Search Results (10,617)

Intensive greenhouse agriculture significantly alters dissolved organic matter (DOM) dynamics in aquatic ecosystems, but related research remains scarce. To address this knowledge gap, this study employed an integrated approach combining Excitation–Emission Matrix Parallel Factor Analysis (EEM-PARAFAC), Two-Dimensional Correlation Spectroscopy (2D-COS), and Self-Organizing Map (SOM) analyses with hydrochemical and stable water isotopes (δ¹⁸O and δD) to investigate the dynamic characteristics of DOM in surface water and groundwater in an intensive greenhouse agriculture catchment (XER) in northern China. Water chemistry and isotope results consistently demonstrated mixing between surface water and groundwater, which was attributed to irrigation pumping. Four fluorescent components were identified via EEM-PARAFAC (C1 and C4 are humic components, while C2 and C3 are tryptophan components), with microbial decomposition of organic fertilizers and domestic wastewater discharge being important sources. Compared with tryptophan components, terrestrial humic substances in groundwater preferentially change in the parallel river direction, while microbial humic substances are more sensitive in the vertical direction, as confirmed by 2D-COS. SOM analysis validated the EEM-PARAFAC results through component plane visualization, demonstrating both DOM inter-component relationships and their correlations with inorganic ions. These results provide critical scientific support for developing sustainable water resource management strategies and optimizing organic fertilizer use in greenhouse agricultural systems, with important practical implications for protecting groundwater quality in intensively cultivated catchments. Full article

This study explores the complex interplay between innovation, pro-innovative behavior, social capital, and farm viability in contributing to sustainability within agricultural cooperatives. Focusing on the United Winemaking Agricultural Cooperative of Samos (UWC SAMOS), a historic cooperative on the Greek island of Samos, this research aimed to measure and operationalize these concepts using literature-derived indicators and complex indexes. A mixed-method approach was employed, collecting data via semi-structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews. The findings revealed a highly intricate relationship among these factors which quantitative analysis alone could not fully capture. The findings revealed a complex interplay, with female respondents showing better results in all the created composite indexes of our study. Surprisingly, the respondents of our sample who were more than 60 years old had the highest values in the composite indexes of pro-innovative behavior and economic viability and a relatively high value in the social capital index, and considering the educational level of the interviewees, the proportion with a Master’s or an equivalent level had the highest results in the pro-innovative behavior index and trust but not in economic viability. Crucially, qualitative data highlighted the underlying mechanism of “institutionalization of cooperative members” as a significant mediating factor, explaining the weak innovation and low social trust observed. This study concludes that a holistic understanding of sustainability in agricultural cooperatives necessitates a deep integration of both quantitative measures and qualitative exploration of socio-cultural dynamics, offering a refined conceptual framework for future research and policy. Full article

Natural clinoptilolite from the Shankhanai deposit (Kazakhstan) was modified via acid and thermal treatments to improve its physicochemical and catalytic properties. The zeolite was activated using 10% nitric acid alone, nitric acid followed by thermal treatment (600 °C), and a mixed acid solution (10% HNО₃ + 5% CH₃CООH) followed by mild thermal treatment (280 °C). Structural, textural, and thermal changes were characterized by XRD, FTIR, BET, TGA, SEM, and EDX. Nitric acid treatment increased the BET surface area from 4.95 to 59.9 m²/g but reduced crystallinity, whereas the dual-acid approach enhanced porosity and acidity while preserving framework integrity. Preliminary catalytic testing in thiophene hydrodesulfurization (HDS) revealed improved conversion (up to 20.7%) in the absence of active metals, confirming the potential of modified clinoptilolite as a catalyst support. The dual-acid method presents a promising, eco-friendly pathway for producing thermally stable and catalytically active zeolitic materials, suitable for selective hydrodesulfurization of thiophene. Full article

