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In the direction of sustainable and zero carbon energy production, hydrogen is considered as a potential fuel with high heating value and energy content compared to other fossil fuels. The present review focuses on conventional and advanced biohydrogen production by utilizing low-cost biomass feedstock through dark fermentation, photo fermentation, bio-photolysis, microbial electrochemical cell, as well as integrated and co-fermentation approaches. Different substrate pretreatment methods, such as thermo-aero-size reduction, acid–alkali or biocatalyst, and combined pretreatment methods are investigated, which can potentially enhance hydrogen productivity multiple-fold. This review explores the application of various hydrogen-selective polymeric membranes, which improves biohydrogen production yield and reduces purification costs. Techno-economic assessment of different biohydrogen production technologies is reviewed based on technological advancements for improved production yield and energy efficiency as well as economic performance enhancement depending upon a minimum selling price, capital cost, operating cost, and profitability. Furthermore, an extensive investigation of the continent or country-specific biohydrogen production challenges is presented. These findings of the current study will explore novel biohydrogen production processes with an aspect of energy efficiency, economics, and environmental footprint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the fact that there is generally an agreement on the irreplaceable role of the ethical component in social work education, our understanding of values in social work education still remains quite limited. The article aims to analyse, from the perspective of educators, the instilling of social work values at the Czech, Slovakian, Polish and Hungarian universities. Research findings allows to identify its types, threats and limitations and to indicate steps for its enhancement and for the implementation of the systemic concept of the values instilling education. The implications for social work education are as follows: to critically reflect the external threats and limits created by neoliberalism and its values; to critically reflect the internal threats and limits caused by the absence of systemic values education in some social work study programmes; to promote a systemic concept of values instilling education and consistently implement the inductive learning and integrated approach in values building in subjects included in the social work study programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the Lower Paleolithic, the interaction between hominins and elephants through the medium of lithic tools is testified by numerous sites in Africa, Europe, and Asia. This interaction ensured hominins a large source of food and of knappable raw material, bone. The availability of the huge package of resources represented by these animals had a deep impact on hominins behavior and their strategies of exploitation of the landscape. This article, for the first time, documents this behavior with a spatial and chronological viewpoint. At the Late Lower Paleolithic site of La Polledrara di Cecanibbio (Rome), the outstanding in situ find of a quite entire carcass of Palaeoloxodon antiquus surrounded by lithic tools of small dimensions allowed us to explore the relation between the elephant, fatally entrapped in muddy sediments, and the hominins that exploited its carcass with their lithic toolkit. The application of an integrated approach including technology, refitting, use-wear, residues, and spatial analyses to the study of the small tools allowed us to unveil the activities carried out around the elephant in a timeline. As a result, hominins exploited the carcass for meat and fat possibly in more than one time and selected the area of the carcass as an atelier to knap and possibly cache their lithic products for future use. These data introduce the intriguing suggestion that the carcass was, besides a source of food and raw material, also a landmark for humans in the landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In coastal alluvial plains, the variability of sedimentary inputs, tectonic and eustatism causes a complex subsurface geology which influences the position of fresh/saltwater interface. Furthermore, in these areas densely populated, the over-pumping of freshwater, coupled with the climate change events, promotes the landward migration of freshwater/saltwater boundary. This research illustrates the ability of geophysical tools to recognize the presence of salt/brackish water at Volturno Coastal Plain, Southern Italy. This area is characterized by a peculiar geological setting, due to the proximity at Somma–Vesuvio and Campi Flegrei volcanic areas, which profoundly influences the circulation of groundwater. The subsurface is mainly characterized by: (i) two denser layers located at − 10 m and − 20 m depth which in part prevents the vertical migration of groundwater, (ii) facies heteropy that facilitates the hydraulic connection between the different geological bodies, (iii) a discontinuous Campanian Ignimbrite deposits which favor the hydraulic connection between deeper and shallower aquifers. In this geological framework, 2D-ERT and 3D-ERT integrated with Downhole, Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves and boreholes made possible to recognize the presence of two main zones with salt and brackish waters, respectively. The first zone, characterized by very low resistivity (≤ 1 Ωm) typical of salt water, stretches 1.5 km inland from the coast. The second zone, with a resistivity between 2 and 5 Ωm typical of brackish water, continues for other 3 km inland. This knowledge is useful for the engagement of all stakeholders (farmers, ranchers and policy makers) in the sustainable use of fresh water and for making water management plan operational tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The implementation of integrated approach in the management of sites of the Natura 2000 network presupposes the stakeholders' involvement to efficiently combine the nature conservation at the sites with the main human activities (tourism-recreational, agricultural and forestry activities). The aim of this study is to investigate the main strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of the current management model of the Natura 2000 network in the Puglia region through the stakeholders' opinions and point of views. To this end, a semi-structured questionnaire was face-to-face administered to 27 stakeholders (61.4% of identified stakeholders). From a methodological point of view, a SWOT-AHP analysis was implemented to identify a ranking of individual strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats related to the management of the Natura 2000 network in Puglia. In addition, a social network analysis was developed to understand the efficiency of current network of relationships in the management of Natura 2000 network and the potential for improvement in a future network. The results show the need to increase the level of inclusiveness in decision-making processes related to the management of the Natura 2000 network. Furthermore, the results of this study show the scarcity of human and financial resources available to managers as a key factor on which to intervene (weakness point). Finally, particular attention should be paid to the main threat underlined by the interviewees: the loss and fragmentation of habitats due to anthropic causes and abiotic factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, psychological factors, including anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder, have emerged as possible background factors for obesity and its comorbidities. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been associated with higher body mass index (BMI) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) compared to other psychiatric disorders, but this association remains partly mysterious and intriguing, especially considering the effect of childhood trauma. We decided to conduct a review in order to obtain the most recent information on this association with a focus on developmental elements. The studies considered were very heterogeneous, in terms of sample size and results, and do not lend themselves to meta-analysis but rather to discursive synthesis. There are many different and complex planes of interrelationship between PTSD and obesity which offer different therapeutic clues for the clinician. Integrated psychotherapies and interventions focusing on exercise and mindfulness can be used in different settings to promote recovery from both disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Modern Science is the property of Alcide De Gasperi University of Euroregional Economy and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Cities, Communities & Territories / Cidades, Comunidades e Territórios is the property of Instituto Universitario de Lisboa, DINAMIA-CET and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

