bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Small Natural Cyclic Peptides from DBAASP Database
Authors: Alimbarashvili Evgenia , Samsonidze Natia , Grigolava Maia , Pirtskhalava Malak
Published: June 2024

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are promising tools for combating microbial resistance. However, their therapeutic potential is hindered by two intrinsic drawbacks—low target affinity and poor in vivo stability. Macrocyclization, a process that improves the pharmacological properties and bioactivity of peptides, can address these limitations. As a result, macrocyclic peptides represent attractive drug candidates. Moreover, many drugs are macrocycles that originated from natural product scaffolds, suggesting that nature offers solutions to the challenges faced by AMPs. In this review, we explore natural cyclic peptides from the DBAASP database. DBAASP is a comprehensive repository of data on antimicrobial/cytotoxic activities and structures of peptides. We analyze the data on small (≤25 AA) ribosomal and non-ribosomal cyclic peptides from DBAASP according to their amino acid composition, bonds used for cyclization, targets they act on, and mechanisms of action. This analysis will enhance our understanding of the small cyclic peptides that nature has provided to defend living organisms.
Examining the Role of Oxytocinergic Signaling and Neuroinflammatory Markers in the Therapeutic Effects of MDMA in a Rat Model for PTSD
Authors: Avgana Haron , Toledano Roni Shira , Akirav Irit
Published: June 2024

MDMA-assisted psychotherapy has shown potential as an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Preclinical studies involving rodents have demonstrated that MDMA can facilitate the extinction of fear memories. It has been noted that MDMA impacts oxytocin neurons and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Thus, the aim of this study was to explore the role of oxytocinergic signaling and neuroinflammatory markers in the therapeutic effects of MDMA. To achieve this, male rats were subjected to a model of PTSD involving exposure to shock and situational reminders. MDMA was microinjected into the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) before extinction training, followed by behavioral tests assessing activity levels, anxiety, and social function. Our findings indicate that MDMA treatment facilitated fear extinction and mitigated the shock-induced increase in freezing, as well as deficits in social behavior. Shock exposure led to altered expression of the gene coding for OXT-R and neuroinflammation in the mPFC and basolateral amygdala (BLA), which were restored by MDMA treatment. Importantly, the OXT-R antagonist L-368,899 prevented MDMA’s therapeutic effects on extinction and freezing behavior. In conclusion, MDMA’s therapeutic effects in the PTSD model are associated with alterations in OXT-R expression and neuroinflammation, and MDMA’s effects on extinction and anxiety may be mediated by oxytocinergic signaling.
Cyclodextrins and Amino Acids Enhance Solubility and Tolerability of Retinoic Acid/Tretinoin: Molecular Docking, Physicochemical, Cytotoxicity, Scratch Assay, and Topical Gel Formulations Investigation
Authors: Fathalla Zeinab , Shoman Mai E. , Barakat Hebatallah S. , Al Fatease Adel , Alamri Ali H. , Abdelkader Hamdy
Published: June 2024

With increasing longevity globally, the search for effective and patient-friendly anti-aging solutions has been growing. Retinoic acid (Ret) is an FDA-approved anti-aging and anti-wrinkling formula, however, its poor solubility and poor tolerability hamper its use in cosmetically accepted formulations. In this study, cyclodextrins and arginine were investigated for improving the solubility and tolerability of retinoic acid through the formation of inclusion complexes and salt formation, respectively. Two different methods were employed: physical mixing and kneading. The prepared dispersions were investigated for molecular docking (MD), solubility, thermal and spectral analyses, cytotoxicity, and scratch assays. The optimized disperse systems were formulated in a gel formulation and characterized for rheological, in vitro release, and kinetics. The MD, DSC, and FTIR results indicated that both β- and hydroxy propyl (HP) β-cyclodextrins could host RA in their cavities and form inclusion complexes. Ret can form a salt with the basic amino acid arginine. Solubility studies of RA significantly (p < 0.01) enhanced by 14- to 81-fold increases with the investigated cyclodextrins and arginine. The cell viability recorded for Ret:HP β-CD K and Ret:arginine K was significantly increased compared to that for Ret alone. The IC50% recorded for azelaic acid (mild to non-irritant control), Ret, Ret:HP β-CD K, and Ret:arginine K were 1000, 485, 1100, and 895 µg/mL, respectively. The two carriers (HP β-CD and the amino acid arginine) were able to significantly (p < 0.05) reduce the irritation potential of Ret. Furthermore, comparable gap closure rates were recorded for Ret alone, Ret:HP β-CD K, and Ret:arginine K, indicating that inclusion complexation and ion pair formation reduced the irritation potentials without undermining the efficacy.
Iron-Reduced Graphene Oxide Core–Shell Micromotors Designed for Magnetic Guidance and Photothermal Therapy under Second Near-Infrared Light
Authors: Donoso-González Orlando , Riveros Ana L. , Marco José F. , Venegas-Yazigi Diego , Paredes-García Verónica , Olguín Camila F. , Mayorga-Lobos Cristina , Lobos-González Lorena , Franco-Campos Felipe , Wang Joseph , Kogan Marcelo J. , Bollo Soledad , Yañez Claudia , Báez Daniela F.
Published: June 2024

