bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deploying solar photovoltaic energy first in carbon-intensive regions brings gigatons more carbon mitigations to 2060
Authors: Chen Shi , Lu Xi , Nielsen Chris P. , McElroy Michael B. , He Gang , Zhang Shaohui , He Kebin , Yang Xiu , Zhang Fang , Hao Jiming
Published: October 2023

The global surge in solar photovoltaic (PV) power has featured spatial specialization from manufacturing to installation along its industrial chain. Yet how to improve PV climate benefits are under-investigated. Here we explore the evolution of net greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation of PV industry from 2009–2060 with a spatialized-dynamic life-cycle-analysis. Results suggest a net GHG mitigation of 1.29 Gt CO2-equivalent from 2009–2019, achieved by 1.97 Gt of mitigation from installation minus 0.68 Gt of emissions from manufacturing. The highest net GHG mitigation among future manufacturing-installation-scenarios to meet 40% global power demand in 2060 is as high as 204.7 Gt from 2020–2060, featuring manufacturing concentrated in Europe and North America and prioritized PV installations in carbon-intensive nations. This represents 97.5 Gt more net mitigation than the worst-case scenario, equivalent to 1.9 times 2020 global GHG emissions. The results call for strategic international coordination of PV industrial chain to increase GHG net mitigation.
Northeast Pacific marine heatwaves linked to Kuroshio Extension variability
Authors: Silva E. Nishchitha S. , Anderson Bruce T.
Published: October 2023

Marine heatwave events in the Northeast Pacific Ocean from 2013-2015 and 2019-2020 have had significant impacts on ocean life and livelihoods in the region. Numerous studies have linked these marine heatwaves to known modes of climate variability. Here we show that the observed evolution of the 2013-2015 Northeast Pacific marine heatwave best correlates with the evolution of historical sea surface temperatures in response to variations in the Kuroshio Extension. By using ocean and atmospheric reanalysis data from 1981-2020 and ocean nutrient data from 1993-2020 from an ocean biogeochemistry model, we further report the physical and biogeochemical changes during this heat event and their relation to these same Kuroshio variations. Using these results, we propose an atmospheric teleconnection between Kuroshio Extension variations and Marine Heatwaves in the Northeast Pacific. This teleconnection’s influence further extends to the marine biogeochemistry and productivity in the Northeast Pacific region via Kuroshio-influenced modifications to mixed layer thickness.
Profile and resistance levels of 136 integron resistance genes
Authors: Hipólito Alberto , García-Pastor Lucía , Vergara Ester , Jové Thomas , Escudero José Antonio
Published: October 2023

Integrons have played a major role in the rise and spread of multidrug resistance in Gram-negative pathogens and are nowadays commonplace among clinical isolates. These platforms capture, stockpile, and modulate the expression of more than 170 antimicrobial resistance cassettes (ARCs) against most clinically-relevant antibiotics. Despite their importance, our knowledge on their profile and resistance levels is patchy, because data is scattered in the literature, often reported in different genetic backgrounds and sometimes extrapolated from sequence similarity alone. Here we have generated a collection of 136 ARCs against 8 antibiotic families and disinfectants. Cassettes are cloned in a vector designed to mimic the genetic environment of a class 1 integron, and transformed in Escherichia coli. We have measured the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) to the most relevant molecules from each antibiotic family. With more than 500 MIC values, we provide an exhaustive and comparable quantitation of resistance conferred by ARCs. Our data confirm known resistance trends and profiles while revealing important differences among closely related genes. We have also detected genes that do not confer the expected resistance, to the point of challenging the role of the whole family of qac genes in resistance against disinfectants. Our work provides a detailed characterization of integron resistance genes at-a-glance.
Review of Surfactants, Structural Properties and Their Role in Electrochemistry
Authors: Unal Didem Nur , Sadak Selenay , Erkmen Cem , Selcuk Özge , Uslu Bengi
Published: October 2023

Surfactants are compounds that have both hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties due to their structures and are widely used in many industrial products, daily life, and many electrochemical studies. The hydrophobic parts usually consist of long hydrocarbon chains, while the hydrophilic parts can contain many different functional groups. These substances, also called surface active agents, reduce the surface tension in their aqueous solutions. For this reason, in addition to their use as emulsifiers, they also have antibacterial properties, are solubilizers, and are used as detergents. Although the use of synthetic surfactants is common in general, biosurfactants, which are called green surfactants, are also being studied intensively. In this chapter, the role of surfactants in electrochemistry is discussed, and their structural properties are also noted. Moreover, different usage areas in electrochemistry and types of surfactants and their properties are given.
New Approach to the Preparation of Cationic, Anionic, Neutral, and Gemini Sensors
Authors: Kumar Mohan , Nagarajaiah H. , Mirle Vinuth , Veerapur R. S. , Nagaraj Bapat Prasad , Gopal Pai Pramod , Manjunatha J. G.
Published: October 2023

