportions. The pH values of all formulations were found to be between 5.60 and 5.75, which is nonirritating, and to be off-white, homogeneous, and unwilling to wash off easily. In formulations F1 to F5 (lecithin) but also F6 to F10 (pluronic), an increase in polymer concentration led to a drop in gelation temperature, an increase in viscosity, as well as a reduction within the spreadability of gels with a tendency for polymers to form rigid 3D networks. Higher viscosity organogels have been proven to be more stable and delay drug release from the gel. The formulations of F2 and F3 have been chosen for kinetic tests and stability studies because they had the most significant percentage of drug content and the highest drug release during eight hours, and all physical parameters were found to be within acceptable limits. It was discovered that the order of drug release through different formulations was F1to F10. A drug is removed from the improved formulation F2 in a regulated manner according to zero-order rate kinetics. The optimized mefenamic acid organogel (F2) in vivo anti-inflammatory effectiveness against a commonly used commercial product (Volini gel) was determined to be satisfactory but also significant.
Use of a palmaris longus graft for the treatment of a chronic rupture of the extensor hallucis longus
Authors: Lamnaouar F  , Bachkira M  , Nkesha N  , Tabbak K  , Kharroube M. A  , Massoudi A  , Rafai M
Published: August 2023

Injuries of the extensor hallucis longus (EHL) tendon is relatively rare, but surgical repair is necessary to avoid deformity and gait disorders. Primary suturing is always the best option when possible; in the case of chronic lesions, retraction makes this solution impossible, necessitating tendon transfer or grafting. We report here the case of a patient with a lacerated suture after primary repair following early mobilization. The patient complained of gait disturbance in the meantime, which led to consultation. After resumption of the old approach and debridement, a 2cm gap persisted between the two tendon ends. a graft was harvested from the palmaris longus. This time, immobilization was performed using an arthrodesis pin. after removal of the pin and rehabilitation, there was a clear improvement. The use of the palmaris longus brings the advantage of an adapted diameter which minimizes the phenomena of snagging due to fibrotic projections, and unlike other grafts, avoids affecting another healthy joint.
Pengembangan Alat Evaluasi Menggunakan Aplikasi Quizizz pada Mata Pelajaran Alquran Hadis di Kelas VII SMP Muhammadiyah Sokaraja
Authors: Febriani Nur Eka , Darodjat Darodjat
Published: August 2023

In the digital era, evaluation activities are required to use information and Communication Technology (ICT) based evaluation tools such as the Quizizz application. Quizizz app has many features as well as an attractive appearance. The purpose of this study is to find out the development of the Quizizz application in schools, find out the expert assessment of the use of the Quizizz application, find out the practicality and quality of the question items (validity, reliability, differentiability, and difficulty of the question items) used in the research. The type of research used is Research and Development (R&D). The data collection techniques used are observation, interviews, questionnaires, and documentation, while the data obtained are in the form of qualitative and quantitative data.  This research was conducted with 8 stages of research and development. Based on the results of the research, the evaluation tool using the Quizizz application is suitable for use as an evaluation tool with a media expert assessment of 86.7% with the criteria of "very valid", an expert assessment of material of 74.3% with the criteria of "valid" and an assessment from the teacher of the Quran hadith lesson class VII 94.7% with the criterion of "very valid". As for the practicality level of 95% with "very practical criteria". The results of the validity test of the questions in the product trial were 4 invalid questions, while in the field trial two questions were invalid. In the reliable test, the question item is declared reliable. In the differentiating power test, the questions in the product trial were 4 questions categorized as bad, 5 questions were categorized as sufficient, 1 question was categorized as good. In the field test, there were 3 bad category questions, 4 sufficient category questions, and 3 good category questions. Based on the difficulty test, the results were obtained in the product trial, 6 easy category questions and 4 medium category questions, while in the field trial 2 easy category questions and 8 medium category questions.
Pengaruh Pendekatan Heutagogi Terhadap Kompetensi Siswa Kelas IX pada Pembelajaran Aqidah Akhlak di SMP Muhammadiyah 2 Purwokerto
Authors: Aflah Firdaus Nur , Darodjat Darodjat
Published: August 2023

The heutagogy approach is one of the approaches used in learning. In this approach, the teacher is a facilitator of students. where the task of the teacher is not only to provide knowledge, but the teacher has a role that is more than that, the teacher has a role as a lifelong teacher, leads the teaching and learning process, directs students in choosing learning resources, and opens communication in learning.  With the rapid development of technology, this heutagogi approach is very possible in learning moral aqidah. So that students can easily search for knowledge instantly through the internet. The purpose of this study is to determine the influence of the heutagogi approach in interactive learning on moral aqidah lessons at SMP Muhammadiyah 2 Purwokerto. This research is a type of quantitative research with data collection methods in the form of interviews, questionnaires, and documentation. In this study, researchers used the pearson product moment correlation formula. The results of the research on the heutagogi approach to student competence in learning moral aqidah, related to the heutagogi approach, found a relationship in the very weak category, which obtained a calculated r value of 0.171 or 2.92%, so that the heutagogi approach only gave 2.92% influence on the competence of grade IX students of SMP Muhammadiyah 2 Purwokerto, and the rest of 97.08% came from other factors.
Analisis Terhadap Implementasi Pembelajaran Aqidah Akhlak dalam Pembentukan Karakter Religius Siswa di SMP Muhammadiyah 1 Purwokerto
Authors: Pramahesti Arinda Nina , Makhful Makhful
Published: August 2023

