Search Results (280)

Climate, and especially cities with hot climatic conditions, directly impact human life. In this study, hourly datasets from the central meteorological station in Diyarbakır city center for the years 1990–2022 were utilized. These data were analyzed using RayMan Pro-2.1 software, and Physiological Equivalent Temperature values were derived. The obtained Physiological Equivalent Temperature values were analyzed using the SARIMAX model implemented on a machine learning infrastructure to uncover the changes between 2022 and 2050. According to the results obtained, the Physiological Equivalent Temperature value, which was 15.42 °C in 1990 in real terms, increased by 21.3% to 18.66 °C in 2022. According to the SARIMAX model predictions, Physiological Equivalent Temperature values in 2022 are estimated to rise to 21.42 °C by 2050, reflecting an increase of 14.79%. The aim of this study is to examine the temporal variations in human bioclimatic comfort values and provide a foundation for future predictions. This will contribute to the development of urban master plans by local and administrative authorities. Full article

With ongoing urban warming and the increasing frequency of extreme heat events, thermal comfort at highly exposed public spaces like bus stops has attracted significant attention. However, existing studies largely rely on linear assumptions and limited environmental variables, leaving the complex, multidimensional mechanisms driving thermal perception unclear. This study investigates the nonlinear impacts of microclimate, urban morphology, and station design on passengers’ thermal perception during summer in Chongqing, China. Drawing on field measurements, questionnaire surveys, and spatial data, linear regression was first applied to estimate neutral temperatures and acceptable thermal ranges. Subsequently, an interpretable machine learning framework integrating XGBoost and SHAP analysis was developed to explore the nonlinear effects and interactions mechanisms among these variables. The results reveal a dual regulatory pattern. Mechanism variables exhibit distinct nonlinear thresholds, with wind speeds above 0.98 m/s showing cooling associations and PET values exceeding 34.70 °C corresponding to more rapid increases in thermal discomfort. Concurrently, urban morphology and station design factors contextually modify these direct effects by altering their magnitude and direction. Furthermore, significant spatial heterogeneity in thermal adaptation was observed, with neutral temperatures ranging from 23.19 to 31.01 °C. These findings provide a basis for developing adaptive and context-specific thermal environment management strategies for urban bus stops. Full article

Outdoor thermal comfort in hot, arid regions critically influences campus open-space use and the sustainability of university campuses, including reduced cooling energy demand and enhanced livability, yet validated integrated assessments remain scarce. This study aims to explore the relationship among microclimate conditions, thermal comfort, and the sustainable use of campus open spaces in a hot, arid region, with the goal of identifying design strategies that enhance both user comfort and environmental sustainability. The study incorporated: (1) a site audit; (2) exploratory RayMan simulations (n = 180, unvalidated) calculating Physiological Equivalent Temperature (PET) across five zones; and (3) a June survey (n = 156, 52% response rate). Physical analysis revealed height-to-width ratios of 0.13–0.30, representing an 80–91% deficit below the 1.5 minimum commonly recommended benchmark for effective shading in the literature. Unvalidated simulations estimated a mean annual PET of 31.2 °C (SD = 4.8 °C), with 17.6% of annual PET values within the comfort range and 65.2% within the hot range. For June, unvalidated simulations estimated 4% of PET values within the comfort range, while 35.5% of respondents reported thermal comfort (mean ASHRAE 1.66, warm range)—a descriptive discrepancy of 31.5 percentage points. Self-reported social factors (friends: 79.8%) ranked higher than shading space selection responses; behavioral observations are required to confirm actual use patterns. Priority interventions from physical analysis and user reports include optimized shade, cool materials (albedo ≥ 0.60), and intentional greening—subject to validation with calibrated measurements. By linking microclimate modification to increased open-space usability and reduced cooling energy demand, this research contributes to sustainable campus planning frameworks. Pending field validation and seasonal surveys, the quantitative thermal comfort estimates should be considered exploratory rather than conclusive. Full article

