bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trends of Industrial Waste Generation in Manufacturing Enterprises in the Context of Waste Prevention—Shift-Share Analysis for European Union Countries
Authors: Mesjasz-Lech Agata
Published: December 2024

The problem of waste in the European Union is still present—from 2010 to 2022, the amount of hazardous waste generated increased by an average of 2.25% per year, while non-hazardous waste decreased by an average of 0.06% per year. The increase in the amount of hazardous waste and the very slight decrease in non-hazardous waste over the 13-year period testify to the ever-present problem of waste generation. To effectively address this issue, it is necessary to understand the trends that characterize the amount of waste generated. This study focuses on the amount of waste generated in manufacturing companies. Panel data from 27 European Union countries from 2010–2022 were analyzed to examine what factors contribute to the generation of hazardous and non-hazardous waste. For this purpose, a shift-share analysis was used. The research showed that, in comparison to 2010, the total amount of EU waste generated by manufacturing companies in 2022 was 3,632,096 tons lower for hazardous waste and 15,149,754 tons lower for non-hazardous waste. A shift-share analysis of hazardous waste suggests that companies in the manufacturing sectors should show an upward trend in the amount of waste generated in all the European Union countries. In fact, however, there has been a decline in the amount of this waste overall across the EU (though only in 15 countries), driven by both structural (industrial mix) and geographic (regional shift) factors. The dominance of the geographic component was particularly pronounced in countries with a decrease in hazardous waste (negative total effect). The situation was different for non-hazardous waste. Negative values of the national shift component for all the countries suggest a decline in non-hazardous waste at companies in the manufacturing sector. In reality, the decline occurred in only 16 countries, and in most, due to the regional shift component. The analysis shows that policies on hazardous and non-hazardous waste management in European Union countries vary. Positive changes in hazardous waste have taken place in 12 EU countries that differ in terms of levels of economic and social development, suggesting the need for further analysis of the reasons for these trends. In the case of non-hazardous waste, the largest number of countries have made positive changes related to their competitive potential, indicating that the decline in non-hazardous waste is mainly due to their macroeconomic situation. Thus, there is considerable regional heterogeneity in the spatial distribution of the waste change component. The research provides valuable insights for companies and institutions responsible for shaping waste management policies, helping them to recognize the regional advantages and disadvantages of waste reduction and strengthen regional cooperation in this regard.
Economic Aspects of Sustainable Development: Eco-Branding in Manufacturing Enterprises from Kazakhstan
Authors: Davidenko Lyudmila , Titkov Alexey , Sherimova Nurzhanat , Beisembina Ansagan
Published: December 2024

Economic science provides a rich methodological toolkit for sustainable development combined with the principles of the circular economy and green marketing. The practical adaptation of a set of assessment tools helped the realisation of the goal of this study in the form of the systematisation of interaction factors between economic growth and environmental branding of industrial companies in the Republic of Kazakhstan. Descriptive models were used to assess the economic and technological state of enterprises and to analyse the effectiveness of capital investments for the implementation of green technology projects and social environmental investments. In the course of research of the population’s requests to manufacturers of industrial products, it was found out that the requirements to the environmental characteristics of finished products have increased, and the price of ecological products is of concern. Producers and end consumers can be brought closer together through eco-branding, creation of special platforms for green integration participants. To unlock the reserves of economic growth, it is proposed that green investment flows with the participation of industrial capital should be intensified in order to increase investments in the eco-cultural transformation of eco-consumers of the new generation.
Quantifying the Impact of Nonmaterial Services Increasing on Household Livelihood and the Value of Ecosystem Assets—An Example of the Yunhe Terrace Ecosystem
Authors: Li Pu , Liu Yanbing , Ouyang Zhiyun
Published: December 2024

Balancing ecological conservation and economic development is a significant global challenge, particularly in developing countries where rich natural resources often coincide with impoverished areas. This study used the Yunhe Terrace as a case, integrating remote sensing data and statistical analysis to quantify the ecosystem asset value and its changes before and after ecological conservation efforts. Additionally, we assessed the nonmaterial service value and conducted a questionnaire survey to explore the impact of nonmaterial service value on the socio-economic development of local residents. The key findings are as follows: (1) The ecosystem assets of the Yunhe Terrace include four main types: forests, grasslands, wetlands, and cultivated land. In 2020, the Yunhe Terrace ecosystem was primarily composed of forest (56.79%) and cultivated land (36.61%), showing a balance between natural and modified landscapes. (2) The monetary value of ecosystem assets was calculated based on the economic net benefits of ecosystem assets over their expected useful lifespan (20 years in this study). The value of the Yunhe Terrace ecosystem before and after it became a scenic spot was assessed. Results showed that the total value of ecosystem assets increased from 265 million CNY to 523 million CNY over a 20-year period, representing an increase of 257 million CNY. (3) The value of nonmaterial services, represented here by net revenues from eco-tourism, was calculated from 2018 to 2022, covering the period before and after ecological conservation efforts began in 2019. Results showed the value of nonmaterial services rose from 3.07 million CNY in 2018 to 8.90 million CNY in 2022, a growth of 189.77% after ecological conservation. (4) Field surveys and questionnaire analysis of stakeholders’ income sources suggest that ecological conservation and recreational development in the Yunhe Terrace ecosystem have increased household income in terms of both the number of income sources and monetary value. This study demonstrates that ecological conservation and tourism can enhance household welfare, contributing to a better understanding of the dynamics between conservation and economic development.
Impact of Inclusive Growth, Environmental Policy Incentives, Fintech and Globalization on Environmental Sustainability in G20 Countries
Authors: Xian Minglong
Published: December 2024