Forming students with character is an educational task, namely building a whole person, namely a good human being and also with character. There is one subject at school or at the madrasa that can shape the character of students, namely the subject of moral aqidah. The formation of students' morals can be done through formal or non-formal education, namely through learning aqidah morals. Aqidah morality is the foundation of belief for a Muslim who has a very large role in his life. The purpose of this study was to determine the implementation of moral aqidah learning in the formation of students' religious character and to find out the supporting and inhibiting factors in learning moral creed in forming religious character in SMP Muhammadiyah 1 Purwokerto. This research is a type of field research with observation and interview techniques. Data analysis uses a descriptive approach, namely by examining the data, examining all available data from various sources, summarizing and focusing on the important things. The results of this study indicate that the implementation of akhidah akhlak learning that has been carefully and in detail in or to form the religious character of students at SMP Muhammadiyah 1 Purwokerto includes: fist, There is an application of the akhidah akhlak learning material; Second, There is a positive attitude change in students from learning akhidah akhlak; Third, Students can distinguish commendable and despicable attitudes and apply them in everyday life. 4). Religious values ??shown by students by diligently worshiping, respecting teachers and parents, and being grateful for God's gifts by giving infaq; Fourth, The value of caring. The supporting factor is inseparable from the efforts of akhidah akhlak teachers and other general subject teachers. And also a supportive school environment to shape the character of religious students. While the inhibiting factor was the discovery of some students who were still talking to themselves in class and also some children who were less disciplined. Then the importance of the teacher in guiding not only teaching but in guiding students to become good individuals.
Pendidikan Agama Islam dan Budi Pekerti
Authors: Maemunatun Maemunatun
Published: August 2023

Character education has an important role in anticipating future problems, moreover, an educator needs to have the character and attitude of sincerity, sincerity, and amaliyah goals to Allah as exemplified by the Prophet to his friends. The example of sincerity and exemplary has been exemplified by many scholars such as KH. Ahmad Dahlan, Hasyima Asy'ari, and others fought and spent their lives empowering the community. The things that have been exemplified by these figures can be an inspiration to students in schools and Islamic boarding schools to emulate their best so that in the end character education becomes a collective identity. The problems faced by educators must be seen as a collective struggle without expecting praise from others who can erode a sincere attitude towards educating future generations.
Peran Psikologi dalam Pendidikan Islam
Authors: Latipah Eva
Published: August 2023

Abstrak Peran Psikologi dalam Pendidikan Islam
Farklı Barındırma Koşullarındaki Kınalı Kekliklerde (Alectoris chuckar) Oksidatif Stres Düzeylerinin Araştırılması
Authors: KANDIR Emine Hesna , İNCE Sinan , KÜÇÜKKURT İsmail , SARAÇOĞLU Beste , KAN Fahriye
Published: August 2023

Oksidatif stres, canlının bedenindeki serbest radikaller ve antioksidanlar arasındaki dengesizlik sonucu oluşur ve verim düşüklüğü gibi olumsuz sonuçları vardır. Bu çalışmada kınalı kekliklerde farklı yetiştirilme koşullarının oksidatif stres düzeyleri üzerine etkileri araştırılmıştır. Araştırma materyalini Doğa Koruma ve Milli Parklar V. Bölge Müdürlüğüne bağlı Şuhut Keklik Üretme İstasyonunda doğaya salım yapmak üzere yetiştirilen 60 adet, benzer yaş ve ağırlıkta damızlık erkek kınalı keklik oluşturmuştur. İki gruba ayrılan ve 30 adedi kafes sisteminde 30 adedi de voliyerlere salınarak 3 hafta bakılan kınalı kekliklerden yaklaşık 1.5 cc kan alınmış ve çeşitli oksidatif stres parametrelerine bakılmıştır. Araştırma sonucunda biyokimyasal parametrelerden glukoz, trigliserid ve kolesterol değerlerinin, böbrek fonksiyonlarını gösteren üre ve kreatinin değerlerinin, Lipid peroksidasyon belirteci olan MDA değerlerinin voliyerde barındırılan kekliklerde kafeste barındırılan kekliklere göre daha düşük düzeyde (p
LITERATURA INFANTOJUVENIL - UMA PROFESSORA MUITO MALUQUINHA, DE ZIRALDO, NO VIÉS DE UM ENSINO INOVADOR
Authors: Francisco da Silva Daniele , Dall'Comune Hunhoff Elizete
Published: August 2023

