bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Engaging Precision Phenotyping to Scrutinize Vegetative Drought Tolerance and Recovery in Chickpea Plant Genetic Resources
Authors: Lauterberg Madita , Tschiersch Henning , Papa Roberto , Bitocchi Elena , Neumann Kerstin
Published: August 2023

Precise and high-throughput phenotyping (HTP) of vegetative drought tolerance in chickpea plant genetic resources (PGR) would enable improved screening for genotypes with low relative loss of biomass formation and reliable physiological performance. It could also provide a basis to further decipher the quantitative trait drought tolerance and recovery and gain a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms. In the context of climate change and novel nutritional trends, legumes and chickpea in particular are becoming increasingly important because of their high protein content and adaptation to low-input conditions. The PGR of legumes represent a valuable source of genetic diversity that can be used for breeding. However, the limited use of germplasm is partly due to a lack of available characterization data. The development of HTP systems offers a perspective for the analysis of dynamic plant traits such as abiotic stress tolerance and can support the identification of suitable genetic resources with a potential breeding value. Sixty chickpea accessions were evaluated on an HTP system under contrasting water regimes to precisely evaluate growth, physiological traits, and recovery under optimal conditions in comparison to drought stress at the vegetative stage. In addition to traits such as Estimated Biovolume (EB), Plant Height (PH), and several color-related traits over more than forty days, photosynthesis was examined by chlorophyll fluorescence measurements on relevant days prior to, during, and after drought stress. With high data quality, a wide phenotypic diversity for adaptation, tolerance, and recovery to drought was recorded in the chickpea PGR panel. In addition to a loss of EB between 72% and 82% after 21 days of drought, photosynthetic capacity decreased by 16–28%. Color-related traits can be used as indicators of different drought stress stages, as they show the progression of stress.
Preliminary Phytochemical and Biological Evaluation of Rudbeckia hirta Flowers
Authors: Burlec Ana Flavia , Pecio Łukasz , Mircea Cornelia , Tuchiluș Cristina , Corciovă Andreia , Danciu Corina , Cioancă Oana , Caba Ioana Cezara , Pecio Solomiia , Oleszek Wiesław , Hăncianu Monica
Published: August 2023

Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta L.), a flowering plant with various traditional medicinal uses, has recently garnered interest for its therapeutic properties. However, little is known about the potential therapeutic activities of the plant species. The current study focused on conducting a comprehensive investigation into the chemical composition and bioactivity of black-eyed Susan cultivated in Romania. Untargeted metabolite profiling and UHPLC-HR-MS phytochemical analysis of the studied extract revealed the presence of more than 250 compounds pertaining to different classes, including sesquiterpene lactones, polyphenolic acids, flavonoids, amino acids, and fatty acids. The tested extract exhibited inhibitory activity against Gram-positive bacteria and showed promising antifungal activity. It also demonstrated potent antioxidant properties through iron chelation and 15-LOX inhibition capacities, as well as inhibition of cell growth, particularly on the MCF-7 cell line, suggesting potential anticancer effects. Therefore, current research provides valuable information on the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antitumor potential of Rudbeckia hirta flowers. Implicitly, the discovery of such a wide range of biosubstances, together with the biological activity observed for the studied extract in these preliminary in vitro studies, paves the way for future investigation of the potential application of the plant in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sectors.
Insights into Grape Ripe Rot: A Focus on the Colletotrichum gloeosporioides Species Complex and Its Management Strategies
Authors: Hsieh Ting-Fang , Shen Yuan-Min , Huang Jin-Hsing , Tsai Jyh-Nong , Lu Ming-Te , Lin Chu-Ping
Published: August 2023

Grape ripe rot, which is predominantly caused by the Colletotrichum species, presents a growing threat to global grape cultivation. This threat is amplified by the increasing populations of the Colletotrichum species in response to warmer climates. In this review, we investigate the wide-ranging spectrum of grape ripe rot, specifically highlighting the role and characteristics of the C. gloeosporioides species complex (CGSC). We incorporate this understanding as we explore the diverse symptoms that lead to infected grapevines, their intricate life cycle and epidemiology, and the escalating prevalence of C. viniferum in Asia and globally. Furthermore, we delve into numerous disease management strategies, both conventional and emerging, such as prevention and mitigation measures. These strategies include the examination of host resistances, beneficial cultivation practices, sanitation measures, microbiome health maintenance, fungicide choice and resistance, as well as integrated management approaches. This review seeks to enhance our understanding of this globally significant disease, aspiring to assist in the development and improvement of effective prevention and control strategies.
Clinical Development and Evaluation of a Multi-Component Dissolving Microneedle Patch for Skin Pigmentation Disorders
Authors: Yan Chenxin , Xing Mengzhen , Zhang Suohui , Gao Yunhua
Published: August 2023