IntroductionThe Community Reinforcement Approach is an evidence-based treatment modality for alcohol and drug addiction treatment with proven efficacy and cost-effectiveness. The present study investigated the effectiveness of the Community Reinforcement Approach (CRA) in the context of quality of life among drug addicts.Materials and methodsA total of 60 inpatient substance abusers post detoxification in Fountain House, Lahore, Pakistan, participated in this study. Fountain House was selected as the Minnesota model is primarily used there. Therefore, a new treatment approach was introduced to investigate its effectiveness for individuals with substance abuse. A randomized 12-week trial was conducted as a substance use disorders (SUDs) treatment program. Persons with SUD (i.e., identified patients) enrolled in a residential treatment program were randomized into the integrated model of the Community Reinforcement Approach (CRA) and traditional Minnesota model treatment (n = 30), and traditional Minnesota model treatment only (TMM; n = 30). All the participants in the experimental group attended the group therapy sessions and other activities in the facility in addition to the treatment conditions. The participants attended the individual therapeutic sessions, which were conducted according to the CRA guidelines used in the experimental group. In this study, each individual in the CRA treatment group received 12 one-to-one sessions ranging from 45 min to 1 h. The WHOQOL-BREF scale and Happiness Scale (1) were used for data collection.ResultThe results showed a significant increase in the quality of life of participants in the treatment group with CRA compared with the control group with TMM. The findings also indicated that the individuals in the treatment group with CRA had improved levels of happiness compared with individuals with TMM.DiscussionThe CRA is an effective and adaptable treatment approach that works well in combination with other treatment approaches. The proven efficacy, compatibility, and cost-effectiveness distinguish it from other treatment methods.ImplicationsThe CRA should be adapted, assessed, and evaluated further, especially in Pakistan, where there is a pressing need to adopt an effective treatment strategy for addiction problems.

IntroductionCounterinsurgency (COIN) operations necessitate a multifaceted approach that considers political, economic, developmental, and security factors in order to achieve long-term peace and security. Despite this recognition, critical aspects are frequently overlooked, particularly in the context of combating jihadist groups such as Boko Haram in West Africa. This paper investigates the 3Ds (Development, Diplomacy, and Defense) approach to COIN, assessing its effectiveness in COIN efforts and post-war reconstruction in Nigeria and drawing lessons from experiences in Uruzgan province, Afghanistan.MethodIn the qualitative study, the 3Ds serve as a conceptual framework for analyzing the fundamental aspects of COIN in existing literature, with a focus on their relevance in West Africa. It incorporates insights from Afghanistan's Uruzgan province to help inform the study of the 3Ds approach in COIN efforts and post-war reconstruction. Interactions with key stakeholders and counterinsurgency experts provide firsthand information.ResultsThe analysis emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive COIN strategy that includes significant governance and political reforms to address historical disparities and ideological motivations of jihadist groups. COIN entails a variety of measures, including political, administrative, military, economic, psychological, and informational strategies, that are used in tandem to achieve stability and transformation. The 3Ds approach is seen as a template for harmonizing these aspects, particularly in dealing with existing insurgencies and preventing future ones in the region.DiscussionGiven the region's underlying human insecurity, the study focuses on how the 3Ds framework can effectively address existing insurgencies and prevent future ones. It emphasizes the importance of carefully implementing and adapting the 3Ds approach to the unique dynamics and challenges of West Africa. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the importance of a balanced and integrated approach to COIN that considers the interplay of security, development, and diplomacy in order to ensure long-term stability and security in the region.

Improving the exhibition activity efficiency is a rather complex and multi-purpose task that requires taking into account many factors and using various methods and tools. To achieve success in this field, it is necessary to apply an integrated approach, considering the relationship between the economic and social effectiveness of exhibition activity, as well as to use innovative technologies and the latest research methods. The article presents the methodology developed by the authors for the quantitative assessment of social efficiency, which is complex and also includes the calculation of the selected elements’ sensitivity of social efficiency to different changes. The indicators’ calculation of the exhibition social significance the makes it possible to assess its impact on society and determine how much it contributes to the development of culture, coverage of topical issues and familiarization of the general population with cultural and scientific achievements. The quantitative assessment methodology of the exhibition activity effectiveness based on the calculation of the social efficiency integral indicator can be supplemented with methods of organizational support of the exhibition process, meta-planning and risk assessment.

Abstract Collaborative knowledge construction (CKC) involved students’ sharing of information, improvement of ideas, and construction of collective knowledge. In this process, knowledge extraction and analysis can provide valuable insights into students’ knowledge capacities, depths, and levels in order to improve the CKC quality. However, existing studies tended to extract and analyze knowledge from a single perspective (e.g., the number of certain knowledge types and knowledge structures), which failed to demonstrate the complexity and dynamics of knowledge construction and advancement. To fill this gap, this research designed a series of computer-supported collaborative concept mapping (CSCCM) activities to facilitate students’ CKC process and then used an integrated approach (i.e., semantic knowledge analysis combined with learning analytics) to extract, analyze, and understand students’ knowledge characteristics and evolutionary trends. Results demonstrated that compared to the low-performing pairs, the high-performing pairs mainly discussed knowledge related to the course content, and their knowledge evolution trend was relatively stable. Based on the results, this research provided analytical implications to extract, analyze, and understand students’ knowledge and pedagogical implications to promote students’ knowledge construction and advancement.

As transit authorities increasingly adopt electric buses (EBs) to mitigate air quality concerns and greenhouse gas emissions, new challenges arise in bus scheduling and timetabling. Unlike traditional buses, EBs face operational obstacles due to their shorter range and extended charging times. Existing mathematical optimization models for operation planning of traditional buses must be revised to address these unique characteristics of EBs. This study introduces a new approach to integrate timetabling and bus scheduling to enhance the level of service and minimize operational costs, using a case study of a University shuttle bus service in Montreal, Canada. The level of service will be enhanced by reducing students waiting time and improving their in-vehicle comfort through seat availability. The scheduling aspect seeks to reduce the total operational costs, which include travel, electricity consumption, and usage costs of EBs. The proposed algorithm calculates the waiting time and seat availability for different headway values and addresses the scheduling problem using a mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) model with an arc-based approach, solved using the Cplex Optimization Studio software version 12.8. A normalized weighted sum technique is then applied to select the optimal headway, balancing waiting time, seat availability, and operational costs. The effectiveness of our approach was tested through a case study of Concordia University’s shuttle bus service. Comparative analysis of the current and proposed schedules shows that our approach significantly improves service quality by decreasing waiting times and increasing seat availability while optimizing cost-effectiveness compared to the existing timetable of the Concordia shuttle bus. The proposed approach ensures a smooth transition to a fully electric transit system for shuttle bus services.