This research investigates the effects of inclusive growth, environmental policy incentives, fintech innovations, and globalization on the environmental sustainability of G20 countries. In light of the growing global concern about carbon emissions from anthropogenic sources, which contribute to severe environmental degradation, the Paris Agreement aims to mitigate these impacts by controlling carbon emissions. This study explores how inclusive growth, fintech, and environmental policies interact to affect ecological footprints in G20 member countries, which represent some of the world’s most influential economies and policymakers. Specifically, inclusive growth is examined for its potential to reduce economic and social inequalities, which, if unmanaged, can exacerbate environmental degradation. In contrast, fintech is analyzed as a double-edged sword—its impact on sustainability depends on its influence on industries and economies, which may either exacerbate or alleviate environmental harm. Globalization’s role is scrutinized for its interactions with the economic, social, and ecological dimensions of sustainability. Our methodology employs advanced econometric models to analyze data from 1990 to 2023, focusing on the relationships between these variables and ecological footprints. Key findings suggest that while fintech can both increase and reduce environmental degradation depending on its application, environmental policy incentives are crucial for promoting sustainable practices and clean technology adoption. Inclusive growth can mitigate environmental harm by addressing inequalities, and globalization’s effects on sustainability depend largely on regulatory frameworks and corporate governance. This study contributes to the literature by highlighting the complex interactions between economic growth models, technological advancements, and environmental policies. Its originality lies in its comprehensive analysis of the G20 economies, shedding light on how inclusive growth, fintech, and environmental policies shape environmental outcomes. The research offers key policy implications, stressing the need for stringent environmental regulations, the promotion of green technologies, and the diversification of economies to reduce reliance on resource rents. The findings emphasize the importance of balancing economic development with environmental sustainability to achieve long-term ecological stability.
Impactful Methodological Considerations for Knowledge Co-Creation in Sustainable Development Research
Authors: Mbah Marcellus Forh , Ezegwu Chidi
Published: December 2024

The extant literature is rich with references to co-creation in research and knowledge initiatives. However, there is a pressing need for clarity regarding the definition of knowledge co-creation and its application in sustainable development research. To fill these gaps, we conducted a systematic review of 42 articles that met the selection criteria. The findings revealed the disciplinarity in the studies, geographical collaboration patterns, and varying interpretations of knowledge co-creation. This study also identified key engagement methods and stages essential for the knowledge co-creation process in the context of sustainable development. The implications for practice highlight the importance for researchers, and possibly policy-makers, to consider not only the various definitions of knowledge co-creation attempted—often lacking consensus—but also guiding principles. Strengthening knowledge co-creation in transdisciplinary studies, fostering robust global partnerships, ensuring equitable regional representation, facilitating the active participation of diverse stakeholders, and maintaining balanced power dynamics rooted in trust and relationality are crucial for achieving positive sustainable development outcomes. The intersection of research, knowledge co-creation, sustainable development, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), along with the elements proposed for future consideration, which has not been extensively explored in previous studies, underscores the originality of this study, which carries significant theoretical, methodological, and global policy implications.
Delivering More from Land: A Review of Integrated Land Use Modelling for Sustainable Food Provision
Authors: Spain Butler Amy , O’Donoghue Cathal , Styles David
Published: December 2024

We conduct a literature review on integrated land use modelling to guide policy on sustainable food provisioning. Modelling approaches are discussed in the spatial, temporal, and human dimensions, as well as environmental and socio-economic considerations. Many studies have focused on model development over their application to specific policy objectives, often relying on top-down approaches. While ecosystem services are a frequent focus, indicators for their assessment are inconsistently quantified. Socio-economic considerations are coarse in scale compared to biophysical ones, limiting their use in nuanced policy development. Recommendations are made such as standardising data collection and sharing to streamline modelling processes and collaboration. Comprehensive ecosystem services frameworks would benefit from a more uniform classification of values. More bottom-up modelling, connected with top-down models, could account for the heterogeneity between smaller units of analysis such as the landscape, farms, or people. This could reveal further insights into the local contexts and decision-making responses essential for effective land use policy. These advancements would help to design policies that address the complexities of sustainable food provisioning. By connecting local and global perspectives, future models can support more resilient and adaptive food systems, ensuring sustainability in the face of environmental and socio-economic challenges.
How Does Green Factory Certification Affect Corporate Sustainability Performance: Evidence from China
Authors: Wang Weining , Zhang Qi , Hao Jia
Published: December 2024

