bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advancements in Mercury-Free Electrochemical Sensors for Iron Detection: A Decade of Progress in Electrode Materials and Modifications
Authors: Motshakeri Mahsa , Angoro Barbara , Phillips Anthony R. J. , Svirskis Darren , Kilmartin Paul A. , Sharma Manisha
Published: February 2025

Efforts to quantify iron ion concentrations across fields such as environmental, chemical, health, and food sciences have intensified over the past decade, which drives advancements in analytical methods, particularly electrochemical sensors known for their simplicity, portability, and reliability. The development of electrochemical methods using non-mercury electrodes is increasing as alternatives to environmentally unsafe mercury-based electrodes. However, detecting iron species such as Fe(II) and Fe(III) remains challenging due to their distinct chemical properties, continuous oxidation-state interconversion, presence of interfering species, and complex behavior in diverse environments and matrixes. Selective trace detection demands careful optimization of electrochemical methods, including proper electrode materials selection, electrode surface modifications, operating conditions, and sample pretreatments. This review critically evaluates advancements over the past decade in mercury-free electrode materials and surface modification strategies for iron detection. Strategies include incorporating a variety of nanomaterials, composites, conducting polymers, membranes, and iron-selective ligands to improve sensitivity, selectivity, and performance. Despite advancements, achieving ultra-low detection limits in real-world samples with minimal interference remains challenging and emphasizes the need for enhanced sample pretreatment. This review identifies challenges, knowledge gaps, and future directions and paves the way for advanced iron electrochemical sensors for environmental monitoring, health diagnostics, and analytical precision.
Integrated Bayesian and Particle Swarm Approaches for Enhanced Gas Leak Detection in Complex Commercial Structures
Authors: Sui Zhewen , Yuan Xiaobing , Cai Baoping , Ye Fangqi , Duan Qingqing , Zhao Zhiqiang , Shao Xiaoyan , Zhou Xin , Hu Zhiming
Published: February 2025

During gas leak detection and risk monitoring of commercial sealed areas, different types of sensors are deployed to monitor leak signals. The arrangement of a limited number of sensors in the most strategic positions, solving the problem of optimal sensor placement, is key to improving detection efficiency. Aiming at gas leak detection in commercial areas, this paper proposes a sensor placement methodology based on a particle swarm optimization algorithm to determine the optimal number and position of sensors. First, Bayesian networks assess the gas leak risk levels. Second, a discrete optimization model for sensor placement is established. Finally, the particle swarm optimization algorithm is applied to calculate the optimal sensor placement solution. In the iterative process, partial differential equation models simulate gas diffusion paths to verify the effectiveness of the sensor layout, followed by computational fluid dynamics simulations for further validation of the optimization results. The simulation case of a commercial gas system demonstrates that the proposed method achieves fast convergence and significant optimization results. A real case study shows that the method reduces the number of sensors and data redundancy. Compared with traditional methods, the robustness and efficiency of the system under the optimal solution are significantly improved.
CP-QRRT*: A Path Planning Algorithm for Hyper-Redundant Manipulators Considering Joint Angle Constraints
Authors: Wang Tianya , Ma Guoliang , Xu Lisong , Yu Rui
Published: February 2025

A novel algorithm (CP-QRRT*) is proposed for the path planning tasks of hyper-redundant manipulators (HRMs) in confined spaces, addressing the issues of unmet joint angle constraints, redundant planning paths, and long planning times present in previous algorithms. First, the PSO algorithm is introduced to optimize the random sampling process of the RRT series algorithms, enhancing the directionality of the random tree expansion. Subsequently, the method of backtracking ancestor nodes from the Quick-RRT* algorithm is combined to avoid getting trapped in local optima. Finally, a constraint module designed based on the maximum joint angle constraints of the HRM is implemented to limit the path deflection angles. Simulation experiments demonstrate that the proposed algorithm can satisfy the joint angle constraints of the HRM, and the planned paths are shorter and require less time.
Non-Invasive Monitoring and Differentiation of Aging Mice Treated with Goat Whey Powder by an Electronic Nose Coupled with Chemometric Methods
Authors: Zhu Guilong , Yang Yahe , Zhang Fumei , Wei Jia , Tian Xiaojing , Liu Lixia , Ma Zuolin , Zhang Guoheng
Published: February 2025

