Health Benefits Research Articles

Biochemical composition of Armenian chili pepper varieties: insights for functional food applications

Background: Capsicum annuum L. (pepper) is economically significant in many countries, including Armenia, where it helps conserve the vegetable gene pool and supports public health. Its rich biochemical composition makes it a key dietary component, particularly for its antioxidant properties, which combat free radicals. The biochemical makeup of peppers vary by genotype and maturity, leading breeders to develop varieties with both agronomic and nutritional benefits. Chili peppers are especially valued for their high carotene and ascorbic acid content, earning them the title of "multi vitamin concentrate," along with other vitamins and bioactive compounds that enhance their health benefits. Objective: This study examines the biochemical profiles of various Armenian chili pepper varieties, highlighting their nutritional value and potential in agricultural systems. By analysing these unique varieties, the research aims to advance knowledge of their health benefits and promote sustainable farming practices. Methods: The study examined six locally bred chili pepper varieties—'Artsiv', 'Punj', 'Kon', 'Deghin kakach', 'Oranj kakach', and 'Kaytsak'. Ascorbic acid, carotenoids, and phenols were measured at both the technical and biological ripening stages using spectrophotometry. Dry matter was determined by the thermogravimetric method, and sugar content by Bertrand’s method. Pungency was assessed using the Scoville heat units’ method, and statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA. Results: The study of six Armenian chili pepper varieties showed differences in fruit shape, color, ripening times, and productivity. 'Deghin kakach', 'Oranj kakach', and 'Kon' produce conical fruits that change to yellow, orange, and red, respectively, while 'Punj', 'Kaytsak', and 'Artsiv' have elongated fruits that ripen red. Early varieties like 'Punj', 'Artsiv', and 'Kaytsak' mature 11–17 days earlier. 'Oranj kakach' was the most productive (19.4 t/ha), while 'Kaytsak' had the lowest yield. 'Artsiv', 'Punj', and 'Kaytsak' were hot, while the others were moderately hot. Carotenoid content rose during ripening, ascorbic acid ranged from 115.0 to 175.6 mg/100 g, with 'Punj' highest, and total phenolics peaked in 'Deghin kakach'. Conclusion: Armenian chili pepper varieties are rich in bioactive compounds—phenols, ascorbic acid, carotenoids, and capsaicin— suitable for functional foods. During ripening, carotenoids increased by up to 583.64%, ascorbic acid by 97.4%, and phenols by 96.43%. ‘Punj’ had the highest ascorbic acid, ‘Oranj kakach’ the most carotenoids, and ‘Deghin kakach’ the most phenols, highlighting the potential of ripening to boost the health benefits of these peppers. Keywords: hot pepper, vitamin C, carotenoids, phenols, phenological stages, productivity

A Nitbit Citation of the Contributions of Sheikh Abdullahi Fodiyo in the Public Health of The 19th Century West Africa and Beyond: A Case Study of "Kitaabu Niyyati Fil' A'amaliddunyawiyyati Wal'ddiniyyati" (A Book of Intentions in the Issues of World and

Nowadays, invariably health improvement, health education, health benefits are attached to religiosity as confirmed by inexhaustible literatures. This paper reviewed some of the contributions of Sheikh Abdullahi Fodiyo in the public health of 19th century West African Sokoto Caliphate and afterwards in his famous book called "Kitaabu Niyyati Fil' A'amaliddunyawiyyati Wal'ddiniyyati" (A book of intentions in the issues of world and religion). In the examined book, he stressed the importance of cleanliness, ablution, prayer, work/ employment/ wealth, agriculture, and meat production in the development and sustainability of society, let alone the Muslim ummah. He warned against unemployment, lack of personal hygiene, poor production and handling of food/ meat among others. Certainly, the book exhorts benefits to public health especially in Islamic societies. There is need to use religion as health education, and health promotion tool especially in religious societies for better health and interventions.