Achieving the transformation from “growth at the expense of the environment” to “growth through environmental protection” is an essential path for developing countries to promote sustainable economic and social development. This paper utilizes the staggered difference-in-differences model to empirically test the impact of the “Green Factory” policy under China’s green manufacturing system on corporate sustainable development performance in a large sample of Chinese A-share listed companies from 2010 to 2023. The findings show that the level of corporate sustainable development performance significantly improves after being certified as a “Green Factory”. After a series of robustness tests such as the parallel trend test, placebo test, and heterogeneous treatment effects test, the promoting effect remains significant. This association is stronger among non-state-owned enterprises, enterprises in high-polluting industries, as well as enterprises with higher environmental information transparency. The mechanism tests reveal that participating in the “Green Factory” project enhance corporate sustainable development performance by attracting more green investors and promoting corporate green innovation. Overall, this paper provides micro-level empirical evidence for the driving factors of corporate sustainable development and offers policy evaluation and practical insights for the implementation of green manufacturing system and voluntary environmental regulation policies.
Reconsidering Waterfront Regeneration and Cruise Tourism in Hamburg, Germany
Authors: Balsas Carlos J. L.
Published: December 2024

Written accounts of cultural festivals often deal with the various activities that comprise those types of events. There is a paucity of analyses that discuss how festivals encourage the status quo of consumption practices, while conjuring their hidden costs on society. This paper analyses how the Hamburg Cruise Days Festival attempted to perpetuate the status quo of the cruising industry. The research answers the following question: What would it take to help change the current “cobalt” color promoted by the organizers of the Hamburg’s Waterfront Cruise Days Festival to a “True Blue”, a symbol of the cleanest sky and harbor waters in Germany, and the best example of sustainable Green and Blue Infrastructure in Europe? The research methods comprised in loco fieldwork participant observation in the tradition of participatory action research. It is argued that, from a governance perspective, festival organizers ought to be required to disclaim, in the fashion of “truth in advertising”, the ecological impacts and sponsors’ progress toward reaching existing environmental standards to eradicate costly social and environmental injustices. Said practice will increase our individual and collective awareness of the invaluable richness of the world’s land- and water-based environment before it is irreplaceably exhausted. The article suggests extending events’ emphasis on sustainable tourism to also encompass three additional measures: (i) the socio-ecological performance of the cruise (and shipping) industry; (ii) in the fashion of a Solomonic approach to justice; and (iii) within a formalized Porto of Call Sister Cities Network.
Improving Traffic-Flow Prediction Using Proximity to Urban Features and Public Space
Authors: Rajha Rawan , Shiode Shino , Shiode Narushige
Published: December 2024

Accurate traffic prediction and planning help alleviate congestion and facilitate sustainable traffic management through short-term traffic controls and long-term infrastructure design. While recent uptake on Machine Learning (ML) approaches helps refine our ability to predict the traffic flow, proximity to landmarks and public spaces are often overlooked, thus undermining the impact of location-specific traffic patterns. Using traffic-flow estimates from London, this study incorporates the proximity to urban features approximated with Kernel Density Estimation (KDE) and compares the performance of models with and without such features. They are also tested using classic spatial/non-spatial regression models and ML-based regression models. Results suggest that adding urban features considerably improves the performance of the ML models (Fine tree yielding R2 = 0.94, RMSE = 0.129, and MAE = 0.069), which compares favourably against the best performing non-ML model (the spatial error model returning R2 = 0.448, RMSE = 0.358, and MAE = 0.280). Sensitivity of the KDE is tested across different bandwidths for including urban features. The ML classification approach was also applied for estimating the traffic density and achieved high accuracy, with Fine KNN achieving 98.7%. They offer a robust framework for accurate traffic projection at specific locations, thus enabling road infrastructure designs that cater to the specific needs of the local situations.
Vacuum Polarization Energy of a Proca Soliton
Authors: Petersen Damian A. , Weigel Herbert
Published: December 2024

We study an extended Proca model with one scalar field and one massive vector field in one space dimension and one time dimension. We construct the soliton solution and subsequently compute the vacuum polarization energy (VPE), which is the leading quantum correction to the classical energy of the soliton. For this calculation, we adopt the spectral methods approach, which heavily relies on the analytic properties of the Jost function. This function is extracted from the interaction of the quantum fluctuations with a background potential generated by the soliton. Particularly, we explore eventual non-analytical components that may be induced by mass gaps and the unconventional normalization for the longitudinal component of the vector field fluctuations. By numerical simulation, we verify that these obstacles do not actually arise and that the real and imaginary momentum formulations of the VPE yield equal results. The Born approximation to the The Jost function is crucial when implementing standard renormalization conditions. In this context, we solve problems arising from the Born approximation being imaginary for real momenta associated with energies in the mass gap.
Solving Multi-Objective Satellite Data Transmission Scheduling Problems via a Minimum Angle Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Cheng Shi , Shan Yuyuan , Wang Zhixin , Ran Hao , Xing Lining
Published: December 2024