As a representative high-performance construction material, ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) is typically prepared using quartz sand and steel fibers. To alleviate the shortage of building materials in island and reef regions, this study employs coral sand for UHPC preparation and investigates the effects of different fibers on its mechanical properties. This study demonstrates that this approach mitigates brittle failure patterns and enhances the durability of structures. To investigate the enhancement effects of PE and steel fibers on the mechanical properties of coral sand ultra-high performance concrete (CSUHPC), 12 mix designs were formulated, including a plain (no fiber) reference group and PE fiber-reinforced, steel fiber-reinforced, and hybrid fiber combinations. Compressive tests, tensile tests, and three-point bending tests on pre-notched beams were conducted. Key parameters such as 28-day compressive strength, tensile strength, and flexural strength and toughness were measured. A multi-criteria evaluation framework was established to comprehensively assess the integrated performance of each group. The experimental results demonstrated that fiber incorporation significantly enhanced the compressive strength and fracture properties of CSUHPC compared to the plain reference group. Steel fiber-only reinforcement exhibited the most pronounced improvement in compressive strength and fracture properties, while hybrid fiber combinations provided superior tensile performance. Through the established multi-criteria evaluation framework, the optimal comprehensive performance was achieved with a 3% steel fiber dosage, achieving improvements of 0.93 times in compressive strength, 2.80 times in tensile strength, 1.84 times in flexural strength, 192.08 times in fracture energy, and 1.84 times in fracture toughness relative to the control group. Full article

Imagine picking up an e-scooter or e-bike from a charging dock on campus that combines solar panels with a filtered rainwater refill fountain, a mobile phone charging point, climbing plants, and insect habitats. What if the space also offered composting for food waste, shelter from the rain, and a space to meet friends—open to all to support the university’s civic role in the wider city? This paper explores the ideas affecting biodiversity, health, and wellbeing of co-created design explorations of 15-minute city principles on university campuses. Originating from urban planning, the 15-minute city proposes that essential needs like education, healthcare, work, and leisure are accessible by active travel. Applied to a university campus, it means students and staff can access classrooms, housing, food, and recreation in just 15 minutes. Beyond convenience, this approach is argued to foster inclusive, mixed-use, and potentially ecologically regenerative spaces. Drawing on regenerative design thinking—which aims to restore and co-evolve human and natural systems—this participatory design research critically responds to top-down models by involving students and university stakeholders in co-creating visions for a 15-minute campus. The results show that through this participatory design process, cocreators contributed to shaping ideas that foster belonging, emotional attachment, and co-responsibility for place. The research concludes by proposing an innovative reorientation of the 15-minute-city—from a model concerned primarily with needs and efficiency, to one grounded in ecological consciousness, autonomy, and human–nature co-evolution. Full article

This study assesses decarbonization progress in the European Union manufacturing sector between 2015 and 2023, using harmonized Eurostat indicators. The dataset covers emission intensity, energy intensity, renewable energy use, and structural markers of value added. After standardization, variables are reduced through principal component analysis (PCA). The resulting scores are then clustered with k-means, with the number of clusters chosen using elbow and silhouette diagnostics and validated through hierarchical clustering, representing a methodological innovation over existing typological studies. The results highlight persistent heterogeneities across member states. A group of frontrunners combines low intensities with a high share of RES; efficiency-centric groups advance mainly through energy intensity reductions but lag in fuel-switching, while structurally constrained groups remain hindered by energy mix limitations and outdated capital stocks. Dynamically, moderate convergence is observed along the main transition dimension, but persistent divergence remains in structural composition. These patterns justify differentiated policy approaches: accelerating fuel substitution where efficiency gains have already been achieved and integrated packages of modernization and infrastructure in structurally constrained economies. The novelty of this study lies in providing a harmonized, EU-wide, and reproducible typology of industrial decarbonization trajectories, enabling systematic cross-country comparison. Policy relevance is reinforced by linking the typology to current EU instruments such as the Emissions Trading System (ETS), the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), the Innovation Fund, and the Net-Zero Industry Act. The integration of PCA with clustering provides an evidence-based that is valuable for prioritizing European industrial policies in line with the Green Deal. Full article