Absolute and relative intensities of solo, free-form dancing in adults: A pilot study

Objectives Engaging in dance of various styles confers health benefits among adults; however, additional studies on free-form dancing are needed to quantify its intensity and advance research on dance and health. This study characterized the absolute and relative physical activity (PA) intensities of solo, free-form dancing at self-determined moderate and vigorous intensities in adults. Method Participants (N = 48) ages 18 to 83 years old, with 0 to 56 years of dance training experience, engaged in 5-minute free-form dance bouts at respectively self-determined moderate and vigorous intensities, both with and without music. Absolute intensity was measured during bouts using indirect calorimetry (metabolic equivalents; METs = V˙O2 ml·kg-1·min-1/3.5). Relative intensity was measured by ratings of perceived exertion (Borg scale) and heart rate. Linear mixed effects models were used to assess the relationship between absolute and relative intensity metrics and model covariates. Results On average, the relative intensity of self-determined moderate-to-vigorous intensity dancing, with and without music, was 76% of the age-predicted maximal heart rate; 74% of the heart rate reserve (HRR); and 13 on the Borg scale. By measure of %HRR, all adults reached at least a moderate PA intensity across all dance bouts. The mean absolute intensity of self-determined moderate intensity free-form dancing without music was 5.6 METs, and the presence of music (β = 0.6) and the intention to dance at a vigorous intensity (β = 1.1) were both significantly positively associated with METs, as participants engaged in free-form dance; METs were significantly inversely associated with age (β = -0.05) and BMI (β = -0.10). Conclusions When characterized using HRR, engaging in free-form dance at self-determined moderate-to-vigorous PA intensities provided a sufficient stimulus for all adults to reach a moderate PA intensity, which provides evidence that dancing however one wishes at such perceived intensities may support adults in accumulating the recommended weekly dose of 3150 minutes of moderate intensity PA.

Chlorella vulgaris as a food substitute: Applications and benefits in the food industry

AbstractChlorella vulgaris, a freshwater microalga, is gaining attention for its potential as a nutritious food source and dietary supplement. This review aims to provide a comprehensive discussion on C. vulgaris, evaluating its viability as a food substitute in the industry by exploring the nutritional value and application of C. vulgaris in the food industry. Rich in protein, lipids, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, Chlorella offers substantial nutritional benefits, positioning it as a valuable food substitute. Its applications in the food industry include incorporation into smoothies, snacks, and supplements, enhancing the nutritional profile of various food products. The health benefits of Chlorella encompass antioxidant activity, immune system support, and detoxification, contributing to overall well‐being. Despite these advantages, the commercialization of Chlorella faces significant challenges. These include variability in antibacterial activity due to strain and growth conditions, high production costs, contamination risks, and sensory issues such as unpleasant taste and smell. Additionally, Chlorella can accumulate heavy metals from its environment, necessitating stringent quality control measures. Future prospects involve improving Chlorella strains through genetic manipulation to enhance nutrient content, developing cost‐effective culture systems, and exploring advanced processing techniques like pulsed electric fields for better digestibility. Addressing sensory issues through flavor‐masking strategies and employing environmental management practices will further support Chlorella's integration into the food industry. Although C. vulgaris shows great potential as a nutritious food ingredient, overcoming existing challenges and optimizing production methods would be crucial for its successful adoption and widespread use.

Metabolic and bariatric surgery for adolescents with severe obesity: Benefits, risks, and specific considerations

International and national guidelines recommend metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) as a treatment option for adolescents with severe obesity, but few countries offer MBS to adolescents in routine clinical care. This narrative review summarizes existing adolescent MBS guidelines and the available underpinning evidence. Two randomized trials and additional prospective studies have demonstrated efficacy and safety in adolescent MBS, and the health benefits appear to be similar or superior to outcomes in adults. However, there are specific challenges regarding the intervention during adolescence related to decision-making capacity and a peak in risk-taking behavior. Adolescents with severe obesity have—as a group—a mental health vulnerability, and specific nutritional concerns need to be addressed in relation to MBS. This review also describes how study findings can be translated into clinical care. We use Sweden as an example, where the National Board of Health and Welfare recommends MBS for selected adolescents with severe obesity aged 15 years or older. We present practical advice for implementing and integrating MBS in adolescents in the framework of multidisciplinary pediatric and adolescent care for obesity.