Electrochemical sensors are fast-response, high-accuracy, and low-cost equipment with a simple principle. They have been broadly utilized in electrochemical analysis to examine the properties of species which are electroactive. Frequently, surfactants are used in the fabrication of electrochemical sensors to improve the selectivity and sensitivity, which results in enhancement of the electrode’s surface activity and electron transfer reaction. In this chapter, we have presented the types of surfactants, their structures and roles in the modification of electrodes for the determination of biomolecules, drugs, and hazardous materials.
Flexoelectricity in hydroxyapatite for the enhanced piezocatalytic degradation of phenanthrene in soil
Authors: Han Jun , Tian Wenrou , Miao Ye , Li Najun , Chen Dongyun , Xu Qingfeng , Li Hua , Lu Jianmei
Published: October 2023

Hydroxyapatite@fluorapatite prepared by ion exchange shows enhanced piezoelectric properties via flexoelectricity arising from the chemical heterogeneities in the crystal lattice.
Detection of specific antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 spike protein via ultra-sensitive bio-functionalized carbonnitride-reduced graphene oxide electrochemical immunosensing platform in real samples
Authors: Sadique Mohd. Abubakar , Yadav Shalu , Ranjan Pushpesh , Chouhan Raghuraj Singh , Jerman Ivan , Kumar Ashok , Saigal Saurabh , Khadanga Sagar , Khan Raju , Srivastava Avanish K.
Published: October 2023

Ultrasensitive immunosensing device based on bio-functionalized C3N4/RGO nanocomposite allows for exact differentiation between positive and negative real COVID-19 patient samples.
Enhancing the sensitivity of a water stable MOF as a H2S gas sensor by the fabrication of a mixed-matrix membrane
Authors: Das Dawn Mouli , Nath Karabi , Saha Subhajit , Roy Pritam Kumar , Mandal Mahitosh , Biradha Kumar
Published: October 2023

For the real-time sensing application of MOF in a device, a mixed-matrix membrane has been synthesized using a water-stable 2D MOF. This is the first example of an essential metal-based composite membrane for the detection of H2S with the lowest LOD value of 5.3 μM.
Semi-supervised machine learning approach for reaction stoichiometry and kinetic model identification using spectral data from flow reactors
Authors: Veeramani Manokaran , Shanmuga Doss Sreeja , Narasimhan Sridharakumar , Bhatt Nirav
Published: October 2023

The semi-supervised machine learning approach is an integrated calibration-free modelling framework for identifying reaction systems from spectral data using minimal prior information and it is validated with experimental data obtained in a micro-reactor.
3D stellar motion in the axisymmetric Galactic potential and the e–z resonances
Authors: Michtchenko Tatiana A. , Barros Douglas A.
Published: October 2023

Context. The full phase-space information on the kinematics of a huge number of stars provided by Gaia Data Release 3 increases the demand for a better understanding of the 3D stellar dynamics.

Aims. In this paper, we investigate the possible regimes of motion of stars in the axisymmetric approximation of the Galactic potential, applying a 3D observation-based model developed elsewhere. The model consists of three components: the axisymmetric disc, the central spheroidal bulge, and the spherical halo of dark matter. The axisymmetric disc model is divided into thin and thick stellar discs and H I and H2 gaseous disc subcomponents, by combining three Miyamoto-Nagai disc profiles of any model order (1, 2, or 3) for each disc subcomponent, to reproduce a radially exponential mass distribution. The physical and structural parameters of the Galaxy components are adjusted by observational kinematic constraints.

Methods. The phase space of the two-degrees-of-freedom model was studied by means of the Poincaré and dynamical mapping, the dynamical spectrum method, and the direct numerical integrations of the Hamiltonian equations of motion.

Results. For the chosen physical parameters, the nearly circular (close to the rotation curve) and low-altitude stellar behaviour is composed of two weakly coupled simple oscillations, radial and vertical motions. The amplitudes of the vertical oscillations of these orbits gradually increase with the growing Galactocentric distances, in concordance with the exponential mass decay assumed. However, for increasing planar eccentricities, e, and the altitudes over the equatorial disc, z, new regimes of stellar motion emerge as a result of the beating between the radial and vertical oscillation frequencies, which we refer to as e–z resonances. The corresponding resonant motion produces the characteristic sudden increase or decrease in the amplitude of the vertical oscillation, bifurcations in the dynamical spectra, and the chains of islands of stable motion in the phase space.