With the increasing number of satellites and rising user demands, the volume of satellite data transmissions is growing significantly. Existing scheduling systems suffer from unequal resource allocation and low transmission efficiency. Therefore, effectively addressing the large-scale multi-objective satellite data transmission scheduling problem (SDTSP) within a limited timeframe is crucial. Typically, swarm intelligence algorithms are used to address the SDTSP. While these methods perform well in simple task scenarios, they tend to become stuck in local optima when dealing with complex situations, failing to meet mission requirements. In this context, we propose an improved method based on the minimum angle particle swarm optimization (MAPSO) algorithm. The MAPSO algorithm is encoded as a discrete optimizer to solve discrete scheduling problems. The calculation equation of the sine function is improved according to the problem’s characteristics to deal with complex multi-objective problems. This algorithm employs a minimum angle strategy to select local and global optimal particles, enhancing solution efficiency and avoiding local optima. Additionally, the objective space and solution space exhibit symmetry, where the search within the solution space continuously improves the distribution of fitness values in the objective space. The evaluation of the objective space can guide the search within the solution space. This method can solve multi-objective SDTSPs, meeting the demands of complex scenarios, which our method significantly improves compared to the seven algorithms. Experimental results demonstrate that this algorithm effectively improves the allocation efficiency of satellite and ground station resources and shortens the transmission time of satellite data transmission tasks.
A Kinetic BGK Model for Pedestrian Dynamics Accounting for Anxiety Conditions
Authors: Bakhdil Nouamane , El Mousaoui Abdelghani , Hakim Abdelilah
Published: December 2024

This article presents a kinetic model based on the BGK equation to simulate pedestrian dynamics, with a specific focus on anxiety conditions. The proposed model is based on the idea that for pedestrians in equilibrium, where this term is used to indicate that the system is characterized by a symmetric equilibrium velocity distribution with a relaxation term, the anxiety factor is incorporated into the equilibrium distribution through the preferred velocity, leading to potential symmetry-breaking effects in pedestrian dynamics. In addition, this paper introduces a numerical resolution scheme using the Monte Carlo particle method that effectively captures both symmetric and asymmetric behaviors of pedestrians. This method is applied to simulate crowd evacuation during stressful situations and pedestrian bidirectional flow in a straight corridor.
Knowledge Exploitation, Inventor Characteristics, and Green Innovation Performance in Automotive Firms
Authors: Liu Yu-Tong , Rhee Seung-Yoon , Hyun Eun-Jung
Published: December 2024

Optimizing knowledge exploitation strategies is a crucial challenge in promoting sustainable technology development. This study investigates how innovation characteristics, inventor attributes, and network structures influence the effectiveness of these strategies in firms’ green transition efforts. Our study focuses on the automotive industry—a sector characterized by long development cycles, high capital intensity, and strong path dependencies—as it undergoes a significant transition towards sustainable technologies. Using patent data from the Korean automotive industry, we uncover nuanced dynamics in the refinement and enhancement of green knowledge. While knowledge exploitation generally boosts innovative performance, this effect is significantly stronger for green innovations. Interestingly, high levels of inventor experience in green technologies weaken the positive impact of exploitation—a finding that challenges conventional expectations. Network structure also plays a pivotal yet often overlooked role: high network cohesion reduces the benefits of exploitation, while a broad network range enhances them. By shedding light on the hidden contributions of individual inventors and their networks, we deepen our understanding of the micro-foundations of green innovation within sustainability transitions. Our findings offer valuable insights for managers seeking to enhance their green knowledge strategies in industries undergoing technological shifts toward sustainability. We highlight previously underappreciated conditions under which exploitation strategies are most effective and factors that can be leveraged to elevate sustainable innovation performance through strategic knowledge enhancement.
A Cross-Shaped Slotted Patch Sensor Antenna for Ice and Frost Detection
Authors: Alrawashdeh Rula
Published: December 2024

Beyond data transmission, antennas have recently been utilized as sensors, offering the advantage of reducing hardware requirements and power consumption compared to systems where sensors are separate from antennas. Patch antennas, in particular, are widely used across various applications, including sensing, due to their attractive features like compact size and conformability. In addition, they can be easily designed in different ways to sense variations in certain variables. Adding a slot to the patch antenna introduces several advantages, including multiband, wideband operation, and improved impedance bandwidth. Slots also provide a concentrated region of electromagnetic fields, which increases the antenna’s sensitivity for sensing and detection purposes. In this paper, a rectangular patch antenna with a cross slot is designed and proposed for water, ice, and frost detection. Detection is achieved by measuring variations in the resonant frequency in response to water, ice accumulation, and frost. The results indicate that the proposed antenna can detect both water and ice accretion with a frequency shift of up to 1.538, 0.358, and 0.056 GHz, respectively, which reflects good sensitivity levels of the antenna. The effect of the slot on strengthening the near electric field and antenna sensitivity is discussed in this paper. The antenna is fabricated and measured and the indicators of each detection scale have been extracted. The proposed antenna has a simple structure and a small size of (40 × 40 × 1.53 m3). In addition, it can be precisely used to sense different environmental parameters such as frost and ice. Thus, it can serve as a strong candidate for detecting natural disasters like frost damage. Furthermore, the findings in this paper offer valuable insights into how the presence and structure of slots influence the sensitivity response of patch antennas, supporting ongoing research in this field.
Evaluating the Carcinogenic and Non-Carcinogenic Health Risks of Heavy Metals Contamination in Drinking Water, Vegetables, and Soil from Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan
Authors: Khatoon Nafeesa , Ali Sartaj , Hussain Azhar , Huang Jia , Yu Zengli , Liu Hongyan
Published: December 2024