Carbon dioxide capture and storage (CCS) is a necessary requirement for high-emitting CO2 industries to significantly reduce volumes of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere and mitigate climate change. Geological CO2 storage into depleted oil and gas fields is the fastest and most accessible option for CCS deployment allowing for re-purposing existing infrastructures and utilizing significant knowledge about the subsurface acquired during field production operations. The location of such depleted fields in the neighborhoods of high-emitting CO2 industries is an additional advantage of matured on-shore European fields. Considering these advantages, oil and gas operators are now evaluating different possibilities for CO2 sequestration projects for the fields approaching end of production. This article describes an integrated approach to reservoir simulations focused on evaluating a CO2 injection pilot at one of these matured fields operated by MND and located in the Czech Republic. The CO2 injection site in focus is a naturally fractured carbonate reservoir. This oil-bearing formation has a gas cap and connection to a limited aquifer and was produced mainly by pressure depletion with limited pressure support from water injection. The article summarizes the results of the efforts made by the multi-disciplinary team. An integrated approach was developed starting from geological modeling of a naturally fractured reservoir, integrating the results of laboratory studies and their interpretations (geomechanics and geochemistry), dynamic field data analysis (pressure transient analysis, including time-lapse) and history matching reservoir model enabling simulation of the pilot CO2 injection. The laboratory studies and field data analysis provided descriptions of stress-sensitive fracture properties and safe injection envelope preventing induced fracturing. The impact of potential salt precipitation in the near wellbore area was also included. These effects are considered in the context of a pilot CO2 injection and addressed in the reservoir simulations of injection scenarios. Single-porosity and permeability reservoir simulations with a dominating fracture flow and black-oil formulation with CO2 simulated as a solvent were performed in this study. The arguments for the choice of the simulation approach for the site in focus are shortly discussed. The reservoir simulations indicated a larger site injection capacity than that required for the pilot injection, and gravity-driven CO2 migration pathway towards the gas cap in the reservoir. The application of the approach to the site in focus also revealed large uncertainties, related to fracture description and geomechanical evaluations, resulting in an uncertain safe injection envelope. These uncertainties should be addressed in further studies in preparation for the pilot. The article concludes with an overview of the outcomes of the integrated approach and its application to the field in focus, including a discussion of the issues and uncertainties revealed.

Current security tendencies and trends, as well as the complex security requirements of clients counterpoise a real call for companies to offer protection at all levels in response to current security threats and challenges. In accordance with the principle of supply and demand, as well as in context of the factors that condition and determine the dynamics of current security challenges, security companies need to provide and maintain an integrated approach to operations, in order to ensure competitiveness and continuity of business. Hence, the basic hypothesis of this paper refers to the thesis that through the integrated approach, security companies will provide a wide range of services in their operations adequate to the needs and requirements, as well as the optimal level of quality, thus ensuring the competitiveness of legal entities that offer services and professionalism and readiness of the staff in this profession. The methodology for preparing this paper consists of empirical and theoretical research on the specific topic and includes the application of qualitative analysis of relevant primary and secondary sources, comparative analysis, case study and processing and interpretation of quantitative data.

The paper presents an analysis of long-term dynamics and current trends in the hydrochemistry of the Pavlovsky Reservoir by 10 chemical indicators at seven water intake points. The choice of 10 chemical elements was justified in previous studies mentioned in the paper. This approach allows using the observation data of the Bashkir FSBI (Federal State Budgetary Institution Bashkir Hydrometeorology and Environmental Monitoring Department), previous studies conducted in 1986–88 and in 2000 and the results of the present research (2018–2019) making it possible to track the dynamics of changes in the hydrochemical composition of water over 30 years (from 1986 to 2018). It was revealed that throughout the reservoir, from its beginning to the upper reaches, the content of Sr2+, Mn2+ and petroleum products in the water decreases; Zn2+, Hg2+, phenols and organic substances increase; Fe total (Fe2+ + Fe3+), P total are evenly distributed (according to PO43-), Cu2+. The study of the features of the long-term dynamics of the hydrochemical indicators of the Pavlovsky Reservoir allows for determining trends in the state of the ecosystem of the water body and proposes measures to preserve the operational properties of the reservoir. HIGHLIGHTS Studying the modern processes of chemical hydrology of the Pavlovsky Reservoir.; The long-term dynamics of the hydrochemical indicators of the Pavlovsky Reservoir.; Maximum, minimum and average values of the concentrations of Fe, Mn, Cu, Sr, Zn, etc.; Priority ways to improve the reservoir water quality.;

Abstract Background In 2017, Liberia became one of the first countries in the African region to develop and implement a national strategy for integrated case management of Neglected Tropical Diseases (CM-NTDs), specifically Buruli ulcer, leprosy, lymphatic filariasis morbidities, and yaws. Implementing this plan moves the NTD program from many countries' fragmented (vertical) disease management. This study explores to what extent an integrated approach offers a cost-effective investment for national health systems. Methods This study is a mixed-method economic evaluation that explores the cost-effectiveness of the integrated CM-NTDs approach compared to the fragmented (vertical) disease management. Primary data were collected from two integrated intervention counties and two non-intervention counties to determine the relative cost-effectiveness of the integrated program model vs. fragmented (vertical) care. Data was sourced from the NTDs program annual budgets and financial reports for integrated CM-NTDs and Mass Drug Administration (MDA) to determine cost drivers and effectiveness. Results The total cost incurred by the integrated CM-NTD approach from 2017 to 2019 was US$ 789,856.30, with the highest percentage of costs for program staffing and motivation (41.8%), followed by operating costs (24.8%). In the two counties implementing fragmented (vertical) disease management, approximately US$ 325,000 was spent on the diagnosis of 84 persons and the treatment of twenty-four persons suffering from NTDs. While 2.5 times as much was spent in integrated counties, 9–10 times more patients were diagnosed and treated. Conclusions The cost of a patient being diagnosed under the fragmented (vertical) implementation is five times higher than integrated CM-NTDs, and providing treatment is ten times as costly. Findings indicate that the integrated CM-NTDs strategy has achieved its primary objective of improved access to NTD services. The success of implementing an integrated CM-NTDs approach in Liberia, presented in this paper, demonstrates that NTD integration is a cost-minimizing solution.