Core–shell micro/nanomotors have garnered significant interest in biomedicine owing to their versatile task-performing capabilities. However, their effectiveness for photothermal therapy (PTT) still faces challenges because of their poor tumor accumulation, lower light-to-heat conversion, and due to the limited penetration of near-infrared (NIR) light. In this study, we present a novel core–shell micromotor that combines magnetic and photothermal properties. It is synthesized via the template-assisted electrodeposition of iron (Fe) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) on a microtubular pore-shaped membrane. The resulting Fe-rGO micromotor consists of a core of oval-shaped zero-valent iron nanoparticles with large magnetization. At the same time, the outer layer has a uniform reduced graphene oxide (rGO) topography. Combined, these Fe-rGO core–shell micromotors respond to magnetic forces and near-infrared (NIR) light (1064 nm), achieving a remarkable photothermal conversion efficiency of 78% at a concentration of 434 µg mL−1. They can also carry doxorubicin (DOX) and rapidly release it upon NIR irradiation. Additionally, preliminary results regarding the biocompatibility of these micromotors through in vitro tests on a 3D breast cancer model demonstrate low cytotoxicity and strong accumulation. These promising results suggest that such Fe-rGO core–shell micromotors could hold great potential for combined photothermal therapy.
Antimicrobial Peptide Screening for Designing Custom Bactericidal Hydrogels
Authors: Recktenwald Matthias , Kaur Muskanjot , Benmassaoud Mohammed M. , Copling Aryanna , Khanna Tulika , Curry Michael , Cortes Dennise , Fleischer Gilbert , Carabetta Valerie J. , Vega Sebastián L.
Published: June 2024

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is an opportunistic pathogen that lives on surfaces and skin and can cause serious infections inside the body. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are part of the innate immune system and can eliminate pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, and are a promising alternative to antibiotics. Although studies have reported that AMP-functionalized hydrogels can prevent bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation, AMP dosing and the combined effects of multiple AMPs are not well understood. Here, three AMPs with different antibacterial properties were synthesized and the soluble minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of each AMP against methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) were determined. Hydrogels with immobilized AMPs at their MIC (DD13-RIP 27.5 µM; indolicidin 43.8 µM; P10 120 µM) were effective in preventing MRSA adhesion and biofilm formation. Checkerboard AMP screens identified synergy between indolicidin (3.1 µM) and P10 (12.5 µM) based on soluble fractional inhibitory concentration indices (FICIs) against MRSA, and hydrogels formed with these AMPs at half of their synergistic concentrations (total peptide concentration, 7.8 µM) were highly efficacious in killing MRSA. Mammalian cells cultured atop these hydrogels were highly viable, demonstrating that these AMP hydrogels are biocompatible and selectively eradicate bacteria, based on soluble checkerboard-screening data.
Immunotherapies Targeting Tumor-Associated Macrophages (TAMs) in Cancer
Authors: Li Mei-Ye , Ye Wei , Luo Ke-Wang
Published: June 2024

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are one of the most plentiful immune compositions in the tumor microenvironment, which are further divided into anti-tumor M1 subtype and pro-tumor M2 subtype. Recent findings found that TAMs play a vital function in the regulation and progression of tumorigenesis. Moreover, TAMs promote tumor vascularization, and support the survival of tumor cells, causing an impact on tumor growth and patient prognosis. Numerous studies show that reducing the density of TAMs, or modulating the polarization of TAMs, can inhibit tumor growth, indicating that TAMs are a promising target for tumor immunotherapy. Recently, clinical trials have found that treatments targeting TAMs have achieved encouraging results, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a number of drugs for use in cancer treatment. In this review, we summarize the origin, polarization, and function of TAMs, and emphasize the therapeutic strategies targeting TAMs in cancer treatment in clinical studies and scientific research, which demonstrate a broad prospect of TAMs-targeted therapies in tumor immunotherapy.
Research on Lateral Inhibition Network Based on Cell Membrane Electrical Model
Authors: Qi Dao-Han , Sun Ming-Jie , Cai Qing-Zhong
Published: June 2024

Lateral inhibition is a prevalent occurrence within the biological neural system, enhancing the human brain’s ability to perceive edge information within a given scene. With the increasing prominence of neural network-based machine vision, there is a significant importance in incorporating this crucial biological mechanism into the field of machine vision. However, current research on lateral inhibition networks is divorced from biological reality, especially in the study of the inhibition coefficient. To address this issue, we proposed a lateral inhibition network based on the cell membrane electrical model and applied it to image enhancement. Firstly, we analyzed the visual formation mechanism and the lateral inhibition principle, laying the theoretical foundation. Secondly, leveraging the cell membrane electrical model, we construct a lateral inhibition network with a negative exponential distribution. Finally, our experiment demonstrates that a lateral inhibition network with a negative exponential distribution has better image enhancement ability than other distributions. Using images processed with lateral inhibition as an input improved the classification accuracy of the GoogLeNet neural network by 3.39%.
Effect of Harvest Time on Growth and Bioactive Compounds in Salvia miltiorrhiza
Authors: Xing Zhiheng , Bi Guihong , Li Tongyin , Zhang Qianwen , Knight Patricia R.
Published: June 2024

Danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza) is a perennial medicinal plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It is adapted to a wide range of soil pH with the potential to serve as an alternative crop in the United States. To enhance its cultivation and economic viability, it is crucial to develop production practices that maximize bioactive compound yields for danshen. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of different harvest times on plant growth and subsequent yields of bioactive components of danshen. Three harvest times were selected (60, 120, or 180 days after transplanting [DAT]). In general, plants harvested at 180 DAT had higher plant growth index (PGI), shoot number, shoot weight, root number, maximum root length, maximum root diameter, and root weight compared to plants harvested at 60 or 120 DAT. However, plants harvested at 60 or 120 DAT had higher SPAD (Soil Plant Analysis Development) values. Plants harvested at 120 or 180 DAT had a higher content of tanshinone I, tanshinone IIA, cryptotanshinone, and salvianolic acid B compared to those harvested at 60 DAT. This study provides insights for optimizing the time of harvest of danshen to maximize plant growth and bioactive compound production.
A Study on the Evaluation of Thermal Insulation Performance of Cellulose-Based Silica Aerogel Composite Building Materials
Authors: Hwang Jeo , Kim Yoonmi , Park Jooyoung , Rie Dongho
Published: June 2024

Buildings utilize both inorganic and organic insulation materials to conserve energy and prevent heat loss. However, while exhibiting excellent thermal insulation performance, organic insulation materials increase the risk of fire due to the emission of intense heat and toxic smoke in the event of a fire. Conversely, inorganic insulation materials are characterized by a lower thermal insulation performance, leading to an increase in the weight of the building with extensive use. Therefore, the necessity for research into new insulation materials that address the drawbacks of existing ones, including reducing weight, enhancing fire resistance, and improving thermal insulation performance, has been recognized. This study focuses on evaluating the enhancement of the thermal insulation performance using novel building materials compared to conventional ones. The research methodology involved the incorporation of porous aerogel powders into paper-based cellulose insulation to improve its insulating properties. Samples were prepared in standard 100 × 100 mm2 panel forms. Two control groups were utilized: a pure control group, where specimens were fabricated using 100% recycled cardboard for packaging, and a mixed control group, where specimens were produced using a mixture ratio of 30 wt% ceramic binder and 40 wt% expandable graphite. Experimental group specimens were prepared by increasing the aerogel content from 200 to 1000 mL under each condition of the control groups (pure and mixed) after mixing. The thermal insulation performance of the specimens was evaluated in terms of thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity according to ISO 22007-2 (for solids, paste, and powders). Through this study, it was found that the thermal insulation performances of the pure control and experimental groups improved by 16.66%, while the mixed control and experimental groups demonstrated a 17.06% enhancement in thermal insulation performance with the addition of aerogel.
Nanoindentation Response of Structural Self-Healing Epoxy Resin: A Hybrid Experimental–Simulation Approach
Authors: Spinelli Giovanni , Guarini Rosella , Ivanov Evgeni , Calabrese Elisa , Raimondo Marialuigia , Longo Raffaele , Guadagno Liberata , Vertuccio Luigi
Published: June 2024

In recent years, self-healing polymers have emerged as a topic of considerable interest owing to their capability to partially restore material properties and thereby extend the product’s lifespan. The main purpose of this study is to investigate the nanoindentation response in terms of hardness, reduced modulus, contact depth, and coefficient of friction of a self-healing resin developed for use in aeronautical and aerospace contexts. To achieve this, the bifunctional epoxy precursor underwent tailored functionalization to improve its toughness, facilitating effective compatibilization with a rubber phase dispersed within the host epoxy resin. This approach aimed to highlight the significant impact of the quantity and distribution of rubber domains within the resin on enhancing its mechanical properties. The main results are that pure resin (EP sample) exhibits a higher hardness (about 36.7% more) and reduced modulus (about 7% more), consequently leading to a lower contact depth and coefficient of friction (11.4% less) compared to other formulations that, conversely, are well-suited for preserving damage from mechanical stresses due to their capabilities in absorbing mechanical energy. Furthermore, finite element method (FEM) simulations of the nanoindentation process were conducted. The numerical results were meticulously compared with experimental data, demonstrating good agreement. The simulation study confirms that the EP sample with higher hardness and reduced modulus shows less penetration depth under the same applied load with respect to the other analyzed samples. Values of 877 nm (close to the experimental result of 876.1 nm) and 1010 nm (close to the experimental result of 1008.8 nm) were calculated for EP and the toughened self-healing sample (EP-R-160-T), respectively. The numerical results of the hardness provide a value of 0.42 GPa and 0.32 GPa for EP and EP-R-160-T, respectively, which match the experimental data of 0.41 GPa and 0.30 GPa. This validation of the FEM model underscores its efficacy in predicting the mechanical behavior of nanocomposite materials under nanoindentation. The proposed investigation aims to contribute knowledge and optimization tips about self-healing resins.
Correction: Shokeer et al. Mutational Analysis of the Binding of Alternative Substrates and Inhibitors to the Active Site of Human Glutathione Transferase P1–1. Processes 2020, 8, 1232
Authors: Shokeer Abeer , Ismail Aram , Hegazy Usama M. , Kolm Rüdiger H. , Mannervik Bengt
Published: June 2024