Neste estudo, propôs-se uma reflexão sobre a Literatura Infantojuvenil e sua contribuição na formação do senso estético e intelectual do leitor em formação, tendo como corpus a obra "Uma professora muito maluquinha", de Ziraldo Alves Pinto (1995). Reflete-se sobre as estratégias usadas pela personagem protagonista na arte de ensinar, a qual traz uma proposta inovadora de ensino para a época. Na obra, os métodos da professora são confrontados pelos seus pares (Séc. XX) que os consideravam muito avançados e, paradoxalmente, na contemporaneidade são os almejados, pois são inovadores e vão ao encontro do aluno ativo das gerações tecnológicas Z a alfa. Também, mostram-se os vieses da leitura que podem atuar como elementos construtivos para a formação do leitor, como formadores de opinião, além de apresentar a importância e a contribuição da Literatura Infantojuvenil nesse aspecto. Sentimos e entendemos o quanto cabe ao professor incentivar e motivar a formação leitora do aluno, pois, o seu papel é importante em toda etapa de desenvolvimento intelectual discente, no espaço escolar. Baseamo-nos em obras de diversos críticos, cujas ideais contribuíram para o desenvolvimento da compreensão sobre as relações entre leitura e literatura. Espera-se proporcionar, ao leitor deste trabalho, possibilidades de vislumbrar ações relativas ao incentivo da formação leitora e, consequentemente, à formação cidadã.
MAGIA DENTRO DA MAGIA: O PAPEL DOS LIVROS NA NARRATIVA DE HARRY POTTER, DE J. K. ROWLING
Authors: Pontes Silva Rosane , Costa Luciana Raimunda de Lana
Published: August 2023

Em consonância com Lajolo (2021), a literatura infantojuvenil ganha visibilidade a partir do século XVIII, quando a sociedade passou a reparar mais na necessidade de histórias feitas para crianças e adolescentes. Por meio da ficção e sua capacidade de suscitar imagens ao leitor, obras literárias nacionais e do exterior passaram a destacar-se e serem, inclusive, criticadas ou elogiadas pela crítica literária. Nosso objetivo neste texto é de trazer algumas reflexões e considerações a respeito do universo mágico de Harry Potter, o porquê da saga chamar tanta atenção dos leitores. Sua carga estética, a possível proporção de prazer e fruição, bem como a estreita relação de constituição de seu enredo com a própria literatura é um processo imersivo por meio da formação de imagens. Nosso escopo teórico passa por Barthes (1987), Candido (1972), Lajolo (2021) e Bettelheim (2002) entre outros teóricos.Esperamos que este texto sirva para que os leitores, sendo mediadores de leitura ou não, percebam a importância de se levar narrativas que atraiam a atenção do leitor, indiferente se são contempladas pelo cânone, pois para a mediação de leitura literária o prazer e a fruição do texto vêm antes do que costumeiramente os críticos chamam de estética.
Penerapan pendidikan karakter profil Pelajar Pancasila dalam Buku Bahasa Indonesia SMP kelas VII
Authors: Saputri Nanda Dewi , Rufaidah Desy , Principe Regine Aguilar
Published: August 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan dan menjelaskan penerapan profil pelajar Pancasila (1) beriman, bertakwa kepada Tuhan Yang Maha Esa, dan berakhlak mulia, (2) berkebhinekaan global, (3) bergotong royong, (4) mandiri, (5) bernalar kritis, (6) kreatif. Data dalam penelitian ini berupa kata, frasa, kalimat, paragraf, dan wacana yang menunjukkan penerapan profil pelajar Pancasila. Sumber data dalam penelitian ini berupa buku Bahasa Indonesia SMP kelas VII. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa      semua dimensi kunci profil pelajar Pancasila diterapkan dalam buku Bahasa Indonesia SMP kelas VII. Penerapan profil pelajar Pancasila tercemin pada teks cerita, materi, penugasan, apersepsi, dan penutup pembelajaran.   Implementation of character education profile of Pancasila Students in Indonesian Language Book of Junior High School Grade VII   Abstract: This study aims to describe and explain the application of Pancasila student profiles (1) have faith, fear of God Almighty, and have noble character, (2) global diversity, (3) work together, (4) independent, (5) critical reasoning, (6) creative. The data in this study are in the form of words, phrases, sentences, paragraphs, and discourses that show the application of the Pancasila student profile. The source of the data in this study was an Indonesian language book for grade VII junior high school. The results showed that all the key dimensions of the Pancasila student profile were applied in class VII Indonesian Middle School books. The application of Pancasila student profiles is reflected in story texts, materials, assignments, apperceptions, and closing lessons.
Sustainable Smart Agriculture: Plant disease detection with deep learning techniques in cotton cultivation
Authors: Kounani A. , Lavazos N. , Tsimpiris A. , Varsamis D.
Published: August 2023