Concentrating Cocoa Polyphenols—Clarification of an Aqueous Cocoa Extract by Protein Precipitation and Filtration

The seeds of Theobroma cacao L. are rich in antioxidant flavonoids such as flavan-3-ols, which are valued for their health benefits. In this context, it is of interest to improve flavanol content in cocoa extracts. The present study aimed at improving the clarification process of an aqueous cocoa extract using protein precipitation and filtration. Five pH modifications and two bentonite amounts were tested for their effects on protein precipitation and flavanol content. Micro- and ultrafiltration as a subsequent step was done by testing three different ceramic membranes (30, 80, and 200 nm). Lower pH in pre-treatment reduced protein content and kept flavanols constant, while at higher pH, flavanols were reduced up to 40%. Larger membrane pores enhanced polyphenol permeation, while smaller pores limited protein permeation. Adjusting pH to the isoelectric point increased protein adsorption, improving filtration quality despite decreased permeate flux. However, membrane fouling results in higher permeate quality due to increased selectivity. Furthermore, the addition of bentonite during filtration reduced both protein and flavanol content in the permeate, similar to the effects seen in the pre-treatment of the supernatant. Optimizing pH and membrane pore size enhances the recovery and quality of polyphenols during filtration, balancing protein removal and flavanol retention.

Chemical Composition, Bioactivities, and Applications of Spirulina (Limnospira platensis) in Food, Feed, and Medicine

Spirulina (Limnospira platensis) is a microalga recognised for its rich nutritional composition and diverse bioactive compounds, making it a valuable functional food, feed, and therapeutic agent. This review examines spirulina’s chemical composition, including its high levels of protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds, such as the phycocyanin pigment, polysaccharides, and carotenoids, in food, feed, and medicine. These compounds exhibit various biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antiviral, anticancer, antidiabetic and lipid-lowering effects. Spirulina’s potential to mitigate oxidative stress, enhance immune function, and inhibit tumour growth positions it as a promising candidate for preventing chronic diseases. Additionally, spirulina is gaining interest in the animal feed sector as a promotor of growth performance, improving immune responses and increasing resistance to diseases in livestock, poultry, and aquaculture. Despite its well-documented health benefits, future research is needed to optimize production/cultivation methods, improve its bioavailability, and validate its efficacy (dose–effect relationship) and safety through clinical trials and large-scale human trials. This review underscores the potential of spirulina to address global health and nutrition challenges, supporting its continued application in food, feed, and medicine.

Benefits of Astaxanthin supplementation: selected issues

INTRODUCTION: Astaxanthin, a carotenoid compound belonging to the xanthophyll group, occurs naturally in algae, yeast, and marine organisms such as shrimp, trout, lobster, and krill. Renowned for its antioxidant prowess, astaxanthin shields mitochondria from harm caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Its exceptional antioxidant potency is noteworthy, surpassing that of α-tocopherol (Vitamin E) by 100-fold and eclipsing over 600 other recognized natural carotenoids. REVIEW METHODS: The article was complied by analyzing data from PubMed and Google Scholar data regarding the benefits of astaxanthin supplementation. THE STATE OF KNOWLEDGE: Astaxanthin, offers a range of health benefits. It modulates immune responses, inhibits cancer cell growth, reduces bacterial presence and gastric inflammation. With potent antioxidant properties, it also serves as a neuroprotective agent by combating neuroinflammation. Additionally, astaxanthin shows promise in preventing and treating liver diseases, thanks to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and signaling pathway regulation properties. Overall, antioxidants like astaxanthin, whether from diet or supplements, help combat lipid and protein oxidation, thereby slowing down the progression of atherosclerosis. CONCLUSION: Astaxanthin emerges as a promising candidate for treating various pathological conditions linked to oxidative damage and impaired mitochondria function. These conditions span across cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders and liver diseases. It could also help healthy people like athletes in enhancement of overall quality of life.