This article characterizes the spacecraft as a means of performing various tasks, including by precision equipment. Emphasis is placed on vibration as one of the influencing factors and on the need for a low level of vibration on the spacecraft. Among the side effects of the electric pump unit of the thermal control system, the urgent task is to reduce vibration activity when developing a new model for advanced spacecraft. An integrated approach to solving the problem is indicated with the consideration of electric pump unit as a system and the selection of several directions to achieve the root-mean square value of vibration acceleration of 0,01g and below. Possible methods for reducing vibration activity in each of the directions and implemented solutions in the developed sample are described in detail. On several versions of electric pump unit for experimental determination of the level of root-mean square value vibration acceleration at a frequency of 5–1000 Hz. According to the results of the experiment, the contribution to the reduction of vibroactivity in several directions is estimated. It is concluded that only an integrated approach makes it possible to achieve a very low level of vibration activity of electric pump unit.

The European cultural landscape and its traditional values represent a significant condition for recreation and tourism. However, we are aware of the negative consequences of human activity in the past years in rural areas and pay more attention to protecting these values. Modern rural recreation and tourism must be built on scientific background. That is why the presented contribution brings an innovative integrated approach to sustainable rural recreation and tourism model by applying landscape ecological planning methodology with a combination of ecological stability and landscape character assessment. It deals with the qualitative evaluation of the landscape potential of the foothill village of Podkonice in Slovakia and the possibilities of its use in sustainable rural tourism. Determining the potential in confrontation with different forms of tourism activities can help achieve a sustainable tourism concept. The main result of the presented research is the final optimal selection of activities and use of the landscape with regard to the development of tourism. Such a proposal can be used in spatial planning and strategic decision-making processes not only in the study area, but it can be applied in the European context.

The article analyzes a set of approaches to organizing effective management of competitiveness of various types of products of enterprises, which are widely used in the practice of analysis of economic activity and strategic management. It is justified that management of competitiveness of products can be considered through the prism of basic approaches. First, comprehensive approach, which allows developing the necessary managerial decisions aimed at improving product efficiency, maintaining its quality and competitiveness. Second, reproduction-evolutionary approach, aimed at the constant reproduction of the production of goods with the lowest cost per unit of beneficial effect compared to the best analogue as result of evolutionary market transformations. Third, functional approach, which in practice is often used through a substantive approach to management, in which efforts are aimed at improving existing products, taking into account scientific and technological progress. Fourth, system approach, where management is considered the most effective, since it combines the activities of various functional divisions of the enterprise to create a competitive product. Fifth, innovative approach, according to which competitiveness management involves the introduction of scientific and technical advantages of new products at the enterprise. Sixth, the approach of affiliate marketing, marketing dialogue, which will attract consumers to create competitive products. It is worth noting that the major ones for the formation of a system for managing the competitiveness of enterprise products in the conditions of competition development is marketing approach in combination with the system and process approaches.

Introducing basic mathematical concepts is often seen as a challenge for preschool teachers but with the improvement of multimedia technologies, potential difficulties can be overcome and the quality of educational activities can be significantly improved. In that sense, the availability of a non-commercial, dynamic, open-source mathematical software package – GeoGebra can encourage preschool teachers to explore a wide range of mathematical concepts with children through an integrated approach to learning. This paper presents the procedure of creating a dynamic illustration in GeoGebra as a tool in the process of developing the mathematical concept of the cardinality of a set in children. The case study was conducted in the preschool institution “Svitac” in Sremska Kamenica. Anecdotal records showed that introducing carefully designed application games (activities in GeoGebra), with an emphasis on analyzing, concluding, creative and critical thinking, to 4-6 year-olds represents an effective way to learn new concepts about the number and properties of the elements of a set.

The implementation of integrated approach in the management of sites of the Natura 2000 network presupposes the stakeholders’ involvement to efficiently combine the nature conservation at the sites with the main human activities (tourism-recreational, agricultural and forestry activities). The aim of this study is to investigate the main strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of the current management model of the Natura 2000 network in the Puglia region through the stakeholders’ opinions and point of views. To this end, a semi-structured questionnaire was face-to-face administered to 27 stakeholders (61.4% of identified stakeholders). From a methodological point of view, a SWOT-AHP analysis was implemented to identify a ranking of individual strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats related to the management of the Natura 2000 network in Puglia. In addition, a social network analysis was developed to understand the efficiency of current network of relationships in the management of Natura 2000 network and the potential for improvement in a future network. The results show the need to increase the level of inclusiveness in decision-making processes related to the management of the Natura 2000 network. Furthermore, the results of this study show the scarcity of human and financial resources available to managers as a key factor on which to intervene (weakness point). Finally, particular attention should be paid to the main threat underlined by the interviewees: the loss and fragmentation of habitats due to anthropic causes and abiotic factors.