Small Mediterranean islands relying on the sun–sea–sand (3S) tourism model face growing climate risks that threaten their tourism-dependent economies. This study evaluates climate suitability for 3S tourism on the Island of Vis by integrating the Climate Index for Tourism (CIT) with land- use and land-cover (LU/LC) spatial analysis. The integration is operationalized by overlaying CIT-derived seasonal suitability windows with LU/LC-based spatial vulnerability maps, enabling identification of micro-zones where natural buffers (forest cover and elevation) can offset thermal discomfort during peak heat stress periods. Observed data reveals declining ideal 3S conditions from July to October, with the island already exceeding 50 days per year of Physiologically Equivalent Temperature (PET) above 35.1 °C, increasing by 0.7 days per year. Regional climate models tend to exhibit a cold bias over small Adriatic islands, largely related to their limited spatial horizontal resolution (12.5 km grid spacing). However, they robustly reproduce the direction of recent and projected warming trends. Future projections indicate that the annual number of strong heat stress days with PET above 35.1 °C increase from approximately one per year in the reference period to six under RCP4.5 and nine under RCP8.5, with both scenarios reducing ideal peak-summer conditions while extending favorable periods into transitional seasons. Spatial analysis shows that coastal zones have higher sealed surfaces and less forest cover, reducing natural shade and cooling capacity, while the island interior offers higher elevations, forest buffers, hiking trails, and a UNESCO Global Geopark. Drawing on social–ecological resilience theory, we conceptualize the island’s tourism system as an adaptive unit whose long-term viability depends on spatially diversified resource use and temporally extended seasonality. The integrated analytical framework identifies not only when conditions deteriorate but where alternative tourism resources exist, enabling more targeted adaptation planning and supporting diversification toward outdoor tourism forms. The novelty of this study lies in the systematic spatial integration of bioclimatic suitability assessments (CIT and PET) with LU/LC analysis at the micro-island scale. Such an approach moves beyond temporally focused climate–tourism indices to produce actionable, location-specific adaptation strategies. Full article

Outdoor thermal comfort models are generally developed for healthy populations and may not be directly applicable to patients with altered thermoregulatory capacity. This study examined summer outdoor thermal responses of lung cancer patients in Shenyang, China, focusing on differences by treatment modality and disease stage. Field microclimatic measurements and questionnaire surveys were conducted in four typical outdoor microenvironments: waterfront place, tree-shaded space, open square, and enclosed porch. A total of 706 lung cancer patients were surveyed and stratified by treatment modality and disease stage. Physiologically equivalent temperature (PET) was calculated using RayMan Pro based on measured air temperature, mean radiant temperature, air velocity, relative humidity, clothing insulation, and activity-based metabolic rate. Subgroup differences were observed in neutral PET and thermal comfort ranges. Chemotherapy patients had the highest neutral PET at 26.0 °C, while immunotherapy patients had the lowest at 22.6 °C. Radiotherapy, surgery, and targeted therapy groups showed neutral PET values of 23.3 °C, 23.7 °C, and 24.5 °C, respectively. Early-stage patients had a neutral PET of 23.8 °C, whereas late-stage patients showed a higher value of 25.8 °C and a narrower neutral range of 23.1–28.5 °C. The surgery group had a broad acceptable PET range of 20.5–28.6 °C, while the late-stage group had a narrower range of 24.7–26.8 °C. Preferred temperature was also higher in the chemotherapy and late-stage groups. These findings indicate heterogeneous summer outdoor thermal responses among lung cancer patients and provide empirical evidence for subgroup-sensitive thermal assessment and outdoor space design near healthcare facilities. Full article

In coastal residential areas, the combined effects of high temperature, high humidity, and weak wind conditions during summer intensify outdoor heat exposure and reduce pedestrian thermal comfort. To investigate the influence mechanisms of tree height and spatial layout on pedestrian-level thermal comfort, this study selected a typical residential community in Chengyang District, Qingdao, as the research site. Based on field meteorological observations, an ENVI-met model was established and validated. Using the existing composite greening scenario as the baseline, three tree layout types (row, cluster, and free layouts) and four height scenarios (4 m, 6 m, 8 m, and 10 m) were configured to quantitatively compare variations in physiological equivalent temperature (PET) under different planting schemes. The results indicate that tree configuration significantly affects summer thermal comfort. Its regulatory mechanism is governed not only by air temperature reduction but also by shortwave radiation interception, longwave radiation accumulation, and shading continuity. Although low-to-medium height trees can reduce local air temperature through transpiration, their limited canopy height and shading continuity restrict their ability to effectively attenuate direct shortwave radiation at pedestrian level, and in some cases may even increase mean radiant temperature (Tmrt) and PET. In contrast, 10 m tall trees arranged in row and cluster layouts can form continuous shaded cores, with the 10 m cluster layout demonstrating the best overall performance by significantly reducing Tmrt and PET. The free layout, characterized by dispersed canopies and fragmented shading, provides relatively limited thermal comfort improvement. The findings suggest that residential greening optimization should strengthen the coordination between tree height, canopy structure, and activity spaces. Tall trees should be prioritized in children’s play areas, elderly resting areas, residential entrances, main pedestrian pathways, and west-facing sun-exposed zones, while integrating building shadows and road orientation to create a continuous yet not overly enclosed shading network, thereby enhancing summer thermal adaptability in residential areas. Full article

