1
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Smyth SJ, Charlebois S. Agricultural chemical use and the rural-urban divide in Canada. GM Crops Food 2024; 15:32-39. [PMID: 38375857 PMCID: PMC10880490 DOI: 10.1080/21645698.2024.2318876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Innovation is of fundamental importance for improving food production, as well as sustainability food production. Since 1960, food production has benefited from innovations in plant breeding technologies, fertilizer, chemicals and equipment. These innovations have dramatically increased food production, while the amount of land used has minimally increased. However, future food production increases are jeopardized from widening knowledge gaps between rural food producers and large urban food consuming populations. Over time, that gap has fueled disinformation. The development of disinformation business models contributes to urban consumers receiving inaccurate information about the importance of inputs essential to food production, resulting in political pressures being applied that are targeted at reductions in the use of many food production inputs. The use of chemicals are a frequent target of disinformation campaigns. This article examines how the lack of government clarity about the safe use of chemicals contributes to a lack of public information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stuart J. Smyth
- Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Sylvain Charlebois
- Faculty of Management, Dalhousie University, Hlaifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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2
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Reger C, Leitzmann MF, Rohrmann S, Kühn T, Sedlmeier AM, Jochem C. Sustainable diets and risk of overweight and obesity: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Obes Rev 2024; 25:e13707. [PMID: 38343095 DOI: 10.1111/obr.13707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Abstract
Sustainable diets are gaining interest as a possible approach to tackle climate change and the global extent of obesity. Yet, the association between sustainable diets and adiposity remains unclear. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis, calculating summary relative risks and 95% confidence intervals (CI). We pooled maximally adjusted risk estimates, assessed heterogeneity and publication bias, calculated the E-value, and evaluated the risk of bias across the included studies. A total of eight studies were eligible for analysis. Comparing the highest versus the lowest levels of adherence to sustainable diets, the pooled effect estimate was 0.69 (95% CI = 0.62-0.76) for overweight and 0.61 (95% CI = 0.47-0.78) for obesity. These results suggest that sustainable diets may decrease the risk of overweight/obesity and therefore could serve as enablers for improving both public and planetary health. An agreed-upon clear definition of sustainable diets would enhance the comparability of future studies in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Reger
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Michael F Leitzmann
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sabine Rohrmann
- Division of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tilman Kühn
- Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health (HIGH), Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Global Food Security (IGFS), Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Anja M Sedlmeier
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Center for Translational Oncology, University Hospital, Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), Regensburg, Germany
| | - Carmen Jochem
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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3
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Asuming PO, Kim HB, Sim A. Selection and behavioral responses of health insurance subsidies in the long run: Evidence from a field experiment in Ghana. Health Economics 2024; 33:992-1032. [PMID: 38291321 DOI: 10.1002/hec.4797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
We study the effects of a health insurance subsidy in Ghana, where mandates are not enforceable. We randomly provide different levels of subsidy (1/3, 2/3, and full) and evaluate the impact at 7 months and 3 years after the intervention. We find that a one-time subsidy increased insurance enrollment for all groups in both the short and long runs, but health care utilization in the long run increased only for the partial subsidy group. We find supportive evidence that ex-post behavioral responses rather than ex-ante selective enrollment explain the long-run health care utilization results.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hyuncheol Bryant Kim
- Department of Economics, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Armand Sim
- Centre for Development Economics and Sustainability, Monash University, Caulfield East, Victoria, Australia
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4
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McNeill HN, Linda Buckley H, Marunui Iki Pouwhare R. Decolonizing Indigenous Burial Practices in Aotearoa, New Zealand: A Tribal Case Study. Omega (Westport) 2024; 89:207-221. [PMID: 35148658 PMCID: PMC11017688 DOI: 10.1177/00302228211070153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Before European contact, Māori disposed of the dead in environmentally sustainable ways. Revitalizing pre-colonial burial practices presents an opportunity for Māori to evaluate current practices and reconnect with their ancient tribal customs and practices. The research question asks: What is the decolonizing potential of urupā tautaiao (natural burials)? Paradoxically, environmentally unsustainable modern tangihanga (funerals) retain the ethos of customary funerary traditions. Urupā tautaiao presents an opportunity for iwi (tribes) to retain cultural integrity in the death space, without compromising Papatūānuku (earthmother). Methodologically, a Māori worldview frames an action research mindset. The study captures a tribal community's exploratory journey into urupā tautaiao.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hannah Linda Buckley
- Te Kura Pūtaiao School of Science, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
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5
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Nikkhah A, Ghnimi S, Tichenor Blackstone N, Nikkhah F, Jacxsens L, Devlieghere F, Van Haute S. Inclusion of microbiological food safety as a novel aspect in life cycle assessments of food production. Int J Environ Health Res 2024; 34:2353-2365. [PMID: 37621018 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2023.2248899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
The life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology currently covers a limited number of human health-related impact categories. Microbiological food safety is an essential aspect for the selection of an appropriate food production system and has been neglected in the LCA so far. A framework for the inclusion of a microbiological food safety indicator, expressed as disability-adjusted life year (DALY) value of the consumed food product to the human health damage category (end-point) was created, and applied in a case study model on the cooked-chilled meals as the ready-to-eat meals can be associated with the occurrence of foodborne illness cases and outbreaks. This study suggests a framework for the inclusion of microbiological risk caused by Bacillus cereus associated with the consumption of ready-to-eat meals (in Belgium) in the LCA. The results indicated that the microbiological risk of one package of the investigated ready-to-eat meal was 1.95 × 10-6 DALY, and the obtained DALY value was included as an impact category in the LCA methodology. Inclusion of other categories of food safety (including chemical safety hazards, pesticide residues, heavy metals, and mycotoxins) in LCA could be done in the same fashion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin Nikkhah
- Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Environmental Technology, Food Technology and Molecular Biotechnology, Ghent University Global Campus, Incheon, South Korea
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sami Ghnimi
- Department of Environmental Technology, Food Technology and Molecular Biotechnology, Ghent University Global Campus, Incheon, South Korea
- Laboratory of Automatic Control, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Engineering (LAGEPP), Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Villeurbanne, France
- Department of food science, ISARA, Lyon, France
| | | | - Farima Nikkhah
- Department Industrial Engineering, Rahbord Shomal University, Rasht, Iran
| | - Liesbeth Jacxsens
- Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Frank Devlieghere
- Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sam Van Haute
- Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Environmental Technology, Food Technology and Molecular Biotechnology, Ghent University Global Campus, Incheon, South Korea
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6
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Agrawal K, Ruhil T, Gupta VK, Verma P. Microbial assisted multifaceted amelioration processes of heavy-metal remediation: a clean perspective toward sustainable and greener future. Crit Rev Biotechnol 2024; 44:429-447. [PMID: 36851851 DOI: 10.1080/07388551.2023.2170862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
Rapidly increasing heavy metal waste has adversely affected the environment and the Earth's health. The lack of appropriate remediation technologies has worsened the issue globally, especially in developing countries. Heavy-metals contaminants have severely impacted the environment and led to devastating conditions owing to their abundance and reactivity. As they are nondegradable, the potential risk increases even at a low concentration. However, heavy-metal remediation has increased with the up-gradation of technologies and integration of new approaches. Also, of all the treatment methodologies, microbial-assisted multifaceted approach for ameliorating heavy metals is a promising strategy for propagating the idea of a green and sustainable environment with minimal waste aggregation. Microbial remediation combined with different biotechniques could aid in unraveling new methods for eradicating heavy metals. Thus, the present review focuses on various microbial remediation approaches and their affecting factors, enabling recapitulation of the interplay between heavy-metals ions and microorganisms. Additionally, heavy-metals remediation mechanisms adapted by microorganisms, the role of genetically modified (GM) microorganisms, life cycle assessment (LCA), techno-economic assessment (TEA) limitations, and prospects of microbial-assisted amelioration of heavy-metals have been elaborated in the current review with focus toward "sustainable and greener future."
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Affiliation(s)
- Komal Agrawal
- Bioprocess and Bioenergy Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, India
- Department of Microbiology, School of Bio Engineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, India
| | - Tannu Ruhil
- Bioprocess and Bioenergy Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, India
| | - Vijai Kumar Gupta
- Center for Safe and Improved Food, SRUC, Edinburgh, UK
- Biorefining and Advanced Materials Research Center, SRUC, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Pradeep Verma
- Bioprocess and Bioenergy Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, India
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Serrie M, Ribeyre F, Brun L, Audergon JM, Quilot B, Roth M. Dare to be resilient: the key to future pesticide-free orchards? J Exp Bot 2024:erae150. [PMID: 38634690 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erae150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
In a context of urgent need for a more sustainable fruit tree production, it's high time to find durable alternatives to the systematic use of phytosanitary products in orchards. To this aim, resilience can deliver a number of benefits. Relying on a combination of tolerance, resistance and recovery traits, disease resilience appears as a corner stone to cope with the multiple pest and disease challenge over the orchard's lifetime. Here, we propose to describe resilience as the capacity of a tree to be minimally affected by external disturbances or to rapidly bounce back to normal functioning after being exposed to these disturbances. Based on a literature survey largely inspired from research on livestock, we highlight different approaches for dissecting resilience phenotypic and genotypic components. In particular, multisite experimental designs and longitudinal measures of so-called 'resilience biomarkers' are required. We identified a list of promising biomarkers relying on eco-physiological and digital measurements. Recent advances in high-throughput phenotyping and genomics tools will likely facilitate the fine and temporal monitoring of tree health, allowing to identify resilient genotypes with the calculation of specific resilience indicators. Although resilience can appear as 'black box' trait, we demonstrate how it could become a realistic breeding goal.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Laurent Brun
- INRAE, UERI Gotheron, Saint-Marcel-Lès-Valence, France
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Vienken J, Boccato C. Do medical devices contribute to sustainability? The role of innovative polymers and device design. Int J Artif Organs 2024:3913988241245013. [PMID: 38618975 DOI: 10.1177/03913988241245013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Sustainability of a medical device has not yet become a major issue in public discussions compared to other topics with impact to material performance, clinical application, production economy and environmental pollution. Due to their unique properties, polymers (plastics) allow for multiple, flexible applications in medical device technology. Polymers are part of the majority of disposable and single use medical device and contribute with 3% to the worldwide production of plastics. The global medical polymer market size was valued 19.9 billion US-$ in 2022 and its value projection for 2023 is expected to reach 43.03 billion US-$ Here, a wider concept of related sustainability is introduced for medical devices and their polymer components. A close look on medical device specification reveals that additional properties are required to provide sustainability, such as biodegradability, quality by device design (QbD), as well as an inbuild performance service for patients, healthcare professionals and healthcare providers. The increasing global numbers for chronic and non-communicable diseases require a huge demand for single use medical devices. A careful look at polymer specification and its performance properties is needed, including possible chemical modifications and degradation processes during waste disposal. Bioengineers in charge of design and production of medical devices will only be successful when they apply a holistic and interdisciplinary approach to medical device sustainability.
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Boccato C, Vienken J. Do medical devices contribute to sustainability? Environmental, societal and governance aspects. Int J Artif Organs 2024:3913988241245015. [PMID: 38622935 DOI: 10.1177/03913988241245015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Sustainability of a product or device is currently primarily related to its environmental footprint. Here, a wider concept of sustainability is introduced for medical devices and their components in healthcare provision. Such devices sustain healthcare and patient wellbeing due to their quality specifications for material composition, product design and performance. The term quality must be intended in the most comprehensive term, including purity and biocompatibility of materials, device reliability, limited number of recalls and reduced risks as well as acceptability for patients. A close look on medical device specification shows, however, that additional parameters, such as societal, demographic and economic factors also determine medical device sustainability. The medical device life cycle, from design phase, production process to clinical application and the final disposal, also determines its impact. Recommendations for healthcare operators and managers will complete the hypothesis of this paper, that a thoroughly outlined device choice and operation together with a careful waste management of spent medical devices and their components positively affects medical device sustainability. As an example, the limited quantity of wastes and the reduced risks for adverse reaction have a positive impact on both the environmental pollution and on the costs sustained by the healthcare organisations and by the community. These factors determine both, the success of healthcare manoeuvres and the related environmental footprint.
