bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Insights into Pigment Composition and Molecular Mechanisms Governing Flower Coloration in Rose Cultivars Exhibiting Diverse Petal Hues
Authors: Cheng Yingxia , Tian Yanling , Guo Pengyu , Luo Junjie , Xu Chan , Zhang Yang , Chen Guoping , Xie Qiaoli , Hu Zongli
Published: November 2024

The pigmentation of various components leads to different colors of roses. However, the intricate molecular machinery and metabolic pathways underlying rose pigmentation remain largely unexplored. In this study, we determined that pink and black-red petals contain abundant anthocyanins, reaching concentrations of 800 μg/g and 1400 μg/g, respectively, significantly surpassing those in white and yellow petals. We identified 22 key anthocyanin components, predominantly cyanidin, pelargonidin, delphinidin, peonidin, and petunidin, which were preferentially enriched in pink and black-red petals. Additionally, we confirmed the presence of five carotenoid species—lutein, zeaxanthin, ζ-carotene, α-carotene, and β-carotene—with zeaxanthin and carotenoids notably accumulating in yellow petals at significantly higher levels compared with other colors. Furthermore, RNA-seq and qRT-PCR analyses revealed the association between pigment accumulation and the expression patterns of genes involved in anthocyanin and carotenoid biosynthesis pathways. Through promoter core element prediction and transcriptional metabolic co-expression analyses, we found that the MYB transcription factor likely positively modulates the expressions of key biosynthetic genes such as CHS, F3′H, and DFR, while the NAC transcription factor enhances the transcriptional activities of PSY, ZISO, and LYCB. Overall, this study explores the components of flower color, unravels the synthesis of anthocyanins and carotenoids, identifies regulatory factors, and highlights the prospects of rose breeding.
The Application of Stress Modifiers as an Eco-Friendly Approach to Alleviate the Water Scarcity in Ajwain (Carum copticum L.) Plants
Authors: Heydarzadeh Saeid , Tobeh Ahmad , Jahanbakhsh Sodabeh , Farzaneh Salim , Vitale Ermenegilda , Arena Carmen
Published: November 2024

Stress modifiers are recognized as biostimulants providing beneficial effects on various plant species. However, the specific potential of modulators such as melatonin, chitosan, humic acid, and selenium in enhancing the resistance of ajwain (Carum copticum L.) plants to water scarcity remains an open question. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted a randomized, field block-designed factorial experiment over two years (2022–2023) to compare the effectiveness of these biostimulants in mitigating the impact of water shortage on ajwain plants. This study involved three irrigation regimes: 100% field water capacity (FC100%—unstressed), 75% irrigation deficit (FC75%—moderate) and 50% irrigation deficit (FC50%—severe), and four modifier treatments (melatonin, chitosan, humic acid, selenium), plus untreated controls. Plant growth, seed yields, essential oil production, as well as eco-physiological traits were studied to assess the efficacy of these compounds as stress modulators. Water regimes and stress modifier applications, as a single factor or in synergy, significantly affected plant physiology and seed yield, highlighting the importance of sustainability in agricultural practices. Compared to FC100%, biological and seed yield, chlorophyll, and nutrient content decreased under FC75% and FC50%, while essential oil production, proline, soluble sugars, flavonoids, phenols and antioxidant enzymatic activity increased. Notably, regardless of the type of modulator used, the application of these modifiers improved all physiological attributes under moderate and severe irrigation deficits. Among the involved compounds, melatonin induced the most pronounced effects, leading to higher biological and seed yield, essential and fixed oil production, relative leaf water content, chlorophyll and nutrient concentration, and antioxidant activity. Our results demonstrate that such compounds effectively function as stress modulators against water scarcity in ajwain plants by preserving specific eco-physiological traits and promoting water saving. These findings provide valuable insights into their use as a nature-based solution for addressing water stress in sustainable agriculture and climate change challenges.
Inhibitory Effects and Composition Analysis of Romanian Propolis: Applications in Organic and Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Heghedűş-Mîndru Gabriel , Glevitzky Mirel , Heghedűş-Mîndru Ramona Cristina , Dumitrel Gabriela-Alina , Popa Maria , Glevitzky Ioana , Obiștioiu Diana , Cocan Ileana , Vică Mihaela Laura
Published: November 2024