The changes below represent the corrections the authors wish to make to the original paper [...]
Implementation of a Virtual Instrument in the System for Measuring Forces and Temperatures in the Milling Process
Authors: Savković Borislav , Rodić Dragan , Sekulić Milenko , Kovač Pavel , Štrbac Branko , Klančnik Simon
Published: June 2024

This study presents the development of a measurement acquisition system for force measurement and temperature cutting using virtual instrumentation. The developed measurement chain enables very efficient, accurate, reliable and fast data collection during the measurement process. The presented acquisition system was developed for the face milling process, but its application is also intended for turning or grinding processes. Emphasis is placed on the creation and description of a software solution in order to manage hardware measuring sensors. Two versions of the virtual instrument are presented. The first one is based on the measurement of three components of cutting forces, obtained by means of a piezoelectric dynamometer. And the second one is upgraded with another channel that represents the temperature change record obtained by the thermocouple. At the end, the experimental results for face milling are shown. A graphical diagram obtained based on some of the data generated by the innovative measuring chain applied to the milling process is presented.
Analysis of the Current Status and Hot Technologies of Carbon Dioxide Geological Storage
Authors: Wang Feiran , Wang Gongda , Wang Haiyan , Niu Huiyong , Chen Yue , Li Xiaoxuan , Niu Guchen
Published: June 2024

Carbon dioxide geological storage is one of the key measures to control and alleviate atmospheric carbon dioxide content. To better grasp the developmental dynamic and trend of carbon dioxide geological storage research over the world, promoting the research of CO2 storage theory and technology, 5052 related studies published in the past 22 years were collected from the Web Of Science database. The annual published articles on carbon dioxide geological storage research, partnerships, research hotspots, and frontiers were analyzed by using the knowledge map method of article analysis. The results show that the articles on the carbon dioxide geological storage are increasing yearly. The United States, China, and the United Kingdom are the most active countries; meanwhile, Tianfu Xu and Xiaochun Li from China are experts with the most achievements in the field of carbon dioxide geological storage. Although the theoretical and research frameworks for geological storage of CO2 are abundant, the field of enhanced gas formation recovery, shale gas extraction and subsurface storage, methane reservoirs, and methane adsorption are still challenging frontier science and technology topics.
Early Biblical Fundamentalism’s Xenophobic Rejection of the Subject in European Philosophy: How Rejecting the Knowing Subject Formed Fundamentalism’s Way of Thinking
Authors: Ogilvie Matthew C.
Published: June 2024

This article is part of a wider project that addresses gaps in the scholarly knowledge of the philosophical and theological foundations of the Biblical Fundamentalism that originated in North America. Through exploring the relevant literature, including primary sources from within Fundamentalism, the article examines the anti-European sentiment in early Fundamentalism and how this sentiment led to a rejection of philosophical values associated with Europe, especially with Germany. The article will show that anti-European, especially anti-German, sentiment bolstered Fundamentalism’s rejection of subjectivity in thinking, and even its rejection of human subjects themselves. In the place of subjectivity associated with European philosophy, Fundamentalism embraced an extreme objectivity that claimed the heritage of Reid and Bacon but eliminated subjectivity from the Fundamentalist horizon. This article thus shows how Fundamentalism radically opposes God and human beings, and faith and philosophy, with the resulting way of thinking that can be characterised as “naïve realism”, an approach to thinking that excludes the active thinking subject and does not allow for critical judgement or personal understanding.
Identifying Hotspots and Most Relevant Flows for Red and White Wine Production in Brazil through Life Cycle Assessment: A Case Study
Authors: Panizzon Tiago , Bircke Salton Gregório , Schneider Vania Elisabete , Poletto Matheus
Published: June 2024

This study undertakes a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of red and white wine production in Brazil, focusing on a leading winery in the Serra Gaúcha region. Given the notable lack of similar research in this area, our study employs LCA methodologies to evaluate the environmental impacts associated with the winery stage. Our results indicate that although white wine generally exhibits a lower environmental impact than red wine, the specific impacts differ substantially across various environmental categories, highlighting the necessity for context-specific assessments. We also find that electricity consumption, sugar usage, and liquid CO2 production are the primary drivers of environmental impacts, especially in toxicity-related categories. Moreover, our research critically examines the suitability of the Product Environmental Footprint Category Rules (PEFCR) within the Brazilian context and proposes a revised set of impact categories. This revision enhances the accounted impacts from 55% in the existing PEFCR 2.0 to 80% in our recommended framework, suggesting the need for more tailored environmental impact assessment tools in regional settings. Through these findings, our study not only addresses a significant gap in LCA research within the Brazilian wine industry but also sets the stage for improved environmental management practices across Brazilian wine industries. These enhancements are crucial for aligning local production processes with global sustainability standards and advancing the environmental stewardship of the wine sector in Brazil.
Assessing Food Loss and Waste in Chile: Insights for Policy and Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Durán-Sandoval Daniel , Durán-Romero Gemma , López Ana M.
Published: June 2024

