Organization For Economic Cooperation Research Articles

Valuing a Reduction in the Risk and Severity of Asthma: A Large Scale Multi-Country Stated Preference Approach

Abstract Asthma is a non-communicable and non-curable lung disease that affects 10% of children and 4% of adults worldwide and is associated with an array of environmental contaminants and chemicals. This article offers values suitable for use in cost–benefit analyses of the willingness to pay (WTP) for reduced severity of asthma in adults and children and in reduced probability of getting asthma for these two population groups, all in the context of reducing chemical exposures. To this end, an online survey was administered between November 2021 and May 2022 to 12 727 respondents from seven countries of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). This article applies two stated preference methods for eliciting WTP: the contingent valuation method for reduced asthma severity and choice experiments for reduced probability of getting asthma of various severities. The context for such elicitations was a set of household products that contain fewer hazardous chemicals than what is currently available in supermarkets but are more expensive. The study finds that the WTP for reducing asthma severity in adults by one step, e.g. from “moderate plus” to “moderate”, is USD2022 529 per year on average. The parental WTP for reducing asthma severity in their children is USD2022 PPP 948 per year and is on average 1.8 times higher than their WTP for themselves. The mean value of a statistical case (VSC) of adult asthma which would be applied to predictions of new cases of asthma avoided by a regulation equals USD2022 280 000, while the mean VSC of childhood asthma equals USD2022 430 000.

From policy stringency to environmental resilience: Unraveling the dose-response dynamics of environmental parameters in OECD countries

In the pursuit of sustainable development and the mitigation of negative externalities arising from environmental stressors, a multitude of member countries within the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) have embraced various environmental policies. Nevertheless, previous empirical research has largely overlooked investigating the causal relationship between the Environmental Policy Stringency (EPS) and environmental indicators. To bridge this gap, we conduct an empirical study to examine the dose-response relationship between EPS, as a continuous treatment variable, and selected environmental indicators. Our findings reveal evidence of a mixed treatment effect of policy stringency on the environment. Notably, the implementation of EPS leads to a reduction in carbon emissions per capita and an overall decline in ecological footprint. However, despite OECD countries moving towards a negative trajectory to preserve the environment, carbon intensity remains steadfastly on a positive path. Moreover, the intensification of policy stringency demonstrates positive effects on total renewable energy production, encompassing solar, wind, and eco-innovation. Building upon these empirical results, we offer several policy implications for the adoption and implementation of environmental policies within OECD countries.

Volumetric, embodied and geologic geopolitics of the seabed: offshore tin mining in Indonesia

ABSTRACT This paper introduces empirical research on tin divers’ bodily experience of seabed mining concerning offshore Bangka and Belitung Islands, Indonesia, critical seabed mining sites. To govern the seabed off these Islands, ‘classic’ geopolitical approaches such as marine spatial planning (MSP) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) hierarchically construct the seabed through two-dimensional mapping and policy, occluding specific tin diving practices on the seabed. Moving from such flat geopolitical understandings of the ocean floor, this paper offers new engagements with feminist geopolitics, volumetric territory and social ocean studies to think about the seabed through its volume, the bodies that are immersed within and animate it, and its geologic materiality. It does so by examining intimate tin diving relations between human bodies, volumetric space and ore bodies in relation to the contemporary geopolitical making of the seabed territory. Whilst many scholars have engaged with this volumetric-embodied-geologic approach, this paper argues that the nexus of volumetric space, bodies (embodied experiences) and geologic materiality in tin diving are a crucial tactical point for diverse mining governance actors, sustaining dangerous labour, mining accidents and death in tin diving.

Exploring the anti-inflammatory, sedative, antidiabetic, and antioxidant potential in in-vitro and in-vivo models and phenolic profiling of Atractylis aristata Batt.