To meet the needs of an ever-growing global population, the agricultural sector has the responsibility of increasing production, managing diseases and pests that attack crops, and implementing sustainable practices. Deep learning techniques used in sustainable smart agriculture have proven effective in this scientific field for their fast and reliable predictions and their contribution to accurate classifications, for reducing the reckless use of agrochemicals that impose a burden on crops. Early stage plant infestations detection is essential for rapid treatment achievement in order to reduce or eliminate its negative effects on the crops. In this work Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) models were used, focused on the detection and recognition of pests and diseases. Specifically, using transfer learning from the pre-trained EfficientNet model, the model's accuracy and loss function were examined on a new data set with images of cotton plants from Greek crops, in order to identify healthy and aphid-infested plants.
Environmental and economic assessment integrated into laboratory-based scenario development for the valorization of dredged sediment
Authors: Soleimani Tara , Hayek Mahmoud , Junqua Guillaume , Salgues Marie , Souche Jean-claude
Published: August 2023

This study discusses the potential environmental and economic benefits of dredged sediment valorization in concrete in the framework of the circular economy. The goal is to find a sustainable way to use the sediment in concrete while maintaining its strength and not compromising the economy or environment. The maximum rate of sand substitution in concrete with sediment was found to be 40%, but sustainability was negated for rates above 20%. To optimize sustainability, a compromise between concrete strength and workability, economic and environmental impacts, and sediment transport must be reached. Lack of environmental and economic assessments in valorization scenarios may lead to non-sustainable practices.
CARRYING CAPACITY ASSESSMENT OF THE SOUTH AEGEAN REGION, GREECE
Authors: Vandarakis Dimitris , Malliouri Dimitra , Petrakis Stelios , Kapsimalis Vassilios , Moraitis Vyron , Hatiris Georgios-Aggelos , Panagiotopoulos Ioannis
Published: August 2023

Since the early 1950’s Greece has been a top travel destination providing high-quality tourism services. This was amplified by the diverse landscape, extended sandy beaches, numerous archaeological sites, people’s mentality, safety, and adequate infrastructure. In particular, the south Aegean Archipelago attracts more than six million (6,000,000) visitors annually, approximately 27% of tourist arrivals in Greece. The Carrying Capacity Assessment of the South Aegean Region aims to improve the already high standards of the offered tourist services. The relevant socio, economic and physical data were analyzed to highlight the adverse effects of traditional and current activities and increase tourism attractiveness by offering alternative products, such as hiking, biking, diving, fishing tourism, archaeological tourism, medical tourism and excursions in the remarkable landscapes. Furthermore, the outcomes of the application of the carrying capacity indicators provide specialized solutions to control the over-tourism impact, mitigate the natural environmental degradation, and, finally, establish a roadmap for sustainable development of the Region. The required data (socio, economic and physical) was analyzed according to the PAP/RAC as more suitable.
Drinking water from surface and ground water: production costs and influence of the climate change
Authors: Verlicchi Paola , Grillini Vittoria , Maffini Francesco , Benini Alessio , Casoni Roberto , Mari Massimo
Published: August 2023

Drinking water production may be affected by climate changes (i.e. intense rainfall events and high temperature periods) which impact on the availability and quality of the water source, above all surface water bodies. Efforts are being made to adopt the best strategies in the drinking water treatment plant (DWTP) management under these adverse conditions, with the aims to guarantee potable water and optimizing water production costs.
This study refers to the large DWTP of Ferrara, Italy (2.5 107 m3/year of water distributed in 2021) which treats surface water (Po River) for around 70 % and alluvial well water for the remaining 30 %.
It presents the results of an analysis of the annual drinking water production costs and the related items before and during COVID-19 pandemic. A focus is then done on the effects the climate change may cause on the water quality at the source, the resulting management needs, and the final production costs. It emerges that production costs are increased during the years due to the increased costs of energy, chemicals and activated carbon. Water withdrawal is the issue which most affects the final production costs due to the high energy consumption.
Removal of heavy metals from real mine tailings coupling electrokinetic soil flushing and Bioleaching
Authors: Fernandez-Morales Francisco Jesus , Acosta-Hernández Irene , Muñoz Morales Martín , Rodríguez Romero Luis , Villaseñor Camacho José
Published: August 2023

In the present work, polluted mine tailings from the abandoned Pb/Zn mine of San Quintín (Ciudad Real, Spain) have been treated by an innovative in-situ bioleaching process. Bioleaching uses the capacity of certain microorganisms of oxidizing iron and/or reduce sulphur which enhance the process of metal extraction due to the production of Fe3+ among other oxidizing agents. In-situ treatments, as electrokinetics (EK), allow the metal extraction and offer multiple advantages. EK use an electric field to mobilize species towards the soil thanks to the electromigration, electrophoresis and electroosmosis.
The aim of this work is to evaluate the coupling of bioleaching and EK for the removal of heavy metals from the mine tailings. An acid leching medium, produced externally by acidophilic autochthonous microorganisms, was used as the anolyte in the EK cell. Thanks to the EK transport phenomena, the oxidizing medium was transported to the cathode, leaching the heavy metals of the soil, while simultaneously the leached metals were removed through the cathode due to electromigration. Different voltages were studied (0.5, 1 and 1.5 V/cm), the best results were for 1.5 V/cm, and it was clearly observed the positive influence of using the bioleaching culture compared to a single EK reference test.
Vulnerability of Informal Settlements to Flood Disasters: A Review of Public Health Implication
Authors: OLANREWAJU CAROLINE , REDDY MALIGA
Published: August 2023

