Reinforcing Feedbacks for Sustainable Implementation of Rural Drinking-Water Treatment Technology

Progress toward universal access to safe drinking water depends on rural water service delivery models that incorporate water safety management. Water supplies of all types have high rates of fecal contamination unless water safety risks are actively managed through water source protection, treatment, distribution, and storage. Recognizing the role of treatment within this broader risk-based framework, this study focuses on the implementation of passive chlorination and ultraviolet (UV) disinfection technologies in rural settings. These technologies can reduce the health risk from microbiological contaminants in drinking water; however, technology-focused treatment interventions have had limited sustainability in rural settings. This study examines the requirements for sustainable implementation of rural water treatment through qualitative content analysis of 26 key informant interviews, representing passive chlorination and UV disinfection projects in rural areas in South America, Africa, and Asia. The analysis is aligned with the RE-AIM framework and delivers insight into 18 principal enablers and barriers to rural water treatment sustainability. Analysis of the interrelationships among these factors identifies leverage points and encourages fit-for-purpose intervention design reinforced by collaboration between facilitating actors through hybrid service delivery models. Further work should prioritize health impact evidence, water quality reporting guidance, and technological capabilities that optimize trade-offs in fit-for-purpose treatment design.

Powering the Future by Iron Sulfide Type Material (FexSy) Based Electrochemical Materials for Water Splitting and Energy Storage Applications: A Review

Water electrolysis is among the recent alternatives for generating clean fuels (hydrogen). It is an efficient way to produce pure hydrogen at a rapid pace with no unwanted by-products. Effective and cheap water-splitting electrocatalysts with enhanced activity, specificity, and stability are currently widely studied. In this regard, noble metal-free transition metal-based catalysts are of high interest. Iron sulfide (FeS) is one of the essential electrocatalysts for water splitting because of its unique structural and electrochemical features. This article discusses the significance of FeS and its nanocomposites as efficient electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reaction (OER), hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), and overall water splitting. FeS and its nanocomposites have been studied also for energy storage in the form of electrode materials in supercapacitors and lithium- (LIBs) and sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). The structural and electrochemical characteristics of FeS and its nanocomposites, as well as the synthesis processes, are discussed in this work. This discussion correlates these features with the requirements for electrocatalysts in overall water splitting and its associated reactions. As a result, this study provides a road map for researchers seeking economically viable, environmentally friendly, and efficient electrochemical materials in the fields of green energy production and storage.

A review of extant literature and recent trends in residential construction waste reduction

The residential construction sector in New Zealand and worldwide is experiencing increased criticism for generating substantial waste that poses environmental concerns. Accordingly, researchers have advocated implementing residential construction waste reduction (RCWR) strategies as a sustainable solution to managing construction waste (CW). This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of RCWR by analysing 87 articles from the Scopus database using bibliometric and critical review methods. The co-occurrence analysis of keywords revealed five clusters, in which five main themes emerged: (i) waste generation and management performance, (ii) prefabrication and life cycle assessment concepts, (iii) design concepts, (iv) circular economy and (v) decision-making concepts. The findings suggest that sustainable practices such as designing for waste reduction, prefabrication, waste quantification, three-dimensional printing and building information modelling can effectively achieve RCWR. The study also highlights the benefits of RCWR, including reducing environmental impacts, and identifies management, economic, legislative, technology and cultural barriers that affect the implementation of RCWR strategies. These results provide valuable insights to support future policy formulation and research direction for RCWR in New Zealand.

The challenge of eco-generativity. Embracing a positive mindset beyond eco-anxiety: a research agenda

Climate change has emerged as a tough challenge affecting the world's society and economy in the twenty-first century. Furthermore, it has been determined that global warming and climate change have detrimental effects on human health both physical and psychological. In this framework, eco-anxiety has emerged as a new construct to assess the distress in relation to climate change and its effects. In the current article, after a study of the literature regarding both eco-anxiety and generativity related to environmental issues, in the search for a healthy response to eco-anxiety, we propose the construct of eco-generativity as a sustainable development-related concept for the health of planet earth and people in the present and in the future. Accordingly, we explore the definitions of generativity in relation to the ecological environment, examining the development of the concept in accordance with the most recent research. Subsequently, according to the lens of psychology of sustainability and sustainable development, we propose key elements of eco-generativity in terms of construct and measures. Finally, a research agenda for future research and intervention on eco-generativity is provided.

State of science: refitting the human to nature

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.

Bioinspired and Multifunctional Tribological Materials for Sliding, Erosive, Machining, and Energy-Absorbing Conditions: A Review

Friction, wear, and the consequent energy dissipation pose significant challenges in systems with moving components, spanning various domains, including nanoelectromechanical systems (NEMS/MEMS) and bio-MEMS (microrobots), hip prostheses (biomaterials), offshore wind and hydro turbines, space vehicles, solar mirrors for photovoltaics, triboelectric generators, etc. Nature-inspired bionic surfaces offer valuable examples of effective texturing strategies, encompassing various geometric and topological approaches tailored to mitigate frictional effects and related functionalities in various scenarios. By employing biomimetic surface modifications, for example, roughness tailoring, multifunctionality of the system can be generated to efficiently reduce friction and wear, enhance load-bearing capacity, improve self-adaptiveness in different environments, improve chemical interactions, facilitate biological interactions, etc. However, the full potential of bioinspired texturing remains untapped due to the limited mechanistic understanding of functional aspects in tribological/biotribological settings. The current review extends to surface engineering and provides a comprehensive and critical assessment of bioinspired texturing that exhibits sustainable synergy between tribology and biology. The successful evolving examples from nature for surface/tribological solutions that can efficiently solve complex tribological problems in both dry and lubricated contact situations are comprehensively discussed. The review encompasses four major wear conditions: sliding, solid-particle erosion, machining or cutting, and impact (energy absorbing). Furthermore, it explores how topographies and their design parameters can provide tailored responses (multifunctionality) under specified tribological conditions. Additionally, an interdisciplinary perspective on the future potential of bioinspired materials and structures with enhanced wear resistance is presented.

Coffee Husk By-Product as Novel Ingredients for Cascara Kombucha Production

Kombucha, a fermented beverage, is gaining popularity due to its numerous beneficial health effects. Various substrates such as herbs, fruits, flowers, and vegetables, have been used for kombucha fermentation in order to enhance the flavor, aroma, and nutritional composition. This study aims to investigate the potential suitability of cascara as a novel ingredient for kombucha production. Our findings suggested that cascara is a suitable substrate for kombucha production. Fermentation elevated the total phenolic and flavonoid content in cascara, which enhanced the antioxidant, antibacterial, and prebiotic characteristics of the product. Furthermore, the accumulation of acetic acid-induced the pH lowering reached 2.7 after 14 days of fermentation, which achieved the microbiological safety of the product. Moreover, 14 days of fermentation resulted in a balanced amalgamation of acidity, sweetness, and fragrance according to sensory evaluation. Our findings not only highlight the potential of cascara kombucha as a novel substrate for kombucha production but also contribute to repurposing coffee by-products, promoting environmentally friendly and sustainable agricultural development.