Ethnopharmacological relevanceAtractylis aristata batt., as an endemic plant from the Asteraceae family, holds a significant position in the Ahaggar region of southern Algeria's traditional medicine. The aerial parts of Atractylis aristata was used to cure inflammation, fever, and stomach disorders. Aim of the studyThe objective of the present investigation was to ascertain the overall bioactive components and phytochemical components and examine the antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, acute toxicity, and sedative properties of the crude extract obtained from the aerial portions of Atractylis aristata (AaME). Materials and methodsThe AaME's antioxidant activity was assessed by the use of pyrogallol autoxidation, (1,1 diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) (DPPH), 2,2′-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS), and reducing power (RP) techniques. 1 mg/mL of AaME was used to evaluate the antidiabetic activity by applying the enzyme α-amylase inhibitory power test. At the same time, the bovine serum albumin (BSA) denaturation method was employed to quantify the in vitro anti-inflammatory activity at different concentrations (1.5625, 0.78125, 0.390625, 0.1953125 and 0.09765625 mg/mL). In contrast, following the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) guideline No. 423, which covers acute oral toxicity testing protocols, the limit dosage test was employed to assess in vivo acute toxicity. At the dose of 0.08 mg/mL, the carrageenan-induced paw edema approach was used to assess the anti-inflammatory efficacy in vivo, and the sedative activity was carried out at the dose of 0.08 mg/mL using the measurement of the locomotor method. Different bioactive compounds were identified within AaME using LC-MS/MS and HPLC-UV analysis. ResultsThe acute toxicity study showed no fatalities or noticeable neurobehavioral consequences at the limit test; this led to their classification in Globally Harmonized System (GHS) category Five, as the OECD guideline No 423 recommended. At a concentration of 0.08 mg/mL (2000 mg/kg), AaME showed apparent inhibition of paw edema and a significant (p = 0.01227) reduction in locomotor activity compared to the control animals. Our findings showed that AaME exhibited considerable antioxidant (IC50 = 0.040 ± 0.003 mg/mL (DPPH), IC50 = 0.005 ± 5.77 × 10-5 mg/mL (ABTS), AEAC = 91.15 ± 3.921 mg (RP) and IR% = 23.81 ± 4.276 (Inhibition rate of pyrogallol) and rebuts antidiabetic activities (I% = 57.6241% ± 2.81772). Our findings revealed that the maximum percentage of BSA inhibition (70.84 ± 0.10%) was obtained at 1.562.5 mg/mL. Thus, the AaME phytochemical profile performed using phytochemical screening, HPLC-UV, and LC-MS/MS analysis demonstrated that A. aristata can be a valuable source of chemicals with biological activity for pharmaceutical manufacturers. ConclusionThe phytochemical profiling, determined through HPLC-UV and LC-MS/MS applications, reveals this plant's therapeutic value. The aerial parts of Atractylis aristata contain bioactive molecules such as gallic acid, ascorbic acid, and quercetin, contributing to its significant antioxidant capabilities. Furthermore, identifying alizarin, the active compound responsible for its anti-inflammatory properties, could provide evidence supporting the anti-inflammatory capabilities of this subspecies.

The stability and acceptance of the “system of competency‐based curriculum design” framework: Perspectives of teachers

AbstractThe “System of Competency‐Based Curriculum Design” (SCCD) framework was developed to meet the requirement for reform in competency‐based education and overcome the limitations of Understanding by Design (UbD). This comprehensive framework, incorporating knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values, aligns with competency ingredients as defined by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and integrates diverse curriculum theories. It provides educators with clear steps and empowers them to make iterative calibration while designing units/courses, ensuring a dynamic and responsive approach to curriculum development. To assess the stability and acceptance of the SCCD framework, a research instrument was developed, encompassing five stability subscales with a total of 25 items and an additional acceptance subscale featuring five items. A total of 455 participants who participated in SCCD training workshops were involved in the study. The research outcomes affirm the robustness of its theoretical foundation. Additionally, the unequivocal endorsement of its concept by teachers from diverse backgrounds serves as further validation of its integrity. The study concludes with recommendations derived from the obtained results.

Within-laboratory reproducibility of Ames test results: Are repeat tests necessary?

The Ames test is required by regulatory agencies worldwide for assessing the mutagenic and carcinogenic potential of chemical compounds. This test uses several strains of bacteria to evaluate mutation induction: positive results in the assay are predictive of rodent carcinogenicity. As an initial step to understanding how well the assay may detect mutagens present as constituents of complex mixtures such as botanical extracts, a cross-sector working group examined the within-laboratory reproducibility of the Ames test using the extensive, publicly available National Toxicology Program (NTP) Ames test database comprising more than 3000 distinct test articles, most of which are individual chemicals. This study focused primarily on NTP tests conducted using the standard Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development Test Guideline 471 preincubation test protocol with 10% rat liver S9 for metabolic activation, although 30% rat S9 and 10 and 30% hamster liver S9 were also evaluated. The reproducibility of initial negative responses in all strains with and without 10% S9, was quite high, ranging from 95% to 99% with few exceptions. The within-laboratory reproducibility of initial positive responses for strains TA98 and TA100 with and without 10% rat liver S9 was ≥90%. Similar results were seen with hamster S9. As expected, the reproducibility of initial equivocal responses was lower, <50%. These results will provide context for determining the optimal design of recommended test protocols for use in screening both individual chemicals and complex mixtures, including botanicals.