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10
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Hudson S, Muspratt-Tucker N, Kudsk-Iversen S. On the ethics of removing Entonox® from labour ward: beyond carbon dioxide equivalents and seeking justice for patients and the planet. Anaesthesia 2024. [PMID: 38606766 DOI: 10.1111/anae.16296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Hudson
- Nuffield Department of Anaesthesia, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Nadia Muspratt-Tucker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Søren Kudsk-Iversen
- Nuffield Department of Anaesthesia, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
- University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Pinheiro Araújo T, Giannakakis G, Morales-Vidal J, Agrachev M, Ruiz-Bernal Z, Preikschas P, Zou T, Krumeich F, Willi PO, Stark WJ, Grass RN, Jeschke G, Mitchell S, López N, Pérez-Ramírez J. Low-nuclearity CuZn ensembles on ZnZrO x catalyze methanol synthesis from CO 2. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3101. [PMID: 38600146 PMCID: PMC11006684 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47447-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Metal promotion could unlock high performance in zinc-zirconium catalysts, ZnZrOx, for CO2 hydrogenation to methanol. Still, with most efforts devoted to costly palladium, the optimal metal choice and necessary atomic-level architecture remain unclear. Herein, we investigate the promotion of ZnZrOx catalysts with small amounts (0.5 mol%) of diverse hydrogenation metals (Re, Co, Au, Ni, Rh, Ag, Ir, Ru, Pt, Pd, and Cu) prepared via a standardized flame spray pyrolysis approach. Cu emerges as the most effective promoter, doubling methanol productivity. Operando X-ray absorption, infrared, and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopic analyses and density functional theory simulations reveal that Cu0 species form Zn-rich low-nuclearity CuZn clusters on the ZrO2 surface during reaction, which correlates with the generation of oxygen vacancies in their vicinity. Mechanistic studies demonstrate that this catalytic ensemble promotes the rapid hydrogenation of intermediate formate into methanol while effectively suppressing CO production, showcasing the potential of low-nuclearity metal ensembles in CO2-based methanol synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaylan Pinheiro Araújo
- Institute of Chemical and Bioengineering, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Georgios Giannakakis
- Institute of Chemical and Bioengineering, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jordi Morales-Vidal
- Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ-CERCA), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Av. Països Catalans 16, 43007, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Mikhail Agrachev
- Laboratory of Physical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 2, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Zaira Ruiz-Bernal
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry and Materials Institute (IUMA), Faculty of Sciences, University of Alicante, Ap. 99, E-03080, Alicante, Spain
| | - Phil Preikschas
- Institute of Chemical and Bioengineering, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tangsheng Zou
- Institute of Chemical and Bioengineering, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Frank Krumeich
- Laboratory of Inorganic Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Patrik O Willi
- Institute of Chemical and Bioengineering, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Wendelin J Stark
- Institute of Chemical and Bioengineering, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Robert N Grass
- Institute of Chemical and Bioengineering, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Gunnar Jeschke
- Laboratory of Physical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 2, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sharon Mitchell
- Institute of Chemical and Bioengineering, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Núria López
- Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ-CERCA), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Av. Països Catalans 16, 43007, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Javier Pérez-Ramírez
- Institute of Chemical and Bioengineering, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Carbone A, Ferrara F, Baliga RR, Bossone E. Imaging Follow-up of Non-Severe Aortic Stenosis: "When the winds of change blow, some people build walls and others build windmills". Eur J Prev Cardiol 2024:zwae138. [PMID: 38597142 DOI: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwae138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Andreina Carbone
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Unit of Cardiology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Ferrara
- Cardio-Thoracic-Vascular Department, University Hospital of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Ragavendra R Baliga
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, US
| | - Eduardo Bossone
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Riesgraf KA, Akins MS, Laporta J, Weigel KA. Long-term growth, feed efficiency, enteric methane emission, and blood metabolite responses to in utero hyperthermia in Holstein heifers. J Dairy Sci 2024:S0022-0302(24)00734-3. [PMID: 38608943 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-24417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Dairy producers are experiencing production and animal welfare pressures from the increasing frequency and severity of heat stress events due to global climate change. Offspring performance during the pre-weaning and lactating periods is compromised when exposed to heat stress during late gestation (in utero). However, knowledge of the lingering impacts of in utero heat stress on yearling dairy heifers is limited. Herein, we investigated the long-term effects of in utero heat stress on heifer growth, feed efficiency, and enteric methane emissions in post-pubertal heifers. During the last 56 d of gestation, 38 pregnant cows carrying heifer calves were exposed to either heat stress (IUHT; n = 17) or artificial cooling (IUCL; n = 21). At 18 ± 1 mo of age, the resulting IUCL and IUHT heifers were enrolled in the present 63-d study. Heifers were blocked by weight and randomly assigned to 3 pens with Calan gates. Body weights (BW) were recorded on 3 consecutive days at the start and end of the trial and used to calculate average daily gain (ADG). Body condition score (BCS), hip width, body length, and chest girth were measured at the start and end of the study. All heifers were fed a TMR comprised of 46.6% oatlage, 44.6% grass/alfalfa haylage, 7.7% male-sterile corn silage, 0.3% urea, and 0.8% mineral/vitamin supplement (DM basis). The TMR and refusal samples were obtained daily, composited weekly, and dried to calculate DMI. During the study, each pen had access to a GreenFeed unit for 8 ± 1d to measure CH4 and CO2 gas fluxes. During the last 3 d of measuring CH4 and CO2 fluxes, fecal samples were collected, composited by animal, dried, and analyzed to calculate NDF, OM, and DM digestibility. On the last day of fecal sampling, blood samples were also collected via coccygeal venipuncture, and gas chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry analysis was performed Residual feed intake (RFI; predicted DMI - observed DMI) and feed conversion efficiency (FCE; DMI/ADG) were calculated to estimate feed efficiency. No differences were found in initial or final BW, hip width, chest girth, or BCS; however, IUCL heifers were longer in body length compared with IUHT heifers. Dry matter intake, ADG, RFI, and FCE were similar between IUHT and IUCL heifers. In utero heat stressed and IUCL heifers produced similar amounts of CH4 and CO2, and no differences were found in the number of GreenFeed visits or latency to approach the GreenFeed. The concentrations of 6 blood metabolites involved in lipogenic pathways were different between in utero treatments. In conclusion, in utero heat stress does not seem to have long-term effects on feed efficiency or methane emissions during the post-pubertal growing phase; however, IUCL heifers maintained a body length advantage over their IUHT counterparts and differed in concentrations of several candidate metabolites that encourage further exploration of their potential function in key organs, such as the liver and mammary gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaylee A Riesgraf
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Matthew S Akins
- USDA-ARS Institute for Environmentally Integrated Dairy Management, Marshfield, WI, 54449, USA
| | - Jimena Laporta
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Kent A Weigel
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
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Debbie SXY, Muiruri JK, Wu WY, Yeo JCC, Wang S, Tomczak N, Thitsartarn W, Tan BH, Wang P, Wei F, Suwardi A, Xu J, Loh XJ, Yan Q, Zhu Q. Bio-Polyethylene and Polyethylene Biocomposites: An Alternative Towards a Sustainable Future. Macromol Rapid Commun 2024:e2400064. [PMID: 38594967 DOI: 10.1002/marc.202400064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Polyethylene (PE), a highly prevalent non-biodegradable polymer in the field of plastics, presents a waste management issue. To alleviate this issue, bio-PE, derived from renewable resources like corn and sugarcane, offers an environmentally friendly alternative. This review discusses various production methods of bio-PE, including fermentation, gasification, and catalytic conversion of biomass. Interestingly, the bio-PE production volumes and market is expanding due to the growing environmental concerns and regulatory pressures. Additionally, the production of PE and bio-PE biocomposites using agricultural waste as filler materials, highlights the growing demand for sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics. According to previous studies, addition of about 50% defibrillated corn and abaca fibers into bio-PE matrix and a compatibilizer, resulted in the highest Young's modulus of 4.61 and 5.81 GPa, respectively. These biocomposites have potential applications in automotive, building construction, and furniture industries. Moreover, the advancement made in abiotic and biotic degradation of PE and PE biocomposites is elucidated to address their environmental impacts. Finally, the paper concludes with insights into the opportunities, challenges, and future perspectives in the sustainable production and utilization of PE and bio-PE biocomposites. Summed up, production of PE and bio-PE biocomposites can contribute to a cleaner and sustainable future. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo Xiang Yun Debbie
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis, #08-03, Singapore, 138634, Singapore
| | - Joseph Kinyanjui Muiruri
- Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE2), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 1 Pesek Road, Jurong Island, 627833, Singapore
| | - Wen-Ya Wu
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis, #08-03, Singapore, 138634, Singapore
| | - Jayven Chee Chuan Yeo
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis, #08-03, Singapore, 138634, Singapore
| | - Suxi Wang
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis, #08-03, Singapore, 138634, Singapore
| | - Nikodem Tomczak
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis, #08-03, Singapore, 138634, Singapore
| | - Warintorn Thitsartarn
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis, #08-03, Singapore, 138634, Singapore
| | - Beng Hoon Tan
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis, #08-03, Singapore, 138634, Singapore
| | - Pei Wang
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis, #08-03, Singapore, 138634, Singapore
| | - Fengxia Wei
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis, #08-03, Singapore, 138634, Singapore
| | - Ady Suwardi
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis, #08-03, Singapore, 138634, Singapore
| | - Jianwei Xu
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis, #08-03, Singapore, 138634, Singapore
- Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE2), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 1 Pesek Road, Jurong Island, 627833, Singapore
| | - Xian Jun Loh
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis, #08-03, Singapore, 138634, Singapore
- Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE2), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 1 Pesek Road, Jurong Island, 627833, Singapore
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, #03-09 EA, Singapore, 117575, Singapore
| | - Qingyu Yan
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis, #08-03, Singapore, 138634, Singapore
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Qiang Zhu
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis, #08-03, Singapore, 138634, Singapore
- Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE2), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 1 Pesek Road, Jurong Island, 627833, Singapore
- School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore, 637371, Singapore
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Zwolska A, Półrolniczak M, Kolendowicz L. Urban growth's implications on land surface temperature in a medium-sized European city based on LCZ classification. Sci Rep 2024; 14:8308. [PMID: 38594361 PMCID: PMC11004128 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-58501-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The study determined the influence of changes in land use and land cover (LULC) on land surface temperature (LST) over a 33-year period based on a medium-sized European city (Poznań, Poland). The LST was estimated from Landsat 5, 8 and Terra (MOD11A2v6) satellites. The local estimation of climate patterns was based on the Local Climate Zones (LCZ) classification utilised with the methodology proposed by the World Urban Database and Access Portal Tools (WUDAPT). Moreover, the Copernicus' imperviousness density product (IMD) was used. Between 2006 and 2018 the area with IMD of 41-100% increased by 6.95 km2, 0-20% decreased by 7.03 km2. The contribution of built-up LCZs increased by 7.4% (19.21 km2) between 1988 and 2021 reaching 13% (34 km2) within open mid-rise LCZ. Due to urbanisation and reforestation, low plants LCZ shrunk by 12.7%. For every 10% increase in IMD, LST increases by up to 0.14 °C. Between 1988 and 2021 the LSTm in specific LCZs rose from 1.52 up to 2.97 °C. As per LST models LCZ change from natural to built-up led up to 1.19 °C LST rise. The increase of the LSTm was registered even when the LCZ remained unchanged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Zwolska
- Department of Meteorology and Climatology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań (Poland), Krygowskiego Str., 10, 61-680, Poznań, Poland.