Monitoring and influencing factors of grassland livestock overload in Xinjiang from 1982 to 2020

It is crucial to estimate the theoretical carrying capacity of grasslands in Xinjiang to attain a harmonious balance between grassland and livestock, thereby fostering sustainable development in the livestock industry. However, there has been a lack of quantitative assessments that consider long-term, multi-scale grass-livestock balance and its impacts in the region. This study utilized remote sensing and empirical models to assess the theoretical livestock carrying capacity of grasslands. The multi-scale spatiotemporal variations of the theoretical carrying capacity in Xinjiang from 1982 to 2020 were analyzed using the Sen and Mann-Kendall tests, as well as the Hurst index. The study also examined the county-level grass-livestock balance and inter-annual trends. Additionally, the study employed the geographic detector method to explore the influencing factors. The results showed that: (1) The overall theoretical livestock carrying capacity showed an upward trend from 1982 to 2020; The spatial distribution gradually decreased from north to south and from east to west. In seasonal scale from large to small is: growing season > summer > spring > autumn > winter; at the monthly scale, the strongest livestock carrying capacity is in July. The different grassland types from largest to smallest are: meadow > alpine subalpine meadow > plain steppe > desert steppe > alpine subalpine steppe. In the future, the theoretical livestock carrying capacity of grassland will decrease. (2) From 1988 to 2020, the average grass-livestock balance index in Xinjiang was 2.61%, showing an overall increase. At the county level, the number of overloaded counties showed an overall increasing trend, rising from 46 in 1988 to 58 in 2020. (3) Both single and interaction factors of geographic detectors showed that annual precipitation, altitude and soil organic matter were the main drivers of spatiotemporal dynamics of grassland load in Xinjiang. The results of this study can provide scientific guidance and decision-making basis for achieving coordinated and sustainable development of grassland resources and animal husbandry in the region.

Sensors on Internet of Things Systems for the Sustainable Development of Smart Cities: A Systematic Literature Review

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a critical component of smart cities and a key contributor to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (UNSDG) 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. The IoT is an infrastructure that enables devices to communicate with each other over the Internet, providing critical components for smart cities, such as data collection, generation, processing, analysis, and application handling. IoT-based applications can promote sustainable urban development. Many studies demonstrate how the IoT can improve smart cities' sustainable development. This systematic literature review provides valuable insights into the utilization of the IoT in the context of smart cities, with a particular focus on its implications for sustainable urban development. Based on an analysis of 73 publications, we discuss the role of IoT in the sustainable development of smart cities, focusing on smart communities, smart transportation, disaster management, privacy and security, and emerging applications. In each domain, we have detailed the attributes of IoT sensors. In addition, we have examined various communication technologies and protocols suitable for transmitting sensor-generated data. We have also presented the methods for analyzing and integrating these data within the IoT application layer. Finally, we identify research gaps in the literature, highlighting areas that require further investigation.

Perceptions of facilitators, barriers and solutions when preparing to implement a home visiting program in Sweden: a mixed-methods study

Background

Although there is growing awareness that early childhood development programs are important for a sustainable society, there is a knowledge gap about how to implement such programs. Successful implementation requires attention to implementation drivers (competency, organization, and leadership) during all phases of the implementation. The purpose of this study was to describe cross-sectoral operational workgroups' perceptions of facilitators, barriers and solutions related to implementation drivers in the preparationphase of implementing an evidence-based early childhood home visiting program.

Methods

Quantitative and qualitative data were collected from twenty-four participants, divided into 5 groups, during implementation planning workshops. The workshops were guided by a structured method informed by the principles of Motivational Interviewing and within a framework of implementation drivers. Groups sorted cards with statements representing implementation drivers according to perceptions of facilitators and barriers, and percentages were calculated for each type of implementation determinant, for each type of driver. The groups discussed their card sorting and wrote action plans to address barriers, yielding documentation that was analyzed using deductive qualitative content analysis.

Results

A mixed-methods analysis resulted identification of facilitators, barriers, unknowns and solutions in two to three subcategories under each main category of implementation driver. A competent and confident workforce, and enthusiasm and commitment were key facilitators. Key barriers were unclear roles and responsibilities, and insufficient articulation of local vision and goals. Many factors were described as yet unknown. Specific solutions were generated to support the implementation.

Conclusions

Our study furthers the scientific understanding of how to take evidence-based early childhood programs from research to practice within an implementation drivers framework. Facilitators, barriers and solutions in key areas during the preparation phase were identified with the help of a novel tool. The results provide useful knowledge for decision makers and organizations preparing similar initiatives in communities striving to attain sustainable development goals.

Harnessing the power of artificial intelligence and robotics impact on attaining competitive advantage for sustainable development in hospitals with conclusions for future research approaches

Artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics have emerged as game-changing technologies with the potential to revolutionize the healthcare industry. In the context of hospitals, their integration holds the promise of not only improving patient care but also driving competitive advantage and fostering sustainable development. This review paper aims to explore and evaluate the impact of AI and robotics applications on attaining competitive advantage and promoting sustainable development in hospitals, examines the current landscape of AI and robotics adoption in healthcare settings and delve into their specific applications within hospitals, including AI-assisted diagnosis, robotic surgery, patient monitoring, and data analytics. A key finding is the insufficient use of KI to date in terms of promoting sustainable development in hospitals. Furthermore, attempts to analyze the potential benefits and challenges associated with these technologies in terms of enhancing patient outcomes, operational efficiency, cost savings, and differentiation from competitors. Drawing upon a comprehensive review of the existing literature and case studies, this paper provides valuable insights into the transformative potential of AI and robotics in hospitals.

The carbon footprint of a surgical pathology laboratory in France

OBJECTIVES

The health sector contributes to climate disruption through greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. It accounts for 8% to 10% of France's GHG emissions. Although the medical community has been alerted to the problem, more data are needed. This study aimed to determine the carbon footprint of a surgical pathology laboratory.

METHODS

The study was conducted in the surgical pathology laboratory at Saint Vincent hospital (Lille) in 2021. It represented 17,242 patient cases corresponding to 54,124 paraffin blocks. The 17 staff members performed cytology, immunohistochemistry, and in situ hybridization. The study included all inputs, capital equipment, freight, travel, energy consumption, and waste. Carbon emission factors were based on the French Agence De l'Environnement et de la Maîtrise de l'Energie database.