Urban green spaces (UGSs) are increasingly recognised as critical infrastructure for mitigating climate extremes and promoting public health; indeed, the microclimatic mechanisms through which vegetation structure translates into measurable improvements in human comfort at the neighbourhood scale are of significant interest, particularly in the context of new urban developments. This study examines the cooling effects of an urban redevelopment project in the Marconi district of Imola, Italy, using ENVI-met (Version 6.0.0, ENVI-met GmbH, Essen, Germany) simulations to compare ex ante (current) and ex post (planned) scenarios under extreme heat conditions. Physiological Equivalent Temperature (PET) was computed at the pedestrian level for both standard adult and elderly models to assess spatial patterns of thermal comfort. The results demonstrate that tree canopies are the primary determinant of local cooling, with newly planted trees reducing PET by up to 3.5 °C at the core of the regenerated block and by 1–2 °C along adjacent pavements, while grass and low vegetation provided negligible mitigation. However, new buildings generated localised warming bands of 0.5–2 °C along façades, revealing a trade-off between densification and outdoor liveability. Elderly populations experienced slightly stronger thermal stress near buildings, highlighting spatial concentrations of vulnerability. These findings reinforce the need to prioritise tree planting and canopy management as core climate adaptation strategies, while simultaneously addressing near-building heat accumulation through integrated design approaches such as façade greening and ventilation preservation. The study demonstrates the value of spatially explicit microclimate simulation for evidence-based urban planning, contributing to the development of sustainable and liveable urban environments. Full article

The Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) assay is one of the most popular assays of antioxidant activity/capacity. It has several advantages over other common assays, including the use of an oxidant (peroxyl radicals) relevant in physiology and food storage and processing, as well as reactions in the physiological pH range and temperature. These advantages make ORAC the method of choice for the determination of antioxidant activity/capacity. This review presents the methodology and application of ORAC to the analysis of food products, various versions of the assay, including the lipophilic ORAC-related assays like the Hydroxyl Radical Absorbance Capacity (HORAC), Peroxynitrite Absorbance Capacity (NORAC), Superoxide Anion Absorbance Capacity (SORAC), and Singlet Oxygen Absorbance Capacity (SOAC); discusses the pros and cons, nd technical details affecting the reproducibility of ORAC. Examples of applications of the assay are given, including ORAC values [mol Trolox equivalent/mol, and mmol Trolox equivalents/kg or per L, respectively] for over 90 antioxidants and over 900 food products and medicinal plants. Full article

Rising temperatures within the urban context, as a result of climate change and the Urban Heat Island effect, have deteriorated thermal comfort conditions in outdoor urban spaces, especially during hot, Mediterranean summer days. This study investigates the potential cooling effects of integrating individual urban green spaces into a connected network, with the aim of improving thermal conditions in public areas. Thermal conditions of an 800 m² urban area in the city of Athens, Greece, were evaluated for a typical summer day using the environmental model ENVI-met. Based on an assessment of the current microclimatic conditions, a potential thermal adaptation strategy was developed, aiming to redesign the study area as a network of green-blue infrastructure. This includes a 1.5 km walking route connecting various spaces, such as squares, parks, and schools. Air temperature (Tair) and the bioclimatic index PET (Physiologically Equivalent Temperature) were used to evaluate the thermal conditions of the study area. In addition, a new function of the ENVI-met model, Dynamic Comfort, has been implemented to calculate the dynamic Physiological Equivalent Temperature (dPET) index for the selected route. The results revealed significant Tair and PET reductions compared to the current layout, indicating that the integration of open spaces into a network of green-blue infrastructure can improve thermal conditions and reduce the hazardous effects of thermal stress on people. Some notable results include the spatial and temporal decrease of the Tair of up to 6 °C, mainly in the proximity of buildings and fountains. Similarly, PET values decreased mainly by 3 to 5 °C. The Dynamic PET showed a slight reduction during the hours of maximum temperature and a higher decrease during the evening, ranging from 1 to 2 °C. Full article