Conclusions. The results obtained can be useful in understanding and interpreting the features observed in the stellar 3D distribution around the Sun.
Phase locking among Saturn radio emissions revealed byCassiniobservations
Authors: Wu Siyuan , Ye Shengyi , Fischer Georg , Wang Jian , Kurth William S. , Yao Zhonghua , Guo Ruilong , Menietti Johns D. , Long Minyi , Xu Yan
Published: October 2023

Context.Rotational modulation has been observed in different magnetospheric phenomena at Saturn, including radio emissions, which reflect the fundamental plasma processes in key regions. Though previous studies have shown Saturn’s kilometric radiation, 5 kHz narrowband emissions, and auroral hiss to be rotationally modulated, the modulation features of its 20 kHz narrowband emissions are still unknown.

Aims.This work complements previous modulation analysis of Saturn radio emissions by undertaking the analysis of 20 kHz narrowband emissions and comprehensively comparing the phases among the regularly observed radio components.

Methods.We carried out a least-squares analysis using the time series of narrowband emissions, which we derived from an event list based on a previous statistical study on Saturn narrowband emissions.

Results.We reveal a “phase-lock” relation between the 5 and 20 kHz narrowband emissions and Saturn’s kilometric radiation, which suggests these strongly clock-like modulated emissions are connected to the rotating field-aligned current system, with local time preferences for the generation of the radio emissions. This local time preference cannot be well explained by existing theoretical frameworks. Although the phase-lock relation is relatively stable, it may be disrupted during solar wind compression. Therefore, the phase lock between these radio emissions may become a fundamental phenomenon that could help in establishing a global picture of the large-scale dynamics of Saturn’s magnetosphere.
Cluster Ages to Reconstruct the Milky Way Assembly (CARMA)
Authors: Massari Davide , Aguado-Agelet Fernando , Monelli Matteo , Cassisi Santi , Pancino Elena , Saracino Sara , Gallart Carme , Ruiz-Lara Tomás , Fernández-Alvar Emma , Surot Francisco , Stokholm Amalie , Salaris Maurizio , Miglio Andrea , Ceccarelli Edoardo
Published: October 2023

We present CARMA, the Cluster Ages to Reconstruct the Milky Way Assembly project, the aim of which is to determine precise and accurate age measurements for the entire system of known Galactic globular clusters (GCs) and to use them to trace the most significant merger events experienced by the Milky Way. The strength of CARMA relies on the use of homogeneous photometry, theoretical isochrones, and statistical methods, which will enable us to define a systematic uncertainty-free chronological scale for the complete sample of Milky Way GCs. In this paper, we describe the CARMA framework in detail, and present a first application on a sample of six metal-rich GCs, with the aim being to unequivocally elucidate the debated origin of NGC 6388 and NGC 6441. Our results demonstrate that this pair of clusters is coeval with another four systems that have a clear in situ origin. Moreover, their location in the age–metallicity plane matches that occupied by in situ field stars. The accurate age comparison enabled by the CARMA methodology rules out the possibility that NGC 6388 and NGC 6441 were accreted as part of a past merger event.
Surface chemical composition of single WNh stars
Authors: Martins Fabrice
Published: October 2023

Context. Wolf–Rayet (WR) stars of the WNh category contain a significant fraction of hydrogen at their surface. They can be hydrogen-burning, very massive stars or stars in a post-main sequence phase of evolution. Also, WNh stars are sometimes not included in population synthesis models.

Aims. We aim to better characterise the properties of single WNh stars in the Galaxy and the Magellanic Clouds. In particular, we want to constrain their surface chemistry beyond the hydrogen content by determining the helium, carbon, and nitrogen surface abundances.

Methods. We perform a spectroscopic analysis of 22 single WNh stars. We fit their ultraviolet and/or optical spectra using synthetic spectra computed with the code CMFGEN. We determine the main stellar parameters (temperature, luminosity, mass-loss rates) and the surface H, He, C, and N mass fractions. We investigate the ability of current evolutionary models to reproduce all parameters at the same time.

Results. We find that all WNh stars show the signatures of CNO-cycle material at their surface: they are carbon-depleted and nitrogen-rich. A clear trend of higher nitrogen content at higher metallicity is observed, as expected. The amount of hydrogen (X) varies significantly from one star to another, independently of luminosity. Values of X larger than 0.4 are not exceptional. The majority of Galactic WNh stars can be explained by evolutionary models, provided sufficient fine-tuning of the input parameters of evolutionary calculations. At lower metallicity, most stars escape predictions from evolutionary models. This has been noted in the literature but constraints on the surface nitrogen content exacerbate this severe issue.