| | - Marek Półrolniczak
- Department of Meteorology and Climatology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań (Poland), Krygowskiego Str., 10, 61-680, Poznań, Poland
| | - Leszek Kolendowicz
- Department of Meteorology and Climatology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań (Poland), Krygowskiego Str., 10, 61-680, Poznań, Poland
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16
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Eufrasio Espinosa RM, Lenny Koh SC. Forecasting the ecological footprint of G20 countries in the next 30 years. Sci Rep 2024; 14:8298. [PMID: 38594329 PMCID: PMC11004171 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-57994-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The Ecological Footprint evaluates the difference between the availability of renewable resources and the extent of human consumption of these resources. Over the past few decades, historical records have shown an accelerated decline in the availability of resources. Based on national footprint and biocapacity accounts, this analysis aims to advance the forecasting of the G20 countries' ecological footprints over a 30-year time frame. We employed a time series forecasting approach implemented in Python, which included-modular regression (Prophet) and Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA & Auto-ARIMA) methods. We evaluated and combined the performance of these three methods. The results indicated that among the largest economies of the G20, only four countries are projected to have a positive ecological footprint balance by 2050. These countries share the common denominator of large land areas and a moderate population growth projection. However, the overall trend of the indicator suggests that it will continue to decline.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - S C Lenny Koh
- Advanced Resource Efficiency Centre, Management School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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17
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Xu S, Hutchinson AJ, Taheri M, Corry B, Torres JF. Thermodiffusive desalination. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2996. [PMID: 38584165 PMCID: PMC10999432 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47313-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Desalination could solve the grand challenge of water scarcity, but materials-based and conventional thermal desalination methods generally suffer from scaling, fouling and materials degradation. Here, we propose and assess thermodiffusive desalination (TDD), a method that operates entirely in the liquid phase and notably excludes evaporation, freezing, membranes, or ion-adsorbing materials. Thermodiffusion is the migration of species under a temperature gradient and can be driven by thermal energy ubiquitous in the environment. Experimentally, a 450 ppm concentration drop was achieved by thermodiffusive separation when passing a NaCl/H2O solution through a single channel. This was further increased through re-circulation as a proof of concept for TDD. We also demonstrate via molecular dynamics and experiments that TDD in multi-component seawater is more amenable than in binary NaCl/H2O solutions. Numerically, we show that a scalable cascaded channel structure can further amplify thermodiffusive separation, achieving a concentration drop of 25000 ppm with a recovery rate of 10%. The minimum electric power consumption in this setup can be as low as 3 Whe m-3, which is only 1% of the theoretical minimum energy for desalination. TDD has potential in areas with abundant thermal energy but limited electrical power resources and can contribute to alleviating global freshwater scarcity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuqi Xu
- ANU HEAT Lab, School of Engineering, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Alice J Hutchinson
- ANU HEAT Lab, School of Engineering, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
- Research School of Biology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Mahdiar Taheri
- ANU HEAT Lab, School of Engineering, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Ben Corry
- Research School of Biology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Juan F Torres
- ANU HEAT Lab, School of Engineering, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.
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18
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Kabir SF, Sundar SV, Robles A, Miranda EM, Delgado AG, Fini EH. Microbially Mediated Rubber Recycling to Facilitate the Valorization of Scrap Tires. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:1017. [PMID: 38611275 PMCID: PMC11013845 DOI: 10.3390/polym16071017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The recycling of scrap tire rubber requires high levels of energy, which poses challenges to its proper valorization. The application of rubber in construction requires significant mechanical and/or chemical treatment of scrap rubber to compatiblize it with the surrounding matrix. These methods are energy-consuming and costly and may lead to environmental concerns associated with chemical leachates. Furthermore, recent methods usually call for single-size rubber particles or a narrow rubber particle size distribution; this, in turn, adds to the pre-processing cost. Here, we used microbial etching (e.g., microbial metabolism) to modify the surface of rubber particles of varying sizes. Specifically, we subjected rubber particles with diameters of 1.18 mm and 0.6 mm to incubation in flask bioreactors containing a mineral medium with thiosulfate and acetate and inoculated them with a microbial culture from waste-activated sludge. The near-stoichiometric oxidation of thiosulfate to sulfate was observed in the bioreactors. Most notably, two of the most potent rubber-degrading bacteria (Gordonia and Nocardia) were found to be significantly enriched in the medium. In the absence of added thiosulfate in the medium, sulfate production, likely from the desulfurization of the rubber, was also observed. Microbial etching increased the surface polarity of rubber particles, enhancing their interactions with bitumen. This was evidenced by an 82% reduction in rubber-bitumen separation when 1.18 mm microbially etched rubber was used. The study outcomes provide supporting evidence for a rubber recycling method that is environmentally friendly and has a low cost, promoting pavement sustainability and resource conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sk Faisal Kabir
- School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, 660 S College Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- Center for Research and Education in Advanced Transportation Engineering Systems (CREATEs), Rowan University, South Jersey Technology Park, 107 Gilbreth Parkway, Mullica Hill, NJ 08062, USA
| | - Skanda Vishnu Sundar
- Biodesign Swette Center for Environmental Biotechnology, Arizona State University, 1001 S McAllister Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA (E.M.M.)
- School for Engineering of Matter, Transport & Energy, Arizona State University, 501 E Tyler Mall, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | - Aide Robles
- Biodesign Swette Center for Environmental Biotechnology, Arizona State University, 1001 S McAllister Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA (E.M.M.)
- School for Engineering of Matter, Transport & Energy, Arizona State University, 501 E Tyler Mall, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | - Evelyn M. Miranda
- Biodesign Swette Center for Environmental Biotechnology, Arizona State University, 1001 S McAllister Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA (E.M.M.)
- School for Engineering of Matter, Transport & Energy, Arizona State University, 501 E Tyler Mall, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | - Anca G. Delgado
- Biodesign Swette Center for Environmental Biotechnology, Arizona State University, 1001 S McAllister Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA (E.M.M.)
- School for Engineering of Matter, Transport & Energy, Arizona State University, 501 E Tyler Mall, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | - Elham H. Fini
- School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, 660 S College Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
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Zhang GY, Oh S, Han Y, Meng LY, Lin R, Wang XY. Influence of Eggshell Powder on the Properties of Cement-Based Materials. Materials (Basel) 2024; 17:1705. [PMID: 38612218 PMCID: PMC11012927 DOI: 10.3390/ma17071705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Replacing cement with industrial by-products is an important way to achieve carbon neutrality in the cement industry. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of eggshell powder on cement hydration properties, and to evaluate its feasibility as a substitute for cement. The substitution rates of eggshell powder are 0%, 7.5%, and 15%. Studying the heat of hydration and macroscopic properties can yield the following results. First: The cumulative heat of hydration based on each gram of cementitious material falls as the eggshell powder content rises. This is a result of the eggshell powder's diluting action. However, the cumulative heat of hydration per gram of cement rises due to the nucleation effect of the eggshell powder. Second: The compressive strengths of ES0, ES7.5, and ES15 samples at 28 days of age are 54.8, 43.4, and 35.5 MPa, respectively. Eggshell powder has a greater negative impact on the compressive strength. The effect of eggshell powder on the speed and intensity of ultrasonic waves has a similar trend. Third: As the eggshell powder content increases, the resistivity gradually decreases. In addition, we also characterize the microscopic properties of the slurry with added eggshell powder. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) shows that, as the age increases from 1 day to 28 days, hemicaboaluminate transforms into monocaboaluminate. As the content of the eggshell powder increases, FTIR analysis finds a slight decrease in the content of CSH. Similarly, thermogravimetric (TG) results also show a decrease in the production of calcium hydroxide. Although the additional nucleation effect of eggshell powder promotes cement hydration and generates more portlandite, it cannot offset the loss of portlandite caused by the decrease in cement. Last: A numerical hydration model is presented for cement-eggshell powder binary blends. The parameters of the hydration model are determined based on hydration heat normalized by cement mass. Moreover, the hydration heat until 28 days is calculated using the proposed model. The strength development of all specimens and all test ages can be expressed as an exponential function of hydration heat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gui-Yu Zhang
- Department of Integrated Energy and Infra System, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon-si 24341, Republic of Korea; (G.-Y.Z.); (S.O.); (Y.H.); (L.-Y.M.)
| | - Seokhoon Oh
- Department of Integrated Energy and Infra System, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon-si 24341, Republic of Korea; (G.-Y.Z.); (S.O.); (Y.H.); (L.-Y.M.)
| | - Yi Han
- Department of Integrated Energy and Infra System, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon-si 24341, Republic of Korea; (G.-Y.Z.); (S.O.); (Y.H.); (L.-Y.M.)
| | - Li-Yi Meng
- Department of Integrated Energy and Infra System, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon-si 24341, Republic of Korea; (G.-Y.Z.); (S.O.); (Y.H.); (L.-Y.M.)
| | - Runsheng Lin
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Disaster Reduction in Civil Engineering, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Mechanics, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China;
| | - Xiao-Yong Wang
- Department of Integrated Energy and Infra System, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon-si 24341, Republic of Korea; (G.-Y.Z.); (S.O.); (Y.H.); (L.-Y.M.)