Environmental pollutants significantly impact health and quality of life. High levels of harmful metals in drinking water, vegetables, and soil can accumulate in the body, leading to serious health issues. In Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, the prevalence of cancer is notably high, and heavy metals are considered among the possible risk factors. In this study, the distribution of heavy metals, e.g., Cd, Mn, Cu, Cr, and Ni, in the drinking water, vegetables, and soil in the Gilgit and Skardu Districts was assessed. A geo-accumulation index was combined with a deterministic technique to examine potential carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic impacts on human health. Cr and Ni levels in drinking water exceeded the permissible limits from both districts. Drinking water had a HQ > 1 for Cd, Cr, Ni, and Mn, posing significant non-carcinogenic health effects. The lifetime cancer risk (LCR) by drinking water for Cd, Cr, and Ni in Gilgit (0.0087, 0.55, and 0.0048) and Skardu (0.071, 0.21, and 0.014) indicated a considerable cancer risk (>1 × 10−4) for adults. The cancer risk for vegetable intake was observed within the safe limit, while LCR_ingetsion > LCR_dermal and LCR_inhalation for the soil samples in both regions. These findings highlight the need for regular monitoring, enhanced waste management, and advanced purification methods to reduce cancer risk, lower heavy metal contamination, and safeguard public health in the region.
Global Assessment of Emerging Contaminant Removal in Wastewater Treatment Plants: In Silico Hazard Screening and Risk Evaluation
Authors: Sgariboldi Arianna , Posté Elena , Chirico Nicola , Sangion Alessandro , Evangelista Marco , Morosini Cristiana , Re Andrea , Torretta Vincenzo , Papa Ester
Published: December 2024

Pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) are emerging contaminants (ECs), whose presence in the environment is of increasing concern due to their widespread use and possible detrimental effects on wildlife and humans. These chemicals may present multiple hazardous properties such as environmental persistence, toxicity, high mobility, and the potential for bioaccumulation. In this study, extended bibliographic research was conducted to characterize the removal efficiency (RE) of PPCPs in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) considering different technologies. Measured values of RE were collected from the literature or calculated for 251 compounds. The molecular structure of the 245 PPCPs were used as the input to generate predictions of multiple properties using several QSAR tools, such as the OECD Toolbox, OPERA, EPI Suite™, and QSAR-ME Profiler. These predictions were compared to regulatory thresholds to identify hazardous chemicals and to screen persistent, mobile and toxic (PMT) or persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic (PBT) substances. Finally, chemicals were prioritized by combining values of RE and QSAR predictions for multiple properties. A total of 16 out of the 245 molecules were prioritized as the most hazardous compounds to the aquatic environment and, among these, six were associated with potential risk due to their exposure concentrations reported in the literature.
Review of Cadmium Bioaccumulation in Fish Exposed to Cadmium
Authors: Lee Ju-Wook , Jo A-Hyun , Kang Yue-Jai , Lee Dain , Choi Cheol-Young , Kang Ju-Chan , Kim Jun-Hwan
Published: December 2024

Cadmium (Cd) is a highly toxic substance in the aquatic ecosystem, which can represent a high risk to fish. Fish are exposed to heavy metals through waterborne and dietary pathways, some of which are absorbed by the body and can accumulate in specific tissues without being eliminated. The accumulation varies depending on several factors such as dose, exposure route, exposure time, metal types, and biological status of the fish, and environmental parameters such as DO, salinity, pH, and metal speciation. As Cd speciation occurs in the water, the amount accumulated in the fish can vary, and consuming Cd-accumulated fish can pose a risk to human health. Cd introduced into the body of fish can directly affect blood properties through the circulatory system. Cd introduced into the circulatory system of fish can reach all tissues through the blood flow, and the accumulation of specific tissues is different depending on the blood flow by the energy and oxygen demand of each tissue. Therefore, this review aimed to determine the toxic effects of Cd exposure in fish and identify indicators to assess the extent of Cd bioaccumulation toxicity in fish induced by Cd exposure.
Vitamin E Intake Attenuated the Association Between Elevated Blood Heavy Metal (Pb, Cd, and Hg) Concentrations and Diabetes Risk in Adults Aged 18–65 Years: Findings from 2007–2018 NHANES
Authors: Yang Chenggang , Dai Shimiao , Luo Yutian , Lv Qingqing , Zhu Junying , Yang Aolin , Shi Zhan , Han Ziyu , Yu Ruirui , Yang Jialei , Liu Longjian , Zhou Ji-Chang
Published: December 2024