Conclusions. Our study highlights the need to refine the treatment of WR stars in both stellar evolution and population synthesis models.
Realisation of ESG principles in million-plus cities under the sanctions regime: Is there an alternative?
Authors: Kumar Vikas , Romanova Olga , Ponomareva Alena
Published: October 2023

The purpose of the article is to highlight the importance of maintaining a commitment to ESG (Environment, Social, Governance) principles in the economy of major cities even under the sanctions regime. The research methodology is based on the theories of sustainable and spatial development. The methods of comparative, statistical and structural analysis have been used. The study hypothesises that Russia, even in the current conditions, has due prerequisites for the development of its cities based on ESG principles of economic management. The analysis of the ecological situation made it possible to justify the need for non-alternative observance of ESG principles in urban agglomerations. It is shown that the adherence to these principles will be largely determined by the quality and efficiency of the developed municipal economic policy. It is proposed to devise a special section on municipal industrial policy within the framework of the regional industrial policy, with a view to systematising administrative and incentive measures for the realisation of the ESG agenda for million-plus cities. The research results can be useful in amending socio-economic development strategies for Russia’s major and biggest cities.
Development of the large cities in the context of the implementation of the ESG framework
Authors: Kuznetsov Nikolay , Tyaglov Sergey , Rodionova Natalia , Bukhov Nikita
Published: October 2023

The article is devoted to the formation of a conceptual model of sustainable development of large cities and the algorithm of its implementation in the ESG framework. The article aims to illustrate and justify of the authors’ proposals in promoting the digital sustainable development management platforms in conditions of environmental challenges inherent in a group of the largest million-plus cities in the Russian Federation. The necessity and expediency of building digital platforms for managing the sustainable development of major cities is proposed and justified, which is caused by the growing volume of information in the conditions of sanctions and changes in foreign economic conditions. The importance of the formation of “smart” cities with the elements of “green” construction and with the allocation of zones of ecological well-being, the transfer of urban vehicles to electric vehicles, optimization of waste disposal of production and consumption in these cities is emphasized. The article proposes a methodological approach to the formation of an information panel for the sustainable development of the largest cities of the Russian Federation. Finally, the algorithm for implementing the construction of a digital platform for managing the sustainable development of the largest cities is presented in the form of a four-stage system of actions, the sequence of which takes into account the presence of distinctive conditions in different cities that characterize their environmental well-being, as well as infrastructure tasks to ensure energy saving and resource conservation regimes within the ESG agenda.
Sustainable development of million cities: Spatial evidence from Russia
Authors: Kyriakopoulos Grigorios L. , Lavrikova Yulia , Suvorova Arina
Published: October 2023

Modern cities are centers of economic, social, cultural and intellectual life, which makes it crucially important to ensure proper conditions for their sustainable development. The paper is intended to elaborate on some spatial aspects of the sustainable development of million cities in Russia. The study used official statistics, as well as data from the information and analytical system of urban development VEB.RF. The research method consists in comparing the values of indicators characterizing cities’ spatial particularities with each other and with the national average. The article analyzes accessibility of objects of interest for the population (social infrastructure facilities, leisure centers). It reveals that million cities differ in these parameters quite significantly and can be categorized into three groups. The most numerous group (8 cities) is one embracing cities with liveability above the national average; in four cities, the liveability level is equivalent to the all-Russia average; and two millionplus cities are lagging behind the others. The research also indicates the factors defining the accessibility of objects of interest for city inhabitants: its area, population density, saturation of urban space with such objects and the specificities of their localization, uniqueness of urban planning, and the quality of the urban environment.
Special regime “Territory of Advanced Development” in mono-profile municipal entities
Authors: Samaibekova Zeynegul , Galiullina Gulia
Published: October 2023

Today, performance efficiency of the territories with a special regime of conducting entrepreneurial activities is assessed by comparing planned targets with actual indicators in terms of the number of recruited residents, new workplaces created, the resident’s actual investment. Another efficiency indicator is the ratio of public budgetary funds per one ruble’s worth of private investments. However, these indices do not gauge the need itself for the territories to be granted the special territory status. The article compares performance results during 2016–2020 registered by mono-profile municipal entities, which have acquired the status of priority development territories, with the indicators achieved by similar company cities without any special status. For pair-to-pair comparison, a selection was made of company cities in the Ural region of Russia with approximately similar population and belonging to the same category in terms of the level of the socio-economic situation. Analysis was made of such indicators as population, investments in property, plant and equipment, revenues of the local budget, wages and salaries. The results of the above comparative analysis allow us to conclude that in the short-term perspective, the key indices of special company cities and company cities without status do not differ much.
Inequality of household income in urban and rural territories of Russia
Authors: Pasynkov Aleksey , Zakharchuk Ekaterina
Published: October 2023