A Comparison of In Vitro Metabolic Clearance of Various Regulatory Fish Species Using Hepatic S9 Fractions.

Bioaccumulation predictions can be substantially improved by combining in vitro metabolic rate measurements derived from rainbow trout hepatocytes and/or hepatic S9 fractions with quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) modeling approaches. Compared with in vivo testing guidelines Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) 305 and Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention (OCSPP; an office of the US Environmental Protection Agency) 850.1730, the recently adopted OECD test guidelines 319A and 319B are in vitro approaches that have the potential to provide a time- and cost-efficient, humane solution, reducing animal use while addressing uncertainties in bioaccumulation across species. The present study compares the hepatic clearance of the S9 subcellular fraction of rainbow trout, bluegill, common carp, fathead minnow, and largemouth bass, discerning potential differences in metabolism between different warm- and cold-water species. With refinements to the in vitro metabolic S9 assay for high-throughput analysis, we measured in vitro clearance rates of seven chemicals crossing multiple classes of chemistry and modes of action. We confirmed that data from rainbow trout liver S9 fraction metabolic rates can be utilized to predict rainbow trout bioconcentration factors using an in vitro to in vivo extrapolation model, as intended in the OECD 319B applicability domain per the bioaccumulation prediction. Also, we determined that OECD 319B can be applied to other species, modified according to their habitat, adaptations to feeding behavior, and environmental conditions (e.g., temperature). Once toxicokinetics for each species is better understood and appropriate models are developed, this method can be an excellent tool to determine hepatic clearance and potential bioaccumulation across species. The present study could be leveraged prior to or in place of initiating in vivo bioconcentration studies, thus optimizing selection of appropriate fish species. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;00:1-16. © 2024 SETAC.

Safety, Analgesic, and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Aqueous and Methanolic Leaf Extracts of Hypericum revolutum subsp. keniense

In light of the enduring obstacles encountered in analgesia and anti-inflammatory therapeutics despite the strides made in contemporary medical sciences, the quest for alternative efficacious strategies is an imperative pursuit. Thus, this study investigated the safety profiles, as well as the analgesic and anti-inflammatory attributes, of aqueous and methanolic leaf extracts derived from Hypericum revolutum subsp. keniense—a botanical entity entrenched in historical ethnomedicinal practices in the Kenyan context. The assessment of acute oral toxicity of these extracts was conducted in accordance with the Up- and-Down method advocated by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), utilizing Swiss albino mice as the experimental subjects. Subsequent investigation entailed the evaluation of antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties employing the acetic acid-induced writhing and carrageenan-induced paw oedema methodologies, respectively, in the same murine model. The findings of this study evince the safety of both aqueous and methanolic extracts, with LD50 values surpassing 2000 mg/kg body weight and the absence of discernible signs of toxicity. Furthermore, a notable dose-dependent (P&lt;0.05) manifestation of analgesic effects was observed for both extracts, with the aqueous variant demonstrating heightened potency compared to its methanolic counterpart (P&lt;0.05). Moreover, the anti-inflammatory efficacy escalated significantly with escalating extract doses and prolonged treatment duration (P&lt;0.05), wherein the aqueous extract showcased superior effectiveness vis- à-vis the methanolic extract across all dosage regimens and temporal checkpoints (P&lt;0.05). Therefore, this investigation underscores the latent promise of the examined extracts as reservoirs of safe and efficacious analgesic and anti-inflammatory agents, thereby meriting further meticulous exploration. Subsequent research endeavours ought to pivot towards elucidating the phytochemical constituents underpinning the observed effects, alongside unravelling their mechanistic underpinnings across a spectrum of animal models and clinical milieus.