Propolis is a sustainable and environmentally friendly agrochemical of natural origin, a resinous mixture produced by honeybees. It is used as a natural remedy in multiple pathologies., but it is also a natural defense enhancer, a phytostimulator that helps to bind, bloom, and pollinate plants. Propolis is used in organic farming as a phytoprotector and phytostimulator. The present study investigates the main physical–chemical parameters of Romanian propolis, its antifungal activity against five fungal strains (Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Penicillium chrysogenum, Fusarium oxysporum, and Rhizopus stolonifer) and its phyto-inhibitory activity when it is applied on the layer and under the layer for different grain crops (wheat, maize, oats, and barley). Different doses were used—1, 5, and 10 g of propolis powder—and the growth of the plume was monitored for 13 days. The physical–chemical parameters investigated are volatile oils, wax, oxidation index, melting point, dry matter, ash, and resin, and maximum values were obtained for phenols (189.4 mgGAE/g), flavonoids (84.31 mgQE/g), and IC50 (0.086 µg/mL). Propolis demonstrates high antifungal activity against all fungal strains. The results showed that propolis has the best phyto-inhibition potential among the studied grain crops when it is applied on the layer, with the lowest plume growth for maize (14 mm), followed by oats, barley, and lastly wheat (24 mm). Propolis can find increasing application in sustainable and environmentally friendly agriculture and the obtaining of organic food.
Multi-Feature Fusion for Estimating Above-Ground Biomass of Potato by UAV Remote Sensing
Authors: Xian Guolan , Liu Jiangang , Lin Yongxin , Li Shuang , Bian Chunsong
Published: November 2024

Timely and accurate monitoring of above-ground biomass (AGB) is of great significance for indicating crop growth status, predicting yield, and assessing carbon dynamics. Compared with the traditional time-consuming and laborious method through destructive sampling, UAV remote sensing provides a timely and efficient strategy for estimating biomass. However, the universality of remote sensing retrieval models with multi-feature fusion under different management practices and cultivars are unknown. The spectral, textural, and structural features extracted by UAV multispectral and RGB imaging, coupled with agricultural meteorological parameters, were integrated to estimate the AGB in potato during the whole growth period. Six advanced modeling algorithms, including random forest (RF), partial least squares regression (PLSR), multiple linear regression (MLR), simple linear regression (SLR), ridge regression (RR), and lasso regression (LR) models, were adopted to evaluate the ability of estimating AGB by single feature and multi-feature information fusion. The results indicate the following: (1) The newly proposed variety-dependent indicator growth process ratio (GPR) can improve the model accuracy by over 20%. (2) The fusion of vegetation indices, canopy cover, growing degree days, and GPR achieved higher accuracy to estimate AGB at all growth stages compared with single feature model. (3) RF model performed best for the estimation of AGB during the whole growth period with R2 0.79 and rRMSE 0.24 ton/ha. The study demonstrated that the fusion of multi-feature coupled with the machine learning algorithm achieved the best performance for estimating potato AGB under different management practices and cultivars, which can be a potential and useful phenotyping strategy for estimating AGB at refined plot scale during the whole growth period.
Environmental Indicator Plants in Mountain Forests: A Review
Authors: Dinca Lucian , Crisan Vlad , Ienasoiu Gruita , Murariu Gabriel , Drasovean Romana
Published: November 2024

Plant indicators are important in studies related to the environment, and mountain forests are rich in such plants. We conducted this study using the Web of Science Core Collection tools and the VOSviewer program combined with a classic review, based on the specialty literature. The topic of indicator plants in mountain forests has been (the first article published in a prestigious journal dates back to 1980) and remains relevant (after 2015, between 40 and 60 articles were published annually), with the total number of publications found being 665 articles and 22 review articles. These publications were authored by researchers from 96 countries, the most representative being the USA, China, and Germany (which also have large areas of mountain forests), and were published in 306 journals, with the most important being Ecological Indicators, Forest Ecology and Management, Forests, Journal of Vegetation Science, and Plant Ecology. They belong to the main scientific fields of Ecology, Forestry, Plant Sciences, and Environmental Sciences. The most frequently used keywords are vegetation, diversity, biodiversity, and forests. Their evolution over the past decade shows that the focus has shifted from keywords specific to this topic to those related to biodiversity and conservation, and more recently to climate change. Indicator plants in mountain forests are extremely varied but can be used successfully in the monitoring activity. Climatic conditions or human interventions lead to the dynamic of these indicator plants.
Application of Microwave-Assisted Water Extraction (MAWE) to Fully Realize Various Physiological Activities of Melaleuca quinquenervia Leaf Extract
Authors: Lin Ting-Kang , Leu Jyh-Yih , Lai Yi-Lin , Chang Yu-Chi , Chung Ying-Chien , Liu Hsia-Wei
Published: November 2024

Melaleuca quinquenervia is widely grown in tropical areas worldwide. Studies have demonstrated that extracts of its buds, leaves, and branches obtained through hydrodistillation, steam distillation, or solvent extraction exhibit physiological activities, including anti-melanogenic, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties; nevertheless, such extracts are mostly not effectively collected or adequately utilized. Accordingly, this study applied a rapid, effective, and easy-to-operate microwave-assisted water extraction (MAWE) technique for the first time to prepare M. quinquenervia leaf extract (MLE) with improved physiological activities. The results indicated that the optimal irradiation time and liquid/solid ratio for the production of the MLE were 180 s and 20 mL/g, respectively. Under optimal conditions, the freeze-dried MLE achieved a high yield (6.28% ± 0.08%) and highly effective broad-spectrum physiological activities. The MLE exhibited strong antioxidant, antiaging, and anti-inflammatory activities and excellent antityrosinase and antimicrobial activities. Additionally, the MLE was noncytotoxic at concentrations of ≤300 mg/L, at which it exhibited pharmacological activity. The results also indicated that the MLE comprised a total of 24 chemical compounds and 17 phenolic compounds. Among these compounds, luteolin contributed to antityrosinase activity. The extract’s antiaging activity was attributed to ellagic acid and quercetin, its anti-inflammatory activity resulted from ellagic acid and kaempferol, and its antimicrobial activity resulted from quercetin and 3-O-methylellagic acid. In conclusion, the MAWE-derived MLE may be useful as a functional ingredient in cosmetic products, health foods, and botanical drugs.
Influence of Polymer Nature on Electroadhesion
Authors: Sharov Konstantin I. , Stepanenko Valentina Yu. , Nikulova Uliana V. , Shapagin Aleksey V.
Published: November 2024