- Department of Architectural Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon-si 24341, Republic of Korea
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20
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Macfarlane DR, Skúlason E, Hosono H, Shao M. Preface to Special Issue on Sustainable Ammonia Synthesis. ChemSusChem 2024; 17:e202301399. [PMID: 38100130 DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202301399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
In this Editorial, Guest Editors Douglas R. MacFarlane, Egill Skúlason, Hideo Hosono and Minhua Shao discuss the newly emerging field of electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) in the Special Issue of ChemSusChem on Sustainable Ammonia Synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas R Macfarlane
- School of Chemistry, ARC Centre of Excellence for Electromaterials Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, 3800, Australia
| | - Egill Skúlason
- Faculty of Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Iceland, VR III, 107, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Hideo Hosono
- MDX Research Center for Element Strategy, International Research Frontiers Initiative, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 4259 Nagatsuta, Midori-ku, Yokohama, 226-8503, Japan
| | - Minhua Shao
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, 999077, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
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21
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Marín-Muñiz JL, Zitácuaro-Contreras I, Ortega-Pineda G, López-Roldán A, Vidal-Álvarez M, Martínez-Aguilar KE, Álvarez-Hernández LM, Zamora-Castro S. Phytoremediation Performance with Ornamental Plants in Monocultures and Polycultures Conditions Using Constructed Wetlands Technology. Plants (Basel) 2024; 13:1051. [PMID: 38611579 PMCID: PMC11013643 DOI: 10.3390/plants13071051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
The assessment of constructed wetlands (CWs) has gained interest in the last 20 years for wastewater treatment in Latin American regions. However, the effects of culture systems with different ornamental species in CWs for phytoremediation are little known. In this study, some chemical parameters such as total suspended solids (TSS), chemical oxygen demand (COD), phosphate (PO4-P), and ammonium (NH4-N) were analyzed in order to prove the removal of pollutants by phytoremediation in CWs. The environmental impact index based on eutrophication reduction (EI-E) was also calculated to estimate the cause-effect relationship using CWs in different culture conditions. C. hybrids and Dieffenbachia seguine were used in monoculture and polyculture (both species mixed) mesocosm CWs. One hundred eighty days of the study showed that CWs with plants in monoculture/polyculture conditions removed significant amounts of organic matter (TSS and COD) (p > 0.05; 40-55% TSS and 80-90% COD). Nitrogen and phosphorous compounds were significantly lower in the monoculture of D. seguine (p < 0.05) than in monocultures of C. hybrids, and polyculture systems. EI-E indicator was inversely proportional to the phosphorous removed, showing a smaller environmental impact with the polyculture systems (0.006 kg PO₄3- eq removed) than monocultures, identifying the influence of polyculture systems on the potential environmental impacts compared with the phytoremediation function in monocultures (0.011-0.014 kg PO₄3- eq removed). Future research is required to determine other types of categories of environmental impact index and compare them with other wastewater treatment systems and plants. Phytoremediation with the ornamental plants studied in CWs is a good option for wastewater treatment using a plant-based cleanup technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Luis Marín-Muñiz
- Academy of Sustainability and Regional Development, El Colegio de Veracruz, Xalapa 91000, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Irma Zitácuaro-Contreras
- Academy of Sustainability and Regional Development, El Colegio de Veracruz, Xalapa 91000, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Gonzalo Ortega-Pineda
- Academy of Sustainability and Regional Development, El Colegio de Veracruz, Xalapa 91000, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Aarón López-Roldán
- Academy of Sustainability and Regional Development, El Colegio de Veracruz, Xalapa 91000, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Monserrat Vidal-Álvarez
- Academy of Sustainability and Regional Development, El Colegio de Veracruz, Xalapa 91000, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Karina E Martínez-Aguilar
- Academy of Sustainability and Regional Development, El Colegio de Veracruz, Xalapa 91000, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Luis M Álvarez-Hernández
- Academy of Sustainability and Regional Development, El Colegio de Veracruz, Xalapa 91000, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Sergio Zamora-Castro
- Faculty of Engineering, Construction and Habitat, Universidad Veracruzana, Bv. Adolfo Ruiz Cortines 455, Costa Verde, Boca del Río 94294, Veracruz, Mexico
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Danesi L, Nobile M, Fontana M, Tirloni E, Chiesa LM, Savini F, Villa RE, Panseri S. Preliminary Investigation towards the Use of Infrared Technology for Raw Milk Treatment. Foods 2024; 13:1117. [PMID: 38611421 PMCID: PMC11012228 DOI: 10.3390/foods13071117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Infrared (IR) technology offers a promising solution for reducing microbiological loads in various food types while preserving their quality traits, such as flavour. However, research on IR's application in complex matrices is limited. Therefore, our preliminary study aimed to evaluate its effectiveness in sanitizing bovine raw milk. We assessed the bacterial count before and after IR treatment by comparing volatile organic compound profiles via headspace extraction and GC/MS analysis. Our findings showed that higher energy levels led to a greater bacterial reduction. IR85 was the most effective in reducing Coliforms and Enterobacteriaceae in non-homogenised samples, with a reduction ranging from -1.01 to >-2.99 and from -1.66 to -3.09 Log CFU/mL, respectively. IR60 and 70 showed no efficacy, while IR80 had intermediate but still satisfactory effect. IR85 notably affected volatile compounds, particularly increasing hexanal (from 0.08 to 4.21 ng g-1) and dimethyl sulphone (from 10.76 to 26.40 ng g-1), while IR80 better preserved the aroma profile. As a result, only IR80 was tested with homogenised raw milk, demonstrating significant bacterial reduction (from >2.39 to 3.06 Log CFU/mL for Coliforms and from 1.90 to >2.45 Log CFU/mL for Enterobacteriaceae) and maintaining the aroma profile quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Danesi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (L.D.); (M.N.); (L.M.C.); (R.E.V.); (S.P.)
| | - Maria Nobile
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (L.D.); (M.N.); (L.M.C.); (R.E.V.); (S.P.)
| | - Mauro Fontana
- Dirigente Veterinario AULSS9 Scaligera, Via S.M. Crocifissa di Rosa, 37067 Verona, Italy;
| | - Erica Tirloni
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (L.D.); (M.N.); (L.M.C.); (R.E.V.); (S.P.)
| | - Luca Maria Chiesa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (L.D.); (M.N.); (L.M.C.); (R.E.V.); (S.P.)
| | - Federica Savini
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, 40064 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Roberto Edoardo Villa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (L.D.); (M.N.); (L.M.C.); (R.E.V.); (S.P.)
| | - Sara Panseri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (L.D.); (M.N.); (L.M.C.); (R.E.V.); (S.P.)
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Bensberg K, Savvidis A, Ballaschk F, Gómez-Suárez A, Kirsch SF. Oxidation of Alcohols in Continuous Flow with a Solid Phase Hypervalent Iodine Catalyst. Chemistry 2024; 30:e202304011. [PMID: 38334293 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202304011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
One of the most useful transformations in the synthetic chemist arsenal is the oxidation of alcohols to their corresponding carbonyl congeners. Despite its seemingly straightforward nature, this transformative reaction predominantly relies on the use of metals or hazardous reagents, making these processes highly unsustainable. To address this challenge, we have developed a sustainable metal-free method for the oxidation of alcohols in continuous flow. Using a solid phase hypervalent iodine catalyst and nBu4HSO5 as a phase transfer catalyst and co-oxidant, primary and secondary alcohols were selectively oxidized to the corresponding carbonyl motifs. This operationally simple continuous-flow set-up is highly robust (15 cycles run without significant catalyst leaching or loss of reaction efficiency), uses green solvents, such as acetonitrile or acetic acid, and is readily scalable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Bensberg
- Organic Chemistry, Bergische Universität Wuppertal, Gaußstr. 20, 42119, Wuppertal
| | - Athanasios Savvidis
- Organic Chemistry, Bergische Universität Wuppertal, Gaußstr. 20, 42119, Wuppertal
| | - Frederic Ballaschk
- Organic Chemistry, Bergische Universität Wuppertal, Gaußstr. 20, 42119, Wuppertal
| | - Adrián Gómez-Suárez
- Organic Chemistry, Bergische Universität Wuppertal, Gaußstr. 20, 42119, Wuppertal
| | - Stefan F Kirsch
- Organic Chemistry, Bergische Universität Wuppertal, Gaußstr. 20, 42119, Wuppertal
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24
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Janowicz R, Szarejko W, Koperska-Kośmicka M, Gębczyńska-Janowicz A. [Hybrid use of the building as a method supporting epidemic safety]. Med Pr 2024:184721. [PMID: 38577887 DOI: 10.13075/mp.5893.01520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in changing organisational and technical requirements in the operation of treatment facilities. This paper summarises the available knowledge on the principles of hybrid design of the architecture of treatment units to ensure that different levels of sanitary and hygienic safeguards can be implemented. The basis of this narrative overview is an analysis of the existing Polish legislation on required personnel protection measures and the European Commission's recommendations for the long-term optimisation of building operating costs. In addition, due to the multifaceted and complex nature of the issue, the review was extended to include an example of practice in the technical adaptation of medical buildings for hybrid use in the event of a pandemic of an aetiological agent of risk category III, as a confirmation of the postulate regarding the need to modify the guidelines for the architectural design of the space of medical units, particularly those involved in the care of the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafał Janowicz
- Politechnika Gdańska / Gdańsk University of Technology, Gdańsk, Poland (Wydział Architektury / Faculty of Architecture)
| | - Wacław Szarejko
- Politechnika Wrocławska / Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wrocław, Poland (Wydział Architektury / Faculty of Architecture)
| | - Marta Koperska-Kośmicka
- Politechnika Gdańska / Gdańsk University of Technology, Gdańsk, Poland (Wydział Architektury / Faculty of Architecture)
| | - Agnieszka Gębczyńska-Janowicz
- Politechnika Gdańska / Gdańsk University of Technology, Gdańsk, Poland (Wydział Architektury / Faculty of Architecture)
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Shi K, Si D, Teng X, Chen L, Shi J. Pd/NiMoO 4/NF electrocatalysts for the efficient and ultra-stable synthesis and electrolyte-assisted extraction of glycolate. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2899. [PMID: 38575572 PMCID: PMC10995147 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47179-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Electrocatalytic conversion of organic small molecules is a promising technique for value-added chemical productions but suffers from high precious metal consumption, poor stability of electrocatalysts and tedious product separation. Here, a Pd/NiMoO4/NF electrocatalyst with much lowered Pd loading amount (3.5 wt.%) has been developed for efficient, economic, and ultra-stable glycolate synthesis, which shows high Faradaic efficiency (98.9%), yield (98.8%), and ultrahigh stability (1500 h) towards electrocatalytic ethylene glycol oxidation. Moreover, the obtained glycolic acid has been converted to value-added sodium glycolate by in-situ acid-base reaction in the NaOH electrolyte, which is atomic efficient and needs no additional acid addition for product separation. Moreover, the weak adsorption of sodium glycolate on the catalyst surface plays a significant role in avoiding excessive oxidation and achieving high selectivity. This work may provide instructions for the electrocatalyst design as well as product separation for the electrocatalytic conversions of alcohols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Petroleum Molecular & Process engineering, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Processes, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Di Si
- State Key Laboratory of Petroleum Molecular & Process engineering, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Processes, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Xue Teng
- State Key Laboratory of Petroleum Molecular & Process engineering, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Processes, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Lisong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Petroleum Molecular & Process engineering, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Processes, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China.
- Institute of Eco-Chongming, Shanghai, 202162, China.
| | - Jianlin Shi
- Shanghai Institute of Ceramics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200050, P. R. China
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26
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Gianfredi V, Stacchini L, Lotti S, Sarno I, Sofi F, Dinu M. Knowledge, attitude and behaviours towards food sustainability in a group of Italian consumers. A cross-sectional study. Int J Food Sci Nutr 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38572718 DOI: 10.1080/09637486.2024.2335524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Sustainability is crucial for transforming the food system, addressing environmental and nutrition issues and depends on consumer perceptions and values. This cross-sectional study investigates the relationship between sustainability attitudes, knowledge, and eating behaviours. Nearly half reported high level of knowledge regarding food sustainability while 24% expressed high attitude towards food sustainability. Women reported higher levels of knowledge and attitude towards food sustainability. Logistic regression analyses, adjusted for age, sex, and education, revealed that using public transport, biking, or walking was significantly associated with higher odds of having a more positive overall attitude towards food sustainability (OR = 1.77). The overall knowledge score was a strong predictor of a positive overall attitude score (OR = 2.11). Examining individual knowledge-related items, almost all were associated with higher levels of knowledge, except those regarding food and environment interaction. These findings underline a complex scenario where consumers' awareness and knowledge highly influence the applicability of sustainable food choices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenza Gianfredi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Stacchini
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Sofia Lotti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Iris Sarno
- Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Sofi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Monica Dinu
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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27
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Bettelli MA, Hu Q, Capezza AJ, Johansson E, Olsson RT, Hedenqvist MS. Effects of multi-functional additives during foam extrusion of wheat gluten materials. Commun Chem 2024; 7:75. [PMID: 38570707 PMCID: PMC10991538 DOI: 10.1038/s42004-024-01150-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
To broaden the range in structures and properties, and therefore the applicability of sustainable foams based on wheat gluten expanded with ammonium-bicarbonate, we show here how three naturally ocurring multifunctional additives affect their properties. Citric acid yields foams with the lowest density (porosity of ~50%) with mainly closed cells. Gallic acid acts as a radical scavenger, yielding the least crosslinked/ aggregated foam. The use of a low amount of this acid yields foams with the highest uptake of the body-fluid model substance (saline, ~130% after 24 hours). However, foams with genipin show a large and rapid capillary uptake (50% in one second), due to their high content of open cells. The most dense and stiff foam is obtained with one weight percent genipin, which is also the most crosslinked. Overall, the foams show a high energy loss-rate under cyclic compression (84-92% at 50% strain), indicating promising cushioning behaviour. They also show a low compression set, indicating promising sealability. Overall, the work here provides a step towards using protein biofoams as a sustainable alternative to fossil-based plastic/rubber foams in applications where absorbent and/or mechanical properties play a key role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes A Bettelli
- Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, Polymeric Materials Division, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, 10044, Sweden
| | - Qisong Hu
- Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, Polymeric Materials Division, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, 10044, Sweden
| | - Antonio J Capezza
- Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, Polymeric Materials Division, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, 10044, Sweden
| | - Eva Johansson
- Department of Plant Breeding, The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 190, SE-234 22, Lomma, Sweden
| | - Richard T Olsson
- Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, Polymeric Materials Division, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, 10044, Sweden
| | - Mikael S Hedenqvist
- Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, Polymeric Materials Division, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, 10044, Sweden.