Quantifying the reduction in coal and increase in renewables in OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) countries: Proposal for a coal-renewable energy index and map

Reducing coal use and increasing renewable energy use are two major policies that have been recommended in many countries and regions to address climate change. However, the progress toward meeting these policy goals is unclear. Therefore, this study proposes the “C–R map”, which is a correlation map between the share of coal-fired plants and renewable energy in terms of annual consumption, and the “CR index”, which is an index composed of the above two indicators. The proposed methods objectively visualise and quantitatively analyse statistical data on global climate change associated with “reducing coal and increasing renewables”, whose trends or tendencies could only be obtained through fragmented statistical data and documents. Using the proposed C–R map and CR index, an international comparative analysis was conducted on the share of coal and renewables from 1990 to 2020 in 37 Organisation for Economic Cooperation Development member countries. The results quantitatively showed that 31 member countries clearly exhibited a trend of decreasing their share of coal and increasing their share of renewables, while only five countries, i.e. Chile, Turkey, Mexico, Japan, and Korea, showed unique and inconsistent trends relative to that of the other member countries. By using the highly transparent and simple map and index proposed here based on published statistical information and objective methods, the global trend of “reducing coal and increasing renewables” can be quantitatively visualised in graphs and numerical values, which are easily understood and interpretable, even for laymen.

Artificial intelligence and outward foreign direct investment: Evidence from China

We investigate the impacts of robot adoption (a representative form of artificial intelligence) on outward foreign direct investment (OFDI) by firms in China. First, we construct a unique firm-level dataset of A-share listed firms and conduct empirical analysis by adopting a staggered difference-in-differences (DID) strategy. Second, we find that changes in robot adoption on both the extensive and intensive margins encourage firms to conduct more OFDIs. Specifically, robot adoption has positive effects on multidimensional categories of OFDI but has no significant impact on buying OFDI. Third, we explore the underlying mechanism to show that the rise in output and growth of total factor productivity (TFP) matter. Fourth, we conduct a series of empirical tests to check robustness and obtain consistent results. Finally, we analyze the heterogeneous effects and find that adoption firms with state-owned ownership or higher profit tend to send more OFDI projects, especially to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)-rich countries. Our findings elucidate the impact of robot adoption on OFDI at the firm level in developing and transition countries.

Decarbonizing energy: Evaluating fossil fuel displacement by renewables in OECD countries

AbstractEnergy transition to greener systems has been a focal point in climate policy agendas across countries as the negative environmental impacts of fossil fuel technologies have become more evident Displacing fossil fuels with clean energy alternatives in this regard is essential for meeting global climate objectives. In this context, the study analyzes the role of disaggregated renewable energy sources on fossil fuel displacement in 36 Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries in the period 2000–2020. The findings demonstrate a discernible trend in the displacement of fossil fuels by various forms of renewable energy sources. It is found that to effectively displace 1% of fossil fuels, it is necessary to achieve an average increase of 1.15% in renewable generation capacity. In addition, a one-to-one displacement of fossil fuels occurs with hydropower, demonstrating its higher level of competitiveness and effectiveness in displacing fossil fuels. Moreover, there is a partial displacement of fossil fuels by solar and wind power. These findings suggest that renewable energy sources are progressively advancing towards effectively displacing fossil fuels.

Considering inequities in national dementia strategies: breadth, depth, and scope

BackgroundConsidering that dementia is an international public health priority, several countries have developed national dementia strategies outlining initiatives to address challenges posed by the disease. These strategies aim to improve the care, support, and resources available to meet the needs of persons living with dementia and their care partners and communities. Despite the known impact of social determinants of health on dementia risk, care, and outcomes, it is unclear whether dementia strategies adequately address related inequities. This study aimed to describe whether and how national dementia strategies considered inequities associated with social determinants of health.MethodsWe conducted an environmental scan of the national dementia strategies of countries that are part of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Included strategies had to be accessible in English or French. Sub-national or provincial plans were excluded. We synthesised information on strategies’ considerations of inequity through a thematic analysis.ResultsOf the 15 dementia strategies that met inclusion criteria, 13 mentioned at least one inequity (M = 2.4, median = 2, range:0–7) related to Race/Ethnicity; Religion; Age; Disability; Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity; Social Class; or Rurality. Age and disability were mentioned most frequently, and religion most infrequently. Eleven strategies included general inequity-focused objectives, while only 5 had specific inequity-focused objectives in the form of tangible percentage changes, deadlines, or allocated budgets for achieving equity-related goals outlined in their strategies.ConclusionsUnderstanding if and how countries consider inequities in their dementia strategies enables the development of future strategies that adequately target inequities of concern. While most of the strategies mentioned inequities, few included tangible objectives to reduce them. Countries must not only consider inequities at a surface-level; rather, they must put forth actionable objectives that intend to lessen the impact of inequities in the care of all persons living with dementia.