Electroadhesive systems are promising for creating delicate robotic manipulators operating both in the natural environment and in space conditions. Using thermosetting epoxy resin, polyurethane and polyester resin as examples, the influence of the polymers’ natures, potential differences and current strengths on electroadhesive interactions in polymer–polymer systems was studied. The investigations were carried out by recording the force of normal separation of substrates from electroadhesives using contact and contactless methods at various electrical parameters of the systems and their components. A correlation was established between the relative permittivity and the electroadhesive force. The relaxation nature of the electroadhesion phenomenon after removing the electrical voltage was revealed. The influence of the potential difference and current strength on the effect of electroadhesion for polymer substrates of various natures was established. The obtained dependencies describe the main regularities of electroadhesive interactions necessary for creating promising electroadhesive materials.
Effects of Different Non-Ionic Polysaccharides on the Heat-Induced Gelling Properties of Curdlan
Authors: Zhong Guoyan , Wang Zhaojun , Chen Qiuming , He Zhiyong , Zeng Maomao , Qin Fang , Chen Jie
Published: November 2024

Curdlan’s application is constrained by high gelation concentration, poor water solubility, and incompatibility with other polysaccharides. To address these limitations, this study investigated the effects of different concentrations (0.05–0.3%) of non-ionic polysaccharides (pullulan (PL), locust bean gum (LBG), guar gum (GG), and konjac gum (KGM)) on the heat-induced gelling properties of curdlan. PL with no branch showed 0.3% enhanced gel hardness. LBG with a small amount of galactose residue and KGM with an acetyl group had similar effects on hardness, while GG with a large amount of galactose residue slightly weakened the mixed gel. The rheological results showed that PL had little effect on curdlan, and LBG and KGM had a positive effect on curdlan unfolding, but 0.3% GG was significantly antagonistic to curdlan. The above results implied that non-ionic polysaccharides without side chains interacted weakly with the curdlan and hardly changed the properties of curdlan. Curdlan unfolding and stable suspension were favored if the structure contained galactose or acetyl side chains that interacted with curdlan through hydrogen bonding. These results suggested an effective way to modify curdlan by strengthening the interaction of curdlan with others and weakening the hydrogen bonding of curdlan to broaden its application in food colloids.
Assessment of the Mechanical Properties and Fragment Characteristics of a 3D-Printed Forearm Orthosis
Authors: Majdak Mislav , Bogović Slavica , Somogyi Škoc Maja , Rezić Meštrović Iva
Published: November 2024

Distal radius fractures (DRF) are one of the most prevalent injuries a person may sustain. The current treatment of DRF involves the use of casts made from Plaster of Paris or fiberglass. The application of these materials is a serious endeavor that influences their intended use, and should be conducted by specially trained personnel. In this research, with the use of the full-body 3D scanner Vitus Smart, 3D modelling software Rhinoceros 3D, and 3D printer Creality CR-10 max, an easy, yet effective workflow of orthosis fabrication was developed. Furthermore, samples that represent segments of the orthosis were subjected to static loading. Lastly, fragments that occurred due to excessive force were characterized with the use of a digital microscope. It was observed that with the implementation of the designed workflow, a faster 3D printing process was present. Samples subjected to mechanical loading had values that exceeded those of conventional Plaster of Paris; the minimum recorded value was 681 N, while the highest was 914 N. Microscopic characterization enabled a clear insight into the occurrence of fragments, as well as their potential risk. Therefore, in this research, an insight into different stages of fabrication, characterization of undesirable events, as well as the risks they may pose were presented.
Fused Filament Fabrication of Slow-Crystallizing Polyaryletherketones: Crystallinity and Mechanical Properties Linked to Processing and Post-Treatment Parameters
Authors: Doyle Lucía , Pérez-Ferrero Xabier , García-Molleja Javier , Losada Ricardo , Romero-Rodríguez Pablo , Fernández-Blázquez Juan P.
Published: November 2024