Floods are the most frequent disasters in the world with devastating effects on millions of people and the natural environment. The health status of any community is directly affected by the quality of their housing and the environmental risks they are exposed to. Rapid urbanization and the inability of the government to meet with the high demand for housing has led to the formation of informal settlements resulting in the unsustainability of cities due to overcrowded housing, poor sanitation, poor collection of solid waste, blocked drainage system as well as poor healthcare and compromised healthcare delivery system. The impact of floods on informal settlement dwellers is becoming increasingly severe and frequent. Using multiple data sources, this study critically evaluates eThekwini metropolitan area. The review shows that eThekwini has the largest number of informal settlements in south Africa characterized by poor housing conditions, inadequate infrastructure, unhealthy natural environments and poor health services predisposing them to increased risk of diseases and poor wellbeing, which is exacerbated during flood disasters. The findings of this study advocate for improved governmental involvement in service delivery, risk informed decision-making concerning floods, public health and affordable housing for residents of informal settlements in eThekwini metropolitan area.
Re-assessment Estimation of the Wastewater Treatment Plants’ Seismic Vulnerability
Authors: Kerpelis P. , Golfinopoulos S. , Alexakis D.
Published: August 2023

Many empirical studies use questionnaires for the vulnerability estimation of technical structures. Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs) are critical infrastructure whose the seismic impacts may affect the environment and the society. Interesting results are revealed from the comparison of seismic vulnerability questionnaires granted between different periods.
In this study a Questionnaire “A” (Que-A) of 44 questions was distributed to the responsible operators of a representative sample of 116 Greek WWTPs during 7 months in 2021. After six months, a similar Questionnaire “B” (Que-B) of 14 questions was distributed to another representative sample of responsible operators of 40 WWTPs which lasted 3 months in 2022. Both surveys were used Likert Scale and were checked for their internal reliability and validity.
The results revealed that the recipients were graduated operators of the WWTPs occupying positions of high responsibility for both “A” and “B” Questionnaires, and their experience didn’t differ each other. A limit correlation between vulnerability and seismic vulnerability was noticed in Que-B. No difference was observed between the frequencies for seismic vulnerability of Que-A and vulnerability of Que- “B”. The same was occurred comparing the seismic vulnerability of both the Questionnaires. The same results for both the Questionnaires were extracted comparing the seismic vulnerability due to structural vulnerability, non-structural vulnerability or operational vulnerability. Finally, the soil-water pollution in the post seismic period (immediate and after 24 hours) presents the same percentages for both the Questionnaires. Concluding, the study supports the claim that these two Questionnaires produce similar results while Que-A has reliability, and can be used for WWTPs’ vulnerability estimations.
Domestic Photo-Voltaic installations - their contribution and practcalities
Authors: Venables Roger
Published: August 2023

The roofs of domestic-scale properties used to haveone overall main function – to keep the weather out. But since the first solar-PV panels were fitted in the UK in 1994, it has become increasingly clear that, to reduce carbon emissions and thus contribute to the transition to net-zero, all suitable roofs need to be electricity generators as well as weather protection.

Based on the author’s 10 years’ experience of roof-mounted PV systems, this paper reports on system performance over the recent 3½ years, including part-charging an electric car. The practicalities of specifying the system , the options available and the operational considerations complete the exploration of a modern system. The paper reports in some detail on the results from 3½ years’ operation.

The paper also explores financial considerations, largely in a UK context, but a framework is given for decision-making in other generation and financial situations.

Finally, the paper briefly discusses the wider implications of such systems, for example for local and national AC grids.
Climate change, overheating and public health: analysis of dynamic and correlations in EU regions
Authors: Tsemekidi Sofia , Tsoutsos Theocharis
Published: August 2023

An intense concern about global warming and increased temperatures as a result of climate change has been observed worldwide during the last decades. The need for cooling expressed in Cooling Degree Days (CDD) at the EU level has increased by 169.8% since 1980. Extreme temperatures, intense heatwaves, and other natural disasters have hit European cities recently and have led to increased fatalities, becoming a significant hazard for a vulnerable population. Even if the consequences of climate change on human health are generally known, there is a gap in the quantification of this impact based on specific geographic and climate characteristics. This paper aims to quantify the impact through the analysis of overheating indicators and mortality rates and to identify correlations between these two variables. Then, it develops typologies of cities and regions based on their correlation levels and their specific characteristics to evaluate which of them are more vulnerable to climate change. Through this process, useful knowledge for policymakers, which will plan future climate change adaptation strategies, could be produced. Results showed that the correlations between overheating and mortality are strong, especially for landlocked regions with continental climates and for highly urbanised areas. R-squared values for most of the regions were high, especially for the period 2014-2019 and especially for countries that registered lower energy consumption climatic corrected for space cooling, possibly as a result of energy poverty. Findings showed that policies for regions with the above-mentioned characteristics should be strengthened in the short-term future.
Biorefinery model for the production of biofuels and bioproducts from lignocellulosic biomass
Authors: Bolonio David , Vela-García Nicolás , J. Chuck Christopher , García-Martínez María-Jesús
Published: August 2023

