Previous Issue
Volume 5, March
 
 

Encyclopedia, Volume 5, Issue 2 (June 2025) – 12 articles

  • Issues are regarded as officially published after their release is announced to the table of contents alert mailing list.
  • You may sign up for e-mail alerts to receive table of contents of newly released issues.
  • PDF is the official format for papers published in both, html and pdf forms. To view the papers in pdf format, click on the "PDF Full-text" link, and use the free Adobe Reader to open them.
Order results
Result details
Section
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
10 pages, 210 KiB  
Entry
Spatial Planning Education Across Cultures
by Umberto Janin Rivolin, Luca Gaeta and Luigi Mazza
Encyclopedia 2025, 5(2), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia5020052 - 15 Apr 2025
Viewed by 123
Definition
Planning education is the transmission of technical knowledge applied to the design and regulation of space in towns and countries, together with the ethical consciousness of how this knowledge can affect society and the environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Encyclopedia of Urban Planning)
11 pages, 1374 KiB  
Entry
A Guide to a Mixed-Methods Approach to Healthcare Research
by Kritika Rana and Ritesh Chimoriya
Encyclopedia 2025, 5(2), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia5020051 - 11 Apr 2025
Viewed by 157
Definition
A mixed-methods approach combines qualitative and quantitative research methodologies to provide a comprehensive understanding of complex social phenomena in healthcare. This approach leverages the strengths of both methodologies to address research questions that cannot be fully answered by a single method. While quantitative [...] Read more.
A mixed-methods approach combines qualitative and quantitative research methodologies to provide a comprehensive understanding of complex social phenomena in healthcare. This approach leverages the strengths of both methodologies to address research questions that cannot be fully answered by a single method. While quantitative data offer measurable patterns and generalizability, qualitative research provides critical insights into the human experiences, cultural contexts, and systemic factors that underlie these patterns, and such elements are often missed by purely statistical analyses. Notably, qualitative components can uncover why interventions succeed or fail in real-world settings, adding explanatory power to quantitative results. By integrating numerical data analysis with in-depth contextual insights, mixed-methods research enables researchers to explore, explain, and generalize findings in healthcare settings more holistically than either method could achieve alone. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medicine & Pharmacology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 3401 KiB  
Review
Fermentative Butanol Production—Perspectives and Scale-Up Challenges
by Seedhabadee Ganeshan and Mehmet Çağlar Tülbek
Encyclopedia 2025, 5(2), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia5020050 - 9 Apr 2025
Viewed by 215
Abstract
Sustainable solutions to the use of petrochemical products have been increasingly sought after in recent years. While alternatives such as biofuels have been extensively explored and commercialized, major challenges remain in using heterogeneous feedstocks and scaling-up processes. Among biofuels, higher alcohols have recently [...] Read more.
Sustainable solutions to the use of petrochemical products have been increasingly sought after in recent years. While alternatives such as biofuels have been extensively explored and commercialized, major challenges remain in using heterogeneous feedstocks and scaling-up processes. Among biofuels, higher alcohols have recently gained renewed interest, especially in the context of upcycling agri-food residues and other industrial organic wastes. One of the higher alcohols produced via fermentation is butanol, which was developed over a century ago. However, the commercial production of butanol is still not widespread, although diverse feedstocks are readily available. Hydrolysis of the feedstocks and scale-up challenges in the fermentation and purification of butanol are recurring bottlenecks. This review addresses the current state of fermentative butanol production and opportunities to address scale-up challenges, including purification. With the significant interest and promise of precision fermentation, this review also addresses some of the recent advances and potential for enhanced fermentative butanol production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Chemistry)
Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 926 KiB  
Entry
The Informal Structure of Senpai (Seniors), Kohai (Juniors), and Doki (Peers) in Japanese Organizations
by Tomoki Sekiguchi and Megumi Ikeda
Encyclopedia 2025, 5(2), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia5020049 - 7 Apr 2025
Viewed by 345
Definition
In Japanese organizations, those who join earlier are called senpai (seniors), those who join later are kohai (juniors), and those who join in the same year are called doki (peers). The relationships among senpai, kohai, and doki function as an informal hierarchical structure [...] Read more.