Synthetic Biology-Enabled Engineering of Probiotics for Precision and Targeted Therapeutic Delivery Applications

Probiotics, defined as live microorganisms that offer health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts, have traditionally been used to maintain gastrointestinal (GI) health. They are effective in managing conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Recent research, however, has expanded their potential applications beyond the GI tract to include immune modulation, metabolic regulation, and mental health support. Despite these advances, conventional probiotics face limitations such as instability in harsh environments, lack of precise targeting, and ineffective control over drug release. This review explores the application of synthetic biology in addressing these limitations, emphasizing how tools such as CRISPR-Cas systems, synthetic gene circuits, and plasmid-based mechanisms enhance the stability, functionality, and specificity of engineered probiotics for therapeutic delivery. Applications of synthetic biology-enabled probiotics are examined across a range of health contexts, including GI health, cancer therapy, metabolic disorders, immune modulation, and mental well-being. Synthetic biology tools provide precise genetic modifications that improve the stability, viability, and functionality of engineered probiotics, enabling more targeted therapeutic delivery. Additionally, technologies such as encapsulation support probiotic survival, while gene circuits allow programmable, stimulus-responsive therapeutic release. As synthetic biology continues to advance, the development of programmable probiotics holds promise for personalized, targeted medicine, positioning probiotics as living therapeutics and patient-friendly alternatives to conventional therapeutic delivery systems.

Assessing Olive Oil Quality Using Different DNA-Based Methods

Olive oil is appreciated worldwide for its unique nutritional and organoleptic properties. It is rich in unsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants, which are well-known for their health benefits. The qualitative characteristics of olive oil can be adversely affected by various biotic and abiotic factors. Particularly, microbial pathogens, such as mold fungi, can cause the deterioration of the oil and, thus, be a serious risk to consumer health. In this study, the effectiveness of DNA-based methods, i.e., endpoint PCR, Real-Time PCR (RT-PCR), and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), all based on the ITS2-28S region, were used to evaluate the fungal contamination of samples of extra virgin olive oil. All the DNA techniques were able to detect, albeit at different levels, fungal infections affecting some of the basic quality parameters of the olive oils analyzed. However, compared to endpoint PCR and/or RT-PCR, the LAMP assay greatly simplified and accelerated the identification of pathogenic mold in the oil samples. This may encourage the olive oil industry to adopt this method in order to offer the consumer an oil with specific health parameters and therefore guarantee the safety and quality of this precious food product.

The role of the Mediterranean Diet in preventing the development and complications of lifestyle diseases – a Review

IntroductionThe Mediterranean diet, inspired by traditional dietary habits of the Mediterranean region, exhibits anti-inflammatory and protective effects, reducing the risk of civilization diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders. This diet is characterized by a high intake of plant-based foods, olive oil, and moderate consumption of fish and dairy products. These components provide unsaturated fatty acids, polyphenols, and antioxidants, which positively impact metabolic health and lower the risk of chronic diseases. In the face of the global obesity epidemic and an increasing number of individuals affected by lifestyle-related diseases, the Mediterranean diet offers a promising tool to support a healthy lifestyle. Aim of study This article aims to review current scientific studies evaluating the potential of the Mediterranean diet in preventing and managing civilization diseases. Particular attention is given to its effects on weight loss, improvements in glycemic markers, reductions in low density lipoproteins (LDL) cholesterol levels, and blood pressure control. The article also explores its benefits for athletes' health, as well as its potential to reduce oxidative stress and inflammatory states. Material and methods A literature review of the PubMed database was conducted, assessing relevant studies on the Mediterranean diet and its impact on lifestyle diseases.

