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This qualitative narrative correspondence study investigates older adults' experiences of physical activity (PA) during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns in Aotearoa, New Zealand. This paper presents a reflexive thematic analysis of 501 letters received from 568 participants that discussed PA. Participants described PA as bringing joy and rhythm to daily life under stay-at-home measures. The most frequently discussed forms of PA included exercising, gardening, and housework. Four interconnected conceptual themes identified were as follows: (a) renegotiating environmental relationships, (b) social connection, (c) pleasure and PA, and (d) navigating active aging discourses. This paper emphasizes the important environmental and social motivations for becoming and remaining physically active despite restrictions on movement. Older adults' understandings and performance of PA were heavily shaped by active aging discourses. As such, we suggest that initiatives seeking to promote PA should foreground older adults' feelings of connection, productivity, and pleasure and recognize their diversity. This is contrary to current recommendations focused on duration or intensity of older adults' PA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Restoring a World Natural Heritage Site (WNHS) after a disaster to attract tourists raises multifaceted issues that concern heritage authenticity, environmental ethics, and tourists' acceptance. In the case of Jiuzhaigou post-earthquake landscape, this study analyses authenticity perceptions, attitudes, and behavioral intentions of tourists and explores environmental ethics through three perspectives. Results reveal tourists' authenticity perception affects their attitudes and behaviors towards environmental restoration. Moreover, tourists tend to recognize and support Awe for Nature (Awe-N) more than Respect for Nature (Res-N) and significant differentiation exists among potential tourists according to their environmental ethics, demographic characteristics, and behaviors. Altogether, our work presents innovative arguments on post-disaster WNHS restoration by highlighting the complexities of heritage authenticity, environmental ethics, and tourist' dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rate of horizontal movement of a pollutant such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in soil plays a major role in spread of pollutants in the segments of the environment. However, the study regarding this aspect is not widely reported. In the present work, the rate of horizontal spread of Fluorene in soil is determined in an experiment spread over a year under natural environment. Known amount of the hydrocarbon was added to a soil at a particular point, extraction of the same was done later on at definite time interval at definite distances from the point of application and quantitative determination was done by HPLC analysis of the extract. Eleven number of important physico-chemical parameters of the soil sample were determined/calculated in order to know the quality of the soil. The values of parameters are in agreement to the characteristics of a good soil. The experimental soil is a mild acidic sandy loam. It has been found that one-year time is sufficient for the applied quantity of the hydrocarbon to spread itself uniformly to attain a concentration, which is at par with natural concentration of the hydrocarbon in the experimental soil. Studies on kinetics of the reaction imply that the reaction occurs in different phases, rate constants being gradually increased with time. The positive influence of increase in ambient temperature and rainfall on disappearance of the hydrocarbon is seen in the experiment. It has been found that the most probable speed of the hydrocarbon for horizontal movement is 3.75 cm per month in the experimental soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate a novel approach in higher education known as the ecological university. This is a university that understands both the world’s interconnection and its own interconnectedness to the world. Such a university aims to serve the world and engage in civic activity. According to this perspective, the university exists amid seven interrelated ecologies. The current study focuses on how the university could engage with three of these ecologies: the natural environment, culture, and economy. The research took place in Gaziantep, Turkey, a gateway to the Middle East. An exploratory research design employing qualitative data was utilised. The study participants included key figures from the natural environment, culture, and economy ecologies. Thirty-three participants from inside and outside the university were selected using criterion sampling and maximum variation techniques. The collected data was analysed using NVIVO 12, a qualitative data analysis tool, through content analysis. The results confirm that the university is organically interconnected to its surrounding ecologies, natural environment, culture, and economy. It also emerged that while the natural environment, culture, and economy could influence university functions and structures, universities could also use their resources to promote the improvement and well-being of each ecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Dementia is a public health concern in the aging population with an estimated 55 million people impacted globally. Public health initiatives that focus on minimizing dementia risk factors may support efforts to reduce the incidence of dementia in at‐risk populations. Exposomics considers both modifiable and non‐modifiable risk factors for disease, including genetic changes with age and lifetime exposures to environmental, social, and behavioral risk factors. Dementia precursors may remain undetected for up to 20 years. An understanding and application of the dementia exposome may promote healthy brain interventions, screening, and risk mitigation. The proposed dementia public health exposome (DPHE) provides a framework for understanding and addressing the complex interactions between genetics, health behavior, and environment (natural, built, and social) linked to modifiable and non‐modifiable risk factors for dementia. The DPHE may be used to inform public health strategies and advancements in healthy brain initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

More than 100 million children and 13% of the adult population suffer from obesity globally. People with obesity experience higher risks of chronic illness, poor mental health outcomes, and premature death. Exposure to natural environments, including green spaces, encourages regular physical activity and cardiovascular exercise to combat obesity. This systematic review, based on the health lifestyle theory, explores previous research on the relationship between natural environments and obesity. We reviewed studies (N = 11) published between 2018 and 2023 examining the relationship between participants (N = 1,225,680) across seven countries. Two overarching areas of impact emerged: environmental health factors (air pollution) and social factors (socioeconomic status and food availability). Although many studies suggested that exposure to green spaces correlated with a lower incidence of obesity, few studies identified possible external factors to explain the relationship between green space and obesity. Implications for future policy legislation, clinical interventions, and research are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Purpose: Nature has been found to improve and promote health and prevent disease. Nature-based rehabilitation (NBR) delivered as part of neurorehabilitation is a developing approach. Yet to date the research is sparse. Following an acquired brain injury (ABI), people often experience impairments that cause limitations in activity and participation in daily life, which can impact the quality of life long-term. NBR delivered in neurorehabilitation has previously been explored from the perspective of occupational therapists and physiotherapists, however, to date patients' experiences are yet to be explored. This study aims to explore patients' experiences and perspectives of NBR delivered as part of standard neurorehabilitation. Methods: This qualitative study had a constructivist and phenomenological design. Semi-structured focus group interviews were carried out across three healthcare settings in Denmark with 17 participants. Data was analysed using content analysis. Results: The analysis generated three categories: 1. Outdoor versus indoor environment, 2. The natural environment as a co-therapist, and 3. Interrelatedness. Conclusion: The study provides insight into participants' experiences of NBR. They reported that interacting with the natural environment as part of neurorehabilitation enhanced activity. Moreover, being in nature increased their self-efficacy, sense of autonomy, community spirit, cooperation, and joy, and led to a feeling of peace. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: Nature-based rehabilitation (NBR) delivered as part of neurorehabilitation provides an alternative to indoor rehabilitation. The natural environment offers multisensory stimulation, sensory-motor training, and opportunities for mental restoration. NBR promotes social engagement, cooperation, and feelings of being in the same boat and may increase autonomy, self-efficacy, activity, and participation. NBR can be designed and delivered in a way where the natural environment and the intervention promote individual and group rehabilitation. The benefits of NBR in neurorehabilitation for patients appear to be an underexposed topic, and the intervention may provide an opportunity for improving rehabilitation for patients with acquired brain injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis study identified the number of natural environment picturebooks read by young children in Chinese and Korean picturebook libraries and analyzed their content from an ecocritical perspective. The findings indicate that, first, although the number of natural environment picturebooks read by children is higher in Korea than in China, in both countries, these books make up a small proportion of all books read. Second, the covers and endpapers of these picturebooks concisely represent the stories, stimulating children’s curiosity. Additionally, the analysis using the chronotope showed that natural environment picturebooks enabled children to experience changes in time while emotionally empathizing with the protagonists. This study reveals that natural environment picturebooks read by young children in China and Korea provide cognitive and emotional content but lack in actionable content. Therefore, parental, educational, and societal support is necessary to enhance children’s practices in environmental conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article examines trends in revising the concept of crimes against humanity by adding signs of actions that include damage to the natural environment. It is established that the possibility of expanding the concept of crimes against humanity to include damage to the natural environment is based on criticism of the provisions of the Additional Protocol to the Geneva Conventions of June 8, 1977 and the Statute of the International Criminal Court on damage to the natural environment only in the context of armed conflicts, and also about the signs of such damage as widespread, long-term and severe, which made it practically impossible to implement the norms of the mentioned acts. On such grounds, the position is substantiated that crimes against humanity that encroach on the natural environment should include environmental degradation, exploitation of natural resources, and other actions that lead to pollution or destruction of the environment or climate change. The processes of developing provisions on harming the natural environment as a crime against humanity, which are related to the policy of states or other government institutions, aimed at the exploitation of natural resources and the forced resettlement of the civilian population, are being studied. It is noted that the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court is studying the possibility of revising the elements of crimes covered by the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court and including directly those related to environmental damage. Proposals which are sent to the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court are subject to registration in a single Policy Paper. The proposals of certain scientific and international non-governmental organizations regarding amendments to the Statute of the International Criminal Court are summarized, which include the introduction of the concept of crimes against humanity as a sign of an attack on the environment or its individual elements; addition to Art. 7 of the Statute of the International Criminal Court by the provisions on the commission of actions specified in items «a», «b», «d», «k» by committing damage to the natural environment, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article analyzes the state of social relations on the protection of human health by means of environmental and legal regulation as an important direction of the state environmental policy and policy in the field of health protection, the development of legal practice, the identification of shortcomings and gaps in the current legislation, as well as making proposals for its improvement in view of international legal and European approaches to the regulation of the specified relations. Obtaining ecologically significant information about the state of human health, carrying out other investigations within the framework of the study of its determinants will contribute to the development of the mechanism of legal regulation of relevant relations in Ukraine. The subject of the research is the provisions of environmental and other branches of legislation, as well as scientific-theoretical and practical ideas, views and approaches to solving legal problems of protecting human health and environmental protection, ensuring ecological, food, nutritional safety, developing the methodology of conducting scientific research in environmental and legal and other areas. The object of the research is social, environmental and other legal relations that arise in today's conditions under the influence of military threats and the requirements of martial law, as well as social and legal prerequisites for the formation and development of determinants of health through the prism of the legal, in particular, environmental and legal mechanism. The effectiveness of environmental law is largely determined by the implementation of the main and most important goal - the direct protection of a person and his right to life and health in general. The global community's fight against excessive environmental pollution, the development of rational use of natural resources, care for people and all of humanity are fundamental vectors of the development of international cooperation. In most of the developed countries of the world, solving the problem of ensuring environmental safety is assigned to the competence of specially created government institutions, which determine the appropriate directions of international cooperation, vectors of development. It is necessary to make it impossible to ignore the natural-scientific paradigm, according to which the environment that affects the human body is not only nature, but also everything that is outside the body. The attention of scientists should not be limited to the analysis of the consequences of a polluted environment, but should also be directed to the study and forecasting of changes in the environment that surrounds a person, the conditions of human existence and their impact on the health of a person as a biosocial being. The range of these changes is very wide - from innovations in the structure of nutrition to transformations of culture and ethics, development of legal culture, healthy lifestyle at the social and individual levels. Human health should be considered as a complex socioeconomic, ecological and hygienic indicator that integrates demographic, social and biological processes characteristic of human society, reflects the level of its economic and cultural development, the state of medical care, bears the imprint of historical and ethnographic traditions and natural and climatic changes. Along with the culture of work, life, thinking, behavior, communication, adaptive culture, today it is proposed to highlight the culture of health, which in fact determines the further development of all types of cultures and should become a prerequisite for the formation of a person as a complete individual, covering all aspects of life. Preserving the health of the nation is a social necessity today. The process of forming an ecological culture through a system of educational activity measures, in addition to direct ecological culture, also covers the formation of a culture of a healthy lifestyle, hygienic skills, a caring attitude towards the environment, etc. It is equally important to ensure a balanced and safe diet for the entire population. Considering the complexity of the specified problem, it is necessary to involve specialists of various specialties in this work. The set tasks actualize the issue of researching the content of the concept of «human health» defined by the Law of Ukraine «On the Public Health System». The term «ecological determinants of health» as the level of pollution of the natural environment (locality) where a person lives: the level of pollution of surface and underground water, land plots, atmospheric air, etc., needs legislative consolidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates how sense of place guides organizational sustainable development practices. Despite global phenomena, sustainable development challenges such as poverty and climate change are locally experienced and require local actions. Sense of place, which focuses on local phenomena, offers rich potential to understand organizations and sustainable development practices. This article presents an in-depth case study of Norlha Textiles, an enterprise implementing sustainable development practices in a nomadic village on the Tibetan Plateau. I apply an ethnographic approach to data collection through 3 months of fieldwork. I identified two forms of sense of place: emotional attachment and functional dependence, which can be disembodied from or embodied in the biophysical place. Then, I theorized organizational sustainable development practices in three pathways: maintaining, developing, and transforming place. This study advances organization studies on sense of place and sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As people age, their activity radius gradually narrows, leading to increased interaction with the community environment. The natural environment (NE) within the community may influence the subjective and psychological well-being (SPWB) of older people (i.e., air quality, noise, green space, and blue space). To enhance the NE and promote the SPWB of older people, this study explored the effect of the community NE on the SPWB of older people. A questionnaire survey involving 180 older people from three communities was collected, alongside observations and measurements of the NE within the community. Finally, a NE-SPWB model was established, indicating that smell (air), ambient noise, green space areas, water landscapes, and smell (water) all positively influenced the SPWB of older people. Based on these findings, recommendations were proposed to enhance community environmental conditions, such as improving water landscapes and green spaces, to further enhance the well-being of older people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper aims to identify factors affecting sustainable ecotourism in Vietnam, including the mediating role of tourist satisfaction and attractive destinations. The valid quantitative data were collected from a survey of 515 domestic tourists who have traveled to ecotourism areas in 5 selected areas in Vietnam, including Ca Mau Province, Can Tho City, Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Dinh Province, and Dong Nai Province. To test research hypotheses, data were analyzed using AMOS 24.0 and structural equation modeling (SEM). Research results show that tourist satisfaction strongly affects sustainable ecotourism (β = 0.341), followed by attractive destinations (β = 0.175) and environmental awareness (β = 0.147). In contrast, tourism management policy does not affect sustainable ecotourism. Besides, tourism management policy has the strongest influence on attractive destinations (β = 0.393), followed by the natural environment (β = 0.129), culture and society (β = 0.082), but infrastructure does not affect attractive destinations. Research results also show that the strongest influential determinant of tourist satisfaction is infrastructure (β = 0.448), followed by culture and society (β = 0.180), the natural environment (β = 0.150), and tourism management policy (β = 0.136).