The association between heavy metal exposure and diabetes is controversial and vitamin E (VE) may reduce diabetes risk. We aimed to examine the associations between blood heavy metals (BHMs) and diabetes risk and VE’s role in the relationship. From the 2007–2018 NHANES, 10,721 participants aged ≥ 18 were included for multiple statistical analyses, which revealed that BHMs and dietary VE intake were negatively associated with diabetes and fasting plasma glucose (FPG). The diabetes prevalence in each quartile (Q) of heavy metal exposure increased with age, but within age Q4, it generally decreased with exposure quartiles. Moreover, BHMs were positively associated with all-cause and diabetes-related mortalities with aging, which induced an age breakpoint of 65 years for age-stratified analyses on the associations between BHMs and diabetes risk. In those aged > 65, BHMs were negatively correlated with diabetes risk and its biomarkers; however, in adults aged 18–65, the correlation was positive. At higher VE intake levels, blood lead was associated with a lower diabetes risk and all three BHMs demonstrated lower FPG levels than those at lower VE intake levels. In conclusion, consuming sufficient VE and avoiding heavy metal exposure are highly recommended to reduce diabetes risk.
Clearing the Air on Pollutant Disruptions of the Gut–Brain Axis: Developmental Exposure to Benzo[a]pyrene Disturbs Zebrafish Behavior and the Gut Microbiome in Adults and Subsequent Generations
Authors: Alexiev Alexandra , Stretch Ebony , Kasschau Kristin D. , Wilson Lindsay B. , Truong Lisa , Tanguay Robyn L. , Sharpton Thomas J.
Published: December 2024

Developmental exposure to benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), a ubiquitous environmental pollutant, has been linked to various toxic effects, including multigenerational behavioral impairment. While the specific mechanisms driving BaP neurotoxicity are not fully understood, recent work highlights two important determinants of developmental BaP neurotoxicity: (1) the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), which induces host metabolism of BaP, and (2) the gut microbiome, which may interact with BaP to affect its metabolism, or be perturbed by BaP to disrupt the gut–brain axis. We utilized the zebrafish model to explore the role of AHR, the gut microbiome, and their interaction, on BaP-induced neurotoxicity. We tested (1) how developmental BaP exposure and AHR2 perturbation in zebrafish link to adult behavior, (2) how these variables associate with the structure and function of the adult zebrafish gut metagenome, and (3) whether these associations are multigenerational. Our findings reveal a reticulated axis of association between BaP exposure, developmental AHR2 expression, the zebrafish gut metagenome, and behavior. Results indicate that AHR2 is a key modulator of how BaP elicits neurotoxicity and microbiome dysbiosis. Additionally, this axis of association manifests generationally. These findings demonstrate the importance of studying pollutant–microbiome interactions and elucidate the role of specific host genes in neurotoxicity and dysbiosis.
New Plastitar Record for the Mediterranean Sea: Characterization of Plastics and Tar from the Salento Peninsula (Ionian Sea)
Authors: Fraissinet Silvia , Mancini Emanuele , Funiati Chiara , Martino Caterina , De Benedetto Giuseppe Egidio , Girelli Chiara Roberta , Fanizzi Francesco Paolo , Belmonte Genuario , Piraino Stefano
Published: December 2024

The various forms of anthropogenic pollution are regarded as a serious threat to marine coastal areas. The overproduction and mismanagement of petroleum derivatives, such as tar and plastics, have resulted in a significant correlation between these two pollutants. The aggregation of tar, microplastics (MPs), and natural materials can create plastitar blocks, which are common in coastal areas. These raise concern about the undeniable negative impact on the marine ecosystem and the associated biota, and serve as a recognizable and understandable indication of environmental decline. Here, the composition of the 11 plastitar blocks collected on the Ionian side of the Apulia region (Italy) was characterized both in tar and plastics using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, respectively. Of the 250 particles extracted from the tar, 208 were identified as plastics, predominantly Polyethylene. The majority of these were in the form of pellets (90%), with fragments accounting for 5% and films and filaments representing the remaining 5%. This study provides new data that can be used to enhance the understanding of the distribution and baseline information about this novel form of pollution in Italian waters.
Trace Element Speciation and Nutrient Distribution in Boerhavia elegans: Evaluation and Toxic Metal Concentration Across Plant Tissues
Authors: Al-Raddadi Tahreer M. , Al-Khateeb Lateefa A. , Sadaka Mohammad W. , Bahaffi Saleh O.
Published: December 2024