In the current age of overwhelming globalisation, the preservation of cultural heritage has acquired a primary role as a landmark of culture and diversity between peoples. Among the main characters of this field there are monumental buildings, often appearing as large structures characterised by a sequence of poorly known construction phases determining high structural complexity. Their evolution throughout centuries, strongly influencing their structural behaviour, is frequently almost unknown and hard to comprehend only by reading historical sources. The present paper deals with the application of a methodology to reach a proper and in-depth knowledge of the state of the art of a monumental building, necessary for the possible structural disaggregation of the compound, simplifying the structural analysis and the following preservation. In particular, a focus was devoted to the integrated approach to be adopted to reconstruct the morphological evolution. The Certosa di Calci monumental building is introduced and described as a reference case study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article considers the possibility of using probabilistic models to analyze the maximal flow discharges of rivers in order to obtain reliable calculated statistical characteristics for basins with poorly studied hydrological features. The research was performed by the example of Cisbaikalia, which is characterized by a flood regime of river flow. It is found that floods in the study area most often occur in summer (July−August), are associated with the climatic characteristics of the region, and are often destructive. The analysis of the maximal flow of rivers is based on data from the Roshydromet observation network. The series of maximal water discharges are checked for homogeneity and, in general, no disturbances in the steady state of runoff caused by climate changes are detected. A generalized distribution of extremes is proposed as the main probabilistic model; it is recommended to determine its parameters on the basis of the group analysis. The integrated approach has been applied for the first time; it combines conventional methods of hydrological calculations, which are most often used to refine the characteristics obtained for the runoff in the zone of extreme values: the apparatus for truncation of distributions; joint analysis of data; a reduction formula with the reduction of the drain modulus value not only to the area of 200 km2, but also to the mean height of basins in the region; and the frequency probability method for estimation of obtained results. These methods are recommended by regulatory documents for discharge calculations and are most often individually used. The comprehensive approach described by the authors enables us to take into account the features of the runoff formation in the zone of extreme values and obtain more accurate values of characteristic quantiles of a given probability of excess for use in design on poorly studied rivers of the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aims to design and validate the optimal model of digital citizenship education curriculum with an integrated approach in high school. For this purpose, two main questions were investigated in this study: 1) what are the characteristics of integrated curriculum model of digital citizenship education in high school? 2) To what extent is the proposed model valid from the view point of experts? Material and Method: The research method is mixed with the exploratory design which was done in two qualitative-quantitative parts. In the qualitative part, the model was designed and in the quantitative part, the model was validated by descriptive-survey method. In the qualitative section, all available texts and theoretical and research sources were reviewed. Also, 20 specialists in curriculum planning and, educational technology and digital experts, who were selected by purposive. Data validity was obtained through triangulation. Data collection tool was semi-structured interview and content analysis method was used for data analysis. Discussion and Conclusion: The findings were explained according to the Ecker model in the form of digital citizenship education curriculum components including logic, goals, content, learning opportunities, resources, teacher's role, time, space, grouping and evaluation. According to the research findings, program logic has considered the integration of digital citizenship issues in curricula. The target element referred to the three categories of digital citizenship ethics, digital citizenship literacy and digital citizenship skills in three dimensions of knowledge, skills and attitude. The content was presented in three sections: protection, education and respect and It was emphasized On the importance of active teaching approaches. Also the teacher was mentioned as a guide and facilitator. And the use of various sources was emphasized. In this curriculum design, time and place are flexible. Activities are done in small groups. In the evaluation section, variety of qualitative evaluation methods were continuously considered. Survey method was used to validate the efficiency. The validation results showed that from the viewpoint of curriculum studies and educational technology and digital experts. The proposed pattern was appropriate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Collaborative knowledge construction (CKC) involved students' sharing of information, improvement of ideas, and construction of collective knowledge. In this process, knowledge extraction and analysis can provide valuable insights into students' knowledge capacities, depths, and levels in order to improve the CKC quality. However, existing studies tended to extract and analyze knowledge from a single perspective (e.g., the number of certain knowledge types and knowledge structures), which failed to demonstrate the complexity and dynamics of knowledge construction and advancement. To fill this gap, this research designed a series of computer-supported collaborative concept mapping (CSCCM) activities to facilitate students' CKC process and then used an integrated approach (i.e., semantic knowledge analysis combined with learning analytics) to extract, analyze, and understand students' knowledge characteristics and evolutionary trends. Results demonstrated that compared to the low-performing pairs, the high-performing pairs mainly discussed knowledge related to the course content, and their knowledge evolution trend was relatively stable. Based on the results, this research provided analytical implications to extract, analyze, and understand students' knowledge and pedagogical implications to promote students' knowledge construction and advancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Municipal solid waste (MSW) incineration fly ash is a harmful residue formed during the incineration process. It contains high concentrations of hazardous heavy metals, such as lead, zinc, aluminum, and iron.Methodology: In this study, bioleaching integrated with an electrokinetic approach for heavy metal remediation from MSW incineration fly ash using Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans and Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans bacteria was tested.Results and discussion: The physicochemical properties of fly ash included a particle size of 26.1 μm, with the presence of heavy metals. A. ferrooxidans and A. thiooxidans produced sulphuric acid (0.0289 M and 0.0352 M) during the proliferation; this acid enhances the bioleaching of heavy metals from fly ash. The results of an integrated approach showed an 85%, 47%, 92%, 85%, 46%, 67% 11%, and 55% removal of the heavy metals K, Na, Ca, Mg, Al, Zn, Pb, and Mg, respectively, in the presence of A. ferrooxidans. Overall, these results evidenced that heavy metals were completely removed from the fly ash using an integrated approach. Therefore, this integrated approach can be used as an effective heavy metal removal method for treating fly ash in MSW.