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reports that Latin America and the Caribbean experienced the most rapid rise in food insecurity, with approximately 47.7 million individuals in the region affected by hunger in 2022. In Chile, almost three million people, 15.6% of the country’s population, do not have regular access to sufficient nutritious food and suffer from some form of food insecurity. Moreover, Chile is particularly susceptible to the impacts of climate change and contends with the depletion of several critical natural resources, notably water, stemming from severe and prolonged drought conditions. This article aims to comprehensively evaluate food loss and waste (FLW) in Chile and analyzes the implications of FLW on the sustainable development goal (SDG). This will be achieved by utilizing a top-down mass balance methodology that integrates various data sources and an in-depth analysis of the main food categories at different stages of the food supply chain (FSC). In 2021, Chile generated 5.18 million tons of FLW, with fruit being the largest contributor at 2.5 million tons (48% of total FLW). Vegetables accounted for 0.8 million tons (16%). Other food groups each contributed 1% to 10% of the total FLW. Per capita FLW was 295 kg. FLW varied by food group and FSC stage. Fruits, vegetables, starchy roots, and pulses had the most FLW early in the FSC, while cereals had it later. Comparing FLW with the domestic supply quantity of food, it is observed that 68% of the fruit available for the population was discarded. Vegetables and starchy roots also showed significant volumes of discarded food, with 48% and 29% of the availability of these products in Chile. Furthermore, we explore the implications of FLW on realizing SDG 2—zero hunger, particularly emphasizing its correlation with target 12.3. The research underscores the potential of its findings to significantly shape public policies and strategies concerning FLW and their alignment with the associated SDGs, making a tangible impact on the lives of millions.
A Digital Twin Infrastructure for NGC of ROV during Inspection
Authors: Scaradozzi David , Gioiello Flavia , Ciuccoli Nicolò , Drap Pierre
Published: June 2024

Remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) provide practical solutions for a wide range of activities in a particularly challenging domain, despite their dependence on support ships and operators. Recent advancements in AI, machine learning, predictive analytics, control theories, and sensor technologies offer opportunities to make ROVs (semi) autonomous in their operations and to remotely test and monitor their dynamics. This study moves towards that goal by formulating a complete navigation, guidance, and control (NGC) system for a six DoF BlueROV2, offering a solution to the current challenges in the field of marine robotics, particularly in the areas of power supply, communication, stability, operational autonomy, localization, and trajectory planning. The vehicle can operate (semi) autonomously, relying on a sensor acoustic USBL localization system, tethered communication with the surface vessel for power, and a line of sight (LOS) guidance system. This strategy transforms the path control problem into a heading control problem, aligning the vehicle’s movement with a dynamically calculated reference point along the desired path. The control system uses PID controllers implemented in the navigator flight controller board. Additionally, an infrastructure has been developed that synchronizes and communicates between the real ROV and its digital twin within the Unity environment. The digital twin acts as a visual representation of the ROV’s movements and considers hydrodynamic behaviors. This approach combines the physical properties of the ROV with the advanced simulation and analysis capabilities of its digital counterpart. All findings were validated at the Point Rouge port located in Marseille and at the port of Ancona. The NGC implemented has proven positive vehicle stability and trajectory tracking in time despite external interferences. Additionally, the digital part has proven to be a reliable infrastructure for a future bidirectional communication system.
Seasonal Coastal Erosion Rates Calculated from PlanetScope Imagery in Arctic Alaska
Authors: Cassidy Galen , Wiseman Matthew , Lange Kennedy , Eilers Claire , Bradley Alice
Published: June 2024

Erosion along the coastline of the Alaskan Arctic poses an existential threat to several communities. Rising air temperatures have been implicated in accelerating erosion rates through permafrost thaw, decreasing sea ice cover (increasing ocean fetch and wave energy), and shortening the duration of a shore-fast ice buffer, which all mean that erosion rates are higher in summer than they are in winter. However, the resolution of available satellite imagery has historically been too low to allow for the quantification of seasonal erosion rates across large areas of the Arctic, and so erosion rates are generally measured at annual to decadal time scales. This study uses PlanetScope high-resolution satellite imagery to calculate seasonal erosion rates in the Alaskan Arctic. Erosion rates as high as 38 cm/day (equivalent to 140 m/year) were measured using twice-annual images from 2017–2023 on two stretches of Alaska’s Beaufort Sea coast: Drew Point and Cape Halkett. The highest erosion rates are measured in the summer, with winter erosion rates consistently below 10 cm/day (usually within error margin of zero) and summer erosion rates exceeding 20 cm/day in three out of the seven years of data. Summer erosion rates are shown to correlate well with local air temperatures in July–September, July sea surface temperatures, and with Beaufort Sea sea ice area in May–August. Wind speeds and number of windy days do not correlate well with summer erosion rates. This study demonstrates the feasibility of using PlanetScope imagery to calculate erosion rates at seasonal time resolution without field measurements and shows the magnitude of difference between summer and winter season erosion rates.
Effects of Soil Moisture and Atmospheric Vapor Pressure Deficit on the Temporal Variability of Productivity in Eurasian Grasslands
Authors: Zhang Tianyou , Liu Yandan , Zimini Yusupukadier , Yuan Liuhuan , Wen Zhongming
Published: June 2024