Recent advancements in thermoplastics within the polyaryletherketone (PAEK) family have enhanced additive manufacturing (AM) potential in fields like aerospace and defense. Polyetheretherketone (PEEK), the best-studied PAEK, faces limitations in AM due to its fast crystallization, which causes poor inter-filament bonding and warping. This study investigated alternative, slow-crystallizing PAEK polymers: polyetherketoneketone (PEKK-A) and AM-200, a PEEK-based copolymer. Both can be printed in an amorphous state and then annealed to improve crystallinity and mechanical properties. Despite their potential, these materials have been minimally explored for AM. Our analysis compared the mechanical performance of as-printed and annealed samples and showed that slow-crystallizing PAEKs outperform fast-crystallizing PEEK. As-printed PEKK-A and AM-200 parts reached tensile strengths of 69 MPa and 47 MPa, respectively, which are about 80% of the values for injection-molded parts. In contrast, PEEK achieves only 25% due to poor inter-layer bonding. Annealing increased crystallinity (15.7% for PEKK-A, 19% for AM-200), simultaneously leading to a coalescence of smaller pores into larger ones, which affected mechanical integrity. Annealing strengthened the printed filament direction, while Z-direction strength remained limited by interlayer adhesion. Our work provides new insights into optimizing these relationships to expand the applicability of PAEK in additive manufacturing.
Enhanced Green Strength in a Polycarbonate Polyol-Based Reactive Polyurethane Hot-Melt Adhesive
Authors: Moyano-Vallejo Alejandra , Carbonell-Blasco María Pilar , Hernández-Fernández Carlota , Arán-Aís Francisca , Romero-Sánchez María Dolores , Orgilés-Calpena Elena
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to enhance the initial adhesion performance of reactive polyurethane hot-melt adhesives by using a bio-based polycarbonate polyol instead of traditional polyester or polyether polyols and by incorporating thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) in varied proportions. Adhesives synthesized from bio-based polycarbonate polyols and polypropylene glycol with MDI as the isocyanate were characterized chemically, thermally, and mechanically (FTIR, DSC, plate–plate rheology, DMA, and T-peel strength test). Adding 10–15 wt.% TPU significantly improved green strength and initial adhesion at room temperature and after accelerated cooling. The bio-based polycarbonate polyol promotes superior flexibility at low temperatures compared to fossil-derived alternatives, aligning with sustainability objectives. The results showed that 10 wt.% TPU maximized green strength without compromising flexibility, whereas 15 wt.% TPU, though enhancing adhesion, reduced flexibility due to increased crystallinity. T-peel tests on footwear materials indicated that all the adhesives exceeded the EN 15307:2015 requirements, with the highest peel strength achieved after curing. These findings highlight the benefit of bio-based polycarbonate polyols and TPUs in achieving strong, flexible, and eco-friendly adhesives suitable for demanding applications.
Double Spherulite Formation via Two-Step Crystallization in PTT/PET Blends
Authors: Sugeno Kousuke , Saito Hiromu
Published: November 2024

We investigated the crystallization kinetics and morphology evolution of miscible crystalline/crystalline blends of poly(trimethylene terephthalate) (PTT) and poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) during isothermal melt crystallization. The integrated light-scattering intensity and the spherulite size increased gradually and then steeply as crystallization progressed in 70/30 PTT/PET at 215 °C, indicating the two-step crystallization behavior. The compact PET spherulite grew in the first step, and the dendritic PTT spherulite grew in the second step, forming the double spherulite consisting of a PET component in the inner region and a PTT one in the outer region. The spherulite size of PET increased nonlinearly with time, suggesting the exclusion of PTT from the crystal growth front. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) observation revealed that the PTT fibrils were interfiled within the PET spherulite in the inner region and continued outward to the outer region consisting of the PTT spherulite. These results suggest that the excluded PTT crystallizes into fibrils by interfiling crystallization within the inner PET spherulite, and then the interfiled PTT fibrils continue to grow outward to form the outer dendritic PTT spherulite after the spherulite growth of PET stops due to the excluded PTT at the growth front.
A Novel PVDF Ultrafiltration Membrane Modified by C60(OH)n-Ag
Authors: Zhang Jie , Zhao Wenjun , Shi Chengyang , Zhao Liman , Chu Yudi , Ren Yanan , Wang Qun , Chi Yanxia , Zhou Shujing
Published: November 2024

Ultrafiltration membranes in the fields of water treatment and biomedicine should have high permeability as well as antibacterial and antifouling capabilities. In this study, based on the hydrophilicity of fullerol (C60(OH)n) and the bacteriostatic properties of silver (Ag), a fullerol–silver (C60(OH)n-Ag) complex was prepared as a multifunctional additive. A polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)-composited C60(OH)n-Ag ultrafiltration membrane (C60(OH)n-Ag/PVDF) was prepared by immersion precipitation phase transformation. Addition of the C60(OH)n-Ag complex improved the permeability and retention of the traditional PVDF membrane. Compared with the traditional PVDF membrane, the surface water contact angle of the modified PVDF and C60(OH)n-Ag ultrafiltration membrane was reduced from 75.05° to 34.50°, its pure water flux increased from 224.11 L·m−2·h−1 to 804.05 L·m−2·h−1, the retention rate on bovine serum protein was increased from 75.00% to 96.44% and the flux recovery rate increased from 64.91% to 79.08%. The C60(OH)n-Ag/PVDF ultrafiltration membrane had good inhibitory effects on Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, while the PVDF ultrafiltration membrane had no obvious inhibitory effects.
Hybrid Alumina–Silica Filler for Thermally Conductive Epoxidized Natural Rubber
Authors: Yangthong Hassarutai , Nun-Anan Phattarawadee , Krainoi Apinya , Chaisrikhwun Boonphop , Karrila Seppo , Limhengha Suphatchakorn
Published: November 2024