This work studies advanced biofuel and biomaterials production using lignocellulosic biomass from poplar crops. In this sense, lignocellulosic biomass transformation into biojet fuel, bioLPG, green diesel and High-Density Polyethylene (HPDE) was studied through an exhaustive evaluation, including a techno-economic analysis, a life cycle assessment and physico-chemical and thermodynamical analyses. Biorefinery models were simulated using the chemical engineering software AspenPlus® v.12. In all cases, the NRTL thermodynamical method was employed, except for the HDPE production, where the Polymer method was used for the mass and energy balances. All biorefineries were fed with 77 t/h of feedstock. On the one hand, in the biojet fuel set-up, the biorefinery produced 92,400 t/year of biojet fuel and 39,917 t/year of green diesel. On the other hand, in the HDPE configuration, 103,000 t/year of HPDE were obtained. The life cycle analysis (LCA), carried out using the simulation software SimaPro® and the Ecoinvent® database, measured the environmental impact generated, kg of CO2-eq/MJ biofuel and kg of CO2-eq/kg of HDPE, at each process. Techno-economic results evaluated the relation between fixed and variable costs through a cash flow to obtain the products' minimum selling price (MSP). Even though economic competitiveness is barely achieved, when the processes by-products such as lignin are considered, the MSP drops enough to be competitive with their conventional counterparts. Besides, a sensitivity analysis was performed to evaluate different scenarios where the simulated biorefineries were competitive, demonstrating the potential of poplar biomass residues as feedstock. In all cases, the CO2-eq footprint was compared with European standards, obtaining encouraging results compared to the Renewable Energy Directive II, which means the produced biofuels are eligible for financial support by public authorities. Finally, biofuels properties were compared to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards, where the specifications of road transport fuels and aviation turbine fuels are shown (consisting of a conventional and synthetic mixture). All biofuels met the standards.
Destruction of Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in water by cold atmospheric plasma
Authors: Aggelopoulos Christos , Papalexopoulou KONSTANTIA , Ronen Avner
Published: August 2023

Cold atmospheric plasma was investigated as for the remediation of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) contaminated water. The destruction of the highly toxic PFOA is a challenging task since it is a persistent and bioaccumulative chemical causing pollution in waterbodies. In this study, plasma experiments were conducted in a gas-liquid DBD (GLDBD) reactor, driven by high voltage microsecond pulsed generator. The effect of different critical parameters such as the treatment time and the plasma gas were investigated towards the degradation of PFOA in water. It was observed that air has a better performance compared to argon. In particular, a complete degradation of PFOA (>99.9%) was noticed with the air-GLDBD reactor after 30 min of treatment with the corresponding electrical energy per order (EEO) being ~900 kWh/m3.
Decreased Soil Water Content Effects on the Toxicity of Triclosan to Oilseed Rape (Brassica napus L.)
Authors: Miskelyte Diana , Zaltauskaite Jurate
Published: August 2023

Due to the rising amounts of antimicrobial agents in the environment and the lack of knowledge on their ecotoxicity, there is growing concern regarding their effects on the environment. One of the most widely used antibacterial compounds in both personal care and pharmaceutical products is triclosan (TCS), which is also a commonly detected emerging organic contaminant in the environment. Physiological or morphological endpoints of whole-organism analysis are typically used in reported studies of TCS toxicity to terrestrial plants. To identify underlying toxicity mechanisms, more in-depth investigations of TCS-induced effects at the biochemical plant level are required. Furthermore, climate change is an issue that is becoming more and more serious and might have a significant impact on life on the Earth. The influence of climate parameters on the ecotoxicity of antimicrobials, particularly TCS, is little understood. The main objective of this study was to evaluate drought effect on triclosan toxicity to oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.). Brassica napus were grown in TCS-contaminated soil (10-400 mg kg -1) under different soil water contents (5% and 30% SWC). B.napus morphological (dry weight, length of the roots and shoots), biochemical indicators (the activity of enzymes), and the damage of oxidative stress (lipid peroxidation) were detected. Drought enhanced the negative effect of triclosan on the above-ground part of B. napus and led to oxidative stress.
Antineoplastic drugs in surface waters: presence, exposure, and risk.
Authors: Gouveia Teresa , Mota Isabel , Silva Adrián , Alves Arminda , Santos Mónica
Published: August 2023