Excessive melanin deposition in the skin leads to various skin pigmentation diseases, such as chloasma and age spots. The deposition is induced by several factors, including tyrosinase activities and ultraviolet-induced oxidative stress. Herein, we propose a multi-component, multi-pathway drug combination, with glabridin, 3-O-ethyl-L-ascorbic acid, and tranexamic acid employed as, respectively, a tyrosinase inhibitor, an antioxidant, and a melanin transmission inhibitor. Considering the poor skin permeability associated with topical application, dissolving microneedles (MNs) prepared with hyaluronic acid/poly(vinyl alcohol)/poly(vinylpyrrolidone) were developed to load the drug combination. The drug-loaded microneedles (DMNs) presented outstanding skin insertion, dissolution, and drug delivery properties. In vitro experiments confirmed that DMNs loaded with active ingredients had significant antioxidant and inhibitory effects on tyrosinase activity. Furthermore, the production of melanin both in melanoma cells (B16-F10) and in zebrafish was directly reduced after using DMNs. Clinical studies demonstrated the DMNs’ safety and showed that they have the ability to effectively reduce chloasma and age spots. This study indicated that a complex DMN based on a multifunctional combination is a valuable depigmentation product worthy of clinical application.
“Polymers from Renewable Resources”: Key Findings from This Topic Special Issue
Authors: Siracusa Valentina , Lotti Nadia , Soccio Michelina , Iordanskii Alexey L.
Published: August 2023

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has estimated that about one-third of the food produced for human consumption is currently lost or wasted, resulted in an estimated approximately USD 750 billion of direct costs for food producers every year [...]
Dual-Cure Adhesives Using a Newly Synthesized Itaconic Acid-Based Epoxy Acrylate Oligomer
Authors: Kim Hae-Chan , Kwon Yong-Rok , Kim Jung-Soo , So Ju-Hee , Kim Dong-Hyun
Published: August 2023

Herein, a novel biomass-derived itaconic acid (IA)-based epoxy acrylate oligomer (EAO) is synthesized by means of the esterification reaction of the epoxy group of bisphenol A diglycidyl ether (BADGE) with the carboxylic group of IA. The detailed chemical structure of the as-prepared bisphenol A diglycidyl ether diitaconate (BI) is characterized via the KOH value, FT-IR spectrum, and 1H-NMR spectrum. Further, a dual-cure adhesive system is formulated using BADGE, acrylic acid, and trimethylolpropane triacrylate with various BI contents, and the adhesive performance is investigated by measuring the thermal stability, adhesive properties, pencil hardness, and surface energy properties. Thus, the dual-cure adhesive with a BI content of 0.3 mol is shown to provide excellent thermal stability, along with an adhesive strength of 10.7 MPa, a pencil hardness of 2H, and a similar surface energy to that of a typical polycarbonate film. In addition, the properties of the BI-based dual-cure adhesive are compared with those of the dual-cure adhesives based on bisphenol A glycerolate diacrylate or bisphenol A glycerolate dimethacrylate.
Design and Analysis of a New Multi-Part Composite Frangible Cover
Authors: Qian Yuan , Li Wenlong , Wang Xiaopei , Cai Deng’an
Published: August 2023

In this paper, a new multi-part composite frangible cover (MCFC) was designed and fabricated. The frangible cover, manufactured with a traditional manual lay-up method, is designed to conduct a simulated missile launch test using a specially developed test device. A weak zone structure of the composite multi-part frangible cover was designed, and the separation process of the cover was studied by numerical simulation. Based on the strength envelope of the weak zone and the equal-strength design principle, a design method for the weak zone structure of the composite multi-part frangible cover was proposed. A finite element model of the composite multi-part frangible cover was established, and the separation process was numerically simulated and analyzed. Afterward, the verification experiments were carried out. Close agreements between the numerical and experimental results are observed.
Single, Double and ETL-Sandwiched PVPy Interlayer Effect on Charge Injection Balance and Performance of Inverted Quantum Dot Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Kiguye Collins , Jeong Woo Jin , Jeong Gwang Hyun , Park Jin Ho , Kwak Hee Jung , Kim Gun Woong , Jang Seok Hwan , Kim Jun Young
Published: August 2023

A desire to achieve optimal electron transport from the electron transport layer (ETL) towards the emissive layer (EML) is an important research factor for the realization of high performance quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QD-LEDs). In this paper, we study the effect of a single, double, and electron transport layer sandwiched Poly(4-vinylpyridine) (PVPy here on) on the charge injection balance and on the overall device performance of InP-based red quantum dot light emitting diodes (red QD-LEDs). The results showed general improvement of device characteristic performance metrics such as operational life with incorporation of a PVPy interlayer. The best performance was observed at a lower concentration of PVPy (@ 0.1 mg/mL) in interlayer with continual worsening in performance as PVPy concentration in the interlayer increased in other fabricated devices. The AFM images obtained for the different materials reported improved surface morphology and overall improved surface properties, but decreased overall device performance as PVPy concentration in interlayer was increased. Furthermore, we fabricated two special devices: in the first special device, a single 0.1 mg/mL PVPy sandwiched between two ZnO ETL layers, and in the second special device, two 0.1 mg/mL PVPy interlayers were inter-sandwiched between two ZnO ETL layers. Particular emphasis was placed on monitoring the maximum obtained EQE and the maximum obtained luminance of all the devices. The first special device showed better all-round improved performance than the second special device compared to the reference device (without PVPy) and the device with a single 0.1 mg/mL PVPy interlayer stacked between ZnO ETL and the emissive layer.
A Hybrid Motion Planning Algorithm for Multi-Mobile Robot Formation Planning
Authors: Chen Haojie , Wang Zifan , Liu Xiaoxu , Ma Wenke , Wang Qiang , Zhang Wenjun , Zhang Tan
Published: August 2023