RESULTS

In 2021, the pathology laboratory's carbon footprint was 117 tons of CO2 equivalent (t CO2e), corresponding to 0.5% of Saint Vincent hospital's total emissions. The most significant emissions categories were inputs (60 t CO2e; 51%), freight associated with inputs (24 t CO2e; 20%), and travel (14 t CO2e; 12%). Waste and energy generated 10 t CO2e (9%) and 9 t CO2e (8%), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The pathology laboratory's carbon footprint was equivalent to the yearly carbon impact of 11 French inhabitants. This footprint is dominated by inputs and associated freight. This suggests an urgent need to develop ecodesign and self-sufficiency in our routine practices.

Retrospective review of medicine utilization for noncommunicable diseases in three public sector pharmacies in Jamaica

Objective

The rational use of medicines offers a cost-saving strategy to maximize therapeutic outcomes for developing and developed countries. The aim of this study was to evaluate the rational use of medicines for selected noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) at three pharmacies at public hospitals in Jamaica using the World Health Organization's (WHO's) prescribing indicators.

Methods

In this retrospective cross-sectional study, prescriptions for adult outpatients containing at least one medicine for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or asthma that were filled between January and July 2019 were reviewed using WHO's prescribing indicators for the rational use of medicines. Data were analyzed and expressed as descriptive and inferential statistics. For all analyses conducted, significance was determined at P < 0.05.

Results

A total of 1 500 prescriptions covering 5 979 medicines were reviewed; prescriptions were mostly written for female patients aged 42-60 years. Polypharmacy was observed in 35.6% (534) of prescriptions, and there was an average of 4 medicines per prescription, with a maximum of 17. Most of the prescriptions at each site were filled, with the main reason for not dispensing a medicine being that it was out of stock. Generic prescribing was high for all sites, accounting for more than 95% (5 722) of prescribed medicines. There was full compliance with prescribing according to the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines at two of the sites, but it was just off the target at Site 1, by 1.4%.

Conclusions

The WHO guidelines for the rational use of medicines were followed with respect to the proportion of medicines prescribed from the WHO Model List and the proportion of antibiotics prescribed. The number of medicines per prescription and the proportion of medicines prescribed by generic name did not meet the WHO criteria. However, prescribing was aligned with treatment guidelines for the selected NCDs.

Sports and sustainable development: the troubling absence of meat sourcing policies in the sports sector

The excessive use of antibiotics in industrial meat production in the U.S. incurs severe health implications for animals, humans, and the environment, thereby threatening the integrated health of the ecosystem and sustainable development. While the consumption of meat, including hot dogs, chicken wings, and hamburgers, is a hallmark of attending professional sports events in North America, the sourcing policies for meat in the realm of professional sports remain relatively obscure. We conducted a content analysis case study on the four major sports leagues in North America, their teams and stadium practices. Our objective was twofold: first, to investigate existing sustainability initiatives at the league, team, and stadium levels; and second, to examine whether there are any food sourcing programs, specifically meat sourcing policies that might encourage the consumption of meat produced without the use of antibiotics, in the sports sector that are designed to mitigate ecological ramifications of meat consumption within sports contexts. Results show that existing sustainability initiatives at the three levels are focused primarily on reducing carbon emissions and waste. There is, however, a notable neglect of food sourcing policies, which is concerning given that industrial animal agriculture is a leading cause of antibiotic resistance and environmental degradation. This suggests that meat sourcing policy is a missing piece in current sustainability initiatives. The major sports leagues should therefore consider incorporating pertinent policies, such as procuring meat-based products produced without the use of antibiotics to help strengthen their existing efforts in achieving their sustainable development goals.

Preparation Strategies, Functional Regulation, and Applications of Multifunctional Nanomaterials-Based DNA Hydrogels

With the extensive attention of DNA hydrogels in biomedicine, biomaterial, and other research fields, more and more functional DNA hydrogels have emerged to match the various needs. Incorporating nanomaterials into the hydrogel network is an emerging strategy for functional DNA hydrogel construction. Surprisingly, nanomaterials-based DNA hydrogels can be engineered to possess favorable properties, such as dynamic mechanical properties, excellent optical properties, particular electrical properties, perfect encapsulation properties, improved magnetic properties, and enhanced antibacterial properties. Herein, the preparation strategies of nanomaterials-based DNA hydrogels are first highlighted and then different nanomaterial designs are used to demonstrate the functional regulation of DNA hydrogels to achieve specific properties. Subsequently, representative applications in biosensing, drug delivery, cell culture, and environmental protection are introduced with some selected examples. Finally, the current challenges and prospects are elaborated. The study envisions that this review will provide an insightful perspective for the further development of functional DNA hydrogels.

Determinants of Turkish nursing students' attitudes towards sustainable development and knowledge of climate change: A descriptive and correlational study

BACKGROUND

Nurses are in a unique position to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, and to prevent and intervene in climate change. Determining nursing students' levels of attitudes and knowledge on this subject is important in determining the content of nursing education programs.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the nursing students' attitudes towards sustainable development and their knowledge of climate change, and to identify determinants associated with these parameters.

DESIGN

A descriptive and correlational design was used.

SETTINGS

National Student Nurses' Association in Turkey.

PARTICIPANTS

The sample of study consisted of 481 nursing students who were members of the National Student Nurses' Association.

METHODS

Data were collected online with the descriptive characteristics' questionnaire, the Attitudes Towards Sustainable Development Scale, and the Climate Change Knowledge Test. We used Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and Spearman correlation analysis to analyze the data obtained from the scales.

RESULTS

The participants' mean sustainable development attitude score was 82.61 ± 12.69 and mean climate change knowledge score was 6.47 ± 1.44. There was a relationship between the sustainable development attitude and the variables such as gender, grade, warning people around them to be sensitive about environmental pollution, following the news about environmental problems, taking precautions about sustainable development and climate change in daily life, and receiving education about sustainable development and climate change in the nursing education. There was a relationship between climate change knowledge and the variables such as gender, grade, membership in an environmental organization, method of keeping up with environmental issues, and receiving education on sustainable development and climate change in nursing education.

CONCLUSION

Although the students displayed favorable attitudes towards sustainable development at a good level, their knowledge of climate change was not adequate. Thus, we recommend that sustainable development and climate change issues should be integrated into nursing education curricula to improve students' attitudes towards and knowledge and awareness of sustainable development and climate change.