The widespread benefits of creativity have become more salient in recent years. This has led to scholarly interest in finding ways to foster creativity. Nature immersion may be one way to enhance creativity, particularly as many individuals involved in creative pursuits have found nature to be a source of inspiration and a haven for restoration. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) extension for scoping reviews and the PRISMA-ScR 22 item checklist, we conducted a scoping review to examine the evidence on the relationship between nature and creativity as well as any underlying mechanisms facilitating this relationship. A scoping review was deemed appropriate given the infancy of the topic and the need to understand the broad landscape. Our aim was to present a range of interdisciplinary applications of nature interventions on different types of creative performance. We found 45 publications exploring the relationship between nature and creativity, with the majority (n = 36, 80%) published within the past seven years. Overall, the quantitative studies in our scoping review provided evidence of a significant positive relationship, or effect, between nature and creativity. These relationships held across various types of nature including for wilderness, rural and urban settings, as well as in different applications of creativity such as in the arts, workplace, education, and laboratory conditions. Qualitative and case study research also supported the positive relationship between nature and creativity including in diverse nature settings and in different applications such as in visual arts, design, writing, music, free play in kindergartens, and work. Qualitative studies highlighted potential mechanisms behind this relationship, including time in solitude, appreciation of impermanence, relaxation and inspiration, and disconnection from technology. Moreover, the degree of exposure to nature may be an important consideration for creative performance with more immersive, real-life experiences typical of outdoor nature, tending to be more effective than indoor spaces with window views or indoor plants. These preliminary findings suggest that more opportunities to connect with nature, especially in the outdoors, may help to stimulate creativity in a wide range of settings including education, the creative arts, and workplaces, although more high-quality research examining the sustained effects of nature on creativity is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Natural outdoor environments provide important settings for children to engage in physical activity. It is unclear if these relationships also exist in preschool aged children. We examined associations between amount and type of neighbourhood vegetation and blue space, proximity to the beach and preschooler's device‐measured movement behaviours. Accelerometer data from 1081 preschool children were processed into physical activity and sedentary behaviours using a machine learned random forest physical activity classification model specifically developed for children under five. High‐resolution aerial imagery data and Geographic Information Systems were used to identify total percentage of neighbourhood vegetation and vegetation components (grass, shrubs and trees) and presence and total percentage of blue space (ocean, riverways and lakes and swamps) for 500, 1600 and 5000 m service areas around children's residences. Distance to the closest beach, patrolled beach, and dog beach were also calculated. Amount of neighbourhood vegetation was inversely associated with boys sedentary time in the 500 m (β = −0.91 min/day, p = 0.006, 95% CI [−1.55, −0.33]) and 1600 m (β = −1.30 min/day, p = 0.001, 95% CI [−2.08, −0.53]) service area, and positively associated with walking time in the 1600 m (β = 0.12 min/day, p = 0.045, 95% CI [0.02, 0.22]) service area. The presence of local riverways was positively associated with girls walking time in the 1600 m (β = 2.34 min/day, p = 0.009, 95% CI [0.59, 4.09]), and 5000 m (β = 1.67 min/day, p = 0.019, 95% CI [0.27, 3.06]) buffer. Distance to dog beach was positively associated with boys sedentary behaviours. Presence of lake and swamps were negatively associated with boys walking, and presence of riverways was negatively associated with girls moderate‐to‐vigorous activities and games and boys running in the 5000 m service area. These findings suggest higher amounts of neighbourhood vegetation and certain types of blue space such as riverways and dog beaches could facilitate positive movement behaviours in young children. Our findings that natural outdoor environments are associated with preschool children's movement behaviours add to evidence which could contribute to policy implications for urban planning and the provision and protection of natural environments within cities. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

Abstract Veterinary school is intense and represents a challenging time for students, and increasingly, veterinary students are being diagnosed with a variety of concerning mental health issues including stress, anxiety, and depression, often resulting in poor academic performance. Because of the disproportionately high risk of mental health problems in the veterinary field, it is important that students learn, understand, and utilize simple and effective techniques to cope with stress, and demands of the profession. Spending time in natural environments such as outdoor parks, green spaces, and urban forests is an effective strategy for improving mental health. In this study, we examined the self-reported effects of repeated, structured time in a nature-based intervention, vs a control group of veterinary students. Participants reported significantly lower perceived stress levels compared to a control group. Students overwhelmingly reported that they would recommend this stress reduction technique to their classmates, and they stated that they planned to continue spending time in nature to improve their mindset and reduce stress in the future.

Traditional culture of settlement is an important medium to record the process of balance between human and nature, and it was passed down from generation to generation in different forms (e.g. sacrificial culture, social structure, belief worship). With the intensification of global multicultural integration, the integration relationship between culture and nature has become an important approach for the protection and inheritance of traditional culture. Now, the relationship between artistic creation and ecological environment has been extensively studied. The scientific consensus regarding the influence of ecological environment on artistic creation has gained widespread recognition. Nevertheless, previous research neglects the relationship of traditional culture and natural environment, as well as different spatial characteristics, which are closely related to agricultural production and living. Based on the in-depth investigation of 23 traditional settlements of Yi minority in Southwest China, this paper conducted spatial analysis based on aerial photography, satellite maps and field investigation to analyze the relationship of culture-environment-space. Our results showed that there are significant differences in settlement space (e.g. landscape pattern, landscape space, architectural form) of Yi minority distributed in different areas. Under the same cultural background, the dispersed layout appears in Liangshan with high altitude and cold climate; the mountain foot layout appears in Central Yunnan and Northwest Guizhou with flat terrain and mild climate; the centralized layout appears in Honghe with narrow valleys and hot climate. These results shows that traditional culture comes from the natural environment, and the settlement space built under the guidance of the traditional culture must be in harmony with the natural environment. Therefore, protecting the traditional culture plays an important role in the sustainable development of urban and rural settlements. In addition, our findings may serve to inheritance and protection of traditional culture in other area all over the world.