This paper addresses the problem of relative position-based formation planning for a leader–follower multi-robot setup, where the robots adjust the formation parameters, such as size and three-dimensional orientation, to avoid collisions and progress toward their goal. Specifically, we develop a virtual sub-target-based obstacle avoidance method, which involves a transitional virtual sub-target that guides the robots to avoid obstacles according to obstacle information, target, and boundary. Moreover, we develop a changing formation strategy to determine the necessity to avoid collisions and a priority-based model to determine which robots move, thus dynamically adjusting the relative distance between the followers and the leader. The backstepping-based sliding motion controller guarantees that the trajectory and velocity tracking errors converge to zero. The proposed robot navigation method can be employed in various environments and types of obstacles, allowing for a formation change. Furthermore, it is efficient and scalable under various numbers of robots. The approach is experimentally verified using three real mobile robots and up to five mobile robots in simulated scenarios.
Spatio-Temporal Variation and Prediction of Carbon Storage in Terrestrial Ecosystems in the Yellow River Basin
Authors: Sun Bingqing , Du Jiaqiang , Chong Fangfang , Li Lijuan , Zhu Xiaoqian , Zhai Guangqing , Song Zebang , Mao Jialin
Published: August 2023

The accurate estimation of a regional ecosystem’s carbon storage and the exploration of its spatial distribution and influencing factors are of great significance for ecosystem carbon sink function enhancements and management. Using the Yellow River Basin as the study area, we assessed the changes in regional terrestrial ecosystem carbon storage through geographically weighted regression modeling based on a large number of measured sample sites, explored the main influencing factors through geographic probe analysis, and predicted the carbon sequestration potentials under different scenarios from 2030 to 2050. The results showed that (1) the total carbon storage in the Yellow River Basin in 2020 was about 8.84 × 109 t. Above-ground biological carbon storage, below-ground biological carbon storage, and soil carbon storage accounted for 6.39%, 5.07%, and 89.70% of the total ecosystem carbon storage, respectively. From 2000 to 2020, the carbon storage in the basin showed a trend in decreasing and then increasing, and the carbon storage in the west was larger than in the east and larger in the south than in the north. (2) Forest ecosystem was the main contributor to the increase in carbon storage in the Yellow River Basin. Elevation, temperature, and precipitation were the main factors influencing the spatial pattern of carbon storage. (3) The ecological conservation scenario had the best carbon gain effect among the four future development scenarios, and appropriate ecological conservation policies could be formulated based on this scenario in the future to help achieve the goals of carbon sequestration and sink increase.
Sensing Travel Source–Sink Spatiotemporal Ranges Using Dockless Bicycle Trajectory via Density-Based Adaptive Clustering
Authors: Shi Yan , Wang Da , Wang Xiaolong , Chen Bingrong , Ding Chen , Gao Shijuan
Published: August 2023

The travel source–sink phenomenon is a typical urban traffic anomaly that reflects the imbalanced dissipation and aggregation of human mobility activities. It is useful for pertinently balancing urban facilities and optimizing urban structures to accurately sense the spatiotemporal ranges of travel source–sinks, such as for public transportation station optimization, sharing resource configurations, or stampede precautions among moving crowds. Unlike remote sensing using visual features, it is challenging to sense imbalanced and arbitrarily shaped source–sink areas using human mobility trajectories. This paper proposes a density-based adaptive clustering method to identify the spatiotemporal ranges of travel source–sink patterns. Firstly, a spatiotemporal field is utilized to construct a stable neighborhood of origin and destination points. Then, binary spatiotemporal statistical hypothesis tests are proposed to identify the source and sink core points. Finally, a density-based expansion strategy is employed to detect the spatial areas and temporal durations of sources and sinks. The experiments conducted using bicycle trajectory data in Shanghai show that the proposed method can accurately extract significantly imbalanced dissipation and aggregation events. The travel source–sink patterns detected by the proposed method have practical reference, meaning that they can provide useful insights into the redistribution of bike-sharing and station resources.
Special Issue “Rain Sensors”
Authors: Giannetti Filippo , Lanza Luca Giovanni
Published: August 2023