For the evaluation of food efficacy, in vitro experiments and cell and animal models are heavily relied on, with a need for quick and non-invasive monitoring methods. In this study, the fecal odor of aging mice supplemented with goat whey powder was obtained by an E-nose, and the correlation between odor information and the antioxidant indexes, serum antibody, cytokine, and intestinal bacteria were analyzed, aiming to establish a non-invasive method for monitoring and differentiating the effect of goat whey powder. As a result, the fecal odor differed with intervention groups and intervention time, and most of the sensor responses were significantly correlated with weight gain rate, SOD activity, and MDA content. For serum antibodies, cytokines, IL-2, and IL-6 were negatively correlated with the responses of sensor S7. A strong correlation was found between the E-nose sensor responses and the dominant intestinal bacteria. The E-nose could differentiate aging mice of different intervention times and intervention groups with canonical discriminate analysis (CDA). The effective predictive model was built by multiple linear regression (MLR) and a multilayer perceptron neural network (MLP) for SOD, MDA, and weight gain rate, with R2 ranging from 0.1571 to 0.6361. These results indicated that E-nose technology could be used in the tracking of goat whey powder intervention in aging mice.
Generative Adversarial Framework with Composite Discriminator for Organization and Process Modelling—Smart City Cases
Authors: Shilov Nikolay , Ponomarev Andrew , Ryumin Dmitry , Karpov Alexey
Published: February 2025

Smart city operation assumes dynamic infrastructure in various aspects. However, organization and process modelling require domain expertise and significant efforts from modelers. As a result, such processes are still not well supported by IT systems and still mostly remain manual tasks. Today, machine learning technologies are capable of performing various tasks including those that have normally been associated with people; for example, tasks that require creativeness and expertise. Generative adversarial networks (GANs) are a good example of this phenomenon. This paper proposes an approach to generating organizational and process models using a GAN. The proposed GAN architecture takes into account both tacit expert knowledge encoded in the training set sample models and the symbolic knowledge (rules and algebraic constraints) that is an essential part of such models. It also pays separate attention to differentiable functional constraints, since learning those just from samples is not efficient. The approach is illustrated via examples of logistic system modelling and smart tourist trip booking process modelling. The developed framework is implemented in a publicly available open-source library that can potentially be used by developers of modelling software.
Cultivating Joy and Mindfulness in Social Work: Enhancing Well-Being and Resilience Through Positive Reflection and Practice
Authors: Sicora Alessandro
Published: February 2025

The article explores joy experienced by social workers—an area often overshadowed by research focused on burnout and emotional strain. Drawing from a selection of nearly 400 “bonsai stories” (an extremely concise form of reflective writing) collected through international workshops, the article identifies common sources of joy, including successful interventions, client trust, gratitude, and collaborative achievements. These bonsai stories were produced using Gibbs’ Reflective Cycle, meaning they emerged from a process of in-depth reflection guided by this structured framework, which promotes systematic analysis and an understanding of professional experiences. The article underscores how reflective practices on joy can act as a counterbalance to professional challenges, reducing stress and burnout while enhancing resilience. Further, it hypothesises that by integrating these reflective practices with mindfulness techniques, social workers can cultivate deeper emotional awareness and present-moment focus, creating a synergistic framework for professional and personal growth. The study calls for practitioners and organisations to foster environments that support joy, mindfulness, and reflective practices, contributing to a more resilient workforce and improved service quality. These insights not only expand knowledge in an underexplored area but also provide practical strategies to enhance the motivation and emotional well-being of social workers in a demanding field.
Perception of Authenticity of a UNESCO Heritage Site: New Infill Design and Integrity Protection in the Old Town of Ohrid, North Macedonia
Authors: Milojković Aleksandar , Antić Uroš , Stanojević Ana , Jevremović Ljiljana , Nikolić Marko , Đorđević Isidora , Brzaković Milan
Published: February 2025

The UNESCO world heritage site of the old town of Ohrid represents a unique spatial and historical area of the Balkan peninsula. Over time, it has changed due to new construction caused by social challenges and mass tourism, damaging its authentic value. This research examines the issue of new infill design from the perspective of preserving the authenticity of Ohrid’s built heritage. Some new additions have arisen in the period of absence and/or inadequate application of the legislative protective framework, while others reflect a historical replication approach encouraged by official construction guidelines. The study aims to verify whether this legally accepted approach suits the area. The research relies on field study and questionnaire survey analysis regarding the perception of authenticity among the local community, non-Ohrid residents, and architecture and urban planning experts. The field study shows that fostering historical replication has led to low-quality imitations of inherited aesthetics. This trend prevents modern reflection of contemporary architectural design and has created fake historical continuity. The survey results indicate a different opinion on this issue, with variations based on profession and living place. The research outcomes create an opportunity for further education within the local community and dialogue regarding preserving Ohrid’s heritage.
The Great Filter? A Preliminary Study on Metaverse and Sustainable Food Consumer
Authors: Palmieri Nadia , Boccia Flavio , Di Vaio Assunta , Covino Daniela
Published: February 2025