Evaluation of sustainable development capacity of water sources: a case study of China

The issue of water scarcity has drawn attention from all over the world. The coordination of the interaction between ecological and environmental development of water sources and socio-economic development is currently an essential issue that needs to be solved in order to safeguard the water resources environment for human survival. In this essay, we suggest a paradigm for assessing the sustainable exploitation of water resources. First, three ecological, economic, and social factors are investigated. Twenty essential evaluation indexes are then constructed using the Delphi approach, along with an index system for assessing the potential of water sources for sustainable development. The weights of each evaluation index were then determined using the combination assignment approach, which was then suggested. The coupled degree evaluation model of the capability for sustainable development of water sources was then developed. In order to confirm the viability and validity of the suggested model, the model was used to assess the Liwu River water source's capacity for sustainable growth in the context of the South-North Water Transfer in Shandong, China. It is believed that the aforementioned study would serve as a helpful resource when evaluating the capacity of water sources for sustainable development.

Anti-psychotic Nature of Antibiotics: Vancomycin and Omadacycline Combination Ameliorating Stress in a Zebrafish Model

Background Stress affects mental health significantly and is a ubiquitous feature of contemporary living. Among the possible antibiotics are omadacycline and vancomycin, whose anti-inflammatory properties have also been thoroughly documented in recent research. The goal of the current study was to examine their complex involvement in the brain's stress response circuits and how they modulate stress. An established model organism that provides a useful platform for examining stress-induced behaviors and possible therapeutic approaches is the zebrafish. To investigate how dopamine affects the stress response, we used a zebrafish model that was exposed to stress. Methodology For three minutes, zebrafish were continually subjected to chasing stress. They were then given antibiotic combinations of 50 µg/mL each of vancomycin and omadacycline at various ratios of 1:1, 3:1, and 3:1. Behavior alterations, including freezing bouts, top-bottom ratios, and latency periods, were analyzed and contrasted with control groups. ImageJ software was utilized to analyze the video footage of the fish. Results The study showed that the combination of omadacycline and vancomycin greatly reduced the behaviors in zebrafish caused by stress. They chose their concentration (50 µg/mL) according to the lethal concentration 50% result. By shortening the latency time and increasing the intensity of breezing sessions, these chemicals restored almost normal activity. There was statistical significance in the outcomes. The results show that the combination of vancomycin and omadacycline may have an anti-psychotic impact on zebrafish behaviors brought on by stress. Their control of stress reactions is consistent with their known roles in the reward and stress circuits of the brain. These results emphasize the complex interactions between neurotransmitter systems and the control of stress, highlighting the therapeutic potential of dopamine in the treatment of stress-related mental illnesses. Conclusions The combination of vancomycin and omadacycline has been shown to have anti-psychotic effects, which presents potential opportunities for the development of new treatment strategies for mental diseases associated with stress. To fully understand the specific processes underpinning their involvement in stress management and how they relate to mental illnesses in humans, more investigation is necessary.

Spatial Distribution and Sustainable Development of Living Woody and Coarse Woody Debris in Warm-Temperate Deciduous Broadleaved Secondary Forests in China

The investigation into the spatial patterns of living woody (LWD) and coarse woody debris (CWD) in warm-temperate deciduous broadleaved secondary forests serves as a foundational exploration of the mechanisms governing coexistence and mortality in forest ecosystems. The complete spatial randomness null model (CSR) was employed to analyze spatial distribution patterns, with the independent component null model (IC) and canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) utilized to elucidate spatial correlations and topographic influences. All three models were applied to LWD and CWD across various size classes within a 20-hectare plot in the Dongling Mountains. The study's findings indicate that both LWD and CWD predominantly exhibited aggregated patterns, transitioning to a random distribution as the size class increased. Both increasing abundance and maximum diameter at breast height (DBH) also have a significant influence on the distribution of species. Notably, rare species exhibited higher aggregation compared to common and abundant species. The spatial correlation results between LWD and CWD across various size classes predominantly showed positive correlations and uncorrelated patterns within the sampled plots. CCA analysis further revealed that elevation, convexity, slope, and aspect significantly influenced the spatial patterns of LWD and CWD across different size classes. Within the sample site, trees display a tendency to grow and die in clusters. Biotic factors have a more significant influence on species distribution than abiotic factors.

How changing work and family demands during COVID-19 (De)motivated academic parents to craft sustainable careers?

BACKGROUND

Covid-19 has introduced many contextual changes into individuals' work and family lives, affecting their career sustainability. Although previous studies have provided evidence for these changes, little is known about how changing contextual demands (de)motivated them to take proactive initiatives for crafting sustainable careers.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to explore how changing work and family demands of academic parents during Covid-19 affected their career sustainability indicators and career initiatives regarding health, happiness, and productivity.

METHODS

Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 21 academic parents during the post-lockdown period of Covid-19 in Turkey. We analyzed the qualitative data by using content analysis via MAXQDA software.

RESULTS

Results revealed differing career sustainability experiences and initiatives regarding gender roles, career stage, and work/family demands and resources. Notably, women academics with higher contextual demands and lower contextual resources and early-career academics reported relatively adverse experiences concerning their health, happiness, and productivity. Besides, even though early-career academics faced problems with sustaining their career development, they were relatively more oriented to engage in career initiatives, such as reorganizing developmental needs, improving career skills, and seeking career support and guidance.

CONCLUSIONS

This study sheds light on the context, time, and person aspects of sustainable careers during Covid-19. Moreover, the study represents one of the first investigations into the proactive initiatives for crafting sustainable careers during the pandemic and provides a deeper insight into the (de)motivators for career proactivity.

Synthetic biology enables mushrooms to meet emerging sustainable challenges

With the increasing sustainability challenges, synthetic biology is offering new possibilities for addressing the emerging problems through the cultivation and fermentation of mushrooms. In this perspective, we aim to provide an overview on the research and applications mushroom synthetic biology, emphasizing the need for increased attention and inclusion of this rapidly advancing field in future mushroom technology over China and other countries. By leveraging synthetic biology, mushrooms are expected to play a more versatile role in various area, including traditional fields like circular economy, human wellness and pharmaceutics, as well as emerging fields like vegan meat, mushroom-based materials and pollution abatement. We are confident that these efforts using synthetic biology strategies have the potential to strengthen our capacity to effectively address sustainable challenges, leading to the development of a more sustainable social economy and ecology.

Common Problems! and Common Solutions? - Teaching at the Intersection Between Public Health and Criminology: A Public Health Perspective

Public health and criminology share similar current and future challenges, mostly related to crime and health causation, prevention, and sustainable development. Interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches to education at the intersection of public health and criminology can be an integral part of future training in areas of mutual interest. Based on reflections on teaching criminology students, this viewpoint discusses the main interconnections between public health and criminology teaching through the public health lens. The paper discusses potential challenges associated with interdisciplinarity and transdisciplinarity. Among these challenges is communication across the different fields and their perspectives to be able to achieve the desired complementarity at the intersection of the two disciplines.