Food as a public service for people and pollinators: evidence-based insights from regenerative placemaking in New Zealand—the Waharoa living lab

ABSTRACT This action research project transformed a former bowling green into a public, inclusive, edible landscape in Waharoa, Aotearoa-New Zealand, where everyone is welcome to help themselves to fruits and vegetables free of charge and without being asked to work on the land. This 400 m2 Living Lab (LL) differs from community gardens, which are increasingly seen as privatising public land. The LL involved multi-stakeholder cooperation (government, community, and academia) and produced benefits that research participants perceived as transition pathways to more nutritious dietary choices, health education, and reduced criminality in a socially deprived region. The analyses of interviews, observations, and pollinator surveys conducted at the Waharoa LL (which confirmed that 14 visiting species were drawn by the LL) were coupled with insights from prior scholarship to put forward an approach to regenerative placemaking that articulates human and non-human perspectives and serves a planetary purpose combining human health and biodiversity benefits.

The advantage of matcha green tea over other drinks: A comprehensive review

Matcha green tea is a finely ground powder made from specially cultivated and processed leaves of Camellia sinensis. Key components of matcha include catechins, caffeine, theanine, fat-soluble vitamins, insoluble dietary fibers, chlorophylls, and proteins. Studies indicate that matcha green tea may offer various health benefits, such as reducing the effects of aging, alleviating stress, and mitigating cognitive impairment. Furthermore, regular consumption of matcha tea supports gut microbiome health, enhances immune function, and reduces the risk of inflammation as well as certain types of cancer. This review strengthens the connection between regular intake of matcha green tea and overall well-being.

Maleylpyruvic Acid-Inducible Gene Expression System and Its Application for the Development of Gentisic Acid Biosensors.

Gentisic acid is a secondary plant metabolite, known for its health benefits, not only widely used as a supplement but also implicated as a potential biomarker for cancer-associated metabolism alterations. To advance bioproduction and detection of this compound or its derivatives, cell-based approaches have become of interest in recent years. However, the lack of tools for high-throughput gentisic acid monitoring and compound-metabolizing organism screening limits the progress in this area. Here, we analyzed the gene cluster responsible for gentisic acid metabolism in Cupriavidus necator H16. The transcriptional regulator GtdR-based inducible gene expression system CnGtdR/PgtdA was elucidated, showing that it was activated when C. necator cells were subjected to gentisic acid. Subsequently, a 3-maleylpyruvic acid was identified as a primary inducer for this inducible system. Furthermore, genes gtdA and gtdT, encoding for gentisate 1,2-dioxygenase and MFS transporter, were shown to be essential for inducible system activation in the presence of gentisic acid with GtdA enabling conversion of this phenolic acid into the inducer. The CnGtdRAT/PgtdA-based inducible system was employed to develop a whole-cell biosensor for the intracellular and extracellular detection of gentisic acid. The potential of the 3-maleylpyruvic acid-inducible system was demonstrated by its application in metabolic pathway research, detection of highly unstable 3-maleylpyruvic acid, and development of biosensors for the intracellular or extracellular determination of gentisic acid. In addition, the utility of the biosensor was emphasized by its application for detection of gentisic acid as a potential biomarker for cancer in urine samples.

Antibacterial activity of the biogenic volatile organic compounds from three species of bamboo