The integration of sustainability competences into education presents significant challenges, particularly in embedding Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) into contextually relevant learning experiences. This study presents the design and validation of the Art Nouveau Path, a Mobile Augmented Reality Game (MARG) developed within the EduCITY ecosystem to foster competences, such as sustainability values, systems thinking, and future literacy. Grounded in the GreenComp framework and employing a Design-based Research (DBR) approach, the intervention was validated with 33 in-service teachers through a simulation-based workshop and a curricular review and complemented by a diagnostic questionnaire was administered to 221 students. This questionnaire (S1-PRE) provided the baseline data on sustainability awareness, digital readiness, and heritage-related learning interest. The teachers confirmed the MARG’s curricular adequacy value and interdisciplinary potential, while the students’ diagnostics revealed mixed conceptions; although 73.30% considered sustainability competences important, only 61.10% expressed interest in learning more about them. Also, 72.40% showed interest in learning about sustainability through local Art Nouveau heritage, and 79.60% considered the theme attractive, indicating potential for emotional and cognitive engagement. The Art Nouveau Path provides an exploratory and replicable model of curriculum-integrated ESD, connecting cultural heritage with competence-based learning for the operationalization of the GreenComp framework in support of SDG 4.7. Full article

Over the past two decades, sustainability and quality of life (QoL) have become foundational concepts in the design of buildings and urban spaces. Due to their strong interrelation and shared emphasis on human well-being, distinguishing between these concepts has proven challenging. While numerous studies have investigated sustainable urban design and QoL, inconsistencies remain: some define QoL as a component of sustainable urbanization, whereas others treat it as a separate construct. This study aims to evaluate and compare both concepts by identifying, weighting, and analyzing their respective indicators, thereby uncovering overlaps, correlations, and distinctions. In particular, it assesses the significance of each indicator within the three dimensions of sustainable urban design: environmental, social, and economic. A mixed-methods approach was employed, beginning with an in-depth literature review and comparative analysis of leading global studies, ranked cities, and official rating systems developed primarily in developed countries. Subsequently, a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) method was applied to quantify the importance of each indicator and evaluate their alignment with the three dimensions of sustainability. The results reveal that sustainable urban design comprises 31 indicators, while QoL includes 27, with 19 indicators shared between the two concepts. All identified indicators are distributed across the three core dimensions of sustainability. Specifically, the environmental dimension encompasses 15 indicators for sustainable urban design, accounting for 57.7% of total significance, whereas QoL comprises 10 indicators in this category, contributing 35.67%. In the social dimension, sustainable urban design incorporates 14 indicators (34.82%), while QoL places even greater emphasis here with 15 indicators, representing 54.42%. The economic dimension includes 2 indicators for each concept, contributing 7.43% in sustainable urban design and 9.92% in QoL. These findings underscore that QoL serves as a critical component in the assessment and design of sustainable urban spaces, not only influencing other indicators but also reinforcing aspects—particularly in the social dimension—that are often underrepresented in existing sustainability frameworks. Additionally, the advancement of urban sustainability plays a pivotal role in achieving and enhancing QoL, suggesting a mutually reinforcing relationship between the two constructs. Full article

In Ecuador’s financial system, private banks and savings and credit cooperatives coexist, both playing a key role in financial intermediation and the economic inclusion of traditionally underserved sectors. During the COVID-19 pandemic, these institutions faced unprecedented challenges that tested their adaptability and operational efficiency. In this context, the present study evaluates the technical efficiency of banks and cooperatives in Ecuador over the 2015–2023 period, using a combined approach involving Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and mixed linear models (MLMs). A longitudinal and comparative methodology is adopted, allowing for the analysis of efficiency trends over time and the identification of their main structural determinants. The results show that cooperatives exhibit a higher average technical efficiency than banks, as well as greater resilience during the health crisis. The analysis reveals that operating expenses negatively impact efficiency, while equity and social capital show no significant effects. By combining DEA and MLMs, the study offers a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the factors influencing efficiency, underscoring the importance of tailored policies and institutional strategies focused on resource optimization and continuous improvement. The study concludes that efficiency does not rely solely on size or asset volume, but rather on managerial capacity and organizational adaptability in complex and changing environments. Full article