Collective virtual spaces are increasing attention from scholars and practitioners due to their potential to lead business growth while reducing environmental impacts. The Metaverse, with its immersive digital presence and virtual economies, serves as a prominent example, particularly in industries such as food. The existing literature on its adoption in the sector is still limited. Therefore, this study employs Mini Focus Groups with Italian Metaverse experts and a binary logistic regression model to identify the key factors influencing the adoption of the Metaverse in the food sector. It focuses on Italy due to its cultural-, economic-, and sector-specific dynamics in the sector, where the Metaverse could play a transformative role. Technological and regulatory uncertainties, as well as security risks, are the main obstacles which, according to experts, should deter consumers from embracing food purchases in the Metaverse. On the other hand, this study highlights several facilitating factors that can encourage adoption, also contributing to the achievement of SDG12: Responsible Consumption and Production. These include performance expectancy, effort expectancy, perceived behavior, hedonic motivation, and consumer innovativeness. These factors are likely to drive consumer engagement with Metaverse-based food platforms. The results provide interesting insights into which factors, according to experts, would influence people’s willingness to purchase food products within the Metaverse, in view of the possible development of a new market for food products. This study provides a significant contribution to scholars and practitioners by shedding light on the main factors influencing consumer adoption of the Metaverse.
Research on Energy Storage Planning and Operation for New Energy in the Substitute Power Product Market
Authors: Zhang Haozhi , Wang Haibing
Published: February 2025

To address the challenges in new power systems, such as wind and photovoltaic curtailment and insufficient energy storage incentives, caused by imbalances in the regulation of power supply and demand, the academic community has proposed the substitute power product (SPP) market, which is based on the trading of prescribed generation shapes over defined periods. However, there is currently no literature addressing the optimization strategies for market participants within the SPP market trading model. To fill this gap, this study introduces, for the first time, an energy storage planning and optimization operation strategy for wind and photovoltaic energy stations within this market framework. First, the basic trading process and related concepts of the SPP market are introduced. Then, based on the operational logic of the SPP market, a multi-stage energy storage planning and operation strategy is proposed for wind and photovoltaic stations. This strategy integrates a two-level model with a multi-scenario stochastic planning model to optimize the storage capacity and power allocation of renewable energy stations under uncertainty. Subsequently, relevant metrics for the SPP market are introduced, and these metrics are used to quantitatively analyze the feasibility of cooperation among different renewable energy stakeholders in the market. Finally, the impact of regulation power prices on the decision-making of renewable energy stations participating in the SPP market is explored. The findings of this study provide new energy producers with a preliminary optimization solution for energy storage configuration and operation under the new trading model, promoting their participation in the SPP market and contributing to the acceleration of the low-carbon transformation of power systems.
Practitioner Perceptions of Mainstreaming Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS): A Mixed Methods Study Exploring Direct Versus Indirect Barriers
Authors: Haddad Hebba , Bryden John , Connop Stuart
Published: February 2025

Sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) represent an opportunity to use stormwater management as a mechanism to deliver multiple co-benefits. They can play a key role in urban climate change adaptation, restoring nature, and increasing health and social wellbeing. Despite these benefits, their uptake is limited with many practitioners reporting barriers to implementation. To explore these barriers, and to define actions to unlock scaling, our mixed-methods study explored comparative perceptions of SuDS practitioners within the UK. Survey research (n = 48) provided an overview of broad experiences across a range of SuDS practitioners. Main barriers described were access to funds, difficulty retrofitting, cost to maintain, and the ownership of SuDS. Main issues having the least available information to support SuDS scaling were conflicts with corporate identity, cost to maintain, and collaboration between various stakeholders. Follow-up interviews (n = 6) explored experiences among a contrasting subset of survey respondents: those who experienced the highest number of perceived barriers and those who experienced the fewest barriers to SuDS implementation. From these interviews, key themes were identified that categorized the barriers for SuDS implementations: people-related elements; limiting practicalities; and informational factors. The findings were differentiated between indirect barriers (i.e., soft barriers, such as individual practitioner knowledge and capacity gaps linked to poor knowledge exchange) and direct barriers (i.e., hard barriers including specific gaps in SuDS data and knowledge experienced more universally). The importance of differentiating between knowledge-based (indirect) barriers that can be unlocked by improved information-transfer solutions and actual (direct) barriers that need further considered approaches and the generation of new knowledge to overcome is highlighted. Evidence-based policy recommendations for governmental and SuDS-based organisations are presented.
The Hedging Strategies of Enterprises in the European Union Allowances Market—Implementation Actions for Sustainable Development
Authors: Błażejowska Małgorzata , Czarny Anna , Kowalska Iwona , Michalczewski Andrzej , Stępień Paweł
Published: February 2025