Asbads are a sign of creativity, initiative and innovation of Iranians in the hot and dry climate and windy areas of eastern Iran. The 120 day winds have been the main factor and motivation for the invention of Asbads in Sistan region. Varmal Asbad is built inside a complex of residential buildings and from this point of view is unique. The purpose of this article is the interaction of Asbad Wormal architecture with the characteristics of the natural environment in terms of orientation with the 120-day winds of Sistan, emphasizing CFD computational fluid dynamics simulation. The research method is descriptive-analytical and based on documentary studies and field surveys in the scope of the research. The volume of the architectural mass was designed with Revit software. Urba Wind-Meteodyn software was used for geometric preparation and Ansys Fluent software was used for simulation. Ansys Meshing software was used to generate grid independence, and WRPLOT View software was used to identify wind parameters. The results of CFD computational fluid dynamics simulation show how the wind flows based on the speeds of 3 and 6 meters per second, in the direction of the 120-day winds; The northwest wind creates more air flow in Asbad than the north wind, and as a result, it increases the air circulation for more functions of Asbad. The results shows that due to the location of Varmal Asbad within the complex of residential buildings, this particular type of Asbad has had more diverse functions than other Asbads in eastern Iran. In such a way that the proper use of the 120-day winds is an effective help in creating air circulation in the floors of the building and natural ventilation in the indoor spaces during the hot days of the year, and it shows the interaction of the architecture of Varmal Asbad with the natural environment. Therefore, apart from grain grinding, the applications of Varmal Asbad have been for natural ventilation and cooling.

Abstract China’s northern Fujian, as one of the spatial carriers of renowned traditional Chinese cultures such as Minyue, Zhu Xi’s Neo-Confucianism, tea, and porcelain, has preserved a wealth of tangible cultural relics, showcasing a profound cultural heritage and possessing strong research value and development potential. This study employs GIS spatial statistical analysis and map visualization technology to unveil the evolutionary processes of cultural heritage sites in northern Fujian, focusing on their spatial types, forms, and densities across different historical periods. Based on this foundation, the research further delves into the intrinsic relationships between the spatial distribution characteristics of cultural heritage sites in northern Fujian during various historical periods and the local natural and cultural environment. The results indicate that: (1) the spatial distribution of cultural heritage sites in northern Fujian varies across different historical periods, with the highest concentration and quantity observed during the Ming and Qing periods. In contrast, the Qin, Han, Wei, Jin, Northern and Southern Dynasties period exhibits the lowest quantity and a more dispersed distribution. (2) Cultural heritage sites in northern Fujian are mainly distributed in the relatively flat terrain below 400 m above sea level, including middle to low-altitude mountain basins, river valleys, and low hills. In terms of distance from rivers, cultural heritage sites exhibit a clear distribution pattern along rivers, with a large number of them located within 0–6 km from the riverbanks. (3) The spatial distribution of cultural heritage sites in northern Fujian is influenced not only by macro-environmental factors such as topography, altitude, and rivers but also by micro-shaping from social and cultural elements like Minyue culture, tea and porcelain ancient road culture, Zhu Xi’s Neo-Confucianism culture, religious beliefs and customs culture, and red revolutionary culture across different historical periods. This study contributes to the establishment of a model correlating cultural heritage sites with historical periods and provides an interdisciplinary methodological framework to understand the relationship between cultural heritage sites and the geographical environment.

Arthritis affects many individuals and can cause pain and limit physical functioning. Exercise is an important treatment option for individuals with arthritis; however, adherence to exercise programs can be challenging. A new initiative in Denmark has introduced nature-based exercises for patients with arthritis. This qualitative study aimed to explore the experiences of the individuals who participated in those exercises. The study used a hermeneutic-phenomenological approach and conducted along-side interviews with 12 women and three men who participated in nature-based exercise programs for arthritis. Analysis of the data revealed two main themes. The first theme highlighted the positive effects of being in nature, such as increased vitality, reduced pain, and a sense of well-being. The second theme emphasized the social benefits of participating in these exercises, including a sense of connection and community with others. Overall, this study suggests that incorporating nature-based exercises in treatment programs for arthritis could have significant benefits for individuals with this condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A large percentage of plastic is abandoned in the environment, reaching rivers and thus the sea. • Bioplastics have been introduced with the aim of partially replacing plastics and reduce pollution. • Test methods fail to establish a value for parameters to be met to define a substance as biodegradable. • Although biodegradable bioplastics are largely perceived to be a biodegradable material, a large amount is characterised by a widely varied degree of biodegradability. • The authors suggest including ecotoxic analysis of by-products in the presence of incomplete biodegradation. Bioplastics were first introduced as environmentally friendly materials, with properties similar to those of conventional plastics. A bioplastic is defined as biodegradable if it can be decomposed into carbon dioxide under aerobic degradation, or methane and CO 2 under anaerobic conditions, inorganic compounds, and new cellular biomass, by the action of naturally occurring microorganisms. This definition however does not provide any information on the environmental conditions, timescale and extent at which decomposition processes should occur. With regard to the aquatic environment, recognized standards have been established to assess the ability of plastics to undergo biodegradation; however, these standards fail to provide clear targets to be met to allow labelling of a bioplastic as biodegradable. Moreover, these standards grant the user an extensive leeway in the choice of process parameters. For these reasons, the comparison of results deriving from different studies is challenging. The authors analysed and discussed the degree of biodegradability of a series of biodegradable bioplastics in aquatic environments (both fresh and salt water) using the results obtained in the laboratory and from on-site testing in the context of different research studies. Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), CO 2 evolution, surface erosion and weight loss were the main parameters used by researchers to describe the percentage of biodegradation. The results showed a large variability both in weight loss and BOD, even when evaluating the same type of bioplastics. This confirms the need for a reference range of values to be established with regard to parameters applied in defining the biodegradability of bioplastics. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environment and genes both contribute to schizophrenia. However, the impact of different natural environments surrounding residential addresses on schizophrenia in urban settings remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the association of urbanisation, measured by residential environments, with late-onset schizophrenia and explore whether genetic risk for schizophrenia modified the associations. We examined the associations between residential environments and late-onset schizophrenia and its interaction with genetic risk factors in UK Biobank, followed from 2006 to 2010 (baseline) to Dec 2021. Residential environments, including greenspace, domestic garden, blue space, and total natural environment, were evaluated using land use coverage percentage. The polygenic risk score (PRS) of schizophrenia was derived using a Bayesian approach and adjusted it against ancestry. Cox proportional hazard regression model was used to assess the associations between per interquartile (IQR) increase of each type of residential environments and late-onset schizophrenia. Interactive effects of PRS and residential environments on late-onset schizophrenia were assessed on both additive and multiplicative scales. A total of 393,680 participants were included in the analysis, with 844 cases of late-onset schizophrenia being observed after 12.8 years of follow-up. Within 300 m buffer surrounding the residential addresses, per interquartile increase in greenspace (31.5 %) and total natural environment (34.4 %) were both associated with an 11 % (HR = 0.89, 95 % CI 0.80, 0.99) lower risk of late-onset schizophrenia. Domestic garden and blue space did not show significant protective effects on late-onset schizophrenia. A strong dose-response relationship between schizophrenia PRS and schizophrenia was found, while no additive or multiplicative interaction effects were present between residential environments and PRS on late-onset schizophrenia. Residential greenspace and total natural environment may protect against late-onset schizophrenia in older people regardless of genetic risk. These findings shed light on the prevention of schizophrenia and urban planning to optimise ecosystem benefits linked to schizophrenia. [Display omitted] • Residential green and