The article studies the differentiation of per capita incomes of urban and rural areas of Russia, as well as the share of social payments in household incomes. The regions of the Ural Federal District with different specializations of the economy are taken as the object of the study; official data of the Russian Statistical Office on municipal revenues are used. The study showed that there is a huge gap in per capita income both between the urban areas of the regions of the Ural Federal District (by 4.71 times), and even more between rural areas (by 19.27 times). The largest share of social payments in household income is observed in rural areas of the southern regions (about 45%), in urban areas it is somewhat less (20-30%). The specifics of the development of the northern regions predetermined the excess of per capita rural income over urban areas, in the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug, by two times, and the share of social payments in income is insignificant in these regions. The calculations carried out by the authors showed that the average payments of social benefits in the regions of the Ural Federal District do not differ so significantly, from 83.8 (urban areas of the Tyumen region) to 136.2 thousand rubles per year (rural areas of Yamal). Therefore, the share of social payments in household income depends not so much on their amount, but on the level of other incomes of residents.
Skyscrapers and the city: How tall buildings interact with their users and urban environment
Authors: Saroglou Tanya , Theodosiou Theodoros , Itzhak-Ben-Shalom Hofit , Vanunu Asaf Yupiter , Multanen Victor , Isaac Shabtai , Karnieli Arnon , Davidovitch Nadav , Katoshevski David , Meir Isaac A.
Published: October 2023

Tall buildings have become a prevalent typology around the world. They carry benefits for the entrepreneur (profits) and the local authority (municipal taxes), the architect and the tenants (prestige). Yet little is known about the actual needs of the building itself, the fact that its different levels are exposed to different climatic conditions, thus have different energy needs, or the contingencies involved in living high up in, or down around them. This paper presents results of ongoing research, including tall buildings’ microclimatic peculiarities with height and ensuant energy needs; building envelope design and energy efficiency; microclimatic peculiarities created on the pedestrian level; and environmental quality. Specific modules results have been published in several papers, while additional work is ongoing, since this building prototype and its implications are still mostly poorly understood. Such work ties into climate change and the built environment, public health, survivability and resilience under extreme environmental events, which seem to become the norm. Results of parts of this research certainly tie into Covid-related contingencies and the need for usable public open spaces, efficient building ventilation to ensure good Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), and a whole array of other issues.
Earth observation as a tool to assess climate migration and policy-making: Legal aspects
Authors: Koskina Anthi , Plionis Manolis , Papoutsis Ioannis , Camps-Valls Gustau
Published: October 2023

The impact of climate change on the biosphere and atmosphere is well documented but its impact on the anthroposphere needs to be better understood. Indeed, divergent views remain both at the regional level -as shown by (i) the EU case-by-case approach (ii) the African Kampala Convention (2009) and (iii) the Latin-American Lineamientos regionales (2018)- and finally the international one. As the Paris Agreement (2015) urges States to use best available scientific knowledge to counter the negative effects of climate change, we argue that Earth Observation (EO) could be potentially exploited by policy-makers as an efficient platform for modeling, forecasting, characterizing and understanding the severity of migration flows, contributing to evidence-based Anticipatory Action (A-A) for the effective management of climate migration, and setting the direction for future policies in this field that would be equitable on both regional and international scales. Hence, in implementing the Paris Agreement, States should increase the funding and use of EO and Causality as policy-supporting tools, to reduce the need for reactive and costly responses to displacement, and promote the safety, dignity, and well-being of people affected by climate change. However, based on said input, a well-adapted framework for the legal protection of climate migrants should be adopted.
Absorption of Europium chloride from zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos under experimental conditions
Authors: Lazaris Dimitrios , Sismanidis Ioannis , Drosos Vasileios , Farmakis Evripidis , Paleologos and Evangelos
Published: October 2023

Lanthanides (Ln) have an essential role in the pollution of the environment because of their ecotoxicity. The pollution of Ln significantly increased due to their use in industry and agriculture in the last decade. Europium (Eu) is the most reactive lanthanide by far. This metal is contained in many industries wastes and it may enter the food chain. The biochemical behavior of lanthanides has been extensively studied, but there are limited studies on Eu. It is remarkable that Ln react with biologically chemical compounds, affecting competitively and replacing the basic ions of the cell such as calcium (Ca2+) and magnesium (Mg2+). Based on the international literature, there are not much data on the toxic effects of Eu mainly on aquatic organisms. Exposure of zebrafish embryos to Europium indicated that the absorption of the metal from the embryos was taken place from the earliest stages of their development.
Principles of circular economy applied to energy plants in culture. The correlation of soil quality with the valuation potential of willow by-products
Authors: Vlăsceanu Gabriela , Nicolae Floarea , Petculescu Nicole , Nicolae Marian
Published: October 2023