Background/Objectives: This paper describes the synthesis of silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) and their surface modification with amino and phosphate groups (SiNPs-NH₂-PO₃). The functionalized nanoparticles were subsequently loaded with the anticancer drug 5-fluorouracil (SiNPs-NH₂-PO₃-5-FLU) and further modified with PEG2000 (SiNPs-NH₂-PO₃-5-FLU-PEG2000). Methods: In this study, a one-step, two-phase, sol–gel method carried out at room temperature was used to synthesize the nanoparticles. The size and surface zeta potential of the created SiNPs were determined by DLS measurements. HPLC was used to determine the amount of drug loaded into silica nanoparticles and the drug release profile in two different pH environments (slightly acidic and physiological). Based on physicochemical characteristics, the SiNPs-NH₂-PO₃-5-FLU and SiNPs-NH₂-PO₃-5-FLU-PEG2000 formulations were chosen for comprehensive characterization. The cytotoxicity of the studied complexes was assessed in MCF7 breast cancer cells, while their ability to induce apoptosis in those cells was examined using specific immunofluorescence markers: active caspase-7, active poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), and p53 protein. Results: Our findings demonstrate that SiNPs-NH₂-PO₃-5-FLU can induce a stronger apoptotic response than free 5-FLU at equivalent concentrations. We observed that drug release occurs not only under physiological conditions but is further enhanced in a mildly acidic environment (pH 5.0), characteristic of the tumor microenvironment. Conclusions: Most 5-fluorouracil formulations are administered as injectable solutions, resulting in systemic exposure and significant adverse effects. However, their encapsulation within nanoparticles could favor preferential drug release in the acidic tumor microenvironment, thus supporting targeted therapy and reducing toxicity to healthy tissues. Moreover, PEGylation of the nanoformulation allows prolonged and controlled release. Full article

The presence of vegetation in urban green areas is a factor that helps minimize urban environmental and human health problems. This study aimed to analyze the effect of different vegetation types and tree densities in green areas on thermal comfort and outdoor wind speed in a city with a tropical savanna climate. Computer simulations were used with the ENVI-Met software (version 5.1.1envi), with hypothetical scenarios where central green areas present different tree species defined by the Leaf Area Index (LAI), forming compositions calculated by different Vegetation Cover Indices (VCI). The results showed that scenarios with dense canopy tree vegetation (combined or not with sparse canopy species) and scenarios with the highest vegetation cover densities showed the greatest reductions in Physiological Equivalent Temperature (PET) values, while wind speed did not show a simple direct correlation with PET, although a diurnal relationship with the analyzed densities was observed. In light of the above, it was found that promoting thermal comfort outdoors requires prioritizing the maximization of vegetation cover so as not to create physical barriers to wind flow, especially in the afternoon. Full article

Climate change and rising global temperature values lead to a cascade of effects on human health and well-being. Methodologies for assessing thermal conditions and identifying areas with increased thermal stress are important for enhancing the quality of life in urban environments. This study is aimed at developing a methodology that combines high-resolution simulation data with surface meteorological observations for application in urban thermal stress assessment. Eleven urban public sites within the metropolitan area of Athens, Greece (i.e., squares and parks) were simulated using the three-dimensional microclimate model ENVI-met. The model was validated using micrometeorological data from field campaigns conducted in summer, autumn and winter. The validation results confirmed that ENVI-met showed satisfactory performance for further research analysis. Subsequently, Physiologically Equivalent Temperature (PET) and Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) were calculated using data from weather stations operated by the National Observatory of Athens and the Hellenic National Meteorological Service. PET and UTCI were then spatially interpolated using a mixed modeling and kriging method, with parameters optimized based on statistical validation metrics derived from the ENVI-met simulations. Finally, seasonal bioclimatic maps were produced to identify areas experiencing unfavorable thermal conditions. The spatial analysis revealed distinct seasonal patterns in the distribution of unfavorable thermal conditions across the Athens metropolitan area. Full article