In situ weather sensors aiming at the measurement of liquid atmospheric precipitation (rainfall) experienced limited conceptual innovation in recent decades, except for the data recording and transmission components [...]
Performance Analysis of Embedded Multilayer Perceptron Artificial Neural Networks on Smart Cyber-Physical Systems for IoT Environments
Authors: Torres-Hernández Mayra A. , Escobedo-Barajas Miguel H. , Guerrero-Osuna Héctor A. , Ibarra-Pérez Teodoro , Solís-Sánchez Luis O. , Martínez-Blanco Ma del R.
Published: August 2023

At present, modern society is experiencing a significant transformation. Thanks to the digitization of society and manufacturing, mainly because of a combination of technologies, such as the Internet of Things, cloud computing, machine learning, smart cyber-physical systems, etc., which are making the smart factory and Industry 4.0 a reality. Currently, most of the intelligence of smart cyber-physical systems is implemented in software. For this reason, in this work, we focused on the artificial intelligence software design of this technology, one of the most complex and critical. This research aimed to study and compare the performance of a multilayer perceptron artificial neural network designed for solving the problem of character recognition in three implementation technologies: personal computers, cloud computing environments, and smart cyber-physical systems. After training and testing the multilayer perceptron, training time and accuracy tests showed each technology has particular characteristics and performance. Nevertheless, the three technologies have a similar performance of 97% accuracy, despite a difference in the training time. The results show that the artificial intelligence embedded in fog technology is a promising alternative for developing smart cyber-physical systems.
Performance of a Mobile 3D Camera to Evaluate Simulated Pathological Gait in Practical Scenarios
Authors: Guffanti Diego , Lemus Daniel , Vallery Heike , Brunete Alberto , Hernando Miguel , Horemans Herwin
Published: August 2023

Three-dimensional (3D) cameras used for gait assessment obviate the need for bodily markers or sensors, making them particularly interesting for clinical applications. Due to their limited field of view, their application has predominantly focused on evaluating gait patterns within short walking distances. However, assessment of gait consistency requires testing over a longer walking distance. The aim of this study is to validate the accuracy for gait assessment of a previously developed method that determines walking spatiotemporal parameters and kinematics measured with a 3D camera mounted on a mobile robot base (ROBOGait). Walking parameters measured with this system were compared with measurements with Xsens IMUs. The experiments were performed on a non-linear corridor of approximately 50 m, resembling the environment of a conventional rehabilitation facility. Eleven individuals exhibiting normal motor function were recruited to walk and to simulate gait patterns representative of common neurological conditions: Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, and Cerebellar Ataxia. Generalized estimating equations were used to determine statistical differences between the measurement systems and between walking conditions. When comparing walking parameters between paired measures of the systems, significant differences were found for eight out of 18 descriptors: range of motion (ROM) of trunk and pelvis tilt, maximum knee flexion in loading response, knee position at toe-off, stride length, step time, cadence; and stance duration. When analyzing how ROBOGait can distinguish simulated pathological gait from physiological gait, a mean accuracy of 70.4%, a sensitivity of 49.3%, and a specificity of 74.4% were found when compared with the Xsens system. The most important gait abnormalities related to the clinical conditions were successfully detected by ROBOGait. The descriptors that best distinguished simulated pathological walking from normal walking in both systems were step width and stride length. This study underscores the promising potential of 3D cameras and encourages exploring their use in clinical gait analysis.
Authoritarian and Populist Challenges to Democracy Correspond to a Lack of Economic, Social, and Cultural Capitals
Authors: Golob Tea , Gorišek Maruša , Makarovič Matej
Published: August 2023

We explore attitudes toward democracy in relation to social divisions by focusing on the European Union member states and the corresponding EU political field. Positioning in the European political field is addressed through the theory of social fields as provided by Bourdieu and further conceptualized by Fligstein and McAdam. Drawing on the data obtained from the European Social Survey, we conducted a principal component analysis of the attitudes toward democracy and a correspondence analysis between these attitudes and social, cultural, and economic capitals. We demonstrate that attitudes toward challenging the existing representative democratic order can be seen in terms of two distinct dimensions: authoritarianism and populism. The presence of both corresponds to the lack of one’s possession of economic, social, and cultural capitals and the related political habitus. Those who lack these forms of capital are more prone to support strong authoritarian leaders and are also more likely to endorse conspiracy theories. We can relate this to the problems of exclusion and deprivation related to the lack of political habitus required for effective agency in the political field.
On the Extreme Value H-Function
Authors: Rathie Pushpa Narayan , Ozelim Luan Carlos de Sena Monteiro , Quintino Felipe , Fonseca Tiago A. da
Published: August 2023

In the present paper, a new special function, the so-called extreme value H-function, is introduced. This new function, which is a generalization of the H-function with a particular set of parameters, appears while dealing with products and quotients of a wide class of extreme value random variables. Some properties, special cases and a series representation are provided. Some statistical applications are also briefly discussed.
Examining the Impact of Entrepreneurial Orientation on New Venture Performance in the Emerging Economy of Lebanon: A Moderated Mediation Analysis
Authors: Saleh Ahmad Mohammad , Athari Seyed Alireza
Published: August 2023