In Japanese organizations, those who join earlier are called senpai (seniors), those who join later are kohai (juniors), and those who join in the same year are called doki (peers). The relationships among senpai, kohai, and doki function as an informal hierarchical structure working in tandem with the formal job-based organizational hierarchy. These relationships are deeply rooted in unique Japanese concepts, such as ba, the Confucian cultural tradition that influenced the formation of Japanese society, and the historical background of large organizations in modern Japan. Specifically, the seamless school-to-work transition due to the batch hiring of new graduates every April creates a similar hierarchical structure to that of senpai, kohai, and dokyusei (classmates) in schools. The balance between the formal job-based hierarchy and informal seniority-based (senpai–kohai–doki) hierarchy has been the base of the stable and harmonious organizational characteristics that enable effective knowledge management and efficient operations but poses challenges in adapting to new environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Social Sciences)
Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 339 KiB  
Review
Quantum-Inspired Statistical Frameworks: Enhancing Traditional Methods with Quantum Principles
by Theodoros Kyriazos and Mary Poga
Encyclopedia 2025, 5(2), 48; https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia5020048 - 4 Apr 2025
Viewed by 174
Abstract
This manuscript introduces a comprehensive framework for augmenting classical statistical methodologies through the targeted integration of core quantum mechanical principles—specifically superposition, entanglement, measurement, wavefunctions, and density matrices. By concentrating on these foundational concepts instead of the whole expanse of quantum theory, we propose [...] Read more.
This manuscript introduces a comprehensive framework for augmenting classical statistical methodologies through the targeted integration of core quantum mechanical principles—specifically superposition, entanglement, measurement, wavefunctions, and density matrices. By concentrating on these foundational concepts instead of the whole expanse of quantum theory, we propose “quantum-inspired” models that address persistent shortcomings in conventional statistical approaches. In particular, five pivotal distributions (normal, binomial, Poisson, Student’s t, and chi-square) are reformulated to incorporate interference terms, phase factors, and operator-based transformations, thereby facilitating the representation of multimodal data, phase-sensitive dependencies, and correlated event patterns—characteristics that are frequently underrepresented in purely real-valued, classical frameworks. Furthermore, ten quantum-inspired statistical principles are delineated to guide practitioners in systematically adapting quantum mechanics for traditional inferential tasks. These principles are illustrated through domain-specific applications in finance, cryptography (distinct from direct quantum cryptography applications), healthcare, and climate modeling, demonstrating how amplitude-based confidence measures, density matrices, and measurement analogies can enrich standard statistical models by capturing more nuanced correlation structures and enhancing predictive performance. By unifying quantum constructs with established statistical theory, this work underscores the potential for interdisciplinary collaboration and paves the way for advanced data analysis tools capable of addressing high-dimensional, complex, and dynamically evolving datasets. Complete R code ensures reproducibility and further exploration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mathematics & Computer Science)
8 pages, 4118 KiB  
Field Guide
Field Guide: Morphometric Visualization and Characterization of Selected Foodborne Pathogens Using Advanced Imaging Techniques
by Ladees Al Hafi, Anthony James Franco, Kaily Kao and Evangelyn C. Alocilja
Encyclopedia 2025, 5(2), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia5020047 - 3 Apr 2025
Viewed by 82
Abstract
This paper aims to present the phenotypic characteristics, such as length, width, circular diameter, volume, surface area to cross-sectional area ratio, surface uniformity, and surface texture, of the foodborne pathogens Salmonella enterica serovar Agona, Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis, Listeria monocytogenes, and Campylobacter [...] Read more.
This paper aims to present the phenotypic characteristics, such as length, width, circular diameter, volume, surface area to cross-sectional area ratio, surface uniformity, and surface texture, of the foodborne pathogens Salmonella enterica serovar Agona, Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis, Listeria monocytogenes, and Campylobacter jejuni. It is a novel “field-guide” presentation of the observable morphological characteristics of these four species in the form of a Dichotomous Key. Phenotypic values of the pathogens were measured using a high-accuracy, nano-level-resolution 3D laser confocal scanning microscope. All samples were fixed with glutaraldehyde and stained with methylene blue, ensuring morphological preservation. The images of the pathogens were captured under various imaging modes, including 3D, laser, and transmission electron microscopy resolutions. Results show that these pathogens exhibit distinct morphological and surface properties, with Campylobacter jejuni showing unique features. The dichotomous key shows a simplified way of classifying selected foodborne pathogens from their morphometric properties. The morphometric measurements, in many instances first reported in the literature, and images provide a readily observable way to identify and classify microorganisms, allowing researchers to potentially study evolutionary relationships, assess species diversity, and understand how organisms interact with their environment, especially when genetic information is limited or difficult to obtain. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 481 KiB  
Entry
Stress-Preventive Management Competencies
by Glauco Cioffi, Cristian Balducci and Stefano Toderi
Encyclopedia 2025, 5(2), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia5020046 - 3 Apr 2025
Viewed by 125
Definition
Work-related stress is a critical issue that demands prevention strategy and continuous monitoring due to its widespread influence on workers, businesses, and the global economy. The primary drivers of employees’ work-related stress are psychosocial risks, which arise when key work characteristics—such as job [...] Read more.