Thermally conductive composites were prepared based on epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) filled with alumina, silica, and hybrid alumina and silica. The thermal conductivity and mechanical properties were assessed. It was observed that the interactions of polar functional groups in the fillers and epoxy group in ENR supported a fine dispersion of filler in the ENR matrix. The mechanical properties were improved with alumina, silica, and hybrid alumina/silica loadings. The ENR/Silica composite at 50 phr of silica provided the highest 60 shore A hardness, a maximum 100% modulus up to 0.37 MPa, and the highest tensile strength of 27.3 MPa, while ENR/Alumina with 50 phr alumina gave the best thermal conductivity. The hybrid alumina/silica filler at 25/25 phr significantly improved the mechanical properties and thermal conductivity in an ENR composite. That is, the thermal conductivity of the ENR/Hybrid filler was 2.23 W/mK, much higher than that of gum ENR (1.16 W/mK). The experimental results were further analyzed using ANOVA and it was found that the ENR/Hybrid filler showed significant increases in mechanical and thermal properties compared to gum ENR. Moreover, silica in the hybrid composites contributed to higher strength when compared to both gum ENR and ENR/Alumina composites. The hybrid filler system also favors process ability with energy savings. As a result, ENR filled with hybrid alumina/silica is an alternative thermally conductive elastomeric material to expensive silicone rubber, and it could have commercial applications in the fabrication of electronic devices, solar energy conversion, rechargeable batteries, and sensors.
From Fossil to Bio-Based AESO–TiO2 Microcomposite for Engineering Applications
Authors: Varganici Cristian-Dragos , Rosu Liliana , Rosu Dan , Asandulesa Mihai
Published: November 2024

Environmental issues and the reduction of fossil fuel resources will lead to the partial or total substitution of petroleum-based materials with natural, raw, renewable ones. One expanding domain is the obtaining of engineering materials from vegetable oils for sustainable, eco-friendly polymers for different applications. Herein, the authors propose a simplified and green synthesis pathway for a thermally curable, acrylated and epoxidized soybean oil matrix formulation containing only epoxidized soybean oil, acrylic acid, a reactive diluent (5%) and just 0.15 mL of catalyst. The small amount of reactive diluent significantly reduced the initial system viscosity while eliminating the need for adding solvent, hardener, activator, etc. Both the thermally cured composite with a 2% TiO2 microparticle filler and its pristine matrix were comparably characterized in terms of structural, thermal, morphological, dielectric and wettability by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetry, scanning electron microscopy, broadband dielectric spectrometry and contact angle measurements. The 2% filler in the composite generated superior thermal stability via lower mass loss (48.89% vs. 57.14%) and higher degradation temperatures (395 °C vs. 387 °C), increased the glass transition temperature from −20 °C to −10 °C, rendered the microcomposite hydrophobic by increasing the contact angle from 88° to 96° and enhanced dielectric properties compared to the pristine matrix. All investigations recommend the microcomposite for protective coatings, capacitors, sensors and electronic circuits. This study brings new contributions to green chemistry and sustainable materials.
Monitoring Agitation Intensity in Fluidized Beds Containing Inert Particles via Acoustic Emissions and Neural Networks
Authors: Metzner Willian Velloso , Dacanal Gustavo Cesar
Published: November 2024

This study utilized passive acoustic emissions from a fluidized bed containing spherical inert ABS particles, captured by an external piezoelectric microphone, to monitor fluidization agitation intensity. Acoustic signals were recorded during fluidization profiles achieved under air velocities ranging from 0.5 to 3.0 m/s and during the drying of water or maltodextrin aqueous solution (1:5 w/w) introduced as droplets. Analyzing audio features like waveforms, the Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT), and Mel Frequency Cepstral Coefficients (MFCCs) revealed changes corresponding to the agitation intensity of the particles. The MFCC coefficients were input into a three-layer artificial neural network (ANN) to predict fluidization dynamics based on air velocity, liquid flow rate, and drying time. The ANN efficiently learned from the data, achieving high predictive accuracy (R2 > 0.8) after 15 epochs of training, showcasing the robustness of MFCC coefficients for modeling. This approach highlights that the application of passive acoustic signals and neural networks allows for real-time monitoring of fluidization behavior during drying processes.
Redemption unto Life: Kierkegaardian Anthropology and the Relation Between Justification and Sanctification
Authors: Steinmetz Michael Nathan
Published: November 2024