The grasslands in high-latitude areas are sensitive to climate warming and drought. However, the drought stress effect on the long-term variability of grassland productivity at the continental scale still hinders our understanding. Based on aboveground net primary production (ANPP) surveys, satellite remote sensing Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), and meteorological data, we comprehensively analyzed three Aridity metrics and their effect on ANPP in Eurasian grassland from 1982 to 2020. Our results showed that the ANPP had an overall uptrend from 1982 to 2020, increasing most in the Tibetan Plateau alpine steppe subregion (TPSSR). Among three Aridity indicators, vapor pressure deficit (VPD) had an overall uptrend, while the trend of Aridity and soil moisture (SM) was insignificant from 1982 to 2020. Soil drought had negative effects on ANPP for all Eurasian grassland, while the atmospheric VPD had a positive effect on ANPP for TPSSR and the Mongolian Plateau steppe subregion (MPSSR), but a negative effect for the Black Sea–Kazakhstan steppe subregion (BKSSR) which was the driest subregion. SM had been the predominant driving factor for the interannual variability of ANPP in MPSSR since 1997. The increasing VPD had facilitated grassland productivity in alpine grasslands due to its cascading effect with an increasing temperature after 2000. The cascading effects networks of climate factors—drought factors (VPD, Aridity, and SM)—ANPP (CDA–CENet) indicated that SM was the predominant driving factor of the interannual variability of ANPP in MPSSR and BKSSR, and the dominance of SM had enhanced after the year 1997. The inhibitory effect of VPD on ANPP transformed into a facilitating effect after 1997, and the facilitating effect of SM is weakening in TPSSR.
Impacts of Water Diversion Projects on Vegetation Coverage in Central Yunnan Province, China (2017–2022)
Authors: Feng Anlan , Zhu Zhenya , Zhu Xiudi , Zhang Qiang , Yan Fengling , Li Zhijun , Guo Yiwei , Singh Vijay P. , Zhang Kaiwen , Wang Gang
Published: June 2024

The water diversion project in Central Yunnan Province (WDP-YN) is the largest water diversion project under construction in China. However, the ecological effects of this water diversion project are still unclear. This study utilized Sentinel-2 remote sensing data to estimate fractional vegetation cover (FVC), maps spatiotemporal variations of FVC in construction areas from 2017 to 2022, and evaluates the impact of the WDP-YN on regional vegetation coverage using buffer analysis and vegetation type transition matrix methods. The study led to the following findings: (1) From 2017 to 2022, FVC within 10 km of the tunnel construction route showed a slightly downward trend or remained relatively stable with no significant changes in the spatial pattern of FVC. (2) Before and after the construction of WDP-YN, over 60% of the area within 10 km of the tunnel construction route showed no change in FVC. On Construction Route Section I (CRS-I), vegetation improved and/or degraded within 12.90% (14.10%) of the area and the regions with degraded FVC concentrated in the northern CRS-I. For Construction Route Section II (CRS-II), 11.96% and 27.51% of the regions were dominated by improved and/or degraded FVC. Vegetation changes near Groundwater Monitoring Point a (GMPa) were relatively stable. (3) The WDP-YN degraded vegetation within 2 km of both sides of CRS-I, slowing down the increase in FVC, while the WDP-YN improved vegetation within 2–6 km of both sides of CRS-II, the closer the distance to CRS-II, the faster the increase in FVC and the decrease in FVC slowed down within 0–2 km of both sides of CRS-II. This study sheds light on the impacts of water diversion infrastructure on vegetation coverage and provides practical guidance and reference for eco-environment protection and ecological restoration given water conservancy projects in China and other regions of the world.
Implementing Digital Multispectral 3D Scanning Technology for Rapid Assessment of Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) Weed Competitive Traits
Authors: Singh Gursewak , Slonecki Tyler , Wadl Philip , Flessner Michael , Sosnoskie Lynn , Hatterman-Valenti Harlene , Gage Karla , Cutulle Matthew
Published: June 2024