Efficiency Enhancement in Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion: A Comparative Study of Heat Exchanger Designs for Bi2Te3-Based Thermoelectric Generators

This research focuses on enhancing the efficiency of Bi2Te3-based thermoelectric generators (TEGs) in ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) systems through innovative heat exchanger designs. Our comparative study uses computer simulations to evaluate three types of heat exchangers: cavity, plate-fins, and longitudinal vortex generators (LVGs). We analyze their impact on thermoelectric conversion performance, considering the thermal energy transfer from warm surface seawater to TEGs. The results demonstrate that heat exchangers with plate-fins and LVGs significantly outperform the cavity heat exchanger regarding thermal energy transfer efficiency. Specifically, plate-fins increase TEG output power by approximately 22.92% and enhance thermoelectric conversion efficiency by 38.20%. Similarly, LVGs lead to a 13.02% increase in output power and a 16.83% improvement in conversion efficiency. These advancements are contingent upon specific conditions such as seawater flow rates, fin heights, LVG tilt angles, and locations. The study underscores the importance of optimizing heat exchanger designs in OTEC systems, balancing enhanced heat transfer against the required pump power. Our findings contribute to a broader understanding of materials science in sustainable energy technologies.

Poverty-Food Insecurity Nexus in the Post-Construction Context of a Large Hydropower Dam in the Brazilian Amazon

Within the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, large hydropower dams are positioned as a sustainable energy source, notwithstanding their adverse impacts on societies and ecosystems. This study contributed to ongoing discussions about the persistence of critical social issues, even after the investments of large amounts of resources in areas impacted by the construction of large hydropower dams. Our study focused on food insecurity and evaluated this issue in the city of Altamira in the Brazilian Amazon, which has been profoundly socially and economically impacted by the construction, between 2011 and 2015, of Brazil's second-largest dam, namely, Belo Monte. A survey in Altamira city featured a 500-household random sample. Structural equation modeling showed conditioning factors of 60% of the population experiencing varying food insecurity degrees. Poverty, female-led households, lower education, youth, and unemployment were strongly linked to higher food insecurity. Crowded, officially impacted, and resettled households also faced heightened food insecurity. Our findings underscore the food insecurity conditions in the region impacted by the Belo Monte dam, emphasizing the need to take into account this crucial issue while planning and implementing hydropower dams.

Strategies for Traceability to Prevent Unauthorised GMOs (Including NGTs) in the EU: State of the Art and Possible Alternative Approaches

The EU's regulatory framework for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) was developed for "classical" transgenic GMOs, yet advancements in so-called "new genomic techniques (NGTs)" have led to implementation challenges regarding detection and identification. As traceability can complement detection and identification strategies, improvements to the existing traceability strategy for GMOs are investigated in this study. Our results are based on a comprehensive analysis of existing traceability systems for globally traded agricultural products, with a focus on soy. Alternative traceability strategies in other sectors were also analysed. One focus was on traceability strategies for products with characteristics for which there are no analytical verification methods. Examples include imports of "conflict minerals" into the EU. The so-called EU Conflict Minerals Regulation requires importers of certain raw materials to carry out due diligence in the supply chain. Due diligence regulations, such as the EU's Conflict Minerals Regulation, can legally oblige companies to take responsibility for certain risks in their supply chains. They can also require the importer to prove the regional origin of imported goods. The insights from those alternative traceability systems are transferred to products that might contain GMOs. When applied to the issue of GMOs, we propose reversing the burden of proof: All companies importing agricultural commodities must endeavour to identify risks of unauthorised GMOs (including NGTs) in their supply chain and, where appropriate, take measures to minimise the risk to raw material imports. The publication concludes that traceability is a means to an end and serves as a prerequisite for due diligence in order to minimise the risk of GMO contamination in supply chains. The exemplary transfer of due diligence to a company in the food industry illustrates the potential benefits of mandatory due diligence, particularly for stakeholders actively managing non-GMO supply chains.

Neonatal mortality in countries of the Americas, 2000-2020: trends, inequalities, and target-setting

Objective

To analyze temporal trends and inequalities in neonatal mortality between 2000 and 2020, and to set neonatal mortality targets for 2025 and 2030 in the Americas.

Methods

A descriptive ecological study was conducted using 33 countries of the Americas as units of analysis. Both the percentage change and average annual percentage change in neonatal mortality rates were estimated. Measurements of absolute and relative inequality based on adjusted regression models were used to assess cross-country social inequalities in neonatal mortality. Targets to reduce neonatal mortality and cross-country inequalities were set for 2025 and 2030.

Results

The estimated regional neonatal mortality rate was 12.0 per 1 000 live births in 2000-2004 and 7.4 per 1 000 live births in 2020, representing a percentage change of -38.3% and an average annual percentage change of -2.7%. National average annual percentage changes in neonatal mortality rates between 2000-2004 and 2020 ranged from -5.5 to 1.9 and were mostly negative. The estimated excess neonatal mortality in the 20% most socially disadvantaged countries, compared with the 20% least socially disadvantaged countries, was 17.1 and 9.8 deaths per 1 000 live births in 2000-2004 and 2020, respectively. Based on an extrapolation of recent trends, the regional neonatal mortality rate is projected to reach 7.0 and 6.6 neonatal deaths per 1 000 live births by 2025 and 2030, respectively.

Conclusions

National and regional health authorities need to strengthen their efforts to reduce persistent social inequalities in neonatal mortality both within and between countries.

Bioactive Compounds from Kinnow Processing Waste, its Associated Benefits: A Review

Kinnow is a citrus fruit that is extensively cultivated in India, Pakistan and other countries. The production of Kinnow generates a significant amount of waste, including peel, seeds, and pulp. The disposal of this waste is a major environmental issue, as it can lead to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, there is a growing interest in finding ways to valorize Kinnow waste. There are studies which focused on using Kinnow waste for the production of biofuels, biopolymers, and other value-added products. The utilization of Kinnow waste for these purposes can help to reduce the environmental impact of Kinnow production and generate economic benefits for farmers and other stakeholders. The research on Kinnow waste valorization is still in its early stages, but it has the potential to contribute to sustainable development in the citrus industry.

Migration and sustainable development

To understand the implications of migration for sustainable development requires a comprehensive consideration of a range of population movements and their feedback across space and time. This Perspective reviews emerging science at the interface of migration studies, demography, and sustainability, focusing on consequences of migration flows for nature-society interactions including on societal outcomes such as inequality; environmental causes and consequences of involuntary displacement; and processes of cultural convergence in sustainability practices in dynamic new populations. We advance a framework that demonstrates how migration outcomes result in identifiable consequences on resources, environmental burdens and well-being, and on innovation, adaptation, and challenges for sustainability governance. We elaborate the research frontiers of migration for sustainability science, explicitly integrating the full spectrum of regular migration decisions dominated by economic motives through to involuntary displacement due to social or environmental stresses. Migration can potentially contribute to sustainability transitions when it enhances well-being while not exacerbating structural inequalities or compound uneven burdens on environmental resources.