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Labkoff SE, Quintana Y, Rozenblit L. Identifying the capabilities for creating next-generation registries: a guide for data leaders and a case for "registry science". J Am Med Inform Assoc 2024; 31:1001-1008. [PMID: 38400744 PMCID: PMC10990529 DOI: 10.1093/jamia/ocae024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The increasing demands for curated, high-quality research data are driving the emergence of a novel registry type. The need to assemble, curate, and export this data grows, and the conventional simplicity of registry models is driving the need for advanced, multimodal data registries-the dawn of the next-generation registry. MATERIALS AND METHODS The article provides an outline of the technology roles and responsibilities needed for successful implementations of next-generation registries. RESULTS We propose a framework for the planning, construction, maintenance, and sustainability of this new registry type. DISCUSSION A rubric of organizational, computational, and human resource needs is discussed in detail, backed by over 40 years of combined in-the-field experiences by the authors. CONCLUSIONS A novel field, registry science, within the clinical research informatics domain, has arisen to offer its insights into conceiving, structuring, and sustaining this new breed of tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven E Labkoff
- Department of Clinical and Healthcare Informatics, Quantori, Cambridge, MA 02142, United States
- Division of Clinical Informatics, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Yuri Quintana
- Division of Clinical Informatics, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Leon Rozenblit
- Division of Clinical Informatics, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02115, United States
- Q.E.D. Institute, New Haven, CT 06511, United States
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29
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Thakur A, Mukhopadhyay T, Ahirwar AK. Approaching sustainability in Laboratory Medicine. Clin Chem Lab Med 2024; 0:cclm-2023-0973. [PMID: 38557335 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2023-0973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Clinical laboratories and the total testing process are major consumers of energy, water, and hazardous chemicals, and produce significant amounts of biomedical waste. Since the processes in the clinical laboratory and the total testing process go hand in hand it mandates a holistic, and comprehensive approach towards sustainability. CONTENT This review article identifies the various sources and activities in Laboratory Medicine that challenge sustainability and also discusses the various approaches that can be implemented to achieve sustainability in laboratory operations to reduce the negative impact on the environment. SUMMARY The article highlights how the integration of technological advancements, efficient resource management, staff training and sensitization, protocol development towards sustainability, and other environmental considerations contributes significantly to a sustainable healthcare ecosystem. OUTLOOK Variables and resources that negatively impact the environment must be identified and addressed comprehensively to attain a long-lasting level of carbon neutrality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjali Thakur
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, All India Institute Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Tapasyapreeti Mukhopadhyay
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Jai Prakash Narayan Apex Trauma Centre, All India Institute Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Ashok Kumar Ahirwar
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, All India Institute Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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30
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Elterlein F, Bugdahn N, Kraft P. Sniffing Out the Sustainable Future: The Renewability Revolution in Fragrance Chemistry. Chemistry 2024; 30:e202400006. [PMID: 38358844 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202400006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
In this review, the impact of the transition from today's resource-wasting petrochemical economy towards a 100/100 renewable and biodegradable future is discussed with respect to the fragrance families: "citrus", "green", "fruity", "floral", "floriental", "oriental", "woody", "chypre" and "fougère". After benchmark data on ingredients usage, definitions on biodegradation and sustainability are given. Celebrating the 150th anniversary of synthetic vanillin, its historic synthesis from renewable starting materials serves as introduction. In the grand scheme of things, citrus scents upcycled from the beverages industry, are already an ideal case for 100/100 with new opportunities for artificial essential oils. In the fruity domain, transparent and lactonic ingredients are available in a sustainable manner. However, in the domain of green odorants, there is a lack of green chemistry for important key materials. In the floral family, renewability is more critical than biodegradability, but cost is an issue. Thanks to Ambrox and maltol, florientals and orientals will persist, while woody notes severely lack an Iso E Super replacer. In the chypre genre, patchouli became the new moss, but more musks are increasingly in demand. With their high percentage of linalool and dihydromyrcenol, the construction of fougères could well become a precedent for other families, despite challenges in vetiver and salicylates. Still, the challenges exemplified here create immense opportunities for new perfumery materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Elterlein
- Symrise AG, S&C Global Innovation Fragrances, Building D 209, Mühlenfeldstraße 1, 37603, Holzminden, Germany
| | - Nikolas Bugdahn
- Symrise AG, S&C Global Innovation Fragrances, Building D 209, Mühlenfeldstraße 1, 37603, Holzminden, Germany
| | - Philip Kraft
- Symrise AG, S&C Global Innovation Fragrances, Building D 209, Mühlenfeldstraße 1, 37603, Holzminden, Germany
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31
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Levett-Jones T, Bonnamy J, Cornish J, Correia Moll E, Fields L, Moroney Oam T, Richards C, Tutticci N, Ward A. Celebrating Australian nurses who are pioneering the response to climate change: a compilation of case studies. Contemp Nurse 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38564234 DOI: 10.1080/10376178.2024.2336230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nurses, the largest healthcare workforce, are well placed to provide leadership in initiatives that promote planetary health. Yet, few practical examples of nurse leadership in the health sector's response to climate change are evident in the scholarly literature. AIM The aim of this discussion paper is to profile Australian nurses who are leading initiatives designed to champion planetary health and promote sustainable practice. METHODS The paper presents a series of case studies derived from interviews conducted in October and November 2023. FINDINGS The nurses' experiences and insights, along with the challenges they have encountered, are presented as evidence of Kouzes and Posner's five practices of exemplary leadership. CONCLUSION The case studies demonstrate that appointment of more nurses with climate and sustainability expertise will accelerate the implementation of responsive strategies that target waste management, emissions reduction and climate resilience across healthcare organisations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - James Bonnamy
- Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Monash University, Frankston, 3199, Australia
| | - Jack Cornish
- University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, 2007, Australia
| | | | - Lorraine Fields
- School Learning & Teaching, Faculty of Science Medicine & Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, 2522, Australia
| | | | - Catelyn Richards
- First Nations Research Alliance, Climate Action Nurses, University of Southern Queensland, Australia
| | - Naomi Tutticci
- School of Nursing & Midwifery, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Aletha Ward
- First Nations Research Alliance, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, 4305, Australia
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Wellman RJ, O'Loughlin EK, Maximova K, Kalubi J, Riglea T, O'Loughlin J. School- and intervention-related factors associated with institutionalization of health promotion interventions in elementary schools. Health Promot Chronic Dis Prev Can 2024; 44:166-178. [PMID: 38597805 DOI: 10.24095/hpcdp.44.4.03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Long-term availability of health-promoting interventions (HPIs) in school settings can translate into health benefits for children. However, little is known about factors associated with HPI institutionalization in schools. In this study, we identified correlates of the institutionalization of HPIs offered in elementary schools in Quebec, Canada. METHODS In two-part, structured telephone interviews over three academic years (2016-2019), elementary school principals (or their designees) throughout Quebec identified an index HPI offered at least once in their school during the previous three years, and were asked whether it was institutionalized (i.e. explicitly written in the school's educational project, e.g. in the form of educational objectives and means of achieving them). We examined associations between institutionalization and 10 school-related and 16 HPI-related characteristics in univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses. RESULTS School key informants (n = 163) reported on 147 different HPIs that had been available in their schools in the past three years, 56% of which were institutionalized. Three aspects of school culture-parent/community engagement with the school, school/teacher commitment to student health and school physical environment-were positively associated with HPI institutionalization. HPI-related characteristics positively associated with HPI institutionalization included number of competencies addressed by the HPI, number of teaching strategies employed, modifications made to the HPI prior to or during implementation and perceived success of the HPI. Inviting families or community groups to participate in the HPI was inversely associated with institutionalization. CONCLUSION Better understanding of factors associated with HPI institutionalization may inform the development of school-based HPIs that have the potential for sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Wellman
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Division of Preventive and Behavioral Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Erin K O'Loughlin
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal CRCHUM, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Katerina Maximova
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jodi Kalubi
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal CRCHUM, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
- Centre de recherche en santé publique (CReSP), Université de Montréal, and CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Teodora Riglea
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal CRCHUM, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jennifer O'Loughlin
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal CRCHUM, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
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Naeem M, Burton EJ, Scholey DV, Alkhtib A, Broadberry S. Use of wheat dilution to improve digestive function in broilers: application in low protein diets. Br Poult Sci 2024; 65:144-153. [PMID: 38053490 DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2023.2291487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
1. This study evaluated the effect of wheat dilution increasing in particle size in low crude protein diets on growth performance, digestive tract, nitrogen efficiency and litter quality in broiler chickens.2. Ross 308 male broiler chicks (n = 336) were allocated to one of four dietary treatments (each with 7 pens, 12 chicks per pen); Control (CON; commercial pellet diet with standard crude protein, CP: 22.50%), W578 (CON +20% wheat of geometric mean diameter (GMD) of 578 µm; CP: 20.25%), W1326 (CON +20% wheat of GMD 1326 µm; CP: 20.25%) and WW (CON +20% whole wheat, CP: 20.25%), from d 0 to 21 of age.3. Body weight gain was increased (P < 0.05) for birds fed CON compared to the low crude protein diets. However, WW increased (P < 0.05) body weight gain compared to W578 and W1326, while feed intake and feed conversion ratio on CON and WW were similar (P > 0.05). Birds fed W1326 showed the poorest (P < 0.05) FCR compared to CON, W578 and WW.4. Gizzard relative weight (g/kg body weight) was increased (P < 0.05) on WW compared to CON on d 14 and 21, whereas gastric isthmus diameter was significantly reduced on W1326 and WW compared with CON and W578.5. There were no differences (P > 0.05) in the depth of gizzard mucosa of lamina propria between CON and WW at d 14 and 21. Birds fed WW increased (P < 0.05) gizzard tensile strength compared to W578 and W1326, whereas no difference was observed between WW and CON on d 14.6. No significant differences were seen for ileum villus height and mucosal layer between CON and WW on d 21, however, feeding CON increased the extent of the mucosal layer compared to W578 and W1326.7. Nitrogen excretion (g/kg BWG) was significantly lower (P > 0.05) on W1326 and WW compared with CON and W578. Litter nitrogen, moisture, and footpad scores significantly decreased (P < 0.05) for birds fed WW compared with CON.8. Diluting dietary protein content from 22.50 to 20.25% resulted in lower body weight gain in broilers. However, dilution with whole wheat resulted in comparable FCR, reduced nitrogen excretion, litter moisture and footpad dermatitis compared with a standard protein diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Naeem
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Southwell, UK
| | - E J Burton
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Southwell, UK
| | - D V Scholey
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Southwell, UK
| | - A Alkhtib
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Southwell, UK
| | - S Broadberry
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Southwell, UK