The economic significance of hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) as a source of grain, fiber, and flower is rising steadily. However, due to the lack of registered herbicides effective in hemp cultivation, growers have limited weed management options. Plant height, biomass, and canopy architecture may affect crop–weed competition. Greenhouse experiments conducted at the joint Clemson University Coastal Research and Education Center and USDA-ARS research facility at Charleston, SC, USA used 27 hemp varieties, grown under controlled temperature and light conditions. Weekly plant scans using a digital multispectral phenotyping system, integrated with machine learning algorithms of the PlantEye F500 instrument, (Phenospex, Heerlen, Netherlands) captured high-resolution 3D models and spectral data of the plants. Manual and scanner-based measurements were validated and analyzed using statistical methods to assess plant growth and morphology. This study included validation tests showing a significant correlation (p < 0.001) between digital and manual measurements (R2 = 0.89 for biomass, R2 = 0.94 for height), indicating high precision. The use of 3D multispectral scanning significantly reduces the time-intensive nature of manual measurements, allowing for a more efficient assessment of morphological traits. These findings suggest that digital phenotyping can enhance integrated weed management strategies and improve hemp crop productivity by facilitating the selection of competitive hemp varieties.
Correction: Wang et al. Influence of Size and Fit on Malaysian Apparel Industry Sustainability: A Scoping Review. Sustainability 2024, 16, 2486
Authors: Wang Yiyan , Zakaria Norsaadah
Published: June 2024

The authors would like to make the following corrections to the published paper [1]:(1)Replacing the sentence in the “Introduction” on page 1: [...]
The Interplay of Corporate Social Responsibility, Innovation Capability, Organizational Learning, and Sustainable Value Creation: Does Stakeholder Engagement Matter?
Authors: Alshukri Tahir , Seun Ojekemi Opeoluwa , Öz Tolga , Alzubi Ahmad
Published: June 2024

At the crossroads of innovation and responsibility, our study delves into CSR’s pivotal role in steering organizations toward sustainable value creation. Combining the frameworks of stakeholder theory, the resource-based view, and dynamic capabilities theory, this study examines the influence of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in enhancing sustainable value creation (SVC), with a keen focus on how organizational learning (OL) and innovation capability (IC) mediate this relationship and the degree to which stakeholder engagement (SE) moderates the impact of CSR on OL, IC, and SVC. Using a quantitative research approach, 416 managers in the Turkish manufacturing sector (e.g., textiles, building materials, and food processing firms) were surveyed using electronic and physical questionnaires. To test the research model, AMOS 24 was employed. The results confirmed that CSR positively influences SVC, OL, and IC; OL and IC positively influence SVC; OL and IC partially mediate the relationship between CSR and SVC. Likewise, the findings suggest that stakeholder engagement (SE) plays a moderate role in strengthening the relationship between CSR and organizational learning (OL), CSR and innovation capability (IC), and CSR and sustainable value creation (SVC), with increased SE enhancing the positive effect of CSR on OL, IC, and SVC. This study explains the complex ways that CSR enhances SVC, focusing on OL and IC’s mediating roles and SE’s moderating effects. It offers manufacturing sectors in Turkey useful information for promoting sustainability and innovation.
The Business Model of a Circular Economy in the Innovation and Improvement of Metal Processing
Authors: Ingaldi Manuela , Ulewicz Robert
Published: June 2024

A circular economy (CE) appears to be a crucial tool enabling the sustainable use of natural resources, which is also essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Agenda by 2030. Compared to the traditional linear economy policy based on the “take-make-use-dispose” principle, the CE approach guided by the “designed to be remade” principle offers immense opportunities. Not only does it drastically reduce the need for primary resources, but it also revolutionizes the management of both resources and waste. The CE is significant for metal processing companies due to increased control over resources and waste reduction. Furthermore, it enables the efficient utilization of natural resources and minimizes the negative environmental impact, translating into the sustainable development of metallurgical activities. Additionally, recycling processes in metal processing can also have financial benefits by reducing the raw material procurement costs and lowering the waste disposal fees. The CE business model of the innovation and improvement of metal processing involves optimizing resource usage through continuous material processing and reuse. Companies develop advanced recycling technologies, implement efficient resource management strategies, and adopt service-oriented business models like leasing or part exchanging. These initiatives aim to increase value addition and minimize waste. Additionally, the ongoing investment in research and development facilitates the introduction of innovative processes and materials, leading to operational enhancement and environmental sustainability. The main aim of this study was to develop a CE business model for a metal processing company. This model allowed for identifying the key elements influencing the operations of companies in this industry in terms of the CE. Research was conducted through triangulation using various methods, such as focus group interviews, surveys, and individual in-depth interviews. This study was supplemented with an investment decision-making algorithm according to the CE and the CE business model canvas for metalworking enterprises, with a focus on those producing metal products subsequently covered with galvanic coating. The presented results also propose application in other SMEs within this industry sector.
The Future Sustainability of the São Francisco River Basin in Brazil: A Case Study
Authors: Andrade Cristina , de Souza Irving , da Silva Luiz
Published: June 2024