Cadmium (Cd) has high rates of soil-to-plant transference, coupled with its non-biodegradability and persistence; long-term management of Cd in agriculture is thus required to ensure better soil and food security and safety. Identifications of regions with high soil Cd concentration or high dietary Cd intakes are critical public health priorities. Human health risk assessment for dietary Cd intake was thus undertaken by employing three approaches: FCA (food chain approach), TDA (total diet approach), and FQA (food quality approach). The correlation between green/total vegetable consumption rates and dietary Cd intake from vegetables was statistically significant. For consumption, the hazard quotients (HQs) calculated by FCA and TDA were all less than 1 except for Hunan and Sichuan province. For rice consumption, the HQs derived by FCA or TDA approach for eight provinces exceeded 1. Residents in Hubei, Guangxi, Jilin, Zhejiang, Liaoning, Shanghai, Sichuan, and Guangxi were more vulnerable due to their notable higher consumption rates. Weighted rankings of the health risk levels were determined to derive the comparative risk management priority. For Cd intake from vegetables, four provinces/cities have high relative priority; for Cd intake from grains, three provinces have high relative priority. The comparative risk management priority for Hunan and Sichuan was high for dietary intake from vegetables or rice. Weighted average HQs were derived to determine the integrated dietary Cd intake health risk levels for dietary intake from vegetables or grains. The risk levels for Hunan, Guangxi, Sichuan, and Zhejiang are high, so effective measures should be taken to reduce Cd dietary intakes to ensure health protection. It is envisaged that the methodology employed in this study could provide useful insights into how various approaches can be integrated to determine human health risk levels for Cd intake, so more effective and targeted measures can be taken accordingly for the relevant regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This comprehensive study delves into enhancing European Union demographic policies through three key recommendations. First, it advocates for a more integrated approach, addressing challenges like declining birth rates, aging populations, and migrant integration collectively. Second, it emphasizes the need for enhanced coordination between European Union and member states' demographic policies to foster a synergistic response. Lastly, the study recommends increased civil society engagement in policy development and implementation, promoting inclusivity, transparency, and community-driven solutions. These recommendations aim to fortify the European Union's demographic strategies, ensuring they align with societal needs and aspirations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Thermal Quasi-Reflectography (TQR) in the MWIR for book heritage. • Integrated approach of TQR and standard UV–vis–NIR imaging on manuscripts. • Joint use of TQR and UV-based imaging for surface investigation. • Proof of concept on Vergilius Veronensis palimpsest of Biblioteca Capitolare of Verona. Multispectral imaging techniques applied to book heritage are useful to scholars to obtain information on the materials under investigation. The novel introduction of Thermal Quasi-Reflectography (TQR) technique, operating in the medium wave infrared (MWIR) spectral range, can flank conventional diagnostic techniques such as UV-based methods and IR imaging techniques in the 850–1700 nm range on manuscript acquisition. As proof of concept, this work investigates the application of TQR on the Ms. XL (38) palimpsest, known as Vergilius Veronensis , of the Biblioteca Capitolare of Verona. While investigating the manuscript with full-field imaging technique, this work focuses its application to improve the mapping of conservation materials. The manuscript contains several traces of reagents and conservation treatments applied during its conservation history. The study compared the manuscript materials response obtained with TQR with the response collected using UV-induced visible fluorescence (UVL), UV reflected imaging (UVR), and NIR imaging in the 850–1050 nm and 900–1700 nm bands. Being the TQR technique sensitive to surface materials with MWIR reflectance features, it may especially provide more accurate documentation of the restoration history of the object. TQR imaging discriminated non-homogeneities of products in the surface layer thanks to an enhanced MWIR contrast. The TQR image response on manuscript materials should be further investigated and compared to reflectance spectroscopic data. The results of this study demonstrate the added value of TQR imaging for manuscript diagnostics, for which integration of the TQR technique in the standard protocol is desirable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led Cameroon's government to implement public health measures aimed at preventing its spread. This paper investigates how community health education on the virus was being carried out, what gaps exist and what further action could be taken. A survey instrument was used to gather data among a total of 179 Cameroonians recruited via opportunistic and snowball sampling methods. According to our findings, gaps exist. These include the need for adequate community health education on COVID-19, maximising multilingualism and indigenous cultural assets and disbanding misconceptions on the pandemic, as well as stigmatisation. The paper culminates by underlining the significance of an integrated approach to confront the pandemic. This approach captures the need to frame but also firm up community health education architecture on COVID-19 that captures inputs from different stakeholders, including indigenous knowledge holders, for collective wellbeing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background As many countries aim to eliminate malaria, use of comprehensive approaches targeting the mosquito vector and environment are needed. Integrated malaria prevention advocates the use of several malaria prevention measures holistically at households and in the community. The aim of this systematic review was to collate and summarize the impact of integrated malaria prevention in low- and middle-income countries on malaria burden. Methods Literature on integrated malaria prevention, defined as the use of two or more malaria prevention methods holistically, was searched from 1st January 2001 to 31st July 2021. The primary outcome variables were malaria incidence and prevalence, while the secondary outcome measures were human biting and entomological inoculation rates, and mosquito mortality. Results A total of 10,931 studies were identified by the search strategy. After screening, 57 articles were included in the review. Studies included cluster randomized controlled trials, longitudinal studies, programme evaluations, experimental hut/houses, and field trials. Various interventions were used, mainly combinations of two or three malaria prevention methods including insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), indoor residual spraying (IRS), topical repellents, insecticide sprays, microbial larvicides, and house improvements including screening, insecticide-treated wall hangings, and screening of eaves. The most common methods used in integrated malaria prevention were ITNs and IRS, followed by ITNs and topical repellents. There was reduced incidence and prevalence of malaria when multiple malaria prevention methods were used compared to single methods. Mosquito human biting and entomological inoculation rates were significantly reduced, and mosquito mortality increased in use of multiple methods compared to single interventions. However, a few studies showed mixed results or no benefits of using multiple methods to prevent malaria. Conclusion Use of multiple malaria prevention methods was effective in reducing malaria infection and mosquito density in comparison with single methods. Results from this systematic review can be used to inform future research, practice, policy and programming for malaria control in endemic countries.

The article describes the formation of bioethics — a complex scientific discipline — in our country. The emergence of bioethics in the world dates back to the 1970s of the 20th century, in the Soviet Union it began to take shape during the period of perestroika as part of the activities of Academician Ivan Timofeevich Frolov (1929–1999). Bioethics deals with ethical issues that arise during the introduction of the latest biomedical technologies into practice, the solution of which can have various medical, cultural, legal, and financial consequences. The latest biomedical technologies open up new possibilities for a person (heredity management, genetic passport, etc.) and put a person in a situation of choice. Their future depends on what choice people will make, and this choice is determined by the state of the culture of society. In the field of bioethics, regulation is crucial and should be comprehensive and multi-stage. Philosophers, culturologists, and ethicists formulate general principles of regulation based on the ideology of humanism. Further on, scientists consider these recommendations and develop appropriate codes of conduct, while lawyers consolidate the new understanding within the legal system. The formation of such an integrated approach in Russia took place within the framework of scientific structures created by Academician I. T. Frolov, — the AllUnion Interdepartmental Center for Human Sciences, the Institute of Man of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the Russian National Committee on Bioethics (RNKB), the Russian Committee on Bioethics under the Commission of the Russian Federation for UNESCO. In these structures, expert work was carried out on the main documents related to the interaction of the Russian Federation with the Council of Europe in the field of bioethics. RNKB prepared expert opinions for the Department of European Cooperation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation and the Department for International Humanitarian Cooperation and Human Rights of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation regarding Russia's accession to international conventions on bioethics.

(Series Information) European Papers - A Journal on Law and Integration, 2022 7(3), 1517-1536 | Article | (Table of Contents) I. Introduction. - II. The principle of systemic integration for consistent interpretation of social rights. - II.1. Questioning the application of art. 31(3)(c) of VCLT to ESC and CFREU. - II.2. Seeking a consistent interpretation of the right to social security. - III. The theory of the "integrated approach" strengthening social rights protection. - III.1. Developing the theory of an integrated approach. - III.2. Identifying an integrated approach for the interpretation of ESC and CFREU. - III.3. The contribution of an integrated approach to the protection of the right to social security within EU. - IV. Concluding remarks. | (Abstract) The Europe of human rights is characterised by the duality of the legal orders of the Council of Eu-rope and of the EU. Their instruments must coexist peacefully, and a coherent interpretation of social human rights is essential to this end, as EU Member States belong to both legal orders. In this sense, it is worth considering whether the integration of the European Social Charter into the interpretation of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights could reinforce the protection of social rights. More specifically, would a shift from the application of the principle of systemic integration to the theory of integrated approach foster such a change? To answer these questions, two main hypotheses are developed, by focussing on the right to social security. The first one affirms that following the principle of systemic integration would lead to a stronger interpretation of social rights in the EU legal order. To explore such a hypothesis, the effects of the application of this principle to the interpretation of EU law are considered, in light of the customary nature of this principle and its codification. The second affirms that the impact of applying the theory of integrated approach would go beyond the simple pursuit of systemic coherence. By advancing the method of referring to instruments from other legal orders when interpreting provisions that are applicable to a given situation, this theory has a double objective: ensuring consistent interpretation and strengthening the protection of rights.