Despite scholarly debates on the role of entrepreneurial orientation, its effect on new venture performance remains largely understudied, particularly in the context of emerging economies. Determining this association is crucial and has an important implication for scholars and managers of SMEs to increase performance. Therefore, using the resource-based view and upper-echelon theories, this study examines this link by considering the mediating role of opportunity exploitation and the moderating role of transformational leadership in the case of an emerging market in Lebanon. The resource-based view theory discusses the importance of intangible and tangible resources in obtaining a sustainable competitive edge. The upper-echelon theory also connects the attributes of firm performance and top employee management. To achieve this purpose, we conducted a comprehensive survey of 411 managers and owners, 346 of whom were men and 65 of whom were women, of SMEs in the top five provinces of North Lebanon, South Lebanon, Mount Lebanon, Beirut, and Bekaa, where the majority of SMEs are located. This study also collected the data in 2022 and performed moderated mediation analysis to probe this nexus. The empirical results show that entrepreneurial orientation has a positive direct and indirect (through opportunity exploitation) effect on new venture performance. Furthermore, it reveals that opportunity exploitation has a positive effect on new venture performance and partially mediates the entrepreneurial orientation–new venture performance nexus. Furthermore, the results highlight that transformational leadership moderates the direct entrepreneurial orientation–new venture performance nexus, and the positive relationship is stronger for managers (or owners) with higher-level transformational leadership. Moreover, the results reveal that transformational leadership moderates the indirect effect between entrepreneurial orientation and new venture performance through opportunity exploitation, and the extent of the indirect effect is enhanced for managers (or owners) with higher-level transformational leadership. The results are robust and have important policy implications. The current research offers crucial managerial implications for the management of SMEs by paying attention to significant drivers of entrepreneurial orientation and opportunity exploitation. The findings also suggest that entrepreneurs and managers of new ventures must transform their entrepreneurial strategic posture into opportunity exploitation behaviors by pinpointing market inefficiencies and consumer needs, launching novel products and services, and taking advantage of opportunities for new products to enter the market to maximize financial gain.
Vehicle Environmental Efficiency Evaluation in Different Regions in China: A Combination of the Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) and Two-Stage Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) Methods
Authors: Tang Guwen , Zhang Meng , Bu Fei
Published: August 2023

The efficiency of the same vehicle can vary in different regions, posing unique challenges and implications for electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) within a country. However, most studies have regarded countries as single entities, and it is difficult to assess differences in efficiency between similar entities by simply using the life cycle analysis (LCA) method. To provide the specific environmental efficiency of vehicles in each region, in this study, we used data from 100 cities in 30 provinces in China (4 provinces are not discussed due to a lack of data) and constructed a new road congestion indicator that simulated different road conditions at different times and in different regions. A more effective method, which consisted of LCA, two-stage data envelopment analysis (DEA) and a slack-based model (SBM), was integrated to reflect the phases of LCA more clearly. The results show that the well-to-wheel (WTW) emission range of internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs) is 288.28–217.40 CO2-eq g/km, while it is 248.20–26.67 CO2-eq g/km for EVs, which means the WTW carbon emissions of EVs are generally lower than those of ICEVs (except in Heilongjiang Province). Furthermore, it was concluded that provinces with a high proportion of hydropower and a high degree of power autonomy could adjust the proportion of thermal power and inter-provincial power transmission to enhance environmental sustainability, and this would not change provincial environmental efficiency. The analysis suggests that provinces should consider both environmental protection and electricity sustainability when planning their own power development, rather than only focusing on improving environmental efficiency.
Pollution Level, Ecological Risk Assessment and Vertical Distribution Pattern Analysis of Heavy Metals in the Tailings Dam of an Abandon Lead–Zinc Mine
Authors: Wang Qiaoli , Cai Jiannan , Gao Feng , Li Zijun , Zhang Mengsheng
Published: August 2023