natural space were related to lower late-onset schizophrenia. • Such protective associations were not found for domestic garden or blue space. • Gene did not modify the associations of residential environments with late-onset schizophrenia. • Our results show important implications for urban planning to prevent schizophrenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban parks provide connectedness to nature as a health resilience environment for promoting health. Virtual reality can provide opportunities for urban citizens to be exposed to natural elements with health benefits. The purpose was to explore the effects of actual and virtual parks on the quality of life and physical activity of urban residents. The study design was a cluster trial. Participants were healthy adults aged 20–50 years, recruited from three college campuses, and randomly assigned to two experimental groups (n = 30, 32) and one control group (n = 30). The intervention with virtual or actual parks was conducted for 30 min a session once a week for 12 weeks. Outcomes were measured using self-reported questionnaires, including the World Health Organization Quality-of-Life Scale-BREF and International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form. In total, 84 participants completed the interventions and post-intervention measures. Results showed that participants who experienced actual parks had significant increases in the social quality of life and light-intensity physical activity and had decreased body weight. Participants who experienced the virtual parks experienced a significant increase in their mental quality of life. Participants in the experimental groups of both kinds of parks had significant improvements in their self-rated health, physical and environmental quality of life, and sedentary time after the intervention. Urban parks are an important natural resource for citizens' health and physical activity promotion. Virtual parks can simulate actual parks and have similar health benefits and are thus are recommended for citizens who lack opportunities and motivation to go to actual parks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural outdoor environments provide important settings for children to engage in physical activity. It is unclear if these relationships also exist in preschool aged children.We examined associations between amount and type of neighbourhood vegetation and blue space, proximity to the beach and preschooler's device‐measured movement behaviours.Accelerometer data from 1081 preschool children were processed into physical activity and sedentary behaviours using a machine learned random forest physical activity classification model specifically developed for children under five. High‐resolution aerial imagery data and Geographic Information Systems were used to identify total percentage of neighbourhood vegetation and vegetation components (grass, shrubs and trees) and presence and total percentage of blue space (ocean, riverways and lakes and swamps) for 500, 1600 and 5000 m service areas around children's residences. Distance to the closest beach, patrolled beach, and dog beach were also calculated.Amount of neighbourhood vegetation was inversely associated with boys sedentary time in the 500 m (β = −0.91 min/day, p = 0.006, 95% CI [−1.55, −0.33]) and 1600 m (β = −1.30 min/day, p = 0.001, 95% CI [−2.08, −0.53]) service area, and positively associated with walking time in the 1600 m (β = 0.12 min/day, p = 0.045, 95% CI [0.02, 0.22]) service area. The presence of local riverways was positively associated with girls walking time in the 1600 m (β = 2.34 min/day, p = 0.009, 95% CI [0.59, 4.09]), and 5000 m (β = 1.67 min/day, p = 0.019, 95% CI [0.27, 3.06]) buffer.Distance to dog beach was positively associated with boys sedentary behaviours. Presence of lake and swamps were negatively associated with boys walking, and presence of riverways was negatively associated with girls moderate‐to‐vigorous activities and games and boys running in the 5000 m service area.These findings suggest higher amounts of neighbourhood vegetation and certain types of blue space such as riverways and dog beaches could facilitate positive movement behaviours in young children. Our findings that natural outdoor environments are associated with preschool children's movement behaviours add to evidence which could contribute to policy implications for urban planning and the provision and protection of natural environments within cities. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article considers the possibilities of introducing the circular economy into various business processes in order to reduce waste and improve environmental sustainability in the conditions of transformational changes in the global economy. The combination of innovative approaches of the circular economy and the principles of environmental management allows business entities to reduce the costs of natural resources, improve the quality of products, and reduce the negative impact on the environment. This approach involves creating a sustainable economy where business works in harmony with nature, ensuring economic success and preserving the environment for future generations. The essence and significance of the circular economy from the standpoint of scientists, managers, and business for the sustainable development of the economic system and ensuring environmental sustainability are considered. The formation of institutional foundations (legislative acts) on the example of the EU member states for the integration of the circular economy into business is highlighted. This provided an opportunity to outline the main principles and directions of the circular economy in the business sphere in the context of global environmental security problems. An analysis of the effectiveness of the circular economy was carried out and its dynamics were considered on the example of the countries of Europe and Asia (CAGR), the city of Amsterdam. The change in the level of reuse of materials at the global level (2004-2022) and in the EU countries (2022) was evaluated as the main indicator of the effectiveness of the implementation of the circular economy in business processes. The advantages and challenges of implementing a circular economy are highlighted and the main principles of environmental management in business are defined. According to the results of the study, the possibilities of introducing a circular economy into business processes to reduce waste and increase environmental sustainability have been determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Veterinary school is intense and represents a challenging time for students, and increasingly, veterinary students are being diagnosed with a variety of concerning mental health issues including stress, anxiety, and depression, often resulting in poor academic performance. Because of the disproportionately high risk of mental health problems in the veterinary field, it is important that students learn, understand, and utilize simple and effective techniques to cope with stress, and demands of the profession. Spending time in natural environments such as outdoor parks, green spaces, and urban forests is an effective strategy for improving mental health. In this study, we examined the self-reported effects of repeated, structured time in a nature-based intervention, vs a control group of veterinary students. Participants reported significantly lower perceived stress levels compared to a control group. Students overwhelmingly reported that they would recommend this stress reduction technique to their classmates, and they stated that they planned to continue spending time in nature to improve their mindset and reduce stress in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the study was to comprehensively analyse the effectiveness of environmental indicators in determining the state of forest ecosystems and their ability to reflect changes in the ecological balance. During the study, the influence of anthropogenic factors on biomass, soil acidity, and species diversity of forest ecosystems in the Sumy Oblast of Ukraine was evaluated. Field studies were conducted to determine the soil acidity, the biomass of plants and animals in anthropogenic and natural forest areas, followed by statistical analysis of the data. The degree of degradation of forest areas as a result of human activity was determined and the environmental consequences of these changes for natural systems were evaluated. The results showed that anthropogenically modified areas have reduced biomass (100 t/ha) and species diversity (20 plant species), increased soil acidity (pH 6.5-7) and high concentrations of nitrates and phosphates, compared to mixed forests, where biomass reaches 200 t/ha, species diversity - 50 species of flora, and soil acidity varies from moderately acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-6). These data confirmed the negative impact of human activity on ecosystems, in particular on biomass and soil acidity. It was established that environmental indicators allow forming a comprehensive picture of the state of ecosystems, which is necessary for making informed management decisions aimed at preserving and restoring ecosystems, and at effective management of natural resources. The results obtained demonstrated serious environmental problems as a result of anthropogenic impact on forest ecosystems. A decrease in biomass and species diversity, and an increase in soil acidity in anthropogenic zones indicate the need for urgent implementation of measures for the conservation and restoration of natural forests. The study will be useful in the context of longterm monitoring of ecosystems, which would allow a more detailed investigation of the dynamics of their changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the article is to consider in detail the system of hydronyms found in Saryarka. The article describes in detail the meaning of hydronyms, which provide rich information about natural conditions