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Richardson M, Thatcher A. State of science: refitting the human to nature. Ergonomics 2024; 67:582-596. [PMID: 37498051 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2023.2236340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Environmental institutions are realising that the human-nature relationship is a tangible target for a sustainable future. Societal change of that relationship is a challenge involving modifications to both systems and human behaviours. We argue that as Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE) focusses on relationships, interfaces and systems it is well placed to contribute. After introducing the state of HFE and nature connectedness science an analysis of areas of HFE and human-nature connectedness themes is used to consider current work and future opportunities. We conclude that despite decades-old calls to action, HFE is embedded in a dated paradigm and has had little positive contribution to the human-nature relationship. However, HFE is well placed to create sustainable communities, designed to create a new relationship with nature. To do this, HFE needs to recognise that it should move on from solely fitting the task to the human, to refitting the human to nature.Practitioner Summary: A more sustainable human-nature relationship can be achieved through applying HFE approaches. HFE expertise in human characteristics, systems, people and technology can be applied at differing scales with various social-economic and technical factors to address key themes in our failing relationship with nature.Abbreviations: HFE: Human Factors and Ergonomics; IPBES: Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services; STAMP: System-Theoretic Accident Model and Processes; CWA: Cognitive Work Analysis; NET-HARMS: NETworked Hazard Analysis and Risk Management System; NbS: Nature-based System.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrew Thatcher
- Department of Psychology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Treleven CR, Kishe MA, Silas MO, Ngatunga BP, Kuboja BN, Mgeleka SS, Taylor AL, Elsmore MAM, Healey AJE, Sauer WHH, Shaw PW, McKeown NJ. Genetic analysis of Octopus cyanea reveals high gene flow in the South-West Indian Ocean. Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e11205. [PMID: 38584773 PMCID: PMC10994983 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.11205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Octopus cyanea (Gray, 1849), abundant in the South-West Indian Ocean (SWIO), constitutes a vital resource for both subsistence and commercial fisheries. However, despite this socioeconomic importance, and recent indications of overfishing, little is known about the population structure of O. cyanea in the region. To inform sustainable management strategies, this study assessed the spatio-temporal population structure and genetic variability of O. cyanea at 20 sites in the SWIO (Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique, Madagascar, Mauritius, Rodrigues, and the Seychelle Islands) by complementary analysis of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) noncoding region (NCR) sequences and microsatellite markers. MtDNA analysis revealed a shallow phylogeny across the region, with demographic tests suggesting historic population fluctuations that could be linked to glacial cycles. Contrary to expectations, NCR variation was comparable to other mtDNA regions, indicating that the NCR is not a hypervariable region. Both nuclear and mtDNA marker types revealed a lack of genetic structure compatible with high gene flow throughout the region. As adults are sedentary, this gene flow likely reflects connectivity by paralarval dispersal. All samples reported heterozygote deficits, which, given the overall absence of structure, likely reflect ephemeral larval recruitment variability. Levels of mtDNA and nuclear variability were similar at all locations and congruent with those previously reported for harvested Octopodidae, implying resilience to genetic erosion by drift, providing current stock sizes are maintained. However, as O. cyanea stocks in the SWIO represent a single, highly connected population, fisheries may benefit from additional management measures, such as rotational closures aligned with paralarval ecology and spanning geopolitical boundaries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mary A. Kishe
- Fisheries Research Institute (TAFIRI)Dar es SalaamTanzania
| | | | | | | | - Said S. Mgeleka
- Fisheries Research Institute (TAFIRI)Dar es SalaamTanzania
- Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant SciencesStockholm UniversityStockholmSweden
| | - Amy L. Taylor
- Department of Life SciencesAberystwyth UniversityAberystwythUK
| | | | | | - Warwick H. H. Sauer
- Department of Ichthyology & Fisheries ScienceRhodes UniversityMakhandaSouth Africa
| | - Paul W. Shaw
- Department of Life SciencesAberystwyth UniversityAberystwythUK
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Chaban YV, Vosshenrich J, McKee H, Gunasekaran S, Brown MJ, Atalay MK, Heye T, Markl M, Woolen SA, Simonetti OP, Hanneman K. Environmental Sustainability and MRI: Challenges, Opportunities, and a Call for Action. J Magn Reson Imaging 2024; 59:1149-1167. [PMID: 37694980 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.28994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The environmental impact of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has recently come into focus. This includes its enormous demand for electricity compared to other imaging modalities and contamination of water bodies with anthropogenic gadolinium related to contrast administration. Given the pressing threat of climate change, addressing these challenges to improve the environmental sustainability of MRI is imperative. The purpose of this review is to discuss the challenges, opportunities, and the need for action to reduce the environmental impact of MRI and prepare for the effects of climate change. The approaches outlined are categorized as strategies to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from MRI during production and use phases, approaches to reduce the environmental impact of MRI including the preservation of finite resources, and development of adaption plans to prepare for the impact of climate change. Co-benefits of these strategies are emphasized including lower GHG emission and reduced cost along with improved heath and patient satisfaction. Although MRI is energy-intensive, there are many steps that can be taken now to improve the environmental sustainability of MRI and prepare for the effects of climate change. On-going research, technical development, and collaboration with industry partners are needed to achieve further reductions in MRI-related GHG emissions and to decrease the reliance on finite resources. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 5 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuri V Chaban
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jan Vosshenrich
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Hayley McKee
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Suvai Gunasekaran
- Department of Radiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Maura J Brown
- Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Michael K Atalay
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Tobias Heye
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Michael Markl
- Department of Radiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
| | - Sean A Woolen
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Kate Hanneman
- Department of Medical Imaging, University Medical Imaging Toronto, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Shuda JR, Butler VG, Nelson TM, Davidson JM, Taylor AM, Farber SA. Growing Project BioEYES: A Reflection on 20 Years of Developing and Replicating a K-12 Science Outreach Program. Zebrafish 2024; 21:109-118. [PMID: 38621216 DOI: 10.1089/zeb.2023.0059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Project BioEYES celebrated 20 years in K12 schools during the 2022-2023 school year. Using live zebrafish (Danio rerio) during week-long science experiments, sparks the interest of students and teachers from school districts, locally and globally. Over the past two decades, BioEYES has been replicated in different ways based on the interest and capacity of our partners. This article discusses several of the successful models, the common challenges, and how each BioEYES site has adopted guiding principles to help foster their success. The core principles of (a) reinforcing content that students are expected to learn in schools, while focusing on the students BECOMING scientists through hands-on experimentation and (b) establishing trust and buy-in from collaborating teachers and partners are what has led to BioEYES being sustained and replicated over the past two decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie R Shuda
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Valerie G Butler
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Theresa M Nelson
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jaqueline M Davidson
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Steven A Farber
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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38
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Carl J, Abu-Omar K, Bernard P, Lohmann J, White P, Peters J, Sahlqvist S, Ma J, Duncan M, Barnett LM. Physical Literacy in the Context of Climate Change: Is There a Need for Further Refinement of the Concept? J Phys Act Health 2024; 21:316-319. [PMID: 38176406 DOI: 10.1123/jpah.2023-0714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
The concept of physical literacy (PL) has witnessed enormous popularity in recent years and has undergone substantial theoretical evolvement during the last 2 decades. However, the research field pertaining to PL has not yet initiated discussions around the challenges of climate change and the alignment with conceptualizations of planetary health. Therefore, we argue that the consideration of an "ecological domain" for individual physical activity, in the form of ecological awareness, would further evolve the concept. We illustrate how to potentially integrate adjustments within the most frequent PL definitions of the field (eg, those in Australia, Canada, England, Ireland, the United States, or by the International Physical Literacy Association) without questioning the entire integrity of these elaborate conceptualizations. An ecological domain of PL would not only interact with the postulated physical, cognitive, psychological/affective, and social domains of PL but also have important implications for the (re)design of interventions and practices in physical activity contexts. We call the scientific community, both on national and international scales, to intensify the discussions and initiate a research agenda involving an "ecological domain" of PL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Carl
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia
| | - Karim Abu-Omar
- Department of Sport Science and Sport, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Paquito Bernard
- Department of Physical Activity Sciences, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Research Center, University Institute of Mental Health at Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Julia Lohmann
- Institute of Sports Science, Augsburg University, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Peta White
- School of Education, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia
| | - Jacqui Peters
- School of Education, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia
| | - Shannon Sahlqvist
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds,VIC, Australia
| | - Jiani Ma
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia
| | - Michael Duncan
- Center for Physical Activity, Sport and Exercise Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Lisa M Barnett
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia
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Yameen M, Adeel S, Salman M, Haji A, Asghar F, Mia R, Imran M. Sustainable appraisal of lipstick tree seeds ( Bixa orellana)-based bixin natural orange colorant for green mordanted silk fabrics and wool yarns. Sci Prog 2024; 107:368504241242282. [PMID: 38614468 DOI: 10.1177/00368504241242282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
This research aims to optimize the silk and wool dyeing process using natural dyes from Bixa orellana (annatto) through response surface methodology. Central composite design experiments highlight the significant enhancement of color outcomes achieved through microwave treatment. For silk, the optimal conditions (80 °C for 40 min) with annatto extract yield a color strength (K/S) of 17.8588, while wool achieves a K/S of 7.5329. Introducing eco-friendly bio-mordants, such as pomegranate peel and red sumac tannins, enhances color strength. Pre-dyeing treatments with 2% red sumac, 1.5% pomegranate peel, and weld flower extracts for silk produce high color strength, with K/S values of 16.4063, 16.3784, and 12.1658, respectively. Post-dyeing, the K/S values increase to 40.1178, 17.4779, and 21.6494. Wool yarn exhibits similar improvements, with pre-dyeing K/S values of 13.1353, 13.5060, and 16.3232, escalating to 10.5892, 15.3141, and 23.4850 post-dyeing. Furthermore, this research underscores improved colorfastness properties, including notable enhancements in light, wash, and rubbing fastness for both silk fabric and wool yarn. These findings underscore the efficacy of the proposed sustainable dyeing methods, offering valuable insights for eco-friendly textile production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Yameen
- Department of Biochemistry, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Shahid Adeel
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Mahwish Salman
- Department of Biochemistry, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Aminoddin Haji
- Department of Textile Engineering, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran
| | - Fariha Asghar
- Department of Biochemistry, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Rony Mia
- Department of Textile Engineering, National Institute of Textile Engineering and Research, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Muhammad Imran
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
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Nicholson CC, Knapp J, Kiljanek T, Albrecht M, Chauzat MP, Costa C, De la Rúa P, Klein AM, Mänd M, Potts SG, Schweiger O, Bottero I, Cini E, de Miranda JR, Di Prisco G, Dominik C, Hodge S, Kaunath V, Knauer A, Laurent M, Martínez-López V, Medrzycki P, Pereira-Peixoto MH, Raimets R, Schwarz JM, Senapathi D, Tamburini G, Brown MJF, Stout JC, Rundlöf M. Pesticide use negatively affects bumble bees across European landscapes. Nature 2024; 628:355-358. [PMID: 38030722 PMCID: PMC11006599 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06773-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Sustainable agriculture requires balancing crop yields with the effects of pesticides on non-target organisms, such as bees and other crop pollinators. Field studies demonstrated that agricultural use of neonicotinoid insecticides can negatively affect wild bee species1,2, leading to restrictions on these compounds3. However, besides neonicotinoids, field-based evidence of the effects of landscape pesticide exposure on wild bees is lacking. Bees encounter many pesticides in agricultural landscapes4-9 and the effects of this landscape exposure on colony growth and development of any bee species remains unknown. Here we show that the many pesticides found in bumble bee-collected pollen are associated with reduced colony performance during crop bloom, especially in simplified landscapes with intensive agricultural practices. Our results from 316 Bombus terrestris colonies at 106 agricultural sites across eight European countries confirm that the regulatory system fails to sufficiently prevent pesticide-related impacts on non-target organisms, even for a eusocial pollinator species in which colony size may buffer against such impacts10,11. These findings support the need for postapproval monitoring of both pesticide exposure and effects to confirm that the regulatory process is sufficiently protective in limiting the collateral environmental damage of agricultural pesticide use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jessica Knapp