Tailings dams in mining areas frequently experience the phenomenon of haphazard dumping and stacking of a large amount of tailings waste. Under the influence of surface runoff and groundwater infiltration, heavy metals from tailings waste can migrate to the surrounding areas and underground soil, resulting in extensive heavy metal pollution. To analyze the pollution level and ecological risk of heavy metals in an abandoned lead–zinc mine tailings dam, this study first employed X-ray fluorescence analysis to determine the vertical distribution patterns of heavy metals with depth. Then, the pollution levels of heavy metals were analyzed based on the Nemerow comprehensive pollution index and geoaccumulation index. Subsequently, the ecological risk of heavy metal pollution was further assessed using the potential ecological risk (PER) index. Finally, the sources and potential hazards of heavy metal pollution were investigated. The results reveal that (1) heavy metal pollutants are identified as lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu) and arsenic (As), displaying enrichment at the interface layer between the reclaimed zone and tailings layer with the highest concentrations; (2) the pollution degrees in each zone follow the order of interface layer > tailings layer > deep zone > reclaimed zone, and the pollution levels for the four heavy metals in decreasing order are Pb > Zn > As > Cu; (3) after considering the toxic effects of heavy metals, the potential ecological risk in each zone remains consistent with the ranking of pollution levels, and the contribution of the four heavy metals to PER changes to Pb > As > Zn > Cu, corresponding average Eri values of 913.928, 416.900, 96.462 and 47.998, respectively; (4) ecological risk of heavy metals originates from lead–zinc ore extraction, and heavy metal pollution poses potential risks to public water security and surrounding ecological resources.
Effects of Biochar and Apatite on Chemical Forms of Lead and Zinc in Multi-Metal-Contaminated Soil after Incubation: A Comparison of Peanut Shell and Corn Cob Biochar
Authors: Vuong Truong Xuan , Pham Thi Thu Ha , Nguyen Thi Thu Thuy , Pham Dung Thuy Nguyen
Published: August 2023

Heavy metal pollution in soils caused by mining activities is a severe issue worldwide. It is necessary to find a suitable approach to mitigate heavy metal-contaminated soil. Yet little is known about how soil amendments affect the chemical forms of heavy metals. Biochar produced from peanut shells (PSB300) and corn cob (CCB300) at 300 °C, and apatite (AP) were applied at various ratios to investigate their ability to adsorb lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn) in contaminated soil. The Pb and Zn’s chemical fractions were analyzed utilizing Tessier’s sequential extraction procedure and quantified using inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy. The one-month amendment incubation of biochar and AP could significantly diminish Pb and Zn’s exchangeable fractions, and CCB300 showed a slightly better effect on declining the exchangeable fractions of Pb and Zn than PSB300, which might be attributed to the higher values of OC and EC of CCB300 than those of PSB300. Moreover, the amendments could also transform the exchangeable fractions of Pb and Zn into stable fractions, resulting in immobility in natural conditions. Thus, PSB300 and CCB300 and the mixture of biochar/apatite could be hopeful amendments for immobilizing heavy metals in heavy metal multi-metal-contaminated field soil.
Exploring the Synergistic Effects of Digitalization and Economic Uncertainty on Environmental Sustainability: An Investigation from China
Authors: Teng Zhuoqi , He Yugang , Qiao Zhi
Published: August 2023

This study delves into the intricate interplay between digitization, economic uncertainty, and environmental sustainability, aiming to shed light on their multifaceted roles. Using an approach, the analysis spans 28 Chinese provinces over the period from 2000 to 2020, employing linear and nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag techniques to unveil symmetric and asymmetric impacts. The findings reveal the urgent need to address the challenges posed by economic uncertainty for effective environmental sustainability. Notably, a negative association between digitization and carbon dioxide emissions is identified, emphasizing its transformative potential in driving energy efficiency and sustainable practices. Furthermore, the study elucidates the detrimental influence of industrial structure on carbon dioxide emissions, highlighting the importance of balancing economic growth and environmental sustainability. The positive influence of urbanization on carbon dioxide emissions underscores the complexities of achieving sustainable development amidst rapid urbanization. By providing a comprehensive understanding of these dimensions, this study contributes to the scholarly discourse and aids in formulating evidence-based strategies for a greener and more sustainable future. The insights gained from this research can guide policymakers and stakeholders in navigating the complex dynamics between digitization, economic uncertainty, and environmental sustainability, fostering a more sustainable and resilient world.
The Role of Digital Economy in Enhancing the Sports Industry to Attain Sustainable Development
Authors: Wei Xiaolong , Zhang Jianwei , Lyulyov Oleksii , Pimonenko Tetyana
Published: August 2023

The digital economy system is an essential driving force that promotes the development of the sports industry, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). This paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the roles of the digital economy in enhancing the sustainable high-quality development of the sports industry in China. This study utilizes panel data from 17 provinces in China, spanning the period from 2014 to 2020. The level of high-quality development in both China’s digital economy and sports industry is calculated using the entropy method. To examine the empirical relationship between the digital economy and the sports industry’s high-quality development, this study employs benchmark regression, mediation models, and spatial analysis and conducts robustness tests. The findings of this study indicate that the digital economy not only directly and significantly contributes to the development of the sports industry but also drives it indirectly through the transformative effects of technological innovation. This study reveals that the impacts of the digital economy on the sports industry’s high-quality development exhibit nonlinear characteristics, with an initial period of rapid growth followed by a diminishing growth rate and spatial spillover effects. By recognizing this dynamic relationship, stakeholders could better strategize and allocate resources in their efforts to achieve SDGs. To advance the development of the sports industry and contribute to the SDGs, it is crucial to accelerate the construction of digital infrastructure in China, nurture a diverse pool of talent in sports science and technology, and develop region-specific strategies that consider sustainability and inclusivity.
Entangled Photon Anti-Correlations Are Evident from Classical Electromagnetism
Authors: Wharton Ken , Adlam Emily
Published: August 2023