The Protestant Reformation’s insistence on forensic justification developed the distinct concepts of justification and sanctification. The alien righteousness of Christ is all that is needed to justify the sinner rather than the co-operating of good works as proclaimed by The Roman Catholic Church at The Council of Trent. The justification/sanctification spilt leads to a practical problem among Protestants: what is the purpose of good works if the believer is already justified? In this paper, I argue Søren Kierkegaard’s theological anthropology aids us with the bifurcation of justification and sanctification. I start with examining the components of Kierkegaardian anthropology, showing the dynamic nature of humans as beings in process. All humans have a spirit which pushes them to actualize themselves. Second, I describe Kierkegaard’s view of humans as a negative unity, living outside of faith in the life of sin. Third, I explain humans as a positive unity—those who have posited faith. Lastly, I demonstrate how Kierkegaard’s anthropology shows that all humans will do something with their existence. The sinner sins, while the justified does good deeds. Kierkegaardian anthropology shows that sanctification is a necessary result of justification, not a necessary cause of justification.
A Festival of Chariots: How Music and the Arts Take the Hindu Temple Experience to the Streets
Authors: Brown Sara Black
Published: November 2024

Among the most prominent Hindu festivals is the Rath Yatra, or Festival of Chariots, which is celebrated by parading three brightly decorated chariots containing statues of the deities Jagganath, Subhadra, and Balaram through the streets of a city on brilliantly decorated chariots. Rath Yatra is celebrated throughout India and increasingly throughout the world through such efforts as the Festival of India sponsored by the International Society of Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), which stops in several prominent locations throughout North America. Within Krishna Consciousness, temple worship is an aesthetically vivid sensory experience in which the various art forms—music, dance, theater, and the visual arts—serve to attach the devotee’s senses to the Divine through worship practices, including darshan—the exchange of gazes, kirtan—the singing of sacred mantras, and lila—the re-creation of the pastimes of divine characters. The festival experience—and the Festival of Chariots in particular—can serve to bring the practices typically associated with temple worship to the public. This article draws on several Rath Yatra events, giving special attention to the annual Rath Yatra parade held in New York City, where devotees parade their deities down Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue, and that held in Los Angeles on Venice Beach. These prominent American Rath Yatras serve as a study of the spiritual necessity of beauty and the spiritual necessity of joy, which are both addressed by the festival experience, as music and vivid visual imagery serve to transform urban space into sacred space by allowing bypassers as well as devotees to come into sensory contact with sacred imagery and sacred sound.
Social Media, Environmental Activism and Implicit Religion: A Case Study of Extinction Rebellion
Authors: Gürlesin Ömer F.
Published: November 2024

This study explores the manifestation of implicit religion in climate change activism on social media, focusing on Extinction Rebellion (XR) in The Netherlands between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2023. A combination of content analysis and discourse analysis is used to examine how XR’s activism on X (Twitter) embodies quasi-religious elements such as shared beliefs, moral imperatives, and collective identity. Drawing on Edward Bailey’s concept of implicit religion and Meerten Ter Borg’s framework, the research reveals how XR’s activism blends secular environmental concerns with spiritual commitment, positioning climate activism as a moral duty. The study identifies six key themes in XR’s discourse: shared beliefs and values, transcendent purposes, commitment and devotion, community and collective identity, meaning and purpose, and hope and overcoming uncertainty. These themes are framed as sacred responsibilities, fostering a community united by transcendent purposes. This research contributes to the sociology of religion by highlighting how implicit religious elements permeate modern secular movements, particularly through digital platforms. It also provides insights into how climate activism mobilizes individuals through quasi-religious rhetoric and practices, shaping both individual and collective responses to the environmental crisis.
Wittgenstein’s Mysticism(s)
Authors: Lima Rodrigo César Castro
Published: November 2024

I will argue that the examination regarding the topic of mysticism should play a much bigger role when it comes to the ensemble of Wittgenstein’s writings. In this sense, while drawing upon previous analyses, I will make the case that the Tractarian mystical spirit still animates other works by the author such as his Lectures on Ethics and the Philosophical Investigations. Then, I will propose that the unity of this mysticism lies in the sui generis discovery (or shock) that the world exists; however, as his work progresses, different strategies will be employed to convey this type of message—and they shall vary from the attempt of putting such a perspective into words until the full annihilation of the mere possibility in this regard. Hence, there would be one fundamental underlying type of mysticism in Wittgenstein’s proposals, but the unveiling of such a mystical insight will demand different forms of exposition and understanding.
Public Within Public: Extending the Notion of Public Theology to Include African Public Praxis
Authors: Nanthambwe Patrick , Magezi Vhumani
Published: November 2024