The pursuit of sustainable development in the implementation of EU energy policy concerns, among other things, the area of trading greenhouse gas emission allowances. The increasing price volatility in the European Union Allowances (EUA) market necessitates the implementation of hedging strategies to minimize the impact of price risk on the operational performance of European enterprises. An intriguing research goal (both in terms of cognitive and practical applications) was to compare the effectiveness of hedging strategies for purchasing EUA in three scenarios: (1) without hedging; (2) hedging based on an unconditional instrument; and (3) hedging based on a conditional instrument. The analysis was conducted on a theoretical-comparative variant and on the example of an entity operating in the real economy. The research objectives were supported by the following methods: 1. Data collection, which included a review of the literature on hedging EUA purchases in the context of connections with financial risk management theories and corporate responsibility, as well as connections with EU ETS policy regulations. 2. Data processing, which involved a quantitative analysis of data mainly from the ICE Endex exchange and its historical quotations (2016–September 2024), including the determination of option pricing using the Black–Scholes model. 3. Expert judgment was used to justify the time frames adopted for the research. The findings revealed that the use of hedging in EUA purchases was effective and led to a reduction in the overall cost of acquisition throughout the analyzed period. The effectiveness of hedging based on an unconditional instrument, such as a futures contract, was higher than that of hedging based on a conditional instrument, such as an option. The results obtained provide a good basis for continuing research on the effectiveness of EUA hedging in extreme scenarios and in conditions of increased volatility. This research approach is justified by the upcoming dismantling of climate initiatives starting in 2025, related to the USA’s withdrawal from the Paris Agreement.
Spatiotemporal Patterns and Influencing Factors of Carbon Emissions in the Yangtze River Basin: A Shrinkage Perspective
Authors: Jiang Xiujuan , Sun Jingyuan , Huang Jinchuan , Zhang Nan , Xu Linlin , Zhang Zhenming
Published: February 2025

This study categorizes 45 cities into four types based on population dynamics using census data (2000–2020). Methods such as ArcGIS10.8, carbon emission estimation, LISA clustering, and association analysis are employed to explore the spatiotemporal distribution of shrinking cities and carbon emissions. This study analyzes carbon emission patterns and influencing factors for the four city types and provides policy recommendations. The findings are as follows: (1) Lasting-growth cities show a “two-end mass, middle-point” pattern, while stage-growth and stage-shrinking cities are “point” distributed. Lasting-shrinking cities are mainly distributed in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River. (2) Total carbon emissions are rising, showing two clusters of high-value areas. Carbon emission intensity is falling quickly, being higher in the west and lower in the east. (3) Lasting-growth cities have the fastest direct carbon emission growth rate, stage-growth cities have the fastest energy-related indirect emission growth rate, and cities undergoing population increase have the fastest growth rate for other indirect carbon emissions. In terms of carbon reduction, lasting-growth cities perform best, whereas stage-growth cities perform worst. (4) Regional GDP, per capita regional GDP, urban construction area, and hospital beds per 10,000 people promote carbon emission reduction in the four city types, while a higher number of industrial enterprises inhibits it. Birth rate, aging rate, and mortality rate have no significant impact. This study addresses the gaps in previous research on shrinking cities and carbon emission reduction by considering the dynamic nature of shrinking processes and analyzing carbon emission patterns.
Enhancing Education Outcomes Integrating Augmented Reality and Artificial Intelligence for Education in Nutrition and Food Sustainability
Authors: Capecchi Irene , Borghini Tommaso , Bellotti Michael , Bernetti Iacopo
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: The integration of Augmented Reality (AR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in educational applications presents an opportunity to enhance learning outcomes in young users. This study focuses on ARFood, a serious game designed to teach Generation Alpha about nutritional health and environmental sustainability. The objective is to evaluate and improve the effectiveness of the app’s AI-driven feedback mechanisms in achieving specific educational goals in these domains. Methods: ARFood features two AI-powered Non-Player Characters (NPCs), each programmed to evaluate virtual shopping carts created by users. The nutritional NPC provides feedback on dietary choices, while the sustainability NPC assesses environmental impacts. Ninety-three participants were involved, generating 83 virtual carts that were evaluated by both NPCs. Each NPC’s feedback was assessed for alignment with five predefined educational objectives per theme using a zero-shot RoBERTa classifier. An iterative process was employed to refine the NPC prompts, increase the weight of underrepresented objectives, and re-evaluate virtual carts until all objectives were satisfactorily addressed. Results: Initial evaluations revealed uneven alignment across educational objectives, particularly in areas such as resource conservation and balanced diet planning. Prompt refinement led to a significant improvement in feedback quality, with the final iterations demonstrating comprehensive coverage of all educational objectives. Conclusions: This study highlights the potential of AR and AI in creating adaptive educational tools. Iterative prompt optimization, supported by zero-shot classification, was effective in enhancing the app’s ability to deliver balanced, goal-oriented feedback. Future applications can leverage this approach to improve educational outcomes across various domains.
Analyzing an Extreme Rainfall Event in Himachal Pradesh, India, to Contribute to Sustainable Development
Authors: Lohan Nitin , Kumar Sushil , Singh Vivek , Gupta Raj Pritam , Tiwari Gaurav
Published: February 2025