Background: Contained lumbar disc herniation is a prevalent cause of chronic low back pain and functional impairment. The Disc-FX system, a minimally invasive, percutaneous technique integrating nucleotomy, nucleus ablation, and annuloplasty, offers a multimodal approach to managing early degenerative disc disease. Despite promising short-term outcomes, evidence regarding long-term effectiveness remains limited. Methods: This single-center cohort study evaluated 197 patients (median age: 48 years; 56.85% female) who underwent the Disc-FX procedure between 2017 and 2024. Patients were followed for up to 84 months. Pain and disability were assessed using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), respectively, while satisfaction was measured by the MacNab criteria. Multivariable models, including cumulative link models and linear mixed-effects models, were used to identify predictors of outcomes. Results: The Disc-FX procedure resulted in significant and sustained improvements in pain and function. Mean VAS scores decreased from 7.79 preoperatively to 4.31 at 12 months and remained below baseline at 84 months (5.05). ODI scores improved from 15.43 preoperatively to 9.62 at 36 months, rising slightly to 12.75 at 84 months. Good or excellent outcomes were reported in 66.9% of patients according to MacNab criteria. Male sex (OR = 0.41), longer symptom duration (OR = 0.85), and presence of radicular symptoms (OR = 0.39) were significantly associated with less favorable outcomes. Reoperation occurred in 26.4% of cases, predominantly within the first year and most frequently at L4/L5. Complications were rare (3.08%). Conclusions: This study provides robust evidence supporting the long-term clinical efficacy of the Disc-FX procedure in selected patients with contained lumbar disc herniation. While overall outcomes are favorable, optimal results depend on early intervention and careful patient selection, particularly in relation to symptom chronicity and the presence of radicular signs. Full article

We explore a timeless approach to quantum theory, in the form of the Page–Wootters mechanism, in which a gravitational interaction is introduced between the system and a finite-dimensional clock. The clock model used is the recently proposed quasi-ideal clock, a construction that can approximate the time–energy canonical commutation relation. We derive equations of motion for the case in which the system is in a pure and mixed state, obtaining a Schrödinger-like equation that leads to a non-linear equation exhibiting decoherence due to the non-ideal nature of the clock and gravitational coupling. A distinctive feature of this equation is that it exhibits dependence on the system’s initial conditions. Full article

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a type of diabetes diagnosed during pregnancy and its prevalence is on the rise around the world. GDM increases the risk of serious adverse health outcomes for the mother and child. Multiple types of non-pharmacological interventions have been developed for the management and prevention of GDM; however, there is a lack of clarity regarding their effectiveness. Objective: To summarize the evidence on the efficacy of non-pharmacological interventions in the management and prevention of GDM. Methods: For this integrative review, a comprehensive literature search was conducted in the databases MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science. The methodology followed the integrative approach outlined by Whittemore and Knafl’s, and study quality was evaluated using the Mixed Methods Assessment Tool. Results: A total of 44 relevant studies were included. Key themes identified for GDM management were (1) nutrition therapy and physical activity, (2) social and psychological support, (3) digital tools, and (4) barriers and facilitators. For GDM prevention, themes were categorized into individual-level approaches, (5) lifestyle and supplements, and population-level approaches: (6) environmental factors, and (7) health in all policies. Conclusions: The growing prevalence of GDM is a major public health concern that requires the implementation of effective multi-level evidence-based strategies. Environmental, socioeconomic, and racial determinants of health have substantial impacts on GDM, highlighting the need to address the root causes of the illness. Further research is needed to support effective preventive and management measures beyond standard pharmacological treatment, so that evidence-based solutions can be applied to enhance and safeguard the health of current and future generations. Full article