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
- School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Tomasz Kiljanek
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Puławy, Poland
| | | | - Marie-Pierre Chauzat
- Laboratory for Animal Health, ANSES, Paris-Est University, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Cecilia Costa
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics-Agriculture and Environment Research Centre, Bologna, Italy
| | - Pilar De la Rúa
- Department of Zoology and Physical Anthropology, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Alexandra-Maria Klein
- Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Marika Mänd
- Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Simon G Potts
- Centre for Agri-Environmental Research, School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading, UK
| | - Oliver Schweiger
- Department of Community Ecology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, Halle, Germany
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Irene Bottero
- School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Elena Cini
- Centre for Agri-Environmental Research, School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading, UK
| | - Joachim R de Miranda
- Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gennaro Di Prisco
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics-Agriculture and Environment Research Centre, Bologna, Italy
- Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection, The Italian National Research Council, Portici, Italy
| | - Christophe Dominik
- Department of Community Ecology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, Halle, Germany
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Simon Hodge
- School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Vera Kaunath
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Anina Knauer
- Agroscope, Agroecology and Environment, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marion Laurent
- Unit of Honey Bee Pathology, Sophia Antipolis Laboratory, ANSES, Sophia Antipolis, France
| | | | - Piotr Medrzycki
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics-Agriculture and Environment Research Centre, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Risto Raimets
- Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | | | - Deepa Senapathi
- Centre for Agri-Environmental Research, School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading, UK
| | - Giovanni Tamburini
- Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Department of Soil, Plant and Food Sciences, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Mark J F Brown
- Department of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, UK
| | - Jane C Stout
- School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Maj Rundlöf
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
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Rochefort G, Robitaille J, Lemieux S, Provencher V, Lamarche B. Are the 2019 Canada's Food Guide Recommendations on Healthy Food Choices Consistent with the EAT-Lancet Reference Diet from Sustainable Food Systems? J Nutr 2024; 154:1368-1375. [PMID: 38367810 PMCID: PMC11007739 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2024.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diet proposed by the EAT-Lancet Commission, which supports both health and environmental sustainability, provides an opportunity to assess the sustainability of food-based dietary guidelines. OBJECTIVES The primary objective was to assess the alignment of the 2019 Canada's Food Guide (CFG) with the EAT-Lancet diet. To do so, an index assessing adherence to the EAT-Lancet diet was developed and evaluated. METHODS Data from 1147 adults were used from the cross-sectional PRÉDicteurs Individuals, Sociaux et Environnementaux (PREDISE) study conducted between 2015 and 2017 in the province of Québec. The EAT-Lancet Dietary Index (EAT-I) was developed to evaluate adherence to the EAT-Lancet diet. Adherence to the 2019 CFG was assessed using the Healthy Eating Food Index (HEFI)-2019. Associations between the HEFI-2019 score and component scores and the EAT-I score were examined using linear regression models. RESULTS The mean EAT-I score (/80) in this population was 33.4 points [95% confidence interval (CI): 32.2, 34.6]. EAT-I scores were consistent with expected differences in diet quality between females and males (+6.9 points, 95% CI: 4.8, 9.0) and between adults aged 50-65 y and 18-34 y (+4.3 points, 95% CI: 1.6, 7.0). The mean HEFI-2019 (/80) score was 44.9 points (95% CI: 44.1, 45.7). The HEFI-2019 was strongly associated with the EAT-I (ß = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.72, 0.80). Among the 10 components of the HEFI-2019, components such as the whole-grain foods (ß =4.01, 95% CI: 3.49, 4.52), grain foods ratio (ß =3.65, 95% CI: 3.24, 4.07), plant-based protein foods (ß =2.41, 95% CI: 2.03, 2.78), and fatty acids ratio (ß =3.12, 95% CI: 2.72, 3.51) showed the strongest associations with the EAT-I. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that recommendations in the 2019 CFG are largely coherent with the EAT-Lancet diet underscoring the complementarity and compatibility of the 2019 CFG for sustainability and health promotion purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Rochefort
- Centre Nutrition, Santé et Société (NUTRISS), Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels (INAF), Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada; École de Nutrition, Faculté des sciences de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Julie Robitaille
- Centre Nutrition, Santé et Société (NUTRISS), Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels (INAF), Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada; École de Nutrition, Faculté des sciences de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Simone Lemieux
- Centre Nutrition, Santé et Société (NUTRISS), Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels (INAF), Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada; École de Nutrition, Faculté des sciences de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Véronique Provencher
- Centre Nutrition, Santé et Société (NUTRISS), Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels (INAF), Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada; École de Nutrition, Faculté des sciences de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Benoît Lamarche
- Centre Nutrition, Santé et Société (NUTRISS), Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels (INAF), Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada; École de Nutrition, Faculté des sciences de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.
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van Nieuwenhuizen KE, Friedericy HJ, van der Linden S, Jansen FW, van der Eijk AC. User experience of wearing comfort of reusable versus disposable surgical gowns and environmental perspectives: A cross-sectional survey. BJOG 2024; 131:709-715. [PMID: 37806784 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the user experience of wearing comfort of reusable sterile surgical gowns and compare these gowns with conventional disposable surgical gowns. DESIGN Cross-sectional survey. SETTING An academic hospital in the Netherlands. POPULATION Gynaecologists, surgeons, residents and operating room assistants (n=80). METHODS Quantitative and qualitative data were obtained via a written questionnaire. Participants provided subjective comments and scored the reusable gown on each individual topic with a score from 1 to 5 (1 = unsatisfactory, 2 = moderate, 3 = good, 4 = very good, 5 = excellent) and compared the reusable gown with the conventional disposable alternative (better, equal or worse). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Wearing comfort: ventilation and temperature regulation, fit and length, functionality, barrier function and ease of use. RESULTS The results of the overall scores of the reusable gown are scored as 'very good' (mean 4.3, SD ± 0.5) by its users. Regarding comparison of the gowns, more than 79% (lowest score 79%, highest score 95%) of the participants scored the reusable gown equal or higher on six of seven topics. The topic 'ease of use' was scored equal or higher by 59% of the participants. Subjective comments provided information on possible improvements. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study demonstrate that there is professional acceptance regarding the utilisation of reusable surgical gowns. To facilitate broader adoption, it is imperative to foster collaboration among suppliers and healthcare institutions. The reusable surgical gown is an environmentally sustainable, safe and comfortable alternative in the operating room.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hans J Friedericy
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Sjaak van der Linden
- Operating Room Department and Central Sterile Supply Department, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Frank Willem Jansen
- Department of Gynaecology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Bio Mechanical Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Anne C van der Eijk
- Operating Room Department and Central Sterile Supply Department, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Bio Mechanical Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
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Johnson FA, Eraud C, Francesiaz C, Zimmerman GS, Koneff MD. Using the R package popharvest to assess the sustainability of offtake in birds. Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e11059. [PMID: 38571795 PMCID: PMC10985383 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.11059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The R package popharvest was designed to help assess the sustainability of offtake in birds when only limited demographic information is available. In this article, we describe some basics of harvest theory and then discuss several considerations when using the different approaches in popharvest to assess whether observed harvests are unsustainable. Throughout, we emphasize the importance of distinguishing between the scientific and policy aspects of managing offtake. The principal product of popharvest is a sustainable harvest index (SHI), which can indicate whether the harvest is unsustainable but not the converse. SHI is estimated based on a simple, scalar model of logistic population growth, whose parameters may be estimated using limited knowledge of demography. Uncertainty in demography leads to a distribution of SHI values and it is the purview of the decision-maker to determine what amounts to an acceptable risk when failing to reject the null hypothesis of sustainability. The attitude toward risk, in turn, will likely depend on the decision-maker's objective(s) in managing offtake. The management objective as specified in popharvest is a social construct, informed by biology, but ultimately it is an expression of social values that usually vary among stakeholders. We therefore suggest that any standardization of criteria for management objectives in popharvest will necessarily be subjective and, thus, hard to defend in diverse decision-making situations. Because of its ease of use, diverse functionalities, and a minimal requirement of demographic information, we expect the use of popharvest to become widespread. Nonetheless, we suggest that while popharvest provides a useful platform for rapid assessments of sustainability, it cannot substitute for sufficient expertise and experience in harvest theory and management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cyril Eraud
- Office Français de la Biodiversité, Direction de la Recherche et de l'Appui Scientifique, Service Conservation et Gestion des Espèces à EnjeuxVilliers‐en‐BoisFrance
| | - Charlotte Francesiaz
- Office Français de la Biodiversité, Direction de la Recherche et de l'Appui Scientifique, Service Conservation et Gestion des Espèces ExploitéesJuvignacFrance
| | - Guthrie S. Zimmerman
- Division of Migratory Bird ManagementU.S. Fish and Wildlife ServiceSacramentoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Mark D. Koneff
- Division of Migratory Bird ManagementU.S. Fish and Wildlife ServiceOronoMaineUSA
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Rublee C, Hynes EC, Paavola N, Tremolet de Villers K, McLaughlin J. An Emergency Department Quality Improvement Project for Intravenous Levetiracetam Administration. J Pharm Pract 2024; 37:265-270. [PMID: 36189751 DOI: 10.1177/08971900221131920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background: Levetiracetam is a readily available, safe anticonvulsive medication. It is frequently administered as IV piggyback with a pump, carrier fluid, and tubing. The Established Status Epilepticus Treatment Trial demonstrated levetiracetam being similarly effective to previously used treatments in doses up to 4500 mg administered over 10 minutes. Objective: We sought to compare usage, cost, and waste of IV piggyback with IV push administration of levetiractam following implementation of an IV push protocol in an academic emergency department. Methods: A three-month review of levetiracetam administration was done following protocol implementation using IV push for initial treatment of benzodiazepine-refractory status epilepticus. The review quantified the number of IV push vs IV piggyback doses for all indications and evaluated cost of supplies necessary for administration. Results: During the study period, 137 patients received 142 doses of IV levetiracetam. Fifty-one doses (36%) were given as IV push rather than IV piggyback. The majority of doses 116 (82%) were 1000-2000 mg and 11 doses (8%) 3500-4500 mg. Estimated three-month savings with complete transition of IV piggyback to IV push would exceed $6000 just in our ED. The amount of sterile solution carrier fluid was also reduced and IV pump time freed. Conclusion: Implementation of an emergency department IV push levetiracetam protocol resulted in cost savings. Opportunities remain to improve clinical implementation practices. Medication administration represents one crucial target area where healthcare systems can implement policies to reduce waste and commit to climate-smart health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin Rublee
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Emilie Calvello Hynes
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Nicole Paavola
- University of Colorado Health, University of Colorado Hospital, Aurora, CO, USA