In the Himalayan regions of complex terrains, such as Himachal Pradesh, the occurrence of extreme rainfall events (EREs) has been increasing, triggering landslides and flash floods. Investigating the dynamics and precipitation characteristics and improving the prediction of such events are crucial and could play a vital role in contributing to sustainable development in the region. This study employs a high-resolution numerical weather prediction framework, the weather research and forecasting (WRF) model, to deeply investigate an ERE which occurred between 8 July and 13 July 2023. This ERE caused catastrophic floods in the Mandi and Kullu districts of Himachal Pradesh. The WRF model was configured with nested domains of 12 km and 4 km horizontal grid resolutions, and the results were compared with global high-resolution precipitation products and the fifth-generation European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts atmospheric reanalysis dataset. The selected case study was amplified by the synoptic scale features associated with the position and intensity of the monsoon trough, including mesoscale processes like orographic lifting. The presence of a western disturbance and the heavy moisture transported from the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal both intensified this event. The model has effectively captured the spatial distribution and large-scale dynamics of the phenomenon, demonstrating the importance of high-resolution numerical modeling in accurately simulating localized EREs. Statistical evaluation revealed that the WRF model overestimated extreme rainfall intensity, with the root mean square error reaching 17.33 mm, particularly during the convective peak phase. The findings shed light on the value of high-resolution modeling in capturing localized EREs and offer suggestions for enhancing disaster management and flood forecasting.
A Smart Roller Shutters Control for Enhancing Thermal Comfort and Sustainable Energy Efficiency in Office Buildings
Authors: Magraoui Chaima , Derradji Lotfi , Hamid Abdelkader , Oukaci Soumia , Limam Amel , Merabtine Abdelatif
Published: February 2025

This work focuses on the impact of different types of glazing and the dynamic control of shading using roller shutters on the thermal comfort and energy consumption of office buildings. Shading systems control is based on solar radiation and outdoor temperature during the winter period adapted to the Algerian climatic context. The main objective is to evaluate the efficiency of different control strategies in reducing heating demands and CO2 emissions. The research was conducted experimentally and numerically using TRNSYS 17 (Transient System Simulation Program). A validation was done of the prototype office building and then a parametric study aimed at verifying the influence of various parameters, including glazing type, climate, and the proposed shading scenarios based on temperature or solar radiation on both energy demand and thermal comfort. Different scenarios were proposed to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. The obtained results demonstrate that shading systems are beneficial even in winter and highlight the effectiveness of controlling shutters based on solar radiation compared to temperature control for the different studied regions for a standard building. This approach achieves reductions of up to 21% for energy consumption, along with a significant decrease in carbon footprint, contributing to the sustainability of energy management in office buildings.
A Class of Perfectly Secret Autonomous Low-Bit-Rate Voice Communication Systems
Authors: Radomirović Jelica , Milosavljević Milan , Čubrilović Sara , Kuzmanović Zvezdana , Perić Miroslav , Banjac Zoran , Perić Dragana
Published: February 2025

This paper presents an autonomous perfectly secure low-bit-rate voice communication system (APS-VCS) based on the mixed-excitation linear prediction voice coder (MELPe), Vernam cipher, and sequential key distillation (SKD) protocol by public discussion. An authenticated public channel can be selected in a wide range, from internet connections to specially leased radio channels. We found the source of common randomness between the locally synthesized speech signal at the transmitter and the reconstructed speech signal at the receiver side. To avoid information leakage about open input speech, the SKD protocol is not executed on the actual transmitted speech signal but on artificially synthesized speech obtained by random selection of the linear spectral pairs (LSP) parameters of the speech production model. Experimental verification of the proposed system was performed on the Vlatacom Personal Crypto Platform for Voice encryption (vPCP-V). Empirical measurements show that with an adequate selection of system parameters for voice transmission of 1.2 kb/s, a secret key rate (KR) of up to 8.8 kb/s can be achieved, with a negligible leakage rate (LR) and bit error rate (BER) of order for various communications channels, including GSM 3G and GSM VoLTE networks. At the same time, by ensuring perfect secrecy within symmetric encryption systems, it further highlights the importance of the symmetry principle in the field of information-theoretic security. To our knowledge, this is the first autonomous, perfectly secret system for low-bit-rate voice communication that does not require explicit prior generation and distribution of secret keys.
Can the Solar Atmosphere Generate Very-High-Energy Cosmic Rays?
Authors: Osmanov Zaza N. , Kuridze D. , Mahajan Swadesh M.
Published: February 2025