The OECD’s new discourse of curriculum reform: student agency, competency, colonization, and translation

Abstract The Organization of Economic Co-operation and Development’s (OECD) global governance of education has been gradually increasing. Its field of interest is currently expanding from educational evaluation through the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) to curriculum reform through the Education 2030 project. Here, it is interesting to note that the nature of the terms the OECD has been creating reveals a ‘humanistic turn’. This shows up well in the frequent occurrence of terms such as ‘well-being’, ‘attitudes and values’, ‘inclusiveness’, ‘responsibility’, and ‘sustainability’ in the ongoing Education 2030 project. Perhaps this new humanistic discourse increases the likelihood of the smooth adoption of the OECD’s proposed curriculum redesign in more countries. If the OECD’s new discourse captures and transforms contemporary people’s ways of thought and practice about education, then this is related to the problem of colonialism in our era. It is also worth noting that language plays a vital role in colonization. In particular, the need for translation between different languages serves as a useful means for colonization. Conversely, it is also seen as having a potential decolonizing power. In this context, I would like to examine the new language the OECD has adopted, specifically regarding student experience and the nature of knowing. Next, I shall attempt to criticize the underlying educational assumptions in the OECD’s pronouncements. Following this, I shall explore how the OECD’s new discourse has been translated in South Korea, taking this as an example of wider experience in the East Asian context and possibly elsewhere. Finally, I shall conclude by considering the direction of curriculum decolonization in terms of translation.

Subchronic Toxicity Evaluation of Idesia polycarpa Fruit Oil by 90-Day Oral Exposure in Wistar Rats.

Idesia polycarpa, belonging to the Flacourtiaceae family, is a tall deciduous tree, widely distributed in some Asian countries. It is famous for its high yield of fruit known as oil grape, which is rich of linoleic acid and linolenic acid, and so on. To provide evidences for its safe use as food, subchronic toxicity of I. polycarpa fruit oil and no observed adverse effect level were performed in male and female specific pathogen-free Wistar rats. Based on the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development guidelines, the oil was orally administered to rats by gavage at 0, 1.0, 2.0, and 4.0mL/kg.bw/day for 90 days, followed by a 28-day recovery period. The results showed that no sign of oil-related toxicity, clinically or histologically, was observed in both male and female rats. Although there was a slight increase or decrease in some indicators such as hematology, serum chemistry, and so on, those changes were all within the normal ranges, and as presented in the 90-day study, the oil exhibited no toxic effect compared to the control rats. I. polycarpa might be a potential excellent and healthy vegetable oil resource.

Oral acute toxicity study and in vivo antimalarial activity of Strychnos lucida R. Br. tablet

Ethnopharmacological relevanceMalaria eradication has been a major goal of the Indonesian government since 2020. Medicinal plants, such as Strychnos lucida R. Br., are empirically used to treat malaria through traditional preparation methods. However, the safety and efficacy of these plants have not yet been confirmed. Therefore, further investigations are necessary to confirm the safety and efficacy of S. lucida as an antimalarial agent. Aims of the studyTo quantify the concentration of brucine in the S. lucida extract, determine the acute oral toxicity of the standardized extract, and evaluate the in vivo antimalarial potency of S. lucida tablet (SLT). Materials and methodsAcute oral toxicity of S.lucida extract was determined using the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development 420 procedure, and the analytical method for brucine quantification was validated using high-performance liquid chromatography. In addition, antimalarial activity was determined using the Peter's four-day suppressive method. ResultsAcute toxicity analysis revealed S. lucida as a low-toxicity compound with a cut-off median lethal dose of 2000–5000 mg/kg body weight [BW], which was supported by the hematological and biochemical profiles of the kidneys, liver, and pancreas (p > 0.05). Extract standardization revealed that S. lucida contained 3.91 ± 0.074% w/w brucine, adhering to the limit specified in the Indonesian Herbal Pharmacopeia. Antimalarial test revealed that SLT inhibited the growth of Plasmodium berghei by 27.74–45.27%. Moreover, SLT improved the hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. White blood cell and lymphocyte counts were lower in the SLT-treated group than in the K (+) group (p < 0.05). ConclusionHistopathological and biochemical evaluations revealed that S. lucida extract was safe at a dose of 2000 mg/kg BW with low toxicity. SLT inhibited Plasmodium growth and improved the hemoglobin, hematocrit, and red blood cell profiles. Additionally, SLT reduced the lymphocyte and WBC counts and increased the monocyte and thrombocyte counts as part of the immune system response against Plasmodium infection.