| | | | - Julie McLaughlin
- University of Colorado Health, University of Colorado Hospital, Aurora, CO, USA
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Da Tan TY, Duane B, Hussein A, Samsonova A, Sizun G, Shakerdi L, Taqi R, Wolfram S, Ziaeefard N, Sagheri D. Environmental sustainability of post-orthodontic dental retainers: a comparative life-cycle assessment of Hawley and Essix retainers. Eur J Orthod 2024; 46:cjae012. [PMID: 38488436 PMCID: PMC10941639 DOI: 10.1093/ejo/cjae012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Environmental sustainability has been brought into the limelight due to the global climate crisis. This crisis is driven by human activities and even the healthcare sector is no exception. Within dentistry, orthodontics is a large global market; hence, the use of post-orthodontic retainers has a significant environmental footprint. The aim of this study was to determine the environmental sustainability of post-orthodontic retention using Hawley and Essix retainers. MATERIALS AND METHODS A comparative life-cycle assessment (LCA) was carried out to compare the environmental impact of both retainers. All inputs and outputs were accounted for using the Ecoinvent database, v3.7.1, and openLCA software. Sixteen impact categories were used to determine their environmental burden. RESULTS Of the 16 impact categories, the Hawley had a greater environmental burden than the Essix retainer in 12 categories. The Hawley's most significant contributors to its impact values are factory manufacturing and in-house production, with an average of 41.45% and 52.52%, respectively. For the Essix, the greatest contributor is factory manufacturing, with an average of 64.63%. However, when factoring in the lifespan of the retainers, the Essix would have a greater environmental impact than the Hawley retainer. LIMITATIONS This study employed a comparative LCA. There were also assumptions made, but these were supported by research. CONCLUSIONS On the basis of the evidence gathered in this study, Hawley retainers are more environmentally sustainable than Essix retainers. These results would better enable clinicians to factor in the environmental impact and make informed decisions on the choice of retainer type.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Brett Duane
- School of Dental Science, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ahmed Hussein
- School of Dental Science, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Anna Samsonova
- School of Dental Science, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Gwenola Sizun
- School of Dental Science, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Loujin Shakerdi
- School of Dental Science, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Roqaya Taqi
- School of Dental Science, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Samuel Wolfram
- School of Dental Science, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Darius Sagheri
- School of Dental Science, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Spil NA, van Nieuwenhuizen KE, Rowe R, Thornton JG, Murphy E, Verheijen E, Shelton CL, Heazell AEP. The carbon footprint of different modes of birth in the UK and the Netherlands: An exploratory study using life cycle assessment. BJOG 2024; 131:568-578. [PMID: 38272843 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the carbon footprint of caesarean and vaginal birth. DESIGN Life cycle assessment (LCA). SETTING Tertiary maternity units and home births in the UK and the Netherlands. POPULATION Birthing women. METHODS A cradle-to-grave LCA using openLCA software to model the carbon footprint of different modes of delivery in the UK and the Netherlands. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES 'Carbon footprint' (in kgCO2 equivalents [kgCO2 e]). RESULTS Excluding analgesia, the carbon footprint of a caesarean birth in the UK was 31.21 kgCO2 e, compared with 12.47 kgCO2 e for vaginal birth in hospital and 7.63 kgCO2 e at home. In the Netherlands the carbon footprint of a caesarean was higher (32.96 kgCO2 e), but lower for vaginal birth in hospital and home (10.74 and 6.27 kgCO2 e, respectively). Emissions associated with analgesia for vaginal birth ranged from 0.08 kgCO2 e (with opioid analgesia) to 237.33 kgCO2 e (nitrous oxide with oxygen). Differences in analgesia use resulted in a lower average carbon footprint for vaginal birth in the Netherlands than the UK (11.64 versus 193.26 kgCO2 e). CONCLUSION The carbon footprint of a caesarean is higher than for a vaginal birth if analgesia is excluded, but this is very sensitive to the analgesia used; use of nitrous oxide with oxygen multiplies the carbon footprint of vaginal birth 25-fold. Alternative methods of pain relief or nitrous oxide destruction systems would lead to a substantial improvement in carbon footprint. Although clinical need and maternal choice are paramount, protocols should consider the environmental impact of different choices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nienke A Spil
- Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Rachel Rowe
- National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Elizabeth Murphy
- Saint Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Evelyn Verheijen
- Department of Gynaecology, Saxenburgh Medisch Centrum, Hardenberg, The Netherlands
| | - Clifford L Shelton
- Department of Anaesthesia, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
- Lancaster Medical School, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Alexander E P Heazell
- Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Saint Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
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Afzal UM, Ali FR. Prolonging the lifespan of surgical markers during dermatologic surgery. J Am Acad Dermatol 2024; 90:e113-e114. [PMID: 37001730 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2023.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Faisal R Ali
- Mid Cheshire NHS Foundation Trust, United Kingdom; St John's Institute of Dermatology, London, United Kingdom.
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Thomas EE, Taylor ML, Ward EC, Hwang R, Cook R, Ross JA, Webb C, Harris M, Hartley C, Carswell P, Burns CL, Caffery LJ. Beyond forced telehealth adoption: A framework to sustain telehealth among allied health services. J Telemed Telecare 2024; 30:559-569. [PMID: 35130099 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x221074499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION As COVID-19 restrictions reduce globally, services will determine what components of care will continue via telehealth. We aimed to determine the clinician, service, and system level factors that influence sustained use of telehealth and develop a framework to enhance sustained use where appropriate. METHODS This study was conducted across 16 allied health departments over four health service facilities (Brisbane, Australia). It used a multi-method observational study design, involving telehealth service activity data from hospital administrative databases and qualitative interviews with allied health staff (n = 80). Data were integrated and analysed using Greenhalgh's Non-adoption, Abandonment, Scale-up, Spread, and Sustainability framework. RESULTS Increased telehealth use during the peak COVID period reverted to in-person activity as restrictions eased. Telehealth is unlikely to be sustained without a clear strategy including determination of roles and responsibilities across the organisation. Clinician resistance due to forced adoption remains a key issue. The main motivator for clinicians to use telehealth was improved consumer-centred care. Benefits beyond this are needed to sustain telehealth and improvements are required to make the telehealth experience seamless for providers and recipients. Data were synthesised into a comprehensive framework that can be used as a blueprint for system-wide improvements and service enhancement or redesign. DISCUSSION Sustainability of telehealth activity beyond the peak COVID period is unlikely without implementation strategies to address consumer, clinician, service, and system factors. The framework can inform how these strategies can be enacted. Whilst developed for allied health disciplines, it is likely applicable to other disciplines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma E Thomas
- Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Monica L Taylor
- Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Elizabeth C Ward
- Centre for Functioning and Health Research, Metro South Health, and, School of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane Australia
| | - Rita Hwang
- Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Allied Health, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Metro South Health, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Renee Cook
- Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Functioning and Health Research, Metro South Health, and, School of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane Australia
- Allied Health, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Metro South Health, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Julie-Anne Ross
- Allied Health, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Metro South Health, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Clare Webb
- Allied Health, Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Hospital, Metro South Health, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Michael Harris
- Allied Health, Bayside Health Service, Metro South Health, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Carina Hartley
- Allied Health, Logan Hospital, Metro South Health, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Phillip Carswell
- Consumer Advisor, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Metro South Health, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Clare L Burns
- Speech Pathology Department, Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Liam J Caffery
- Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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Gray M. Case studies associated with the 10 major geodiversity-related topics. Philos Trans A Math Phys Eng Sci 2024; 382:20230055. [PMID: 38342216 PMCID: PMC10859230 DOI: 10.1098/rsta.2023.0055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
This paper outlines the 10 major topics related to geodiversity that have emerged since the concept was first introduced in 1993, 30 years ago. After a short introduction, each of the 10 topics is then illustrated by a relevant case study. The 10 topics (italics) and their case studies (bold) are as follows: 1. Celebrating, International Geodiversity Day; 2. Measurement/Assessment, Potential role of remote sensing; 3. Natural Capital and Geosystem Services, Coastal geosystem services; 4. Biodiversity, Mangue de Pedra, Brazil; 5. Geomaterials, The circular economy; 6. Geotourism, World's top geotourism sites?; 7. Geoheritage, Landscape restoration; 8. National Geoconservation, Trump golf course and an SSSI, Scotland; 9. World Heritage Sites and Global Geoparks, Azores Global Geopark, Portugal; 10. Sustainability, Xitle Volcano, Mexico City. It is concluded that, given the way in which geodiversity has developed as a concept, leading to new insights and avenues of research and advancing our understanding of the world since its first use, it clearly now constitutes a significant, geoscientific paradigm. This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue 'Geodiversity for science and society'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murray Gray
- School of Geography, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, UK
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Hameed R, Tahir M, Abbas S, Sheikh HU, Kazmi SMS, Munir MJ. Mechanical and Durability Characterization of Hybrid Recycled Aggregate Concrete. Materials (Basel) 2024; 17:1571. [PMID: 38612085 PMCID: PMC11013021 DOI: 10.3390/ma17071571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
The recycling of construction and demolition waste (CDW) for the extraction of recycled concrete aggregates (RCAs) to be used to produce recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) is widely acknowledged internationally. However, CDW not only contains concrete debris but may also contain burnt clay bricks. The recycling of such CDW without the segregation of different components would result in recycled aggregates having different proportions of concrete and brick aggregates. The utilization of these aggregates in concrete requires a detailed investigation of their mechanical and durability properties. In this regard, the present study focused on investigating the mechanical and durability properties of hybrid recycled aggregate concrete (HRAC) made by the 100% replacing of natural aggregates with recycled brick (RBAs) and RCA in hybrid form. The partial replacement of cement with fly ash was also considered to reduce the corban footprint of concrete. An extensive experimental program was designed and carried out in two phases. In the first phase, a total of 48 concrete mixes containing coarse RBA and RCA in mono and hybrid forms were prepared and tested for their compressive strength. The test results indicated that the compressive strength of HRAC is greatly affected by the proportion of coarse RBA and RCA. In the second phase, based on the results of the first phase, eight concrete mixes with the most critical proportions of RBA and RCA in hybrid form were selected to evaluate their mechanical and durability performance. In addition, four mixes with natural aggregates were also prepared for comparison purposes. To evaluate the mechanical properties of the concrete mixes, compressive strength and modulus of rupture (MOR) tests were performed, while for the evaluation of durability properties, water absorption and behavior after exposure to aggressive conditions of acidic and brine solutions were studied. The results revealed that a 20% replacement of cement with fly ash resulted in acceptable mechanical and durability properties of HRAC intended to be used for making concrete bricks or pavers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashid Hameed
- Civil Engineering Department, University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore 54890, Pakistan; (R.H.); (S.A.); (H.U.S.)
| | - Muhammad Tahir
- Department of Civil Engineering, University of Engineering & Technology Lahore, Narowal Campus, Narowal 51601, Pakistan;
| | - Safeer Abbas
- Civil Engineering Department, University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore 54890, Pakistan; (R.H.); (S.A.); (H.U.S.)
| | - Haseeb Ullah Sheikh
- Civil Engineering Department, University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore 54890, Pakistan; (R.H.); (S.A.); (H.U.S.)
| | - Syed Minhaj Saleem Kazmi
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Durability for Marine Civil Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Muhammad Junaid Munir
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Durability for Marine Civil Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
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