The origin and acceleration of high-energy particles, constituting cosmic rays, is likely to remain an important topic in modern astrophysics. Among the two categories galactic and solar cosmic rays, the latter are much less investigated. The primary source of solar cosmic ray particles are impulsive explosions of the magnetized plasma, known as solar flares and coronal mass ejections. These particles, however, are characterized by relatively low energies compared to their galactic counterparts. In this work, we explore the resonance wave–wave (RWW) interaction between the polarized electromagnetic radiation emitted by the solar active regions and the quantum waves associated with high-energy, relativistic electrons generated during solar flares. Mathematically, the RWW interaction problem boils down to analyzing a Klein–Gordon Equation (spinless electrons) embedded in the electromagnetic field. We find that RWW could accelerate the relativistic electrons to enormous energies even comparable to energies in the galactic cosmic rays.
Disposable Paper Cups: A Study on Potentially Toxic Elements, Radiological Impact, and Feasibility of Valuable Elements Recovery
Authors: Mohery Mahmoud , Mindil Ahmed , Landsberger Sheldon , Soliman Mohamed
Published: February 2025

This study characterizes single-use paper cups with respect to potentially toxic elements, radiological impact, and the potential of economic metals recovery from incineration residue. Thirty-six elements were identified in the analysis of paper cups, including naturally occurring radionuclides 40K, Th, and U, as well as potentially toxic elements such as Al, Ba, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Mo, and V using neutron activation analysis. The determined mass fractions varied significantly, with Mg, Al, and Ca present in notably high concentrations. A comparison with plastic cups revealed higher mass fractions of most elements in paper cups. The study also evaluated the potential for valuable element recovery from the incineration ash of paper cups. It demonstrated a promising potential for recovery of Cu—especially from blue and green cups—and Mg, as their mass fractions are above the ore cut-off grade. The amount of CO2 emissions from the incineration of paper cups was estimated at 1.77 kg/kg. The activity concentrations of 40K, Th, and U were estimated in the incineration ash, with 40K accounting for around half of the total detected activity. The median radioactivity was 35 Bq/kg. Although the radioactivity levels are low, they should be considered due to the large volume of paper cup waste. The radiological risk was assessed using various hazard indices, indicating minimal risk to human health. The dose rate and the annual dose are well below the recommended limits, and the excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) of 2.17 × 10−5 is well below the typical safety limit.
rVSVΔG-ZEBOV-GP Vaccine Is Highly Immunogenic and Efficacious Across a Wide Dose Range in a Nonhuman Primate EBOV Challenge Model
Authors: Shurtleff Amy C. , Trefry John C. , Dubey Sheri , Sunay Melek M. E. , Liu Kenneth , Chen Ziqiang , Eichberg Michael , Silvera Peter M. , Kwilas Steve A. , Hooper Jay W. , Martin Shannon , Simon Jakub K. , Coller Beth-Ann G. , Monath Thomas P.
Published: February 2025

The recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus-Zaire Ebolavirus envelope glycoprotein vaccine (rVSVΔG-ZEBOV-GP) was highly effective against Ebola virus disease in a ring vaccination trial conducted during the 2014–2016 outbreak in Guinea and is licensed by regulatory agencies including US FDA, EMA, and prequalified by WHO. Vaccination studies in a nonhuman primate (NHP) model guided initial dose selection for clinical trial evaluation. We summarize two dose-ranging studies with the clinical-grade rVSVΔG-ZEBOV-GP vaccine candidate to assess the impact of dose level on immune responses and efficacy in an NHP Ebola virus (EBOV) challenge model. Forty-six cynomolgus macaques were vaccinated with a wide range of rVSVΔG-ZEBOV-GP doses and challenged 42 days later intramuscularly with 1000 pfu EBOV. Vaccination with rVSVΔG-ZEBOV-GP induced relatively high levels of EBOV-specific IgG and neutralizing antibodies, measured using the same validated assays as used in rVSVΔG-ZEBOV-GP clinical trials. Similar responses were observed across dose groups from 1 × 108 to 1 × 102 pfu. A single vaccination conferred 98% protection from lethal intramuscular EBOV challenge across all dose groups. These results demonstrate that robust antibody titers are induced in NHPs across a wide range of rVSVΔG-ZEBOV-GP vaccine doses, correlating with high levels of protection against death from EBOV challenge.
Durability of Immunogenicity and Protection of rVSV∆G-ZEBOV-GP Vaccine in a Nonhuman Primate EBOV Challenge Model
Authors: Bixler Sandra L. , Shurtleff Amy C. , Sunay Melek M. E. , Liu Kenneth , Chen Ziqiang , Eichberg Michael , Simon Jakub K. , Coller Beth-Ann G. , Dubey Sheri
Published: February 2025