Chemometric modeling of pharmaceuticals for partitioning between sludge and aqueous phase during the wastewater treatment process.

Computational techniques, such as quantitative structure-property relationships (QSPRs), can play a significant role in exploring the important chemical features essential for the degree of sorption or sludge/water partition coefficient (Kd) towards sewage sludge of wastewater treatment process to evaluate the environmental consequence and risk of pharmaceuticals. The current research work aims to construct a predictive QSPR model for the sorption of 148 diverse active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) in sewage sludge during wastewater treatment. For the development of the model, we employed easily computable 2D descriptors as independent variables. The model has been developed following the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development's (OECD) guidelines. It has undergone internal and external validation using a variety of methodologies, as well as been tested for its applicability domain. A measure of hydrophobicity, i.e., MLOGP2, showed the most promising contribution in modeling the sorption coefficient of APIs. Among other parameters, the number of tertiary aromatic amines, the presence of electronegative atoms like N, O, and Cl, the size of a molecule, the number of aromatic hydroxyl groups, the presence of substituted aromatic nitrogen atoms and alkyl-substituted tertiary carbon atoms were also found to be influential for the regulation of solid water partition coefficient of APIs during the wastewater treatment process. The statistical validity tests performed on the developed partial least squares (PLS) model showed that it is statistically evident, robust, and predictive (R2Train = 0.750, Q2LOO = 0.683, Q2F1 = 0.655, Q2F2 (or R2Test) = 0.651). In addition, the predictivity of the constructed model was further inspected by using the "prediction reliability indicator" tool for 14 external APIs.

Investigating trees as an interdisciplinary phenomenon in climate regulation: an intervention study on iSTEM education and scientific literacy in secondary schools

ABSTRACT Climate change and CO2-emissions are key-issues of the 21st century. As a complex interdisciplinary phenomenon, educational systems appear to be forced to expand their curricula beyond disciplines or school subjects. Thus, cross-disciplinary concepts in science, such as iSTEM (integrated science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) address this demand. Also, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) stresses the need for interdisciplinarity in compulsory education. The present intervention study ‘CO2BS - Coole Bäume und Sensoren [Cool(ing) Trees and Sensors]’ focuses on the tree as a key-factor in the understanding of gas-exchange for which a proper scientific understanding demands thinking across disciplines. In accordance with a OECD competence framework, Scientific Literacy, the intervention aimed to foster secondary school students’ interdisciplinary conceptual knowledge (ICK) of how a tree’s exchange of O2 and CO2 can be investigated scientifically. Students’ changes in self-concept in science as well as their interest in climate and science along with epistemic emotions associated with scientific procedures were also investigated. The results showed positive changes in students’ self-concept and epistemic emotions. Though ICK increased significantly too, the results indicate that future interventions will need to focus more on how to establish interdisciplinarity within secondary education more effectively.

Measurement of Effective Radium Content and Radon Exhalation Rates in Soil Samples of Adigrat, Tigrai Region, Ethiopia

The predominant source of radiation exposure for the global population is natural radiation, originating from radioactive elements present in the Earth&amp;apos;s soil, air, and water. These elements, such as uranium, radium, and radon, have existed since the planet&amp;apos;s formation. Prolonged exposure, particularly in specific geographic locations, significantly contributes to radiation risks for populations. Exposure routes include inhaling radon gas, ingesting radioactive substances in food and water, and direct exposure to terrestrial gamma radiation. While natural radiation exposure generally remains within safe limits, certain factors can elevate risks, such as geological formations rich in radioactive minerals or proximity to nuclear facilities. Environmental conditions and geological factors can also influence radiation levels, leading to fluctuations in exposure risks. Monitoring and regulating radiation exposure are crucial to prevent surpassing permissible levels, which can result in health hazards like an increased risk of cancer. Effective management requires ongoing research, stringent regulations, and public awareness efforts to mitigate the risks associated with natural radiation exposure and protect public health. Effective radium content and radon exhalation rates in soil samples collected from Adigrat in Tigrai state of Ethiopia were experimentally measured by ‘‘Sealed Can Technique’’ using LR-115 type II plastic track detectors. The values of effective radium content were found to vary from16.11 Bq/kg to 34.24 Bq/kg with an average value of 25.93 Bq/kg and a standard deviation of 6.10. The mass and surface exhalation rate has been found to vary from 1.61x10&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-6&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; Bq kg&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; d&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; to 3.42 x10&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-6&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; Bq kg&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; d&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; and 0.81x10&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-4&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; Bq m&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-2&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; d&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; to 1.71x10&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-4&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt;Bq m&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-2&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; d&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt;, respectively. The radium content in soil in the study area is below the permissible value of 370 Bq/kg as recommended by Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.