The rapid recognition of the contributions of theology in public spaces in Africa is a positive development. It is understood that theology can only be impactful if it engages public issues in their context. However, the understanding of the public in public theology is blurry because its precise meaning remains debatable. The construct ‘publics’ is hugely influenced by Western conception, where human interaction spaces are categorized into separate sects of social spaces. This conception arguably derives from the Western individualistic operative ideology. The question is whether the notion of public theology can be extended to include African public praxis to contribute to effective engagement with public issues in Africa. This article explores and broadens the concept of public theology by incorporating African public praxis. It investigates how public theology, traditionally understood within a Western context, can be expanded to include African societies’ distinct and diverse practices, experiences, and contexts. First, this article comprehensively analyzes the meaning of ‘public’ in public theology, focusing on unique, distinctive African perspectives and experiences. Second, the article elucidates the multifaceted dimensions of public theology as it intersects with African social, political, and cultural realities. Thirdly, the article offers fresh insights into the transformative potential of theological reflections within African public praxis. The article presents a discussion on the importance of understanding what public theology is in an African context. Understanding public theology in Africa will contribute to its effectiveness. It enriches the discourse on the role of public theology in addressing challenges that Africans face.
Assessment of the Impact of Road Construction on the Ecological Environment
Authors: Wang Ziyu , Zhou Hongmin , Wan Huawei , Shi Peirong , Li Chen , Qi Jinlin , Fang Ruojing
Published: November 2024

In recent years, China has made remarkable progress in infrastructure construction, which has greatly contributed to the development of the regional economy. However, the impacts of construction on the ecological environment are of increasing concern. This study aimed to quantitatively assess the ecological environment of two expressways (the Chanliu Expressway and the Linghua Expressway) constructed during different time periods, to assess the impact of road construction on the ecosystem and the effectiveness of the Chinese government’s efforts in environmental protection. The pressure–state–response (PSR) model was adopted, which integrates a variety of remote sensing indicators. The ecological pressure, ecological state, and ecological response in the pre-, mid-, and post-construction periods of the road were assessed. The results reveal that the impacts of the construction of the Chanliu (1999–2002) and Linghua Expressways (2019–2023) on ecosystems are different. For the Chanliu Expressway, the ecological pressure continually increased, and the ecological state significantly declined during the construction period. When the road construction was finished, the environment continuously deteriorated. This was due to the lack of effective ecological protective measures during its construction. In contrast, the Linghua Expressway experienced reduced ecological pressure during the construction period, with the ecological state remaining relatively stable, as more protective measures were implemented. However, it later relied on natural recovery, which led to an increase in ecological pressure in the post-construction period. The results indicate that China’s ecological protective measures in road construction have achieved significant progress in recent years. In the future, it is essential to maintain long-term ecological health by strengthening ecological restoration management and continuous environmental monitoring.
Spatial Characteristics and Driving Mechanisms of Carbon Neutrality Progress in Tourism Attractions in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau Based on Remote Sensing Methods
Authors: Xia Bing
Published: November 2024

This research employs multi-source data including big data, remote sensing raster data, and statistical vector data. Through the superposition of tourism activity points of interest with remotely sensed inversion raster data like human carbon emissions, net primary productivity, and kilometer-grid GDP, the carbon emissions, carbon sinks, and economic output of tourism attractions are obtained. Data envelopment analysis and econometric models are utilized to assess the “carbon emissions–carbon sinks–economic output” coupling efficiency relationship and driving mechanism under the framework of the tourism carbon neutrality process. This research takes Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau region, which has had a severe response to global climate change and is particularly deficient in statistical and monitoring data, as an example. It is found that in Gannan Prefecture, which is at the primary stage of tourism development, with a high degree of dependence on the location and regional economic development level, the challenge of decoupling carbon emissions from the economy is significant. The carbon neutrality process in natural tourism attractions is marginally superior to that in cultural tourism attractions. However, even among natural tourism attractions, the number of spots achieving high carbon sink efficiency is extremely limited. There remains considerable scope for achieving carbon neutrality process through carbon sinks in the future. The location and vegetation conditions can exert a direct and positive influence on the improvement of carbon efficiency in tourist destinations. Establishing natural tourism attractions near cities is more conducive to facilitating carbon neutrality. This research highlights the advantages of remote sensing methods in specific sectors such as tourism where quality monitoring facilities and methods are lacking and provides a reference for evaluating the tourism carbon neutrality process and managing environmental sustainability on tourism attractions in similar regions and specific sectors worldwide.
Remote Sensing for Urban Biodiversity: A Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Finizio Michele , Pontieri Federica , Bottaro Chiara , Di Febbraro Mirko , Innangi Michele , Sona Giovanna , Carranza Maria Laura
Published: November 2024

Urban settlements can support significant biodiversity and provide a wide range of ecosystem services. Remote sensing (RS) offers valuable tools for monitoring and conserving urban biodiversity. Our research, funded by the Italian Recovery and Resilience Plan (National Biodiversity Future Centre—Urban Biodiversity), undertakes a systematic scientific review to assess the current status and future prospects of urban biodiversity evaluation using RS. An extensive literature search of indexed peer-reviewed papers published between 2008 and 2023 was conducted on the Scopus database, using a selective choice of keywords. After screening the titles, abstracts, and keywords of 500 articles, 117 relevant papers were retained for meta-data analysis. Our analysis incorporated technical (e.g., sensor, platform, algorithm), geographic (e.g., country, city extent, population) and ecological (biodiversity target, organization level, biome) meta-data, examining their frequencies, temporal trends (Generalized Linear Model—GLM), and covariations (Cramer’s V). The rise in publications over time is linked to the increased availability of imagery, enhanced computing power, and growing awareness of the importance of urban biodiversity. Most research focused on the Northern Hemisphere and large metropolitan areas, with smaller cities often overlooked. Consequently, data coverage is predominantly concentrated on Mediterranean and temperate habitats, with limited attention given to boreal, desert, and tropical biomes. A strong association was observed between the source of RS data (e.g., satellite missions), pixel size, and the purpose of its use (e.g., modeling, detection). This research provides a comprehensive summary of RS applications for evaluating urban biodiversity with a focus on the biomes studied, biodiversity targets, and ecological organization levels. This work can provide information on where future studies should focus their efforts on the study of urban biodiversity using remote sensing instruments in the coming years.
Delineation Protocol of Agricultural Management Zones (Olive Trees and Alfalfa) at Field Scale (Crete, Greece)
Authors: Chatzidavid David , Kokinou Eleni , Gerarchakis Nikolaos , Kontogiorgakis Ioannis , Bucaioni Alessio , Bogdanovic Milos
Published: November 2024