Abstract Background Health care waste management is a challenge due to the composition of the waste generated within a health care facility, of which 85% is domestic waste, and at least 15% is hazardous waste or health care risk waste (has been in contact with blood, body fluids or tissues from humans and could cause disease). In this study, we evaluated the status quo of health care waste management plans (HCWMPs) and practices in public health care facilities in Gauteng Province, South Africa. Methods A situational analysis was employed in health care facilities (HCFs) that generated more than 20 kg (N = 42) of health care risk waste (HCRW) per day. Data was collected from officials responsible for the management of health care waste using a self-administered questionnaire whilst Chief Executive Officers/ managers of the HFCs were interviewed. Results The results showed that most (79.0%) of the health care waste officers (HCWOs) as well as management (84.6%) agreed to have HCWMPs in place. The majority (76.9%) of the HCFs have a dedicated person appointed to manage health care waste with the majority (67%) being environmental health practitioners. According to management, only 30.8% have formally appointed an integrated HCW committee. Only 11.7% of the HCWOs are guided by the Occupational Health and Safety Act to develop their HCWMPs with only 20.5% with health care waste minimisation strategies in place. Conclusion The study concluded that there is limited integration of HCWMPs as inadequate health and safety aspects, environmental pollution as well as community participation was reported. The novelty of the study is to contribute to a body of knowledge, information on the establishment of an effective health care waste management system in public health care facilities and for decision-making purposes.

Topics related to sustainable economic development are currently important issues in the modern world. However, the implementation of this concept and related operational strategies raises many controversies. On the one hand, it offers hope for ecological, safe, and independent economic development, while on the other hand, it raises public concerns about the costs of such changes. These problems are widely appreciated in the EU, which is the undoubted leader in implementing the concept of sustainable economic development. With regard to this issue, this paper presents the developed methodology for assessing the sustainable energy and climate development of the EU-27 countries. The basis of this assessment is 17 selected indicators characterizing the most important areas related to this development. Their selection was conditioned by the assumptions of the Europe 2020 Strategy and the goals (7 and 13) of the UN Agenda for Sustainable Development 2030. Five widely used methods for multi-criteria analysis supporting management processes (CODAS, EDAS, TOPSIS, VIKOR, and WASPAS) were used for the study. In order to carry out an unambiguous assessment and determine the final ranking of countries in terms of energy and climate sustainability, a methodology was developed to specify the normalized value of the Final Assessment Score (Asfinal). Based on it, the sustainability of individual EU-27 countries in 2010, 2015, and 2020 was assessed, and this assessment formed the basis for dividing these countries into four classes (levels) in terms of sustainability. The results confirmed the high differentiation of the EU-27 countries in terms of sustainability, indicating leaders as well as countries with low levels of sustainability. The countries with the highest and most stable levels of sustainable development of the economy are Sweden and Denmark. The results provide opportunities for their interpretation, both in terms of analyzing changes in individual indicators and in terms of the global assessment of sustainable development in individual countries. These results should be used when developing an energy and climate strategy for the next few years for the EU as a whole and for individual countries.

Раскрываются теоретические и методологические основы развития полифонического слуха обучающихся по профилю «Фортепиано» в вузе на основе комплексного подхода. Проанализировано определение понятия «музыкальный слух» как комплекс способностей человека, которые позволяют человеку в полном объеме воспринимать и объективно оценивать музыку. Также рассмотрены особенности полифонического слуха как разновидности музыкального. Обосновывается идея о необходимости развития полифонического слуха на основе комплексного подхода как базовой методологической идеи и условия решения поставленной задачи. Содержанием комплексного подхода выступает взаимосвязь и реализация основных параметров учебно-воспитательного процесса (целей, задач, условий, принципов, методов, приемов) на основе межпредметных связей. Рассматриваются структурные компоненты комплексного подхода и предложена стратегия его реализации.

Anaplastic Astrocytoma (AA) is a relatively rare cancer, and is associated with a median life expectancy of 3 years after conventional therapy. Complete cure of the highly infiltrative AA is uncommon, and reports of positive outcome in cases of partial resection of AA are rare. Further, integrative approaches to the management of AA remain underexplored. This paper contributes to the limited literature in this domain by presenting a case that was successfully treated through integrative conventional and Ayurvedic interventions. A patient diagnosed with AA in the left parieto-occipital lobe underwent partial lesion resection followed by post-operative radiation and chemotherapy. The patient was given a conservative post-surgical life expectancy of two years, and was referred to an Ayurveda hospital for further treatment. The Ayurvedic intervention was focussed on redressal of radiation and chemotherapy side-effects, improvement of quality of life, and improving the patient’s strength and immunity. Following this novel integrative model of care, the patient was able to resume all personal and professional routines, and a contrast MRI revealed absence of residual lesion allowing the patient to outlive his initial prognosis by several years till date. We posit that the findings of this report merit further examination in the interest of potential improvements to existing models of care.

В статье рассматриваются вопросы активизации учебной деятельности учащихся, основанные на дидактическом понимании сущности обучения как системы взаимосвязи деятельности педагога и учащегося. Раскрыты комплексный и системно-деятельностный подходы к организации активной учебной деятельности. Их сущность заключается, с одной стороны, в интеграции усилия различных учебных дисциплин, предусматривающей разработку вопроса со всех его аспектов с постановкой комплекса задач образования и общего развития учащихся, с другой – в установлении функциональных связей и структурных отношений между составными элементами рассматриваемой в данный момент конкретной системы, в силу чего обеспечивается высокий уровень функционирования системы.