and landscape features. Research materials and methods of hydronymic names were considered. The scientists who studied the system of hydronyms of Saryarka and their respective contributions to the field were duly acknowledged. The study of the names of water bodies of Saryarka is an urgent task that requires in-depth study. It is possible to obtain a variety of geographical data regarding the formation of hydronyms, including their location and nomination. In this article, we determined the origin of toponymic names, which received the hydronymic name Saryarka, and divided them into groups. The classification of the system of potamonyms describing natural conditions and landscape features was presented in the form of a table. In the course of the study of this work, the physical and geographical features of water bodies were identified: properties, quality, color, flow, location, channel, origin, Coast, shape, depth, as well as their role in economic management (anthropogenic activity). In Saryarka, hydronyms formed on the basis of the names of plants and animals, the names of man, tribes and descendants are widespread. In the course of the study, a system of hydronymic names and terms was grouped, and a map of Saryarka microhydronyms was compiled based on specific data. About 3,000 names of Saryarka water bodies were grouped (based on a top map on a scale of 1: 500,000), and their etymology was determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The plain in front of the north foothills of the Taiyi mountain range in northern Shandong is the area where agriculture first appeared in the Haidai Cultural Area. In multiple sites of the Houli culture, remnants of early Neolithic crops such as millet, broomcorn millet, and rice, as well as agricultural tools for cultivation and harvesting, and tools for hulling and processing crops, have been found. The discovery of ground stone tools, pottery, and fire relics in the Zhaojiaxuyao village and Bianbian cave sites, which predated the Houli culture, provides clues for tracing the origin of agriculture in the Houli culture. The crops such as millet and broomcorn millet planted in the northern region of Shandong may have local origins, which were jointly related to the food shortage caused by climate fluctuations during the transition period from the Late Pleistocene to the Early Holocene, the reduction of activity space caused by the Holocene marine invasion, the survival pressure brought by population growth, and the relatively superior natural conditions of the mountain front alluvial plain. The development of agriculture has brought a series of economic and social changes to the northern region of Shandong, being the driving force behind the emergence and development of the Haidai civilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rich variety of wild animal resources during the Paleolithic period in northeast China was an important guarantee for human sustainable survival and development. This study comprehensively adopts statistical analysis, species composition, natural environment restoration and other methods to investigate the distribution of wildlife resources, natural environment evolution, human hunting strategies, and other aspects. The research results indicate that during the early and middle Paleolithic periods, there were relatively more wild animal resources in lower latitude areas, hilly and plateau types, and mountainous and hilly types; During the late Paleolithic period, there were relatively more wild animal resources in higher latitude areas, river lake terrace types, and hilly and plateau types. From the perspective of the impact of natural environmental changes on the way humans acquired wildlife resources, in the early Paleolithic period, which was generally warm and humid, people tended to hunt large and medium-sized mammals, resulting in lower utilization efficiency; In the cold and dry Middle Paleolithic period, humans changed their hunting strategies and improved their utilization efficiency; In the late Paleolithic period with frequent fluctuations in temperature, humans responded to the reduction of wildlife resources in the context of the climate crisis by strengthening the use of large mammals, innovating stone technology, and expanding hunting targets. At the same time, the extinction process of large mammal populations in the northeast region was accelerated accordingly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural environmental factors and anthropogenic activities could have strong impacts on threatened species distribution. Based on Random Forest modeling and ordinary least squares models, we tested the correlations between natural environmental factors (mean annual temperature (MAT), mean annual precipitation (MAP) and elevation range), anthropogenic activities (changes in cropland area, population density and pasture area) over different periods (between 1700 and 1800, between 1800 and 1900, and between 1900 and 2000) and ratio of threatened orchids in China. The results showed that threatened orchids were concentrated in Southwest China, Central China and Northeast China. The ratio of threatened orchids was positively correlated with MAT and MAP, but negatively correlated with elevation range. In addition, the three anthropogenic activity variables most correlated with threatened orchids ratio were changes of cropland area between 1900 and 2000, population density between 1700 and 1800, and between 1800 and 1900. These correlations were positive, indicating that areas with more anthropogenic activities had more threatened orchids. Moreover, MAP and changes of cropland area between 1900 and 2000 together were more correlated with threatened orchids ratio than other variables. These findings suggest important roles of contemporary climate and anthropogenic activities in shaping the distribution of threatened orchid species in China. Plain Language Summary: Natural environmental factors and anthropogenic activities are critical factors affecting threatened species distribution. This study assessed the associations between natural environmental factors, anthropogenic activities over different periods and the ratio of threatened orchids in China. We found that threatened orchid species were concentrated in Southwest China, Central China and Northeast China. The ratio of threatened orchids was positively correlated with mean annual temperature and mean annual precipitation, but negatively correlated with elevation range. The results also demonstrate that threatened orchids tended to be concentrated in areas with greater increase in cropland area and population density. Our results contribute to a better understanding about the distribution patterns of threatened orchid species and the drivers of threatened orchid species diversity. Key Points: Threatened orchid species were concentrated in Southwest China, Central China and Northeast ChinaThe ratio of threatened orchids was positively correlated with mean annual temperature and mean annual precipitationThreatened orchids tended to be concentrated in regions with greater increase in cropland area and population density [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article is devoted to the analysis of the legal support of environmental policy in Ukraine. Based on the analysis of the articles of the Constitution of Ukraine, which guarantees citizens the right to a safe environment, it is assumed that the state is obliged to ensure environmental safety and preservation of the environment. It was emphasized that the environmental policy of Ukraine should be aimed at protecting the environment, rational use of natural resources and ensuring environmental safety. The author analyzed a number of normative legal acts that determine the priority vectors of environmental policy in Ukraine at various stages of the development of its statehood - starting from 1991 to the present day. Taking into account the goals of the state environmental policy, declared accordingly in the strategies, a conclusion was made about the urgency of environmental issues in the state management system and increased attention from the state to the definition, detailing, analysis and selection of alternative options for solving the environmental problems that have arisen. It was noted that environmental policy is gradually acquiring the characteristics of a full-fledged state policy and the corresponding sphere of state administration, where the state does not simply declare general goals, but defines tasks in the appropriate directions for the possibility of monitoring the effectiveness of statemanagement decisions and, if necessary, their further adjustment. The growing environmental crisis forces us to recognize that issues of environmental protection should become a priority for the Ukrainian authorities. The state should not only set goals, but also monitor their achievement and adjust plans if necessary. Ukraine should make environmental safety one of its main priorities. Without a healthy environment, it is impossible to build a healthy society. The future of Ukraine depends on how we treat nature today. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A growing number of adults are aging with spinal cord injury (SCI) acquired earlier in life. Social integration is important for health and participation after SCI. However, little is known about the role of the community built environment for supporting social integration among adults aging with SCI. Using a structured telephone survey with 182 adults aging with SCI in the midwestern United States, we found that more community built environment facilitators (e.g., curb cuts, automatic doors, paved surfaces) and fewer barriers (e.g., gravel surfaces, crowds) significantly increased the odds of regularly engaging in both formal and informal social activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Knowledge: International Journal is the property of Institute for Knowledge Management 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.)