This study proposes a three-stage, flexible and adaptable protocol for the establishment of field-scale agricultural management zones (AMZs) using remote sensing, ground truthing (apparent electrical conductivity and soil sampling), the IRRIGOPTIMAL® system and machine learning. The methodology to develop this protocol was applied to olive and alfalfa plots in Heraklion (Crete, Greece) to monitor soil and plant responses for the period 2022–2024. However, the actual time for the implementation of this protocol varies between 3 and 6 months. The first step of this protocol involves the use of soil and vegetation reflectance mapping (moisture, photosynthetic activity) by satellites and unmanned aerial systems, together with geophysical electromagnetic induction mapping (apparent electrical conductivity) to verify soil variability, which is strongly linked to the delineation of management zones. In the second step, a machine learning-based prediction of the spatial distribution of soil electrical conductivity is made, considering the data obtained in the first step. Furthermore, in the second step, the IRRIGOPTIMAL® system provides real-time monitoring of a variety of weather (such as air temperature, dew point, solar radiation, relative humidity, precipitation) and soil (temperature, moisture) parameters to support the optimal cultivation strategy for the plants. Once the data have been analysed, the soil variability of the plot and the presence or absence of cultivation zones are determined and the decision on the cultivation strategy is made based on targeted soil sampling and further soil analyses. This protocol could contribute significantly to the rational use of inputs (water, seeds, fertilizers and pesticides) and support variable rate technology in the agricultural sector of Crete.
Participatory Methodologies as People-Centered Social Innovation: Listening to Voices of People in Policy Practice
Authors: Banerjee Swati , Shajahan P. K. , Ghunnar Pravin , Shaikh Mariya
Published: November 2024

Participatory methodology is an important methodological paradigm to understand the diversity and plurality of people’s knowledge. Through a policy study, this article explores the creativity and dynamism of participatory methodology to center people and their voices, and conceptualises the same as people-centered social innovation (PCSI). The process of engagement elucidated in the article is not only a new way of performing research but also a process of co-creating tangible outcomes of the research in the form of a policy which affects the life and livelihood of the community in question. The empirical evidence is drawn from the study referred to here, ‘Compensation Policy and its Implementation Plan for Project Affected Fisherfolk of Mumbai Coastal Road Project (South)’. The article highlights the use of an optimal mix of different participatory tools and the nature of community engagement as social innovation in understanding the experiences of the fisherfolk and their lives and livelihoods and how it was impacted by the said project, subsequently co-creating a compensation policy for the affected communities. The approach adopted in the study attempts to reimagine empirical studies with a social innovation frame as ‘doing’ people-centered social innovation, which gives voice and visibility to the project-affected fishing communities in particular and marginalised actors in general in policy and practice in claiming their rights and entitlements. Through this process of co-production of knowledge, the study captured the multi-faceted impact of the project on the lives and livelihoods of various actors in the value chain, thereby paving the way for individualized compensation rather than household compensation, as is the case with many compensation policies in vogue.
Integrating Work-Life and Student Work-Related Experiences in Classroom Learning—The Perspective of Primary Teachers
Authors: Nurmik Kaidi , Timoštšuk Inge
Published: November 2024

A better match between formal education and work-life is seen as one approach that can help students acquire competences and knowledge necessary for successful participation in their future lives. However, emphasis is often placed on exploring practices targeted at students nearing entry into a work-life pattern, whereas promoting key competencies and positive attitudes toward work should start at an earlier stage. We conducted in-depth interviews with 20 Estonian primary school teachers, recognized by their colleagues for outstanding practices to explore their understanding and experiences of integrating work-life and students’ work-related experiences in classroom learning. While teachers involve the work-life and professions of the students’ family members, they often overlook the potential of their local community. Teachers perceived the primary school context as generally supportive, with the national curriculum and cooperative relationships with families being supportive factors. Teachers often viewed students’ work-related experiences as limited to tasks like maintaining tidiness, with few recognizing broader experiences, such as taking on different roles or participating in after-school activities. There is significant potential to purposefully connect work-life and classroom learning, enabling students to take on roles that promote their key competencies and agency, while personalizing learning based on their work-related experiences.