Plant biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) possess ecological functions in antimicrobial benefits and air purification. The objectives of the study were to determine the differences in antimicrobial capacity of bamboo forests at different sampling sites. Three common bamboo species—Phyllostachys edulis, Bambusa emeiensis, and Phyllostachys violascens—were selected to determinate the antimicrobial activity of bamboo forests as well as under ex vivo conditions. Natural sedimentation method was used to determine the microbe counts in bamboo forests, and the microbe counts in grassland in the same area was measured as control treatment. The results showed that except for the P. violascens in Ya’an, the airborne microbial content of the sampling sites in bamboo forests was significantly lower relative to that of grassland in the same area, and inhibition rate reached 74.14% in the P. violascens forest in Dujiangyan. P. edulis forest and P. violascens forest in Ya'an had significantly lower inhibition rates than the other sampling sites, and there was no significant difference in the inhibition rates among the rest of the bamboo forest. The bacterial inhibition rate of bamboo leaves under ex vivo conditions varied with bamboo species and bacterial strains, with higher antibacterial activity against Gram-negative bacteria overall. Escherichia coli was sensitive to B. emeiensis leaves, while Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis were sensitive to P. violascens leaves. Moreover, Candida albicans, S. cremoris, and Shigella Castellani were sensitive to P. edulis leaves. An analysis of the BVOCs composition from P. edulis collected in Changning by SPME-GC/MS revealed that the relative content of ocimene was obviously higher than other components. This study showed that P. edulis BVOCs have strong inhibitory ability to the tested microorganisms, and its main constituent, ocimene, has health benefit. P. edulis has the potential to become a forest recreation bamboo species.

Evaluation of flavor characteristics in Chinese wheat flour paste using electronic-nose, electronic-tongue, and headspace-gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry at different fermentation stages.

Wheat flour paste is a typical Chinese fermented food, valued for its distinct flavors and health benefits. However, evidence regarding volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in Chinese wheat flour paste is limited. This study aims to examine the effect of fermentation on the VOCs and their physicochemical properties. Chinese wheat flour paste fermented at different stages was characterized using headspace gas chromatography ion-mobility spectrometry (HS-GC-IMS) with an electronic nose (E-nose) and an electronic tongue (E-tongue). The results revealed that around 76 VOCs were found in Chinese wheat flour paste from all stages of fermentation. These included esters, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, acids, furans, and pyrazines. The E-tongue and E-nose analyses also showed high responses for saltiness, umami, WIW, and W5S. The fermentation process changed the color of the wheat flour paste, and the taste, and smell parameters. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that taste parameters were positively associated with the volatile flavor profile detected in wheat flour paste. Partial least squares discriminant analysis also identified 28 VOCs as distinct flavor metabolites across fermentation stages. At the 'after ripening' (AR) and 'sterilization' (S) stages of wheat flour paste fermentation there were strong umami and salty flavors, with minimal sour and sweet notes in comparison with the other stages. These stages were characterized by elevated terpene concentrations, inorganic sulfides, and key flavor enhancers such as 2-hexanol and propyl sulfide. Headspace gas chromatography ion-mobility spectrometry and E-nose technologies are recommended for a more precise assessment of volatile changes during fermentation. The findings indicate that the 'sterilization' stage of wheat flour paste fermentation is optimal for achieving the required flavor profile. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Changes in the total phenolic contents, chlorogenic acid, and caffeine of coffee cups regarding different brewing methods

Coffee is among the most popular beverages consumed worldwide due to its taste, flavor, and alertness effects on drinkers. Besides, caffeine and chlorogenic acid are known as featured compounds of coffee, and there are various phenolic compounds, that demonstrate many benefits for human health. However, the concentrations of those compounds ingested into the human body are greatly dependent on how coffee infusions are prepared. The extraction efficiency of phenolic compounds, caffeine, and chlorogenic acid in the Arabica and Robusta coffee obtained from the light, medium, and dark roasting levels, using the hot brew (at 50°C and 90°C) and cold brew methods was studied. The total phenolic contents (TPCs) were measured by the Folin-Ciocalteu assay, while the first -order derivative spectrophotometry was used to determine the caffeine and chlorogenic acid. Generally, light-roasted Robusta had the highest caffeine (2.10±0.017% w/w), chlorogenic acid (5.63±0.011% w/w), and TPCs (45.5±0.9 mg GAE/g). For brewing experiments, 10 g of coffee was brewed (100 mL of water) for different extraction times. The results show that hot brewing at 90°C was the most efficient method for extracting the TPCs and chlorogenic acid, while cold brewing was better for extracting caffeine. Extraction efficiency increased with longer extraction times, especially for the light roasting level.