Background: In 2017, Liberia became one of the first countries in the African region to develop and implement a national strategy for integrated case management of Neglected Tropical Diseases (CM-NTDs), specifically Buruli ulcer, leprosy, lymphatic filariasis morbidities, and yaws. Implementing this plan moves the NTD program from many countries' fragmented (vertical) disease management. This study explores to what extent an integrated approach offers a cost-effective investment for national health systems. Methods: This study is a mixed-method economic evaluation that explores the cost-effectiveness of the integrated CM-NTDs approach compared to the fragmented (vertical) disease management. Primary data were collected from two integrated intervention counties and two non-intervention counties to determine the relative cost-effectiveness of the integrated program model vs. fragmented (vertical) care. Data was sourced from the NTDs program annual budgets and financial reports for integrated CM-NTDs and Mass Drug Administration (MDA) to determine cost drivers and effectiveness. Results: The total cost incurred by the integrated CM-NTD approach from 2017 to 2019 was US$ 789,856.30, with the highest percentage of costs for program staffing and motivation (41.8%), followed by operating costs (24.8%). In the two counties implementing fragmented (vertical) disease management, approximately US$ 325,000 was spent on the diagnosis of 84 persons and the treatment of twenty-four persons suffering from NTDs. While 2.5 times as much was spent in integrated counties, 9–10 times more patients were diagnosed and treated. Conclusions: The cost of a patient being diagnosed under the fragmented (vertical) implementation is five times higher than integrated CM-NTDs, and providing treatment is ten times as costly. Findings indicate that the integrated CM-NTDs strategy has achieved its primary objective of improved access to NTD services. The success of implementing an integrated CM-NTDs approach in Liberia, presented in this paper, demonstrates that NTD integration is a cost-minimizing solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern cities bear the entire burden and responsibility of operationalizing the concept of sustainable development, since they are the ones that represent the greatest threat to its implementation. The sustainability of cities largely depends on the form of public governance and decision making; in fact, this interdependence is a prerequisite for all the relevant progress in sustainable development that many European cities strive to achieve. An approach to governance in European cities that has proven to be the most effective in achieving urban sustainability is an integrated one, as it encompasses the coordination, cooperation and integration of sectoral policies and the participation of different actors at all levels of governance. Considering the prominence that the concept of sustainable development holds in public policies and concepts of urban development nowadays, the aim of this paper is to present the interdependence and complementarity of a multidimensional concept of sustainable development and the integrated approach to urban governance. The empirical section of the paper is focused on the analysis of documents used as a normative basis for providing answers to the research question: Are there elements of an integrated governance approach in the City of Zagreb, and is the interdependence of the two concepts acknowledged in the normative framework? [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Madagascar is among the 10 highest burden countries for malnutrition. Protein-energy malnutrition, anemia, and vitamin deficiencies are major public health problems. Hunger is exacerbated by an annual locust invasion. The current policy of large-scale government spraying of pesticides from planes is logistically complex, costly, and damaging to the environment. Objective: Our research aimed to study the feasibility of turning the locust invasion into a protein-rich food supply for families and an economic opportunity for youth. Methods: We conducted 20 focus group discussions (FGDs) with females and males aged 18–24 and 25 years or older and with female artisans in 6 swarm communes in Madagascar's south to understand enablers and barriers to collection, preparation, and consumption of locusts. Results: Enablers include consumption by all ages in Antandroy culture and perception of locusts as a delicacy, tasty, and free. Family members have different roles in the collection and preparation of locusts. Local technologies for mass collection include digging trenches in fields and entrapment via sisal netting. Common preparations include boiling in salted water, drying, skewering, frying, and grinding locusts into flour. Disablers include pesticide contamination of locusts and the view that locusts are a famine food. Conclusion: Our research provided a first step in demonstrating the feasibility of transforming locust infestations into economic and nutritional opportunities in a fragile environment with high levels of poverty and malnutrition. It contributes to advocacy in Madagascar to end the use of pesticides. It responds to the government desire to address the protein-energy malnutrition burden and youth poverty in an integrated way. Plain language title: Qualitative Research as a Basis for Transforming an Annual Plague Into an Economic and Nutrition Opportunity for Youths and Their Families in Madagascar: "From Harmful to Useful Critters" Plain language summary: Populations in Madagascar have limited access to animal-source foods. Protein-energy malnutrition is high and is among the major public health problems in the country. We studied the feasibility of reducing malnutrition and lowering unemployment among rural youth by turning the annual locust infestation into economic and nutritional opportunities. We looked at enablers and disablers of transforming the locust infestation into income-generating activities for youth and promoting the consumption of locusts as a natural source of protein. Our results will help to design and implement strategies to engage young entrepreneurs in the collection, processing, and trade of locusts and to train them for start-ups based on local technology and appropriate product development and marketing. Interest by government and donors in empowering vulnerable youth, in protecting the environment, in promoting food security/local resilience, and in the unique nutritional properties of insects is high. The Malagasy government has been searching for new approaches to its severe development problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Long-term mining activities have caused serious heavy metals contamination of farmland soils. In this study, we investigated the concentrations, distributions, accumulations, potential ecological risk, and sources of eight heavy metals in farmland soils of Pb–Zn mining areas. According to the soil standard GB15618-2018, Cd was the most contaminated, followed by Pb and Zn. The geo-accumulation index showed that Pb, Zn, Cd, and Hg accumulated seriously. The potential risk index indicated that Cd, Hg, and Pb were the main environmental risk elements. An integrated approach combining multivariate statistical analysis, PMF, and GIS mapping was used to analyze the sources of heavy metals. Four main sources were identified and quantified: (1) mining activities source, the main source of Cd (71.09%) and Zn (61.88%); (2) agricultural activities source, dominated by Hg (73.01%); (3) atmospheric deposition sources, with Pb (85.11%) as the main contributor; (4) natural source, characterized by Cr (72.96%), Ni (66.04%), As (55.98%) and Cu (37.70%). This study would help us understand the pollution characteristics and sources of farmland soils in mining areas and provide basic information for the next step of pollution control and remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of selenate on the removal of glycerol in up-flow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactors was investigated. Two UASB reactors, R Control and R Selenium, were operated at a hydraulic retention time of 48 h and an upflow velocity of 2 m/h at 37 °C. A GAL (glucose, acetate and lactate) and glycerol mixture were used as the only feedstock throughout the experiment for R Control. After acclimation to GAL and glycerol in the start-up period, R Selenium was additionally exposed to selenate (SeO 4 2−) concentrations from 1.43 to 71.49 mg/L (10–500 μM) in a stepwise manner. An average daily methane yield of about 150 mL/g COD, which was comparable with R Control , and 90% Se removal were achieved until 400 μM SeO 4 2−. Simultaneously, SeO 4 2− was reduced to elemental Se or metal selenide, supported by X-ray diffraction, as well as scanning and transmission electron microscopy. However, the methane production rapidly deteriorated when the influent SeO 4 2− concentration was increased to 500 μM. The Se toxicity was evident from the reduction in the activity of Methanosaeta. This study showed that the SeO 4 2− concentration, but not the COD/SeO 4 2− ratio, governs the AD of selenate rich wastewaters. [Display omitted] • Selenate concentration, but not COD/selenate ratio, governs the anaerobic digestion process. • Methane yield of 150 mL/g COD·d with 90% selenium removal until 400 μM selenate. • Inhibition of Methanosaeta activity observed at 500 μM selenate. • Increase in solids content and settling velocity suggests selenium facilitated sludge granulation. • Elemental selenium and metal selenide biosynthesis observed from XRD, TEM, SEM and SEM-EDX. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]