Energy plants are used for biomass products such as wood chips ( pellets ) or working wood (OSB boards). For this purpose, you can cultivate willow (Salix alba), artichoke, elephant grass, Chinese reed, energetic hybrid poplars, canary grass, giant cane, and oil tree (source of biodiesel). The study aims, by analyzing the quality of the soil correlated with the composition of the energetic willow bark, to highlight the potential for the valorization of the by-products. In this study, the soil fertility of some Romanian energy willow crops was compared with chernozem with a high input of humus from the Natural Meadow Reserve of Slobozia Mare, Moldavia. Through the analysis of the bark (plant by-product), the determination of salicin from the dry extract, the aqueous extract, and a compressed mixture was sought. Reported to the main macronutrients and pH, the soil of the energy willow crops in Romania is qualitatively similar to Moldavia. Although willow is cultivated primarily as an energy plant (biomass for pellets, biodiesel), if the conditions of the culture area are monitored, the waste represented by the easily removable bark can be utilized because it contains salicin in concentrations that, depending on the area.
How does the circular economy contribute to the pursuit of Agenda 2030? A systematic literature review
Authors: Pasca Maria Giovina , Padovani Giulia , Arcese Gabriella , Mugion Roberta Guglielmetti
Published: October 2023

The present study aims to understand the current state of knowledge on how the circular economy contributes to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals, also analysing the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. The paper develops a systematic literature review highlighting the bibliometric characteristics and summarizing the research gaps detecting potential implications and relevant insights for service literature. The results highlight that the CE has links to many of the SDGs as no poverty (SDG1), responsible consumption and production (SDG12), sustainable cities and communities (SDG11), and the promotion of inclusive and sustainable industrialization and innovation (SDG9). The European Union can pursue sustainable development by implementing initiatives that make an economy more circular. The pandemic has highlighted the close relationship existing among social, natural and economic systems. The analysis of the existing literature has highlighted that some circular economy indicators are correlated with some SDGs. For instance, sustainable product design (ecodesign, packaging, product optimization, durability, etc.) and citizen education to safeguard the environment and conserve resources are principles of the circular economy crucial for implementing the SDGs. The study provides policymakers, companies and researchers with insights to promote sustainable development.
Understanding the decision of companies to invest in renewables: An investor perspective
Authors: Karasmanaki Evangelia , Tsantopoulos Georgios
Published: October 2023

Investments in renewable energy sources (RES) can mobilize significant capital to support renewable energy deployment. However, policymaking does not pay adequate attention to investors’ motives and preferences and thus it is possible that current policies lack vital elements that appeal to potential investors. The aim of this study was to examine how Greek companies that have invested in renewables perceive RES investments and, in specific, to examine their views about economic drivers, barriers to investments and the measures that could facilitate investments. To that aim, 15 in-depth interviews were held with representatives of Greek companies and the data were analyzed with thematic analysis. It was indicated that perceiving the investment as profitable and secure was what mainly drove companies to invest while rapid depreciation was another driver. The perceived barriers requiring policy response involved the bureaucracy of the licensing procedure and the lack of grid capacity. In addition, companies that lack substantial capital find it difficult to ensure favorable conditions for loans. The most recommended measures to facilitate companies to invest in RES were to eliminate bureaucracy, expand the grid and accelerate procedures.
Inclusive mental well-being through environmental design
Authors: Attaianese Erminia , Barilà Morena
Published: October 2023

According to the WHO, physical factors of the built environment are considered health determinants and may affect people’s mental health in terms of cognitive perceptions and physical responses, triggering anxiety, stress and depression states. The purpose of this research is to carry out a literature review of the environmental, spatial and technological conditions that may affect occupants’ mental health and well-being, particularly fragile people, such as elderly and people with sensorial or cognitive impairments including autism, and that may work as positive stimuli, or hindering elements for their abilities and limitations, influencing decisively their quality of life. The result consists in a set of guidelines for the design of the built environment that, starting from people with special needs, can improve liveability conditions by favouring mental health and well-being for all.
Video features predicting engagement in climate change education
Authors: Christodoulou Vasiliki , Saprikis Vaggelis , Kythreotou Louiza , Christodoulos Monogios , Calikus Ece , Joselowitz Jared
Published: October 2023

Climate change is a substantial threat. Awareness-raising and education are key goals. Social media provide an opportune context for the delivery of science education content. However, little research has examined which video features elicit engagement on climate change. This project focused on YouTube and aimed to identify the most predictive factors of video engagement on the topic of climate change. Video engagement was defined as an algorithmic composite of outcomes derived through YouTube API such as the number of views and number of comments, among other measures. A search of YouTube videos revealed an original list of 183 videos on climate change. A random selection of 90 videos was manually coded on engagement predictor variables (i.e., video type, presenter type, audio-visual elements, video content, and other features). Results indicated that most YouTube videos are consistent with a widely accepted scientific viewpoint on the topic although their scientific quality and video argumentation content do not appear to affect video engagement. Rather, presenter and video characteristics associated with entertainment emerge as more specific predictors influencing video engagement. Social media can be used as a fruitful avenue for imparting education on pertinent issues such as climate change although it is important to consider ways of balancing quality education with entertainment features.
Alternative stabilisation method for unfired earth blocks
Authors: Arairo Wahib , Daher Nour El Houda , El Bachawati Makram , Absi Joseph , Saba Marianne
Published: October 2023