The relationship between nursing students' environmental literacy and awareness of Global Climate Change

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to examine the correlation between environmental literacy and levels of awareness of global climate change in nursing students.

DESIGN

The cross-sectional and correlational design.

SAMPLE

476 undergraduate nursing students METHODS: Data were collected with The Personal Information Form, the Awareness Scale of University Students about Global Climate Change, and Environmental Literacy Scale for Adults in March 2023. Descriptive statistics, correlation, and linear regression analysis (stepwise method) were used to analyze the data.

RESULTS

The mean scores of the Environmental Literacy Scale and the Awareness Scale of University Students about Global Climate Change Scale were 87.31 ± 8.61 and 75.60 ± 14.86, respectively. A positive correlation was found between the awareness of global climate change and environmental literacy (p < 0.05). As participation in meetings on environmental problems, environmental concerns and awareness increased, awareness of global climate change increased.

CONCLUSIONS

Nursing students had high levels of awareness of global climate change and environmental literacy. The awareness of nursing students on climate change and their environmental literacy levels are highly important in protecting public health against the adverse effects of climate change and reducing climate change through effective resource management in health services in the future. It is recommended that integrate courses related to environment health to curriculum of nursing school and in-service training during healthcare. The study draws attention to the Sustainable Development Goals related to climate change.

Smart technological options in collection and transportation of municipal solid waste in urban areas: A mini review

The rapid increase in quantities and the mismanagement of municipal solid waste (MSW) in developing countries are increasing the environmental impacts such as air, water and soil contamination. The present scenario of MSW management deals with numerous issues such as lack of technological resources, strategical management, social awareness, public participation, etc. Globally, numerous efforts in the form of new policies, schemes and regulatory acts have been made to develop a systematic collection and transportation (C&T) method using advanced, integrated technologies. However, very few studies have addressed this issue for low- and middle-income countries due to the lack of availability of reliable resources and data sets. This paper addresses the present challenges in C&T methods and highlights the application of information communication technology in monitoring, capturing, data management, planning, live tracking and communication. This systematic mini-review is based on the availability of technical resources, consumer acceptance and cost-effectiveness of different technologies in managing the processes. The study revealed that the C&T methods in most developed countries are designed based on their geographical stretch, climatic factors, waste characteristics and compatible technology, resulting in sustainable MSW management. However, developing countries have followed the same monotonous approach in managing their MSW, which fails in C&T process. The case study provides a valuable resource for researchers and policymakers to frame a better C&T process based on the recent technological interventions, infrastructure development, and social and economic status.

Achieving and Maintaining Equitable Health Outcomes for all, Including for Future Generations

Sustainable health equity means achieving and maintaining equitable health outcomes for all people, including for future generations. It encompasses realizing the right to health, setting the conditions for leading a healthy life, and fulfilling the full range of human rights. Achieving sustainable health equity requires that public services be designed and provided, and public policies be developed through empowering, inclusive, participatory, accountable, and democratic processes and mechanisms.

Multi-Strain Probiotics Enhance the Bioactivity of Cascara Kombucha during Microbial Composition-Controlled Fermentation

Kombucha is a widely consumed fermented tea beverage with diverse health benefits. In a previous study, we demonstrated that the use of cascara as a substrate results in a special kombucha beverage with high bioactivity. Traditional kombucha fermentation using a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY) can lead to inconsistent product quality because of the lack of control over microbial composition. We successfully isolated and identified yeast and bacteria, including Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Komagataeibacter rhaeticus, and Lactobacillus brevis that are appropriate starter cultures for cascara kombucha fermentation. We also demonstrated that a supplementation with lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and a mixture of S. cerevisiae and K. rhaeticus resulted in higher total polyphenol and flavonoid content of cascara kombucha compared with the traditionally fermented product using SCOBY as the inoculum. The free radical scavenging activity, inhibitory effects on α-amylase, tyrosinase activity, and antibacterial properties of cascara kombucha were also enhanced as a result of LAB supplement. These findings provide valuable insights into the controlled microbiological composition required for the fermentation of cascara kombucha, thereby ensuring consistent quality and enhanced bioactivity of the product. Further, the use of cascara as a substrate for kombucha production not only offers various health benefits and biological effects, but also repurposes by-products from the coffee industry, which contributes to sustainable development and is eco-friendly.

Strengthening Global Health Research

Global Health is a young discipline with equity of health and services as its core value. The discipline has a tradition of close links between practice and research in line with the 'Health for All' declaration launched by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1978. The multitude of existential health crises facing mankind require a research agenda in line with Global Health Research core values and methods, such as transdisciplinary collaboration, long time series of population-based observations and multifaceted interventions. Knowledge gaps cover climate effects on health and mechanisms for global spread and control of antibiotic resistance across species. Such health threats are preferably studied at Health and Demographic Surveillance Sites, a scientific infrastructure for Global Health Research in Africa and Asia, that gains to expand and monitor climate parameters and include sites in the northern hemisphere. Global Health Scientists together with science societies can ensure long-term funding of a global network of population-based health-climate sites. Global Health Scientists and scientific journals should jointly provide data and evidence on global health to governance bodies on regional, national and global levels, in particular to WHO and United Nations in charge of the programme with Sustainable Development Goals.

Green Purchase Behaviour Gap: The Effect of Past Behaviour on Green Food Product Purchase Intentions among Individual Consumers

The purpose of this study is to examine factors affecting green food product purchase intentions and, specifically, to specify the role of past behaviour in shaping purchase intentions for these products and in switching to environmentally friendly food purchases. As for the theoretical framework, the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) was used, with certain modifications proposed; namely, additional constructs were included: past behaviour, knowledge, and trust in green food. Data were collected from 650 green product consumers in Poland. The online survey method was employed. The research revealed that past behaviour is a powerful indicator, which, to the greatest extent, explains purchase behaviours towards green food. This paper explores the fact that attitudes are also strongly linked to green food purchase intentions. Moreover, social norms, trust, and knowledge also have a positive effect on the intention to purchase green food products. Perceived behavioural control is relatively weak but statistically significant. The extended model explains 57% of the variance in green food purchase intentions. By incorporating past behaviour into the TPB, this study gives a new insight into understanding the inconsistency between positive attitudes towards green food and real purchase behaviours. The results of the study provide managers working in the food sector with relevant guidelines for the design of marketing strategies.