This study investigated the elemental composition of Boerhavia elegans, addressing the gap in comprehensive trace element profiling of this medicinal plant. The research aimed to determine the distribution of macronutrients, micronutrients, and beneficial and potentially toxic elements across different plant parts (seeds, leaves, stems, and roots). Using ICP-OES analysis, two digestion methods were employed to capture both complex and labile elements. The study revealed distinct elemental distribution patterns, with iron and nickel concentrating in stems, manganese and zinc in leaves, and copper in roots. Magnesium emerged as the most abundant macronutrient, particularly in leaves. Importantly, all detected toxic elements (arsenic, chromium, lead, and cadmium) were below WHO safety limits. These findings provide crucial insights into the nutritional and safety profile of B. elegans, potentially informing its use in traditional medicine and highlighting its potential as a source of essential elements.
The Presence of Two Distinct Lineages of the Foot-And-Mouth Disease Virus Type A in Russia in 2013–2014 Has Significant Implications for the Epidemiology of the Virus in the Region
Authors: Nikiforov Victor V. , Noskov Sergey A. , Sprygin Alexander V. , Alhussen Mohammad Abed , Krylova Anastasia S. , Erofeeva Taisia V. , Fomina Svetlana N. , Kremenchugskaya Svetlana R. , Korennoy Fedor I. , Patrushev Maxim V. , Chvala Ilya A. , Mayorova Tamara K. , Toshchakov Stepan V.
Published: December 2024

Molecular surveillance of FMD epidemiology is a fundamental tool for advancing our understanding of virus biology, monitoring virus evolution, and guiding vaccine design. The accessibility of genetic data will facilitate a more comprehensive delineation of FMDV phylogeny on a global scale. In this study, we investigated the FMDV strains circulating in Russia during the 2013–2014 period in geographically distant regions utilizing whole genome sequencing followed by maximum-likelihood phylogenetic reconstruction of whole genome and VP1 gene sequences. Phylogenetic analysis showed congruence in the topology of the phylogenetic trees constructed using the complete genome and VP1 gene sequence, clearly demonstrating that the isolates analyzed belong to two distinct genetic lineages: A/SEA97 in the Far East and Iran-05 in the North Caucasus. The A/SEA97 isolates exhibited a close genetic identity to those from China and Mongolia, whereas the Iran-05 isolates demonstrated clusterization with those from Turkey. The vaccine-matching studies with isolates from the Far East and North Caucasus revealed no antigenic homology with A/SEA-97 (r1 = 0.015–0.29) and A/Iran 05 (r1 = 0.009–0.17). The close genetic relationship of FMDV in the reported outbreak waves to those from neighboring countries indicates that animal movement could contribute to spillover and virus dispersal. The phylogenetic data reported here provide insight into the molecular epidemiology of FMD in the Eurasia region, elucidating the circulation pattern, molecular evolution, and genetic diversity, which is highly valuable for guiding vaccine designs and improving regional eradication policies.
Evaluating Neural Network Performance in Predicting Disease Status and Tissue Source of JC Polyomavirus from Patient Isolates Based on the Hypervariable Region of the Viral Genome
Authors: Pike Aiden M. C. , Amal Saeed , Maginnis Melissa S. , Wilczek Michael P.
Published: December 2024

JC polyomavirus (JCPyV) establishes a persistent, asymptomatic kidney infection in most of the population. However, JCPyV can reactivate in immunocompromised individuals and cause progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a fatal demyelinating disease with no approved treatment. Mutations in the hypervariable non-coding control region (NCCR) of the JCPyV genome have been linked to disease outcomes and neuropathogenesis, yet few metanalyses document these associations. Many online sequence entries, including those on NCBI databases, lack sufficient sample information, limiting large-scale analyses of NCCR sequences. Machine learning techniques, however, can augment available data for analysis. This study employs a previously compiled dataset of 989 JCPyV NCCR sequences from GenBank with associated patient PML status and viral tissue source to train multilayer perceptrons for predicting missing information within the dataset. The PML status and tissue source models were 100% and 87.8% accurate, respectively. Within the dataset, 348 samples had an unconfirmed PML status, where 259 were predicted as No PML and 89 as PML sequences. Of the 63 sequences with unconfirmed tissue sources, eight samples were predicted as urine, 13 as blood, and 42 as cerebrospinal fluid. These models can improve viral sequence identification and provide insights into viral mutations and pathogenesis.
Detection and Phylogenetic Characterization of Influenza D in Swedish Cattle
Authors: Alvarez Ignacio , Banihashem Fereshteh , Persson Annie , Hurri Emma , Kim Hyeyoung , Ducatez Mariette , Geijer Erika , Valarcher Jean-Francois , Hägglund Sara , Zohari Siamak
Published: December 2024