Solar photovoltaic (PV) net energy metering (NEM) scheme adoption is generally known for its advantages. However, limited research has been conducted on the prosumers’ behaviors, especially in the industrial and commercial sectors. This study is exploratory and explanatory in identifying the variables; therefore, preliminary research was conducted by interviewing 15 firms and collecting 372 usable responses from the cross-sectional survey questionnaires. The conceptual framework consists of antecedents and outcomes of prosumers’ energy-conserving behaviors (PECB). The antecedent consists of theories conceptualized from the extended TOE called STOPE and institutional theory (INT), with energy-saving culture (ESC) as a moderator. Meanwhile, the outcomes include sustainable energy consumption and production (SECP) and provider–consumer relationships (PCR) as moderators. The outcomes of SECP further revealed the significant results of energy-conserving behavior on the economic, environmental, social, governance, and technical aspects of the sustainable outcome of PECB. Additionally, the findings offer a transformative power and valuable knowledge for policymakers, scholars, and stakeholders in the industry that can significantly contribute to realizing sustainable practices. Future research may explore other variable factors, theories, sampling techniques, and larger samples. Also, different analytic approaches were considered and mixed methods were used to investigate the long-term impacts of prosumers’ energy-conserving behavior patterns and overall sustainability. Full article

Turfgrass provides significant functional, environmental, recreational and aesthetic benefits; however, its high management inputs raise sustainability concerns due to intensive irrigation, fertilization and mowing. The aim of this study is to evaluate whether adopting a new mowing technology can support or enhance current low-input strategies in turfgrass management, such as reducing synthetic fertilization and deficit irrigation. This study was conducted from September 2023 to October 2024 at the Centre for Research on Turfgrass for Environment and Sports (CeRTES) in Pisa, Italy. Two turf compositions, pure tall fescue and tall fescue–microclover mixture, were managed using an autonomous mower operating daily at three mowing heights, 20, 40 and 60 mm. Turf quality, color, the NDVI, weed cover, leaf morphology, and clover presence were assessed throughout the growing season, including a drought and recovery period. The experimental design consisted of a two-factor split-plot randomized complete block design with four replications, and the statistical approach used was two-way and one-way ANOVAs with Fisher’s LSD at p = 0.05. The results of the study indicated that, under conditions where an autonomous mower was set to operate on a daily basis, the selected mowing height had minimal influence on drought response or recovery when water availability was a limiting factor. Furthermore, when subjected to the lowest mowing heights, the legume species included in the turfgrass mix demonstrated strong resilience, maintaining its presence and performance. In addition, when mowing with a high mowing frequency and at low mowing heights, the overall quality of the turfgrass appeared enhanced. These results serve as an important starting point for considering autonomous mowing technology as an innovative strategy in advancing toward turf management systems that prioritize sustainability and efficient use of resources. Full article

Personalized image generation has gained significant attention with the advancement of text-to-image diffusion models. However, existing methods face challenges in effectively mixing multiple visual attributes, such as structure and appearance, from separate reference images. Finetuning-based methods are time-consuming and prone to overfitting, while finetuning-free approaches often suffer from feature entanglement, leading to distortions. To address these challenges, we propose FreeMix, a finetuning-free approach for multi-concept mixing in personalized image generation. Given separate references for structure and appearance, FreeMix generates a new image that integrates both. This is achieved through Disentangle-Mixing Self-Attention (DMSA). DMSA first disentangles the two concepts by applying spatial normalization to remove residual appearance from structure features, and then selectively injects appearance details via self-attention, guided by a cross-attention-derived mask to prevent background leakage. This mechanism ensures precise structural preservation and faithful appearance transfer. Extensive qualitative and quantitative experiments demonstrate that our method achieves superior structural consistency and appearance transfer compared to existing approaches. In addition to personalization, FreeMix can be adapted to exemplar-based image editing. Full article