Work-related stress is a critical issue that demands prevention strategy and continuous monitoring due to its widespread influence on workers, businesses, and the global economy. The primary drivers of employees’ work-related stress are psychosocial risks, which arise when key work characteristics—such as job demands, autonomy, or role clarity—are mismanaged, leading to harmful consequences. Conversely, effectively managing these factors can promotes well-being and performance. Supervisors play a central role in this dynamic process of either mitigating or exacerbating psychosocial working conditions. As such, stress-preventive management competencies (SPMCs) are essential for promoting employee and organisational health. SPMCs refer to a set of supervisory behaviours—including planning, organising, setting objectives, and creating and monitoring systems—that contribute to a positive perception of the psychosocial work environment among employees. This entry, by approaching the existing literature on work stress models, psychosocial perspectives, and related management competencies frameworks, aims to provide a comprehensive overview of SPMCs, identifying key insights and proposing directions for future research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Social Sciences)
Show Figures

Figure 1

37 pages, 1866 KiB  
Review
The Environmental Impacts of Overpopulation
by Alon Tal
Encyclopedia 2025, 5(2), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia5020045 - 1 Apr 2025
Viewed by 939
Abstract
Overpopulation’s central role in environmental degradation is intermittently challenged. This article assesses the impact of mounting demographic pressures on six critical global sustainability challenges: deforestation, climate change, biodiversity loss, fishery depletion, water scarcity, and soil degradation. By synthesizing findings from hundreds of [...] Read more.
Overpopulation’s central role in environmental degradation is intermittently challenged. This article assesses the impact of mounting demographic pressures on six critical global sustainability challenges: deforestation, climate change, biodiversity loss, fishery depletion, water scarcity, and soil degradation. By synthesizing findings from hundreds of peer-reviewed studies, the article offers a comprehensive review of the effects of expanding human populations on the most pressing current environmental problems. Although the rate of population growth worldwide is slowing, human numbers are expected to continue increasing on Earth until the end of the century. Current research confirms that overpopulation causes substantial and potentially irreversible environmental impacts that cannot be ignored if international sustainability policy is to be effective. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Social Sciences)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 3167 KiB  
Review
The Logarithmic Derivative in Scientific Data Analysis
by Ruediger Grunwald
Encyclopedia 2025, 5(2), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia5020044 - 1 Apr 2025
Viewed by 81
Abstract
The logarithmic derivative has been shown to be a useful tool for data analysis in applied sciences because of either simplifying mathematical procedures or enabling an improved understanding and visualization of structural relationships and dynamic processes. In particular, spatial and temporal variations in [...] Read more.
The logarithmic derivative has been shown to be a useful tool for data analysis in applied sciences because of either simplifying mathematical procedures or enabling an improved understanding and visualization of structural relationships and dynamic processes. In particular, spatial and temporal variations in signal amplitudes can be described independently of their sign by one and the same compact quantity, the inverse logarithmic derivative. In the special case of a single exponential decay function, this quantity becomes directly identical to the decay time constant. When generalized, the logarithmic derivative enables local gradients of system parameters to be flexibly described by using exponential behavior as a meaningful reference. It can be applied to complex maps of data containing multiple superimposed and alternating ramping or decay functions. Selected examples of experimental and simulated data from time-resolved plasma spectroscopy, multiphoton excitation, and spectroscopy are analyzed in detail, together with reminiscences of early activities in the field. The results demonstrate the capability of the approach to extract specific information on physical processes. Further emerging applications are addressed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sciences)
Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 1280 KiB  
Entry
Reviewing Nation Branding Indexes: An Approach to Their Methodologies and Results
by Carmen Maiz-Bar, Julinda Molares-Cardoso and Vicente Badenes-Pla
Encyclopedia 2025, 5(2), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia5020043 - 31 Mar 2025
Viewed by 192
Definition
Nation branding refers to the strategic management of a country’s image to ensure that it is a fair, balanced, and useful reflection of the country itself. A strong nation brand is fundamental to its diplomacy, economy, and the well-being of its inhabitants, among [...] Read more.