Clayey soils have been used in the construction of buildings since ancient times. It reduces the building’s ecological footprint while improving thermal comfort. Soil is a local material that helps people in temperate regions cope with harsh environmental conditions such as high temperatures. The performance of such materials is determined by the soil’s chemical composition and physical properties. The main issue with these materials is their high shrink sensitivity and tendency to crack during drying. These pathologies can result in fundamental mechanical performance degradation. The purpose of this work is to investigate various scenarios for the stabilization of compacted soil blocks.In this context, this research investigates the use of alternatives to cement for the stabilization of earth blocks. Sample blocks were constructed using varying concentrations of stabilization materials. The samples’ mechanical strengths were assessed. Simultaneously, materials will be compared in terms of ease of manufacture, and financial cost. The mechanical properties (compressive and flexural strength) of stabilized earth blocks shows that the developed mix outperforms the traditional masonry concrete block. The results of this study show that stabilized earth blocks are gaining their place as a viable, sustainable, affordable building material suitable for low-cost housing construction.
Enhancing Packaging Sustainability with Natural Fiber Reinforced Biocomposites: An outlook into the future
Authors: Srivastava Vishal , Singh Sumer , Das Dipayan
Published: October 2023

Packaging across diverse sectors like food, FMCG products, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and electronics predominantly relies on petroleum-based materials. These petroleum-based non-renewable resources significantly impact the environment throughout their life cycle, emitting polluting gases, demanding energy-intensive manufacturing, and causing air, water, and land pollution during disposal. These problems can be minimized by using eco-friendly materials such as materials made from natural fibres, and agricultural waste that is biodegradable in nature. Natural fibre-reinforced biocomposite materials have a high potential to be used in sustainable packaging applications due to their lower environmental impact compared to petroleum-based materials. However, the use of biocomposites is very limited in the packaging sector and growing exponentially. Recently, agriculture waste fibres have been used for the development of various biocomposites-based packaging. In this paper, prior work has been analysed to identify the impact associated with petroleum-based packaging materials, advantages and potential of natural fiber-reinforced biocomposites in the packaging sector, manufacturing techniques, recent development, challenges, and prospects have been discussed.
Aenos International Dark-Sky Park: The first officially designated area protected from light pollution in Greece
Authors: Papalambrou Andreas , Xanthakis Michalis , Doulos Lambros Τ.
Published: October 2023

The scope of this work is to analyse the methodology used for the official designation of the first International Dark-Sky Park in Greece which was Aenos National Park, designated in May 2023. The methodology was based on the official International Dark-Sky Park requirements of the International Dark-Sky Association with many differentiations due to specific technical challenges and administrative circumstances in Greece. The process included both technical works, light measurements, lighting retrofit as well as administrative, social and publicity activities. From beginning to completion, the designation process lasted more than three years and required hundreds of manhours to be completed. The official designation of Aenos International Dark-Sky Park provides an important opportunity for the protection of the skies of Greece from light pollution both as a case study and inspiration as well as a solid example used to push for the dark sky protection agenda which is part of a sustainable
Shipping decarbonization: E-fuels as a potential solution and the role of resources
Authors: Yfantis Elias , Kleanthous Kleanthis , Ktoris Angelos , Mallouppas George , Damianou Sofia , Ioannou Constantina , Shiali Dimitris , Nikolaou Ioannis
Published: October 2023

The scope of this paper is to examine proposed e-fuels (e-hydrogen, e-ammonia, e-methanol) as alternative maritime fuels. A techno-economic analysis is conducted considering the current energy demand of the shipping sector, the solutions for decarbonisation that are based on e-fuels, and the projections and scenarios regarding the energy mix towards 2050, to meet the IMO targets. According to the current preliminary study, apart from the barriers related to technological maturity levels, applicability and safety, there are barriers related to (a) the Well-to-Wake characteristics of e-H2, e-NH3, and e-CH3OH, (b) the existing infrastructure that utilises Renewable Energy Sources and the current and projected percentage of RES in the global energy mix, and (c) the availability of resources required for the development of the infrastructure to support e-fuels’ utilisation. Estimated fuel prices in 2050 that include production and distribution costs, indicate that alternative fuels are expected to be uncompetitive. Though they become relatively competitive when carbon-price is added to production and distribution costs of fossil fuels, the Well-to-Wake Analysis of biofuels and e-fuels proves that a significant RES rump-up is required, which further requires huge capital investment costs and raw materials. Ultimately, a re-prioritisation is proposed targeting decarbonisation of “easier-to-abate” sectors before decarbonising “hard-to-abate” sectors such as shipping and aviation.
Exploring the potential of alley gardens in Seoul based on a study of Daegu
Authors: Choi DaYoon , Kim JungBin
Published: October 2023