As a mountain–water city in the upper Yangtze River region, Chongqing is characterized by complex river-valley terrain, dense riverside development, extreme summer heat, high humidity, and frequent calm-wind conditions. Existing studies on waterfront thermal comfort mainly focus on plain cities, whereas mountainous riverside parks remain insufficiently understood. This study investigated summer thermal comfort in three riverside parks in Chongqing—Jiulongtan Park, Coral Park, and Jiangtan Park—through field measurements of air temperature, black globe temperature, wind speed, relative humidity, and Thermal Radiation, combined with thermal sensation vote (TSV) and thermal comfort vote (TCV) surveys. Results showed that the maximum air temperature reached 43.7 °C and the maximum black globe temperature reached 61.6 °C. The hydrophilic layer recorded the highest wind speed (1.64 ± 0.39 m/s), while the elastic layer showed high PET values (36.00–46.10 °C). Regression analysis indicated neutral PET values of 32.49–35.74 °C. Correlation analysis showed that PET, mean thermal sensation vote (MTSV), and mean thermal comfort vote (MTCV) were positively correlated with air temperature, black globe temperature, mean radiant temperature (T_mrt), and relative humidity. In contrast, PET was negatively correlated with wind speed. This study reveals the coupled effects of river-valley terrain, elevation stratification, waterfront microclimate, and landscape elements on outdoor thermal comfort, providing a scientific basis for optimizing shading, ventilation, and hydrophilic spaces in hot-humid mountain–water cities. Full article

Urban destinations increasingly incorporate green–blue infrastructure, sensory-balanced public spaces, and microclimate-responsive design to mitigate visitor fatigue and support sustainable tourism experiences. To understand how insights from broader tourism environments, particularly nature-based contexts, can inform emerging urban well-being strategies, this study conducts a global bibliometric review (2005–2025) on psychological restoration, stress relief, and visitor well-being. Using Scopus and a Boolean search combining mental health constructs, tourism setting, and analytical approaches, 825 records were identified, and 149 articles were retained after applying eligibility criteria. Science mapping and performance analyses reveal accelerated post-2018 growth and three dominant knowledge clusters centered on restoration pathways, environmental determinants, and behavioral/hospitality components. Based on these patterns, this study introduces the RESTOR-URBAN model, integrating environmental moderators, psychological mechanisms, and behavioral interactions that jointly shape stress reduction and emotional well-being across urban tourism systems. The results show increasing relevance of micro-restorative experiences, thermal comfort management, and stress-aware service design, while highlighting persistent methodological heterogeneity and limited integration of environmental co-data (Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI), Physiological Equivalent Temperature (PET), and Discomfort Index (DI)). The findings suggest that restoration-based evidence from nature-based tourism can inform sustainable urban tourism planning, hospitality practice, and visitor experience design, and propose a research agenda emphasizing standardized well-being indicators, longitudinal and structural equation modeling (SEM)-based approaches, and environmental quality variables for resilient, health-oriented urban destinations. Full article

Amid growing concerns over global warming, ensuring the outdoor thermal comfort (OTC) of public urban spaces is crucial for creating liveable and resilient cities. This study focused on the intensification of the urban heat island (UHI) effect and the heat stress experienced by the vulnerable older population. Evidence was found through the case study in a highly vulnerable area of Porto, with a high ageing ratio. The primary aim was to assess the influence of design-based adaptation strategies on OTC using ENVI-met, with a specific focus on older adults. Thermal stress was evaluated using the Physiological Equivalent Temperature (PET) index. The analysis confirms that older adults consistently experience higher PET values (+2–5 °C) and larger areas of thermal discomfort than active-age adults. Simulations reveal that the effectiveness of adaptation measures depends on the characteristics of the urban space but enhanced green infrastructure achieves the most significant heat mitigation results. Artificial shading only provides localized thermal relief. Cool pavements contribute meaningfully by lowering surface heat storage and reducing longwave radiation. However, their impact on PET, beneficial or detrimental, depends significantly on the morphology of the outdoor space and the materials used. In the analysed street canyon, PET was higher in the central hours of the day for both age ranges, when the pavement material had a higher albedo. An effective heat mitigation needs a combination of vegetation-based strategies and climate-responsive materials to ensure comfortable and age-inclusive public spaces. This research presents an actionable methodological approach for evaluating and enhancing OTC, advocating the use of microclimate simulations in a carefully selected set of public spaces within an intervention urban area to define effective climate adaptation measures for each space. Full article