China's northern Fujian, as one of the spatial carriers of renowned traditional Chinese cultures such as Minyue, Zhu Xi's Neo-Confucianism, tea, and porcelain, has preserved a wealth of tangible cultural relics, showcasing a profound cultural heritage and possessing strong research value and development potential. This study employs GIS spatial statistical analysis and map visualization technology to unveil the evolutionary processes of cultural heritage sites in northern Fujian, focusing on their spatial types, forms, and densities across different historical periods. Based on this foundation, the research further delves into the intrinsic relationships between the spatial distribution characteristics of cultural heritage sites in northern Fujian during various historical periods and the local natural and cultural environment. The results indicate that: (1) the spatial distribution of cultural heritage sites in northern Fujian varies across different historical periods, with the highest concentration and quantity observed during the Ming and Qing periods. In contrast, the Qin, Han, Wei, Jin, Northern and Southern Dynasties period exhibits the lowest quantity and a more dispersed distribution. (2) Cultural heritage sites in northern Fujian are mainly distributed in the relatively flat terrain below 400 m above sea level, including middle to low-altitude mountain basins, river valleys, and low hills. In terms of distance from rivers, cultural heritage sites exhibit a clear distribution pattern along rivers, with a large number of them located within 0–6 km from the riverbanks. (3) The spatial distribution of cultural heritage sites in northern Fujian is influenced not only by macro-environmental factors such as topography, altitude, and rivers but also by micro-shaping from social and cultural elements like Minyue culture, tea and porcelain ancient road culture, Zhu Xi's Neo-Confucianism culture, religious beliefs and customs culture, and red revolutionary culture across different historical periods. This study contributes to the establishment of a model correlating cultural heritage sites with historical periods and provides an interdisciplinary methodological framework to understand the relationship between cultural heritage sites and the geographical environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton, a vital textile raw material, is intricately linked to people's livelihoods. Throughout the cotton cultivation process, various diseases threaten cotton crops, significantly impacting both cotton quality and yield. Deep learning has emerged as a crucial tool for detecting these diseases. However, deep learning models with high accuracy often come with redundant parameters, making them challenging to deploy on resource-constrained devices. Existing detection models struggle to strike the right balance between accuracy and speed, limiting their utility in this context. This study introduces the CDDLite-YOLO model, an innovation based on the YOLOv8 model, designed for detecting cotton diseases in natural field conditions. The C2f-Faster module replaces the Bottleneck structure in the C2f module within the backbone network, using partial convolution. The neck network adopts Slim-neck structure by replacing the C2f module with the GSConv and VoVGSCSP modules, based on GSConv. In the head, we introduce the MPDIoU loss function, addressing limitations in existing loss functions. Additionally, we designed the PCDetect detection head, integrating the PCD module and replacing some CBS modules with PCDetect. Our experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the CDDLite-YOLO model, achieving a remarkable mean average precision (mAP) of 90.6%. With a mere 1.8M parameters, 3.6G FLOPS, and a rapid detection speed of 222.22 FPS, it outperforms other models, showcasing its superiority. It successfully strikes a harmonious balance between detection speed, accuracy, and model size, positioning it as a promising candidate for deployment on an embedded GPU chip without sacrificing performance. Our model serves as a pivotal technical advancement, facilitating timely cotton disease detection and providing valuable insights for the design of detection models for agricultural inspection robots and other resource-constrained agricultural devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blue spaces, like canals, are central to health policies promoting physical activity (PA), enhancing wellbeing, and addressing inequalities. Alongside the health benefits, they can offer an array of societal, environmental, cultural, and other welfare-enhancing benefits, which shape the overall value of blue spaces for population wellbeing. This study investigated the multifaceted value of canals for promoting physical activity and wider community wellbeing from the perspective of local community members in Birmingham (UK). Two consensus workshops were conducted to identify enablers and barriers to engaging in PA alongside canals. Data were generated using the nominal group technique and analysed quantitatively and qualitatively. The community members shared that connecting with nature, enhancing mental health, and socialising were all key facilitators for using canals for PA. Prominent barriers identified were safety concerns, including anti-social behaviour, inadequate lighting, and fear of visiting alone, as well as a lack of accessibility. Overall, the findings highlight the importance of understanding the community perspective when considering the value of blue spaces, and subsequent investment opportunities. By incorporating the community perspective and embedding a notion of 'ownership' over these local assets, this will further enhance the sustainability of investment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background:Analysis of parent-provided home videos is a mode of technology that can facilitate a telehealth assessment, allowing observation of function in the child's natural home environment. This scoping review investigated areas of use of home videos for functional assessment by health professionals with a pediatric population with disabilities. Methods:Four databases were searched for articles in which parent-provided home videos were employed by health professionals for functional assessment in children with disabilities. Articles published from 2013 to 2023 were included in the review if they met the inclusion criteria, and the data were extracted into an Excel file. Results:After screening 3,019 articles, 30 articles were included in the data extraction. The majority of studies utilized home videos for diagnosis of autism, followed by assessment of motor development in infants. Studies found that using home videos for assessment is feasible and empowers parents. The validity and reliability of various home video platforms were demonstrated. Conclusions:Analysis of home videos can aid in making a timely diagnosis for prompt intervention, and can be used to assess various body functions, interchangeable with a live clinic assessment. It is important to provide parents with clear instructions when using this method. Future studies are necessary to determine whether parent-provided home videos can be utilized by a multidisciplinary team to assess diverse factors, including activity, participation, and the environment, in a variety of populations of children with disabilities, thus extending services beyond the physical borders of the clinic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spreading of bacterial and fungal strains that are resistant to antimicrobials poses a serious threat to the well‐being of humans, animals, and plants. Antimicrobial resistance has been mainly investigated in clinical settings. However, throughout their evolutionary history microorganisms in the wild have encountered antimicrobial substances, forcing them to evolve strategies to combat antimicrobial action. It is well known that many of these strategies are based on genetic mechanisms, but these do not fully explain important aspects of the antimicrobial response such as the rapid development of resistance, reversible phenotypes, and hetero‐resistance. Consequently, attention has turned toward epigenetic pathways that may offer additional insights into antimicrobial mechanisms. The aim of this review is to explore the epigenetic mechanisms that confer antimicrobial resistance, focusing on those that might be relevant for resistance in the wild. First, we examine the presence of antimicrobials in natural settings. Then we describe the documented epigenetic mechanisms in bacteria and fungi associated with antimicrobial resistance and discuss innovative epigenetic editing techniques to establish causality in this context. Finally, we discuss the relevance of these epigenetic mechanisms on the evolutionary dynamics of antimicrobial resistance in the wild, emphasizing the critical role of priming in the adaptation process. We underscore the necessity of incorporating non‐genetic mechanisms into our understanding of antimicrobial resistance evolution. These mechanisms offer invaluable insights into the dynamics of antimicrobial adaptation within natural ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our study aims to develop an index for measuring destination image perceptions based on data collected from three prime tourism destinations (destination A = 212, destination B = 194 and destination C = 176 responses) in India in the new normal. There are three studies based on self-reported measures conducted. While the first two studies collected perceptual responses from destinations A and B and were used to validate the factor structure of the destination image, the third study-based responses were used to assess the criterion validity of the destination image index. Our instrument shows that destination image is a second-order index composed of hygiene and vaccination, socio-political environment, natural environment, attractions, and value for money. Implications for managers and practitioners were also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Materiały Budowlane is the property of Wydawnictwo SIGMA-NOT 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.)