Soft Epidermal Paperfluidics for Sweat Analysis by Ratiometric Raman Spectroscopy

The expanding interest in digital biomarker analysis focused on non-invasive human bodily fluids, such as sweat, highlights the pressing need for easily manufactured and highly efficient soft lab-on-skin solutions. Here, we report, for the first time, the integration of microfluidic paper-based devices (μPAD) and non-enhanced Raman-scattering-enabled optical biochemical sensing (Raman biosensing). Their integration merges the enormous benefits of μPAD, with high potential for commercialization and use in resource-limited settings, with biorecognition-element-free (but highly selective) optical Raman biosensing. The introduced thin (0.36 mm), ultra-lightweight (0.19 g), and compact footprint (3 cm2) opto-paperfluidic sweat patch is flexible, stretchable, and conforms, irritation-free, to hairless or minimally haired body regions to enable swift sweat collection. As a great advantage, this new bio-chemical sensory system excels through its absence of onboard biorecognition elements (bioreceptor-free) and omission of plasmonic nanomaterials. The proposed easy fabrication process is adaptable to mass production by following a fully sustainable and cost-effective process utilizing only basic tools by avoiding typically employed printing or laser patterning. Furthermore, efficient collection and transportation of precise sweat volumes, driven exclusively by the wicking properties of porous materials, shows high efficiency in liquid transportation and reduces biosensing latency by a factor of 5 compared to state-of-the-art epidermal microfluidics. The proposed unit enables electronic chip-free and imaging-less visual sweat loss quantification as well as optical biochemical analysis when coupled with Raman spectroscopy. We investigated the multimodal quantification of sweat urea and lactate levels ex vivo (with syntactic sweat including +30 sweat analytes on porcine skin) and achieved a linear dynamic range from 0 to 100 mmol/L during fully dynamic continuous flow characterization.

Eco-Innovation in the Food Industry: Exploring Consumer Motivations in an Emerging Market

The utilization of eco-innovative products has witnessed a surge in adoption, driven by their inherent capacity to address pressing environmental concerns. To comprehensively fathom the underlying motivations propelling consumers to embrace these products, we conducted an in-depth investigation employing "The Not Company" (Chile) as a compelling case study. We conducted qualitative interviews with a cohort of 20 Chilean consumers, guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior theoretical framework. The research methodology harnessed the principles of thematic analysis, yielding insights that underscore the significance of key determinants in shaping consumers' choices towards eco-innovative products. Specifically, our findings highlighted that consumer choices in this domain are profoundly influenced by their attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control. Moreover, within these overarching categories, we unearthed sub-themes illuminating the intricate influences guiding consumer choices. These sub-themes encompassed beliefs about food manufacturing and packaging, the persuasive impact of social media and advertising, and the indelible impressions left by prior encounters with eco-innovative products. This study highlights consumers' fundamental role in the broader eco-innovation landscape, particularly within the food industry context.

Improving the standardisation, timeliness and efficiency of the occupational therapy admission process in an older adult inpatient service

Occupational therapists (OTs) are at the forefront of providing recovery-oriented care for older people through timely assessments of patient's engagement in daily living activities among many other interventions. This aids a timely, safe and successful discharge from hospital.This project built on the foundations of previous work while considering the context and requirements of two older adult wards, the rates of admission and staff retention. The specific aim agreed was for 90% of patients admitted to the older adults' inpatient units to be assessed by the occupational therapy (OTY) team within days of admission by December 2022.The OTs worked in collaboration to initiate two tests of change with a total of five PDSA cycles.Our tests of change resulted in an increase of patients engaging in OTY initial assessments within seven days of admission from 47.65% (May to November 2021) to 78% (December 2021 to December 2022).Our team embarked on a quality improvement project to improve standardisation, efficiency and timeliness of the OTY process in an older adult inpatient service by using a pragmatic measure and tests of change evidenced in a previous study. This evidenced the generalisability of the findings of this study. While we were able to improve the timeliness of OTY initial assessments, we concluded that the overall impact on outcomes such as timely discharge was also dependent on other clinical and social factors.

Eco-anxiety and environmental sustainability interest: A secondary data analysis

Climate change is an increasingly important global concern, requiring urgent action. To achieve environmental sustainability, identifying the predictors influencing individuals' actions is necessary. Individuals with negative psychological responses to climate change, such as eco-anxiety, are more likely to engage in pro-environmental behaviour. However, eco-anxiety and other perceptions associated with climate change and sustainability can differ based on an individual's unique background. Therefore, this study aimed to identify potent predictors of individuals' environmental sustainability interest and examine the impact of eco-anxiety on environmental sustainability interest. Data from 459 South Korean adults (19-65 years) were included in this secondary analysis. Eco-anxiety, climate change risk perception and future event cognition were assessed by the Climate Change Anxiety Scale, the Climate Change Risk Perception Inventory and Future Event Questionnaires, respectively. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that eco-anxiety was the most potent predictor of environmental sustainability interest, followed by climate change risk perception, age 60-65 years, future event cognition and age under 30 years. Considering that eco-anxiety is the most potent predictor of environmental sustainability interest, mental health nurses should assess patients' eco-anxiety level and help them recognize and manage their anxiety levels appropriately. Age-specific approaches should be considered for interventions to enhance environmental sustainability interest. Further studies are needed to determine the cut-off anxiety level that influences the positive impact on environmental sustainability interest and to develop programmes to manage eco-anxiety.

Waste management developments in the last five decades: Asian perspective

Solid waste management was explored in Asia's last five decades, and the issues and challenges were identified. Waste generation has increased in all nations in the previous 50 years, although more recently, a declining trend has been observed in Japan and Korea. The composition has been predominantly organic, with 45-50% being kitchen waste. Material extraction and productivity to sustain the most populous part of the globe are explained. Waste management technologies have evolved, with more nations slowly transitioning from landfills to using waste-to-energy options. However, landfilling and open dumps are still the major disposal choice in most developing countries in Asia. Thus, the issues of concern include dumpsites management, the informal sector, waste collection, open burning and food waste. Changes (increasing trends) in the recycling technologies and quantum are evident, as seen in several country reports from India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam. There are several issues and challenges for recycling, which are explored in the text. Lastly, the drivers that propel the whole scenario of waste management in Asia and the evolution of these drivers over time are discussed. Several recommendations are included to achieve sustainable waste management in Asia.

Ethical perspective on AI hazards to humans: A review

This article explores the potential ethical hazards of artificial intelligence (AI) on society from an ethical perspective. We introduce the development and application of AI, emphasizing its potential benefits and possible negative impacts. We particularly examine the application of AI in the medical field and related ethical and legal issues, and analyze potential hazards that may exist in other areas of application, such as autonomous driving, finance, and security. Finally, we offer recommendations to help policymakers, technology companies, and society as a whole address the potential hazards of AI. These recommendations include strengthening regulation and supervision of AI, increasing public understanding and awareness of AI, and actively exploring how to use the advantages of AI to achieve a more just, equal, and sustainable social development. Only by actively exploring the advantages of AI while avoiding its negative impacts can we better respond to future challenges.