For any experiment with two entangled photons, some joint measurement outcomes can have zero probability for a precise choice of basis. These perfect anti-correlations would seem to be a purely quantum phenomenon. It is, therefore, surprising that these very anti-correlations are also evident when the input to the same experiment is analyzed via classical electromagnetic theory. Demonstrating this quantum–classical connection for arbitrary two-photon states and analyzing why it is successful motivates alternative perspectives concerning entanglement, the path integral, and other topics in quantum foundations.
Optimization of Multi-Reservoir Flood Control Operating Rules: A Case Study for the Chaobai River Basin in China
Authors: Wan Wenhua , Liu Yueyi , Zheng Hang , Zhao Jianshi , Zhao Fei , Lu Yajing
Published: August 2023

Reservoirs are susceptible to interference from inter-basin water transfer projects intended to relieve serious water shortages. The Central Route of the South-to-North Water Division Project in China has altered the hydrological conditions and water storage status of the terminal reservoir, the Miyun Reservoir, thereby affecting the flood control reliability in the Chaobai River Basin. In this study, a dual-objective five-reservoir operation model was developed, in which reservoir releases are obtained through piecewise linear operating rules. The model considers the flooding risks both downstream of the basin and in the Miyun reservoir area. A parameterization-simulation-optimization approach was employed to obtain the Pareto-optimal front, providing decision-makers with a list of optimal rule parameters to select and match their own risk preferences. All optimized rules could ensure safe operation during the designed floods to be expected once (or more than once) every thousand years. In contrast, the current flood operation schemes largely ignore the water transfer between basins but primarily concentrate on storing water from floods. Thus, the Miyun Reservoir, whose design return period is 1000 years, can easily become filled during a 100-year flood, impeding the system’s flood control capacity. Compared to the operating rule optimized in this study, the current schemes result in a 10.5% higher upstream inundation loss and an unsatisfactory 17 million CNY of equivalent water transfer loss.
High-Efficiency Mixotrophic Denitrification for Nitrate Removal in High-Sulfate Wastewater Using UASB Reactor
Authors: Wang Yuqi , Jie Mengrui , Zhang Huining , Yang Jia , Xu Meijuan
Published: August 2023

The efficient removal of nitrate from industrial wastewater containing high concentrations of both sulfate and nitrate presents a major challenge in the field of water treatment. In this study, we investigated the use of an Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket (UASB) reactor for the removal of nitrate from wastewater by gradually increasing the sulfate concentration (ranging from 1 g/L to 10 g/L) and the NO3−-N concentration (ranging from 30 mg/L to 300 mg/L). Through this approach, the activated sludge was successfully acclimated to tolerate high-sulfate conditions. The results demonstrated a remarkable NO3−-N removal capacity of 288 mg/L·d in wastewater with a high sulfate concentration of 10 g/L, leading to a nitrate removal efficiency exceeding 96.0%. The analysis of sulfate and sulfide concentrations, as well as the characterization of the microbial community, revealed the occurrence of autotrophic and heterotrophic denitrification processes in the reaction system. The autotrophic denitrifying bacteria found were Raoultella and Shinella, while the heterotrophic denitrifying bacteria included Klebsiella, Simplicispira, and Thauera. The organic carbon sources were found to be a critical factor influencing the denitrification performance of the system. Furthermore, the effects of different chemical oxygen demand (COD)/SO42− ratios (0.3, 0.5, and 1) were examined in wastewater containing a sulfate concentration of 10 g/L and a NO3−-N concentration of 300 mg/L. The results showed that increasing the COD/SO42− ratio enhanced the removal rate of NO3−-N, maintaining it above 98.0% when COD/SO42− was 1. Additionally, the enhancement of the sulfate reduction reaction in the system was observed, and the enrichment of heterotrophic microorganisms such as Megasphaera, Lactobacillus, and Buttiauxella was observed.
An Assessment of Soil Loss by Water Erosion in No-Tillage and Mulching, China
Authors: Cao Zhen , Chen Guohui , Zhang Song , Huang Shangshu , Wu Yan , Dong Fangjin , Guo Yuming , Wang Jianhao , Jiang Fahui
Published: August 2023