Nation branding refers to the strategic management of a country’s image to ensure that it is a fair, balanced, and useful reflection of the country itself. A strong nation brand is fundamental to its diplomacy, economy, and the well-being of its inhabitants, among other elements. To monitor the degree of this strength, different international indexes are periodically created and published. This entry focuses on introducing the concept of nation branding, and on describing the methodologies and latest results of the rankings that are currently considered most relevant in both academia and industry. These rankings are divided into two categories, namely, general nation branding indexes (Nation Brands Index, Future Brand Country Index, RepCore Nations, Good Country Index, Best Countries ranking) and field-specific nation branding indexes (Global Soft Power Index, Country Brand Ranking Tourism Edition, Country Brand Ranking Trade Edition, World Economic Outlook, Better Life Index). Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Social Sciences)
Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 584 KiB  
Entry
Consumer Behaviour and Food Waste in Greece: Insights from 2012 to 2024
by Theofanis Zacharatos and Prokopis Theodoridis
Encyclopedia 2025, 5(2), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia5020042 - 30 Mar 2025
Viewed by 202
Definition
Food waste is a significant challenge for modern societies, leading to environmental, social, and economic consequences. In developed countries, including Greece, food waste primarily occurs the final stage of consumption, making consumer behaviour a key factor in addressing this issue. This entry aims [...] Read more.
Food waste is a significant challenge for modern societies, leading to environmental, social, and economic consequences. In developed countries, including Greece, food waste primarily occurs the final stage of consumption, making consumer behaviour a key factor in addressing this issue. This entry aims to highlight consumer behaviour regarding to food waste in Greece from 2012 to 2024 by synthesizing and evaluating published and unpublished research. Using a systematic review approach, this entry identifies the key trends, behavioural patterns, and determinants of food waste among Greek consumers. The findings highlight the impact of socioeconomic characteristics, economic conditions, and consumer awareness on food waste behaviour. Notably, financial constraints during economic crises have influenced waste reduction, while a growing awareness of food labelling and meal planning has emerged as a consistent trend over time. Additionally, segmentation analyses reveal distinct consumer groups based on their waste-conscious behaviours, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions. This entry contributes to the literature by offering a comprehensive overview of consumer behavioural trends over a 12-year period, identifying knowledge gaps, and proposing strategic directions for future research and policy-making. Understanding these behavioural patterns is essential for developing effective measures to reduce food waste and promote sustainable consumption practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Social Sciences)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

16 pages, 986 KiB  
Review
Influence of Starch on the Rheological, Textural, and Microstructural Properties of Processed and Analogue Cheeses
by FNU Akshit, Vaishali Poswal, Rakesh Kaushik, Gaurav Kr Deshwal and Thom Huppertz
Encyclopedia 2025, 5(2), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia5020041 - 26 Mar 2025
Viewed by 450
Abstract
Processed cheese (PC) is a widely consumed dairy product and has undergone significant evolution over time, leading to various formulations aimed at enhancing texture and functionality. This review addresses the role of starch addition on PC, focusing on starch interactions with milk proteins [...] Read more.
Processed cheese (PC) is a widely consumed dairy product and has undergone significant evolution over time, leading to various formulations aimed at enhancing texture and functionality. This review addresses the role of starch addition on PC, focusing on starch interactions with milk proteins and understanding its influence on the rheological properties, microstructure, and overall quality of PC. Our key findings indicate that starch serves as a cost-effective ingredient that can replace or supplement dairy components, improving texture and water-binding capacity while reducing formulation costs. Generally, starches containing a higher amylose content are associated with the increased hardness and decreased meltability of PC. The insights provided in this review underscore the importance of understanding starch–milk component interactions to optimize PC formulations, paving the way for future research and innovation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Chemistry)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Previous Issue
Back to TopTop