Antineoplastic drugs are highly toxic pharmaceuticals used during chemotherapy. Their presence in surface waters has been reported worldwide, increasing environmental and human health concerns. This work estimates the risks from the exposure of humans to antineoplastic drugs via surface waters in a worldwide perspective. Three different scenarios were considered: (i) dermal contact with surface waters, (ii) accidental ingestion of surface waters and (iii) drinking potable water captured from rivers, assuming no further degradation. All but tamoxifen, for which an extraordinarily high average dermal absorbed dose (〖AD〗_abs) was found, the 〖AD〗_abs were always lower than the average daily potential dose (ADD), whether ingested inadvertently or voluntarily (potable water produced from contaminated surface water). To determine whether there would be any risk for humans from their exposure to antineoplastic drugs, the 〖AD〗_abs and ADD were contrasted with the Permitted Daily dose (PDE). The third exposure scenario revealed these compounds’ presence in worldwide surface waters could represent a risk to children, if the highest concentration reported worldwide for cyclophosphamide in surface waters is considered. Even for the remaining antineoplastic drugs/exposure settings, health hazards might arise from synergistic effects and/or prolonged exposures.
Removal Of Ciprofloxacin From Waste Water By Photocatalytic Method With Waste Polystyrene And Tio2 Composites
Authors: Hayri-Senel Tugba , Kahraman Ebru , Sezer Serhat , Erdol-Aydin Nalan , Nasun-Saygili Gulhayat
Published: August 2023

Ciprofloxacin (CIP) is one of the widely used antibiotics. Since ciprofloxacin in the aquatic ecosystem adversely affects human health as well as other organisms, it must be removed from wastewater.
The aim of this study was to develop polystyrene (PS) and TiO2 composites that can be used as catalysts in CIP removal by photocatalytic process. Waste PS was used in these composites. This is important in terms of the use of one waste in the removal of another waste.
This process is optimized using Box-Behnken Design. Parameters such as the amount of polymer in the composite, pH and initial CIP concentration were studied and their effects on CIP removal were investigated.
The validity and adequacy of the selected model were evaluated according to the relevant statistical data. These are R2= 0.9751, adjusted R2=0.9565, the model's p-value <0.0001 and the lack of fit-value 0.246. In the process carried out under optimum conditions, the CIP removal was found to be 95.01% at the end of 180 minutes. This value was predicted as 94.37% in the model. According to these results, it was seen that the model represents the real process with high accuracy.
Enrichment of mesophilic syngas-converting consortia for methane production
Authors: Lebrero Raquel , García Silvia , Muñoz Raúl
Published: August 2023

The use of waste biomass as raw material for syngas production has emerged as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to the conventional gasifiable feedstock. In addition, syngas bioconversion into value-added compounds could be an interesting approach for carbon fixation and syngas valorization, but some limitations must be overcome. One of the most important issues is to establish a robust microbial culture able to use CO as a carbon source. In the present study, an anaerobic consortium was enriched with a synthetic syngas mixture with a composition similar to that obtained from biomass gasification. Four syngas dilutions (25, 50, 75 and 100%) were tested to determine the CO tolerance of the mixed culture and evaluate its growth kinetics. The results showed the successful enrichment of a mesophilic syngas-converting consortium able to thrive in concentrations up to 30% CO. Volatile fatty acids (mostly acetate) and CH4 were the main products of its metabolism, reaching up to 54.27±1.04 mM of VFAs concentration and a CH4 production of 15.41±0.15 mmol·d-1. The accumulation of organic acids in the liquid phase appeared as a key factor for the development of the community, triggering its inhibition.
Water-wise approaches for circular cities – lessons learned from Amsterdam.
Authors: Miranda Ana , Fidélis Teresa , Roebeling Peter , Meireles Inês
Published: August 2023

Under a constantly changing world, the environmental costs of increasing urbanization and associated water challenges, prioritized the circular economy on political agendas. Simultaneously, water-wise-cities initiatives, seeking sustainable and resilient communities, started to emerge. Synergies between these two concepts are, however, poorly explored in the literature. They can be influenced by legislation, stakeholders’ perceptions and associated networks, among others. Driven by the work of the project Water-wise Cities from the International Water Association, this article builds a conceptual model merging the principles of circular cities and the principles of water-wise cities. This model is then applied in the case of Amsterdam, by assessing current circular economy strategies and related municipal policies to understand how cities are adopting circularity while becoming water-wise. The assessment used a brief content analysis of the current circular initiatives and how these can be part of a transition into a water-wise city. The developed conceptual model has proven to be able to identify the key areas where further intervention is needed to attain a circular and water wise city. The study displayed a water-wise community where many collaborative networks between public administration entities, entrepreneurs and citizens are in place, which create a robust potential for synergetic urban initiatives. Within the water sphere, their focus is mainly on flood risk management and resilient infrastructures, while lesser attention is given to circularity concerns. However, a few circular actions are identified in the water-sensitive design and the regenerative water approaches dimensions, such as the decentralization of wastewater treatment systems, the reuse and recovery of organic residues and the integration of water-sensitive nature-based solutions. Legislation and project upscaling constrains were identified as barriers hindering opportunities to mainstream circular solutions. Overall, there is still room for developments in the basin connected cities’ dimension.
Development of pH-Responsive Adsorptive Ultrafiltration Membrane for the treatment of Heavy Metals from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Hasan Shadi , Khamis Fatema , Hegab hanaa , Arafat hassan , Banat Fawzi
Published: August 2023