Soil erosion poses a global threat to arable land and its sustainability, particularly in China, where the most severe soil erosion exists worldwide. No-tillage (NT) and mulching (NTS) are considered the most effective soil management techniques for reducing erosion, but only 10% of the global area utilizes them. Therefore, in comparison to conventional tillage (CT), we conducted a comprehensive national assessment of NT and NTS to evaluate their impact on water erosion across China’s croplands for the period spanning 2000 to 2018, through using Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE); subsequently, we projected the temporal and spatial erosion distribution, and examined their effects of various underlying driving factors by using a random-forest model. Nationally, the average soil loss rates were 1085, 564, and 396 t km−2 a−1 for the CT, NT, and NTS, respectively, across the entire arable land over a span of 18 years. This represents a reduction of 48% and 64% in the NT and NTS, respectively, compared to CT. From 2000 to 2018, water erosion-induced soil loss exhibited a slightly increasing trend with a wavelike pattern in CT, NT, and NTS. The spatial distribution of water erosion in China’s arable land was primarily influenced by local precipitation, accounting for 45% to 52% of the total impact on CT, NT, and NTS. Additionally, the soil slope degree played a role, contributing 29% to 36% of the erosion patterns. Overall, NT and NTS demonstrated superior performance in mitigating the soil erosion in the southern regions of China, including the Central South, Southwest, and East China, owing to the substantial local rainfall and steep terrain. In contrast, NT and NTS exhibited a lower but still significant reduction in soil loss in the northern regions of China due to the flat topography and limited rainfall. However, considering the trade-off between economic losses (yield) and ecosystem benefits (erosion control), we recommend implementing NT and NTS primarily in the northern parts of China, such as the Northeast, North China, and Northwest.
Application of Magnetic Nanocomposites in Water Treatment: Core–Shell Fe3O4 Material for Efficient Adsorption of Cr(VI)
Authors: Li Heng , Hua Junpeng , Li Ranran , Zhang Yan , Jin Huanhuan , Wang Shijing , Chen Guoyin
Published: August 2023

Since ferric tetroxide (Fe3O4) has strong magnetic properties, coating amorphous silica (SiO2) with Fe3O4 nanoparticles can protect the magnetic Fe3O4 particles and form a new magnetic adsorbent with a core–shell structure and small pore size, the strong magnetic properties of which can efficiently solve the problem of the difficult separation and recovery of heavy metals from wastewater affecting present-day adsorption techniques. In this paper, SiO2-coated nanoscale Fe3O4 particles were prepared using a modified sol–gel method for the adsorption and removal of Cr(VI) at lower pollution concentrations. The adsorbent was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and a magnetic vibration sample magnetometer (VSM), and its adsorption performance was systematically investigated in terms of initial concentration, pH, and temperature. The experiments showed that the adsorption effect was optimal when the initial solution Cr(VI) was 40 mg/L. The adsorption capacity increased with a decrease in the initial solution’s pH and decreased with an increase in temperature. Furthermore, the adsorption capacity of Cr(VI) at low concentrations was much higher than that of other conventional adsorbents, the calculated unit adsorption capacity reached 13.609 mg·g−1, and the removal rate reached 64.8%. In addition, the strong magnetic nanocomposite (MS) had excellent recoverability, could achieve desorption via alkaline washing, and retained about 75% of the initial adsorption capacity after six cycles.
Classification of WatSan Technologies Using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Al Nuaimi Hala , Abdelmagid Mohamed , Bouabid Ali , Chrysikopoulos Constantinos V. , Maalouf Maher
Published: August 2023

A substantial portion of the water supply and sanitation (WatSan) infrastructure in the rural areas of developing countries is currently not operating. This failure is due to the inappropriate implementation of WatSan technologies and the lack of decision-making resources. This study explores the application of several machine learning classification algorithms to predict the optimal WatSan system effectively. The proposed classification methods are Logistic Regression, Random Forest, Support Vector Machine, CatBoost, and Neural Network. The practicality of these classification methods was tested using a dataset comprising 774 water technology options. Several experiments were conducted to obtain the highest possible classification accuracy of the capacity requirement level (CRL) in terms of accuracy and F1 score classification metrics. Our findings suggest that CatBoost, with the addition of the synthetic minority oversampling technique (SMOTE), outperforms the other algorithms in classifying WatSan technology options.
Evaluating Hydrological Drought Risk in Lithuania
Authors: Nazarenko Serhii , Šarauskienė Diana , Putrenko Viktor , Kriaučiūnienė Jūratė
Published: August 2023

Hydrological drought poses a major global challenge, exacerbated by climate change and increasing water demand, leading to water scarcity, environmental degradation, and socioeconomic impacts. Thereby, there is a need for comprehensive methods to assess and predict hydrological droughts. The methodology part was based on the calculation of hydrological drought risk components—hazard and vulnerability—according to the equal weight scale of each variable. The spatial distribution of point values was performed by the inverse distance weighting interpolation method. To calculate indices, the spatial layer overlapping of variables was performed using the Raster Calculator tool. Statistical tools were used to estimate drought risk in river catchments. As a result, three main maps were prepared: The hydrological drought hazard index, the hydrological drought vulnerability index, and the hydrological drought risk. These maps highlight regional variations in drought hazards, vulnerability, and risk. Hazard and risk index values are higher in the northern part of Lithuania and lower in the south. The central region exhibits the highest percentage of areas at high and very high risk; the western region shows less risk due to a maritime climate; and the Southeastern region demonstrates the lowest susceptibility to hydrological drought due to physical-geographical factors.