Public Spending and Inclusive Growth in Developing Asia

This paper examines the impact of government spending on inclusive growth in developing Asia, focusing on fiscal redistribution through education, health, and social benefits. Using panel data from 16 countries over the period 1970–2017, we apply a fixed-effects logistic regression model to assess the likelihood of inclusive growth episodes. Our findings indicate that fiscal redistribution, particularly through targeted health and education spending, significantly enhances the chances of achieving inclusive growth. The results also suggest that redistributive spending helps reduce income inequality, ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are more widely shared. We further explore the practical implications of these findings through case studies of China, India, and Vietnam, demonstrating how effective government spending can foster inclusive growth. The paper highlights the importance of well-targeted fiscal policies to support sustainable and equitable development in the post-COVID recovery.

How Built Environment Characteristics Influence Social Interactions During Neighbourhood Walks Among Urban Inhabitants

As an accessible and low-risk mode of transportation and recreational activity, walking both produces and is produced by socio-spatial urban features. The health benefits of walking transcend physical fitness, remaining integral to mental health and to fostering social connectedness in urban communities. Understanding what drives walking behaviour, therefore, warrants attention from a public health perspective. This qualitative case study focuses on the social interactions of inhabitants during neighbourhood walks and how built environment features influence walking patterns and experience. Using diaries, maps, and semi-structured interviews with 45 inhabitants of a mid-sized Canadian city, this research investigates the influence of permanent and temporary physical features on the perceived quality of inhabitants’ walks. The findings show the public visibility of urban modifications influences walking behaviour and improves social interactions, leading to a heightened sense of belonging and community. Inhabitant-led modifications in the urban space were mostly neighbourhood-bound and voyeuristic, whereas administrative interventions were more successful for collectivization. Both types of interventions are argued to foster social connectedness through different mechanisms, with positive impacts on inhabitants’ health and wellbeing. The findings underscore the relevance of community-led and administratively planned interventions in built environments in positioning public health policies associated with social cohesion and connectedness.

Planning eco-sensitive zones for promoting tree diversity and ecosystem services in urban academic landscapes: a case study from the North-western Indo-Gangetic plain

ABSTRACT Urban academic greenspaces provide a protective environment for the conservation of plants and animals and ecological health benefits to human beings. Several anthropogenic activities and landscape practices lead to patches of natural and built-up areas; therefore, a better understanding of campus tree diversity and ecosystem services among natural and built-up areas may help in biodiversity management. Considering this, we assessed how landscape heterogenicity (i.e. the proportion of natural and built-up/paved surface area) and planning principles influence tree density and diversity patterns in three zones (buffer zone: natural/remnant woodland; transition zone: mixed open grassland and woody plantation; core zone: paved/built-up, grassland, and scattered woody plantation) in the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali campus (Punjab) India. We found a total of 1,993 trees belonging to sixty-eight species, mostly native flora. We found that landscape planning principles significantly influenced tree diversity patterns, with the highest tree diversity in the B3 buffer zone (H: 2.9, PIE: 0.9), which integrated elements of the original landscape and new plantations to optimise ecological value and the lowest diversity in the B2 buffer zone (i.e. H: 0.4; PIE: 0.2) with a monoculture plantation of exotic agroforestry species. We also observed that tree density was negatively influenced by impervious surface area (r = -0.68, p < 0.05) in the core zones and by the plantation of exotic species in the natural areas. The campus diversity supports birds of different feeding guilds (insectivore: 41%, omnivore: 25%, carnivore: 25%, frugivore/nectarivore: 13%, graminivore: 4%, and piscivore: 2%). Additionally, academic buildings planned with high canopy cover and density (45% and 95 ha−1) had reduced the wall temperatures of academic buildings from 12°C to 6°C compared to neighbouring buildings without tree cover. This highlighted the importance of maintaining tree diversity in urban academic institutions to promote urban sustainability.