This research presents a new amino-modified activated carbon (MAC) nanohybrid and its use in polylactic acid (PLA) ultrafiltration (UF) membranes for treating wastewater. The MAC composite was produced through three steps: activated carbon pretreatment, modification, and heat-induced cross-linking. The composite membranes were made using the phase inversion technique and optimized by varying the concentration of the MAC nanohybrid. The synthesis was confirmed through several methods, and the membranes were characterized using different techniques, such as SEM, surface zeta potential, water flux, and pore-size/porosity. Static adsorption and dynamic filtration experiments were conducted to investigate the membrane's flux-rejection performance and pH-responsiveness. The results showed that the MAC nanohybrid significantly improved the properties of the PLA membrane, such as increasing the pure water flux and enhancing heavy metal ions rejection, among others. The composite membranes also exhibited improved adsorption and desorption behavior. The study suggests that adding the MAC nanohybrid has promising potential for these composite membranes in the wastewater treatment industry.
Hydrophobic Phase Inverted Polyethersulfone Mixed Matrix Membrane for Water-in-Oil Emulsion Separation
Authors: Hasan Shadi , Abuhasheesh Yazan , Hegab Hanaa , Wadi Vijay , Naddeo Vincenzo , AlMarzooqi Faisal , Banat Fawzi , Aljundi Isam
Published: August 2023

The limited access to clean water sources and the severe consequences of oil spills on the environment are of significant concern. Membrane technology showed superior performance to the other conventional techniques due to its higher performance, lower cost, ability to separate emulsions, and being more environmentally friendly. Emulsified water/oil emulsions are highly stable and have a small droplet size, hence are more challenging to separate than water/oil mixtures. Herein, hydrophobic iron oxide-oleylamine (Fe-Ol) nanomaterial was prepared and used to fabricate polyethersulfone (PES) mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) using non-solvent induced phase separation (NIPS). A similar procedure was used to fabricate pristine PES. The performance of the membranes in emulsion separation was tested using a dead-end vacuum filtration setup and a 1 vol.% water-in-n-hexane surfactant stabilized emulsion. The use of the hydrophobic Fe-Ol nanomaterial enhanced the separation efficiency of the membranes. The 1.5 wt.% PES/Fe-Ol MMM exhibited a 97.4% separation efficiency and a high filtrate flux of 1020 L/m2h (LMH), hence, showing great potential in the application of water-in-oil separation.
Comparative evaluation of three different membranes for the treatment of a brewery and a dairy treatment effluent
Authors: Plevri Argyro , Gkoumas Filippos , Koumaki Elena , Noutsopoulos Constantinos , Mamais Daniel , Nikolaou Maria , Magraritis Markos , Malamis Simeon
Published: August 2023

A laboratory-scale system with a capacity of 7L/h consisting of three different ultrafiltration membranes operating alternatively, was designed and installed at the Sanitary Engineering Laboratory (SEL) facilities. The purpose of this membrane system was to test the performance of alternative membranes in terms of secondary effluent treatment from a dairy and a brewery industry located in Patras industrial area. The three membranes selected after a literature review were a PVDF UF tubular membrane module, a ceramic UF tubular membrane module and a polysulfone HF UF tubular membrane module. The batch experiment protocol followed for each membrane consisted of a chemical cleaning procedure and a 5-hour continuous operation with secondary effluent from the two industries. The laboratory results showed that the permeate water complies with the limits set by Greek legislation for unrestricted irrigation. The PVDF membrane showed the best membrane performance in terms of effluent quality with better results in organic load removal. It also showed higher stability with very low standard deviation values. In terms of TMP increase and effluent drop during the 5-hour batch trials, the ceramic membranes showed lower values, while the PVDF membranes were more stable after the first hour of the trial and showed a very low increase for the rest of the trial.
Valorization of poultry manure extract enriched with sodium acetate in mixotrophic cultivation of Auxenochlorella protothecoides
Authors: Arapoglou Dimitris , Langousi Ioanna , Markou Giorgos
Published: August 2023

Poultry manure (PM) is byproduct of intensive agricultural production and can be used as a low-cost microalgae growth substrate due to its nutrient and protein-rich content. Microalgae are capable to grow rapidly and thrive in different substrates, thus serving as a valuable source of biomass. In this study, Auxenochlorella protothecoides was cultivated in PM extract supplemented with sodium acetate in order to simulate a volatile fatty acid (VFA) rich substrate after PM thermophilic acetogenic fermentation. The effect of different VFA concentrations (0-30g/L) in the substrate on biomass growth and biochemical composition under mixotrophic conditions was evaluated. A. protothecoides was capable to acclimatize and multiplied in the PM substrate, ultimately achieving the highest biomass concentration at 20 g/L VFA. Proteins were the most abundant component accounting for 38.1-43.9% w/w in the dry biomass, while carbohydrates and lipids followed, comprising 31.5-36.3% and 10.9-14.1%, respectively. The addition of VFA enhanced the protein, carbohydrate and lipid productivity achieving the maximum values 43.9%, 36.3%, 14.1% respectively at 20 g/L VFA. The results indicate that VFA-enriched PM extract can potentially be used as a sustainable and cost-effective growth medium for microalgal cultivation, while the biochemical composition of algal biomass makes it a promising animal feed supplement.