Increased evidence suggests that cattle are the primary host of Influenza D virus (IDV) and may contribute to respiratory disease in this species. The aim of this study was to detect and characterise IDV in the Swedish cattle population using archived respiratory samples. This retrospective study comprised a collection of a total 1763 samples collected between 1 January 2021 and 30 June 2024. The samples were screened for IDV and other respiratory pathogens using real-time reverse transcription quantitative PCR (rRT-qPCR). Fifty-one IDV-positive samples were identified, with a mean cycle threshold (Ct) value of 27 (range: 15–37). Individual samples with a Ct value of <30 for IDV RNA were further analysed by deep sequencing. Phylogenetic analysis was performed by the maximum likelihood estimation method on the whole IDV genome sequence from 16 samples. The IDV strains collected in 2021 (n = 7) belonged to the D/OK clade, whereas samples from 2023 (n = 4) and 2024 (n = 5) consisted of reassortants between the D/OK and D/660 clades, for the PB2 gene. This study reports the first detection of IDV in Swedish cattle and the circulation of D/OK and reassortant D/OK-D/660 in this population.
Distinct Neutralising and Complement-Fixing Antibody Responses Can Be Induced to the Same Antigen in Haemodialysis Patients After Immunisation with Different Vaccine Platforms
Authors: Wall Nadezhda , Lamerton Rachel , Ashford Fiona , Perez-Toledo Marisol , Jasiulewicz Aleksandra , Banham Gemma D. , Newby Maddy L. , Faustini Sian E. , Richter Alex G. , Selvaskandan Haresh , Billany Roseanne E. , Adenwalla Sherna F. , Henderson Ian R. , Crispin Max , Graham-Brown Matthew , Harper Lorraine , Cunningham Adam F.
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Generalised immune dysfunction in chronic kidney disease, especially in patients requiring haemodialysis (HD), significantly enhances the risk of severe infections. Vaccine-induced immunity is typically reduced in HD populations. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic provided an opportunity to examine the magnitude and functionality of antibody responses in HD patients to a previously unencountered antigen—Spike (S)-glycoprotein—after vaccination with different vaccine platforms (viral vector (VV); mRNA (mRV)). Methods: We compared the total and functional anti-S antibody responses (cross-variant neutralisation and complement binding) in 187 HD patients and 43 healthy controls 21–28 days after serial immunisation. Results: After 2 doses of the same vaccine, HD patients had anti-S antibody levels and a complement binding capacity comparable to controls. However, 2 doses of mRV induced greater polyfunctional antibody responses than VV (defined by the presence of both complement binding and cross-variant neutralisation activity). Interestingly, an mRV boost after 2 doses of VV significantly enhanced antibody functionality in HD patients without a prior history of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Conclusions: HD patients can generate near-normal, functional antigen-specific antibody responses following serial vaccination to a novel antigen. Encouragingly, exploiting immunological memory by using mRNA vaccines and boosting may improve the success of vaccination strategies in this vulnerable patient population.
Social and Economic Impacts of Water Sensitive Urban Design: A Review
Authors: Khalaji Fatemeh , Zhang Jianhua , Sharma Ashok K.
Published: December 2024

Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) has emerged as a vital framework for integrating sustainable water management into urban planning, tackling the increasing challenges posed by urbanization and climate change. WSUD aims to align water systems with natural ecosystems by minimizing runoff, improving water quality, and promoting biodiversity while also offering recreational and aesthetic benefits for urban residents. While the environmental advantages of WSUD are well-established, its social and economic aspects warrant more in-depth exploration. This review analyses the social and economic impacts of WSUD, focusing on its effects on community well-being, property values, infrastructure costs, and public engagement. It also discusses the significance of citizen perceptions, socio-economic equity, and financing mechanisms in the adoption of WSUD. The findings highlight the necessity for interdisciplinary approaches and policy reforms that incorporate social and economic considerations into WSUD planning to ensure long-term success and sustainability. This analysis aims to enhance understanding of how WSUD can contribute to resilient, equitable, and sustainable urban communities.
Distributed Composite Drought Index Based on Principal Component Analysis and Temporal Dependence Assessment
Authors: Santos João F. , Carriço Nelson , Miri Morteza , Raziei Tayeb
Published: December 2024

A variety of drought indices were developed to monitor different types of drought, a significant natural hazard with multidimensional impacts. However, no single drought index can capture all dimensions of drought, necessitating a composite drought index (CDI) that integrates a range of indicators. This study proposes a CDI using principal component analysis (PCA) and a temporal dependence assessment (TDA) applied to time series of drought indices in a spatially distributed approach at the basin level. The indices considered include the Simplified Standardized Precipitation Index (SSPI), Simplified Standardized Precipitation-Evapotranspiration Index (SSPEI), soil moisture (SM), Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), and streamflow (SF) from two climatically distinct small-sized basins in Portugal. Lag correlation analyses revealed a high contemporaneous correlation between SSPI and SSPEI (r > 0.8) and weaker but significant lagged correlations with SF (r > 0.5) and SM (r > 0.4). NDVI showed lagged and negligible correlations with the other indices. PCA was iteratively applied to the lag correlation-removed matrix of drought indices for all grid points, repeating the procedure for several SSPI/SSPEI time scales. The first principal component (PC1), capturing the majority of the matrix’s variability, was extracted and represented as the CDI for each grid point. Alternatively, the CDI was computed by combining the first and second PCs, using their variances as contribution weights. As PC1 shows its highest loadings on SSPI and SSPEI, with median loading values above 0.52 in all grid points, the proposed CDI demonstrated the highest agreement with SSPI and SSPEI across all grid cells, followed by SM, SF, and NDVI. Comparing the CDI’s performance with an independent indicator such as PDSI, which is not involved in the CDI’s construction, validated the CDI’s ability to comprehensively monitor drought in the studied basins with different hydroclimatological characteristics. Further validation is suggested by including other drought indicators/variables such as crop yield, soil moisture from different layers, and/or groundwater levels.