The rVSVΔG-ZEBOV-GP vaccine demonstrated efficacy in preventing Ebola virus (EBOV) disease in a ring vaccination clinical trial conducted during the 2014–2016 West Africa outbreak and is licensed by regulatory agencies, including the US FDA and the EMA. Here, we present two studies that evaluated the durability of immunogenicity and protection from an EBOV challenge up to ~12 months following vaccination with rVSVΔG-ZEBOV-GP in nonhuman primates (NHPs). Cynomolgus macaques were vaccinated with either one or two doses of rVSVΔG-ZEBOV-GP or a saline control and were challenged intramuscularly with EBOV at a target dose of 1000 pfu at ~4 months (Study 1) or ~8 or ~12 months (Study 2) after the last vaccination. All vaccinated animals developed robust ZEBOV-GP-specific IgG and neutralizing antibody titers, which were sustained until the last time point tested prior to the challenge. The majority of animals (88–93%) challenged with EBOV at ~4 or ~8 months post-vaccination survived, whereas the survival rate was lower (53%) in animals challenged ~12 months post-vaccination. These results demonstrate that both one-dose and two-dose regimens of the rVSVΔG-ZEBOV-GP vaccine induced durable ZEBOV-GP-specific antibody titers in NHPs and provided high levels of protection against a lethal EBOV challenge up to ~8 months post-vaccination. In this stringent challenge model, decreased protection was observed at ~12 months post-vaccination despite sustained antibody levels.
Changes in Groundwater Vulnerability Due to Land Reclamation in Mining Areas: An Assessment Using the DRASTIC Method
Authors: Krogulec Ewa , Bukowski Przemysław , Niedbalska Katarzyna , Sawicka Katarzyna , Trzeciak Joanna , Zabłocki Sebastian
Published: February 2025

Reclaiming land after mining activities and ensuring environmental protection are mandatory aspects of the decommissioning process for mining sites. Groundwater assessments, particularly those evaluating vulnerability to contamination using the DRASTIC rank method, are critical tools for guiding and controlling reclamation efforts. By analysing changes in hydrogeological and environmental factors, as well as parameter classes through sensitivity analyses, the DRASTIC method can be optimised to predict the effects of reclamation. Results indicate that reclamation typically decreases groundwater vulnerability, as evidenced by a shallower water table, reduced recharge volume, groundwater flow within new waste rock formations, changes in soil types, lower slopes, and reduced conductivity. Vulnerability changes during reclamation vary spatially, including both decreases and localised increases. Reclamation planning should prioritise groundwater vulnerability assessments to ensure effective land use and environmental protection. Modifications to groundwater-monitoring networks, especially in areas prone to flooding and significant surface changes, are also essential for comprehensive reclamation management.
Estimation of Groundwater Recharge and Assessment of Groundwater Quality in the Weining Plain, China
Authors: Gong Mengyu , Li Peiyue , Kong Jiajia
Published: February 2025

The Weining Plain is in the semi-arid northwest region of China, with groundwater as its main source for various purposes. This research provided a detailed investigation into the groundwater exploitation status in the Weining Plain, analyzed the groundwater quality for different purposes, and estimated the groundwater recharges using water budget analysis with end member mixing analysis. The entropy water quality index was applied to assess the overall quality of drinking water, and the industrial water quality index and several agricultural water quality indicators were used for the assessment of groundwater quality for industrial and agricultural uses. The findings showed that the groundwater recharge in the research area primarily comes from irrigation infiltration and leakage of the irrigation canal system which account for approximately 50–60% of the total groundwater recharge. The overall drinking water quality is poor, with over 80% being of moderate to poor quality and requiring treatment. A large proportion of the groundwater in the research area is suitable for irrigation. However, groundwater has a corrosive effect on boilers, and there is a high risk of boiler scaling and foaming. Only 12.41% of the water samples have good water quality for industrial use, and the treatment of the water quality for industrial uses is needed. This study can help local decision-makers understand the availability of groundwater resources in the Weining Plain and manage groundwater resources reasonably.
Access to agricultural land – a natural resource used as a means of production in agriculture and the basis of life and activity of the peoples living on this land
Authors:   Department of Research on economic problems of land relations Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution «Federal Research Center of Agrarian Economy and Social Development of Rural Areas - All-Russian Research Institute of Agricultural Economics», Moscow, Alakoz V. V.
Published: February 2025