Seoul has experienced rapid economic growth and industrialization, and it has become the central city of South Korea. These densely populated urban spaces have undergone the urban heat island (UHI) phenomenon, wherein the temperature is higher than that of the surrounding areas. Green spaces constitute the primary response to this problem, yet Seoul has not yet taken measures to create small-scale green spaces, such as alley gardens. Therefore, this study analyses the case of alley gardens in Daegu and argues for the necessity of their introduction. Alley gardens in Daegu have proven effective in reducing heat and have influenced the residential satisfaction of residents in densely populated, old housing. After confirming that the concept of alley gardens can serve as a micro-urban planning tool to establish small-scale green spaces and alleviate the UHI effect in Seoul, we explored the target areas where alley gardens can be applied within Seoul. Through heat-related environmental indicators and social factor indicators, this study found that Mullae-dong is experiencing the UHI effect, and that the introduction of alley gardens would have a positive impact due to the concentration of small-scale, old residences. This paper establishes the rationale for applying alley gardens to Seoul, while also deriving the importance and implications for the dissemination and revitalization of micro-level urban environment policies.
Measurement of management and development deficit on sustainability in neighbourhood unit. Case of the new city Ali Mendejeli Constantine
Authors: Bouarroudj Radia , Sahnoune Sara , Benharkat Sara , Louafi Samira , Aiche Messaoud
Published: October 2023

Wastewater and household waste management are among the most significant issues for sustainable districts. Their management requires quantifying spatial relationships between the appreciation spaces rate and well-being. This research aims to quantify the effect of development and management deficits on the sustainability of social housing districts. The case study is the neighbourhood unit in the new Ali Mendjli Constantine, Algeria, characterized by high urban concentration. The critical points marking the latter relate to health and well-being problems. The methodology used in this research is a qualitative survey based on J.P. Thibaud’s commented course approach. It involves the surveyed population selection who create the course according to the issue asked. The results show that more than 50% of the neighbourhood’s spatial configuration directly affects the appropriation feeling, with a high dissatisfaction rate of approximately 85%. Furthermore, the interviewees declared that intermediate spaces within their neighbourhoods are spread over large areas without delimitation and specific development and management, making space assumption difficult. Thus, these spaces become sources of conflict and tension.
Arzneimittelanwendung bei trächtigen Hündinnen und
Welpen – was ist aus pharmakologischer Sicht zu
beachten?
Authors: Bäumer Wolfgang , Bröer Sonja
Published: October 2023

Die Gabe von Arzneimitteln an trächtige Hündinnen kann nicht nur
eine potenzielle Gefahr für die Hündin, sondern auch für
die Feten darstellen. Wie groß die Gefahr für die Feten ist,
hängt dabei auch vom Gestationsstadium ab. Grundsätzlich ist das
Risiko für schwerwiegende Fehlbildungen während der Organogenese
am größten. Für einige Medikamente ist zwar bekannt,
dass sie ein fetotoxisches und/oder teratogenes Potenzial besitzen,
dennoch gilt für einen Großteil der Medikamente, dass das Wissen
um eine potenzielle Gefährdung der Frucht nur unzureichend ist.

Es wird, geordnet nach Wirkstoffgruppen, eine Auswahl an Arzneimitteln
aufgelistet, für die nach derzeitigem Kenntnisstand davon ausgegangen
wird, dass die Anwendung sicher ist. Demgegenüber sollen Arzneimittel
gestellt werden, für die nur unzureichend Kenntnisse vorliegen oder die
ganz klar kontraindiziert sind.

Im zweiten Teil dieser Übersicht wird auf den Arzneimitteleinsatz bei
Welpen eingegangen. Die Physiologie eines Welpen entspricht nicht einfach der
eines kleinen Hundes. Nur für die wenigsten Medikamente liegen valide
pharmakologische Daten zur Anwendung bei Welpen vor. Einige
Einschränkungen des Arzneimitteleinsatzes können aber durch
Besonderheiten der Physiologie von Welpen hergeleitet werden.

Die ausgesprochenen Empfehlungen haben keinen Anspruch auf
Vollständigkeit und es wird auch keine Garantie auf Richtigkeit
übernommen, da diese aus einer Literaturrecherche zusammengestellt
worden sind und zuweilen die Empfehlungen auch widersprüchlich sind.

Tierärztinnen und Tierärzte sind daher aufgefordert, alle
unerwünschten Ereignisse im Zusammenhang von Behandlungen von
trächtigen Hündinnen und Welpen im Rahmen der Pharmakovigilanz
zu melden. Nur dadurch können Lücken im Wissen um die Behandlung
von trächtigen Hündinnen und Welpen geschlossen werden.