Mental health disorders have become a global problem, garnering considerable attention. However, the root causes of deteriorating mental health remain poorly understood, with existing literature predominantly concentrating on socioeconomic conditions and psychological factors. This study uses multi‐linear and geographically weighted regressions (GWR) to examine the associations between built and natural environmental attributes and the prevalence of depression in US counties. The findings reveal that job sprawl and land mixed use are highly correlated with a lower risk of depression. Additionally, the presence of green spaces, especially in urban area, is associated with improved mental health. Conversely, higher concentrations of air pollutants, such as PM2.5 and CO, along with increased precipitation, are linked to elevated depression rates. When considering spatial correlation through GWR, the impact of population density and social capital on mental health displays substantial spatial heterogeneity. Further analysis, focused on two high depression risk clustering regions (northwestern and southeastern counties), reveals nuanced determinants. In northwestern counties, depression rates are more influenced by factors like precipitation and socioeconomic conditions, including unemployment and income segregation. In southeastern counties, population demographic characteristics, particularly racial composition, are associated with high depression prevalence, followed by built environment factors. Interestingly, job growth and crime rates only emerge as significant factors in the context of high depression risks in southeastern counties. This study underscores the robust linkages and spatial variations between built and natural environments and mental health, emphasizing the need for effective depression treatment to incorporate these multifaceted factors. Plain Language Summary: This study examines the associations between built and natural environmental attributes and the prevalence of depression in US counties. The findings reveal that greater job sprawl and land mixed use are associated with lower depression prevalence. Additionally, the presence of green spaces in urban area is associated with reduced depression prevalence. Conversely, higher concentrations of air pollutants, such as PM2.5 and CO, along with increased precipitation, are linked to elevated depression rates. Associations between population density and social capital with depression prevalence display substantial spatial heterogeneity. Further analysis, focused on two high depression risk clustering regions (northwestern and southeastern counties), reveals region‐specific determinants. Key Points: Job sprawl, land mixed use, and green space associate with lower depression risk; the roles of air pollution and precipitation are oppositeAssociation of population density and social capital with depression prevalence exhibit significant spatial diversityPrecipitation and socioeconomic status mainly affect northwestern counties; population demographics plays key role in southeastern counties [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Tikrit University for Humanities is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) 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.)

The UN Security Council represents one of the most important organs dedicated to maintaining international peace and security, which has been put to the test in recent years due to the multiplication of sources of threats to human safety so that the latter has not become limited to those in which people have a hand, as is the case with armed conflicts, but rather It also extends to include natural disasters that affect the world in various parts of the world. On this basis, members of the international community cannot ignore the risks posed by the natural environment, as it is a new source of risks that may affect the safety of individuals. This study aims to explore the various possibilities through which it is possible to raise the competence of the UN Security Council to respond to urgent cases that affect the safety of individuals as a result of natural disasters that affect the world in its various forms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While actions leading to environmental degradation already have global consequences threatening the very existence of humanity, the war in Ukraine has once again proved the effectiveness of existing international environmental protection mechanisms. The purpose of this study is to analyze existing international environmental protection mechanisms from the perspective of the possibility of criminalizing the crime of ecocide. Based on the analysis of the domestic law of countries that have incorporated ecocide as a crime, it follows that national approaches to addressing this issue depend on historical conditions and have significant differences. These differences hinder the prosecution of ecocide in the absence of appropriate international legal mechanisms, while the consequences of ecocide cause global damage. An analysis of the state of international regulations has shown that despite the existence of an extensive environmental protection mechanism, it remains imperfect, thus making it impossible to prosecute ecocide unless it is done in connection with war crimes. An assessment of the data presented in the reports on the war in Ukraine shows that participation in relevant international conventions does not in any way guarantee that the aggressor country will not violate its international obligations. It is shown that recognizing ecocide as a crime at the international level remains the only effective means to bring perpetrators to justice. The results of the study can be used to further improve the legal mechanisms for prosecuting ecocide, in teaching legal disciplines, and in further academic research.

The use of native species in landscaping has gained prominence due to their adaptability and sustainability compared to exotic species. To introduce a new plant into landscaping, it is necessary to define desirable ornamental characteristics. This study aimed to evaluate the ornamental potential and the feasibility of reintroducing the brazilian native orchid Brassavola tuberculata Hook. in natural environments, aiming for its use in sustainable landscaping with and without fertilization. The research was conducted in two main stages. In the first stage, the morphological characteristics of three individuals with floral buds were analyzed, focusing on quantitative aspects. The results showed that the species presents elegant inflorescences and fragrant flowers, with slightly yellowish white petals and a labellum articulated at the base. In the second stage, 20 plants originating from asymbiotic seeding, approximately 10 cm in height, were reintroduced into phorophytes of Hymenaea courbaril. A mixture of buriti palm fiber and coconut chips was used as the substrate. The plants were divided into two groups: one received 12 g of controlled-release fertilizer (NPK 15-15-15 + micronutrients) and the other received no fertilization. Evaluations were carried out on the day of reintroduction (day zero) and at 7, 14, 21, 30, 60, 90, 120, 180, and 360 days after reintroduction. The results indicate that the morphological aspects of B. tuberculata attribute ornamental potential to the species, and it can be successfully reintroduced into natural environments, even without fertilization. The plant demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt and survive, reorganizing its metabolism to cope with initial stress.

The complex interplay between tourism expansion and environmental conservation responsibilities necessitates the adoption of sustainable practices in aquatic ecosystems around the world. Still, existing scholarly investigations predominantly focus on the dynamics of individual rivers, resulting in considerable gaps in our comprehension of large river network systems. To redress these gaps, this study examines the potential effects of tourism development on the environmental sustainability of the Yangtze River and its tributaries in China. Furthermore, it evaluates government support and interventions aimed at strengthening environmental sustainability while proposing specific improvements. In 2023, a comprehensive survey involving 982 stakeholders provided invaluable insights into the multilayered nexus between tourism development and environmental sustainability. We analyzed carefully gathered data from a thoughtfully designed questionnaire using rigorous reliability assessments, correlation analyses, and regression techniques. Cronbach’s alpha coefficients ranging from 0.83 to 0.95 support the results, indicating robust reliability. The findings reveal predominantly positive correlations between governmental support and interventions and environmental sustainability, with visitor management showing the strongest correlation (r = 0.66**). Furthermore, regression analysis reveals that tourism development and governmental support and interventions contribute to both economic sustainability (R2 = 0.61 ∼ R2 = 0.77, ΔR2 = 16) and environmental conservation and management (R2 = 0.51 ∼ R2 = 0.62, ΔR2 = 11) in environmental sustainability. Thus, the study highlights the importance of governmental support and intervention in achieving environmental sustainability. Therefore, it advocates a coordinated approach to maximize policy formulation and implementation benefits. This study provides actionable insights for researchers, stakeholders, and policymakers alike to promote sustainable tourism practices.