The viewpoint and reaction of a country towards climate change are shaped by its political, cultural, and scientific backgrounds, in addition to the distinct characteristics of its evolving climate and the anticipated and actual consequences of the phenomenon in the times ahead. A region’s climate has a significant impact on how water is managed and used, mostly in the primary sector, and both the distribution of ecosystem types and the amount and spreading of species on Earth. As a result, the environment and agricultural practices are affected by climate, so evaluating both distribution and evolution is extremely pertinent. Towards this aim, the climate distribution and evolution in the São Francisco River basin (SFRB) is assessed in three periods (1970–2000, 1981–2022) in the past and 2041–2060 in the future from an ensemble of GCMs under two SSPs (Shared Socioeconomic Pathways), SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5. The Köppen-Geiger (KG) climate classification system is analyzed, and climate change impacts are inferred for this watershed located in central-eastern Brazil, covering an area equivalent to 8% of the country. Results predict the disappearance of the hot summer (Csa) and warm summer (Csb) Mediterranean climates, and a reduction/increase in the tropical savanna with dry winter (Aw)/dry summer (As). A striking increase in the semi-arid hot (BSh-steppe) climate is predicted with a higher percentage (10%) under SSP5-8.5. The source and the mouth of SFRB are projected to endure the major impacts of climate change that are followed by a predicted increase/decrease in temperature/precipitation. Future freshwater resource availability and quality for human use will all be impacted. Consequences on ecosystems, agricultural, and socioeconomic sectors within the SFRB might deepen the current contrasts between regions, urban and rural areas, and even between population groups, thus translating, to a greater extent, the inequality that still characterizes Brazilian society. Maps depicting land use and cover changes in SFRB from 1985 to 2022 highlight tendencies such as urbanization, agricultural expansion, deforestation, and changes in shrubland and water bodies. Urban areas fluctuated slightly, while cropland significantly increased from 33.57% to 45.45% and forest areas decreased from 3.88% to 3.50%. Socioeconomic data reveals disparities among municipalities: 74.46% with medium Human Development Index (HDI), 0.59% with very high HDI, and 9.11% with low HDI. Most municipalities have a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita below US$6000. Population distribution maps show a predominance of small to medium-sized urban and rural communities, reflecting the basin’s dispersed demographic and economic profile. To achieve sustainable adaptation and mitigation of climate change impacts in SFRB, it is imperative that integrated measures be conducted with the cooperation of stakeholders, the local population, and decision-makers.
Analysis of the Impact of Agricultural Mechanization on the Economic Efficiency of Maize Production
Authors: Sun Manxi , Wan Yuan , Wang Shuang , Liang Jian , Hu Hong , Cheng Li
Published: June 2024

Against the background of comprehensively promoting the rural revitalization strategy, the replacement of agricultural labor by agricultural machinery in the hilly area of southwest China has become an indispensable input in the maize production process. Based on the national statistics from 2016 to 2022, the changes of maize planting area, yield, production costs and mechanization level in the southwest hilly area were analyzed through multiple regression. The grey correlation method was used to analyze the influence of production costs and mechanization level of maize planting on its economic efficiency, and the relationship between comprehensive mechanization rate and cost profit margin was predicted by the ridge regression model. The results show that (1) In addition to the planting area, the maize yield, production costs and mechanization level in the southwest hilly area showed an overall upward trend, among which the net profit was negative for six consecutive years, mainly because the labor costs accounted for too much of the total costs; (2) The average annual increase in the level of maize mechanization is 16%, but it is still lower than the national average; (3) Under the condition that other factors remain unchanged, for every 1% increase in the comprehensive mechanization rate, the cost profit margin increases by 0.467%, and it is determined that the most important factors affecting the growth of maize production economic efficiency are the sowing rate and the yield rate. It put forward suggestions to strengthen the mechanization of maize planting and develop maize agricultural harvesting machinery suitable for the hilly area.
Spatiotemporal Evolution of Green Finance and High-Quality Economic Development: Evidence from China
Authors: Liu Ziying , Shen Zhenzhong , Chang Wenqian , Zhao Yingxiu
Published: June 2024

Utilizing panel data spanning from 2010 to 2021 across 30 Chinese provinces, this study examines the spatiotemporal dynamics of green finance and its correlation with high-quality economic development. Initially, the indicators for green finance and high-quality economic development were quantified by employing the entropy weight method. Secondly, we conducted a preliminary analysis of the spatiotemporal evolution patterns of green finance using the Mann-Kendall coefficient method and kernel density estimation, revealing an increasing trend in China’s green finance development level with regional disparities. Next, utilizing the Mann-Kendall coefficient method and spatial dynamic Markov model, we analyzed the spatiotemporal trends of green finance development and its coupling coordination with high-quality economic development across the 30 provinces in China. The research findings indicate a general upward trend in the degree of coordinated development between green finance and high-quality economic development from 2010 to 2021. Significant spatial differences in coupling coordination levels exist among different regions, with the highest level in the western regions, followed by the eastern regions, and the weakest in the central regions. This suggests an overall trend toward coordinated development between green finance and high-quality economic development in China, with green finance playing a significant role in promoting high-quality economic development. However, the growth rate of coupling coordination is relatively slow and exhibits regional heterogeneity. Lastly, drawing from these research findings, we put forward policy recommendations aimed at effectively advancing the development of green finance and high-quality economic growth in China.