Active mobility and mental health: A scoping review towards a healthier world

Research has proven that engaging in active mobility (AM), namely walking and cycling for transportation, significantly enhances physical activity levels, leading to better physical health. It is still unclear whether AM could also offer any mental health benefits. This scoping review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current knowledge on the relationship between AM and mental health, given its crucial role in public health. The authors searched online databases to isolate primary studies written in English involving an adult sample (16 or over). AM was the exposure factor. Many mental health elements were included as outcomes (depression, anxiety, self-esteem, self-efficacy, stress, psychological and subjective well-being, resilience, loneliness and social support, quality of life, mood, life satisfaction and sleep). The results were organised in a narrative summary per each outcome selected, graphical syntheses and an overview of gaps to be further examined. The authors identified a total of 55 papers as relevant. The results show inconsistency in study designs, definition and operationalisation of the variables, approach and methodologies used. A cross-sectional design was the dominant choice, primarily examining data from national public health surveys. Nonetheless, there has been improvement in outcomes of interests, initially mainly the quality of life and affect. Lately, authors have focused on a broader range of mental health-related factors (such as travel satisfaction). The experimental studies showed promising mental health improvements in those who used active modes more than those who used motorised vehicles. It creates a rationale for further research towards implementing a unified theoretical and methodological framework to study the link between AM and mental health. The ultimate goal is to generate solid conclusions that could support building societies and cities through public health promotion and sustainable strategies, like walking and cycling as a means of transport.

Reimagining infrastructure for a biodiverse future

Civil infrastructure will be essential to face the interlinked existential threats of climate change and rising resource demands while ensuring a livable Anthropocene for all. However, conventional infrastructure planning largely neglects the contributions and maintenance of Earth's ecological life support systems, which provide irreplaceable services supporting human well-being. The stability and performance of these services depend on biodiversity, but conventional infrastructure practices, narrowly focused on controlling natural capital, have inadvertently degraded biodiversity while perpetuating social inequities. Here, we envision a new infrastructure paradigm wherein biodiversity and ecosystem services are a central objective of civil engineering. In particular, we reimagine infrastructure practice such that 1) ecosystem integrity and species conservation are explicit objectives from the outset of project planning; 2) infrastructure practices integrate biodiversity into diverse project portfolios along a spectrum from conventional to nature-based solutions and natural habitats; 3) ecosystem functions reinforce and enhance the performance and lifespan of infrastructure assets; and 4) civil engineering promotes environmental justice by counteracting legacies of social inequity in infrastructure development and nature conservation. This vision calls for a fundamental rethinking of the standards, practices, and mission of infrastructure development agencies and a broadening of scope for conservation science. We critically examine the legal and professional precedents for this paradigm shift, as well as the moral and economic imperatives for manifesting equitable infrastructure planning that mainstreams biodiversity and nature's benefits to people. Finally, we set an applied research agenda for supporting this vision and highlight financial, professional, and policy pathways for achieving it.

Multicriteria Suitability Index for Prioritizing Early-Stage Deployments of Wastewater-Derived Fertilizers in Sub-Saharan Africa

Recycling nutrients from wastewater could simultaneously decrease the carbon intensity of traditional ammonia supply chains and increase the accessibility of local fertilizer. Despite the theoretical potential, techno-economic viability of wastewater nutrient recovery in sub-Saharan Africa has been poorly characterized at subnational scales. This work proposes a multicriteria suitability index to describe techno-economic viability of wastewater-derived fertilizer technologies with district-scale resolution. This index, with a range from 0 to 1 (highest suitability), incorporates key drivers, including population density, soil conditions, sanitation levels, and fertilizer prices. We found that suitability varies widely within and across countries in sub-Saharan Africa and that the primary limiting factor is the absence of sanitation infrastructure. Regions with a minimum of 10% cropland area and a suitability index of at least 0.9 were identified as highly suitable target regions for initial deployment. While they comprise only 1% of the analyzed area, these regions are home to 39 million people and contain up to 3.7 million hectares of cropland. Wastewater-derived fertilizer technologies could deliver an average of 25 kg of nitrogen per hectare of cropland, generating additional food equivalent to the annual consumption of 6 million people. Screening for high suitability can inform selection of effective lighthouse demonstration sites that derisk technology deployment and promote the transition to a more circular nutrient economy.

Time to act sustainably: Why can't we wait any longer?

OBJECTIVES

to raise reflections on the need for health services and professionals to implement sustainable actions, aiming at their own survival and that of the planet.

METHODS

reflective essay based on international reports regarding the impact of climate change on people's health and the role of institutions in this context.

RESULTS

the article focused on three fundamentals: climate change continues to be a threat to the health and well-being of all beings on Earth; the institutions that should contribute to health are great agents of contamination of the environment and emission of gases that aggravate the greenhouse effect; and there are several benefits for health institutions to act sustainably.

FINAL CONSIDERATIONS

we cannot wait any longer; we must develop policies and management models aimed at environmentally responsible, economically viable, and socially more collaborative healthcare.

Recovery of Chlorosilane Residual Liquid to Prepare Nano-Silica via the Reverse Micro-Emulsion Process

In this paper, nano-silica particles were prepared from chlorosilane residue liquid using an inverse micro-emulsions system formed from octylphenyl polyoxyethylene ether (TX-100)/n-hexanol/cyclohexane/ammonia. The influence of different reaction conditions on the morphology, particle size, and dispersion of nano-silica particles was investigated via single-factor analysis. When the concentration of chlorosilane residue liquid (0.08 mol/L), hydrophile-lipophilic-balance (HLB) values (10.50), and the concentration of ammonia (0.58 mol/L) were under suitable conditions, the nano-silica particles had a more uniform morphology, smaller particle size, and better dispersion, while the size of the nano-silica particles gradually increased with the increase in the molar ratio of water to surfactant (ω). The prepared nano-silica was characterized through XRD, FT-IR, N2 adsorption/desorption experiments, and TG-DSC analysis. The results showed that the prepared nano-silica was amorphous mesoporous silica, and that the BET specific surface area was 850.5 m2/g. It also had good thermal stability. When the temperature exceeded 1140 °C, the nano-silica underwent a phase transition from an amorphous form to crystalline. This method not only promoted the sustainable development of the polysilicon industry, it also provided new ideas for the protection of the ecological environment, the preparation of environmental functional materials, and the recycling of resources and energy.