Navigating sustainable horizons: exploring the dynamics of financial stability, green growth, renewable energy, technological innovation, financial inclusion, and soft infrastructure in shaping sustainable development.

This paper examines sustainable development, which employs an integrated approach to tackle environmental, social, and economic challenges. It provides a theoretical underpinning by examining sustainable development's inception, fundamental tenets, and conceptual structures. This study highlights the interdependence of social equity, economic prosperity, and environmental conservation, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach. Quantitative methodology is utilized in this study, and the dependent variable is sustainable development. Financial risk, green growth, technological innovation, renewable energy, financial inclusion, and soft infrastructure are all independent variables. The analysis is predicated on secondary data from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development and World Development Indicators databases spanning 2004 to 2019. An entropy-weighted method used for the green growth index is a metric that enhances the precision of variable indicators. Cointegration, correlation, VIF, cross-sectional dependency, and stationarity tests are among the diagnostic tests that inform the selection of methods for the panel data set. It is determined that fully modified ordinary least squares is the suitable technique. The findings suggest statistically significant positive correlations among greenhouse gases, financial inclusion, and soft infrastructure. Conversely, significant negative correlations exist between financial risk, green growth, renewable energy, and technological innovation. An estimated 55% long-run variance is present. The study's key finding is that financial risk has an adverse effect on sustainable development, while an impactful relationship where increased green growth is linked to decreased GHG emissions. This association is notably significant. Results show that renewable energy has a negative coefficient and significant negative impact on greenhouse gases, showing an active relation to enhancing sustainable development. In contrast, financial inclusion has a significant positive effect on sustainable development. The implications imply that providing incentives to institutions engaged in alternative energy, precisely renewable sources, could positively impact the environment. Government policies and funding regulations oriented toward sustainable development are indispensable for environmental sustainability. Government policies and incentives are pivotal in advancing an environmentally conscious and sustainable future. This study's contribution lies in elucidating the positive correlation between government interventions and promoting renewable energy adoption, thereby paving the way for a greener tomorrow.

Sediment Toxicity Tests: A Critical Review of Their use in Environmental Regulations.

Sediments are an integral component of aquatic systems, linking multiple water uses, functions, and services. Contamination of sediments by chemicals is a worldwide problem, with many jurisdictions trying to prevent future pollution (prospective) and manage existing contamination (retrospective). The present review assesses the implementation of sediment toxicity testing in environmental regulations globally. Currently, the incorporation of sediment toxicity testing in regulations is most common in the European Union (EU), North America, and Australasian regions, with some expansion in Asia and non-EU Europe. Employing sediment toxicity testing in prospective assessments (i.e., before chemicals are allowed on the market) is most advanced and harmonized with pesticides. In the retrospective assessment of environmental risks (i.e., chemicals already contaminating sediments), regulatory sediment toxicity testing practices are applied inconsistently on the global scale. International harmonization of sediment toxicity tests is considered an asset and has been successful through the widespread adoption and deployment of Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development guidelines. On the other hand, retrospective sediment assessments benefit from incorporating regional species and protocols. Currently used toxicity testing species are diverse, with temperate species being applied most often, whereas test protocols are insufficiently flexible to appropriately address the range of environmental contaminants, including nanomaterials, highly hydrophobic contaminants, and ionized chemicals. The ever-increasing and -changing pressures placed on aquatic resources are a challenge for protection and management efforts, calling for continuous sediment toxicity test method improvement to insure effective use in regulatory frameworks. Future developments should focus on including more subtle and specific toxicity endpoints (e.g., incorporating bioavailability-based in vitro tests) and genomic techniques, extending sediment toxicity testing from single to multispecies approaches, and providing a better link with ecological protection goals. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;00:1-20. © 2024 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.