In accordance with the Constitution of the Russian Federation, citizens and their
associations have the right to own land. The right of private ownership is protected by law, and
land and other natural resources are used and protected in the Russian Federation as the basis
for the life and activities of the peoples living in the relevant territory. Economic activity aimed
at monopolization and unfair competition is not permitted. The issues of ownership, use and
tenure of land, subsoil, water and other natural resources are under the joint jurisdiction of the Russian Federation and the subjects of the Russian Federation. One of the main principles
of land legislation established by the Land Code of the Russian Federation is a differentiated
approach to establishing the legal regime of lands, according to which, when determining the
legal regime, natural, social, economic and other factors must be taken into account ensuring
access to land for citizens and legal entities.
Until now, as of 01.01.2023, only 27.44% of the 379.1 million hectares of agricultural land
(104.1 million hectares) are privately owned, and citizens’ land shares account for 72.4% of them
(75.4 million hectares); 6.22% (23.6 million hectares) are owned by legal entities, which land
shares account for 8.44% (1.99 million hectares); in total, 77.36 million hectares of land shares
are in private ownership, or 60.6% of the 127.6 million hectares of agricultural land plots.
In 2022, agricultural organizations used 407,739.4 thousand hectares (78.6%) for
agricultural production, while citizens used 111,068.1 thousand hectares (21.4%).
Agricultural organizations used land plots in private ownership on an area of 75.8 million
hectares (18.6%) (including lands in common shared ownership of 55.5 million hectares (73.1%
of them); the state and municipal lands accounted for 324.3 million hectares (79.5%); the
ownership of other persons had only 7.6 million hectares (1.9%), of which 5.2 million hectares
(67.8%) belonged to the owners of land shares.
The state continues to be the owner with an excess amount of agricultural land.
The undeveloped, untransformed into land plots, land-share quasi-ownership with low
capitalization and limited rights to use shared land ownership has led for three decades to
confusion in land relations, corruption and mass land disputes, loss of land ownership,
irresponsible land use and abandonment of productive agricultural land.
This article discusses the necessary changes in the organization of agricultural land use.
Influence of economic factors on the rational use and protection of land and water resources
Authors:   Land Management and Cadasters Department Kyrgyz National Agrarian University named after K. I. Skryabin, Denisov V.V. , Batykova A.Z. ,   Land Management and Cadasters Department Kyrgyz National Agrarian University named after K. I. Skryabin, Zhusupova A.K. ,   Land Management and Cadasters Department Kyrgyz National Agrarian University named after K. I. Skryabin, Rasheva A.T. ,   Land Management and Cadasters Department Kyrgyz National Agrarian University named after K. I. Skryabin, Bazarbaeva I.D. ,   Land Management and Cadasters Department Kyrgyz National Agrarian University named after K. I. Skryabin
Published: February 2025

The article considers the issues of anthropogenic impact on the natural environment
in modern conditions. The widespread use of various means of production of scientific and
technological progress is the main factor of changing the environment. As a result, forming
natural complexes lead to negative consequences in the process of agricultural land use.
Analyzing the various negative consequences of anthropogenic impact on land use, the authors
conclude that they manifest themselves exclusively as degradation of the soil cover, considering
not only as a negative impact on the ecosystem, but also as a response of the ecosystem to the
changes violating its inherent properties.
The analysis of the most effective use of a land plot in the Primorsky district of Saint Petersburg
Authors:   Land Management and Cadaster Department Saint Petersburg University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Saint Petersburg, Volkov N. V. , Kuzhelev G. I. ,   Land Management and Cadaster Department Saint Petersburg University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Saint Petersburg, Ilyashenko A. E. ,   Land Management and Cadaster Department Saint Petersburg University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Saint Petersburg
Published: February 2025

The concept of the most efficient use of a land plot is considered in this paper.
In addition, this work contains alternative options for using a land plot, and calculations
of indicators of efficient use. The cost of a land plot is also determined for various options of its
use, based on methodological recommendations for determining the market value of land plots.
The authors substantiate a final choice of the most efficient use of a land plot.
Theoretical aspects of land assessment methods
Authors:   Real Estate Cadaster and Land Use Department Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education State University of Land Use Planning, Moscow, Borodina O. B. , Zhdanova R. V., ,   Real Estate Cadaster and Land Use Department Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education State University of Land Use Planning, Moscow, Sinitsa Y. S. ,   Real Estate Cadaster and Land Use Department Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education State University of Land Use Planning, Moscow
Published: February 2025

The article analyzes the theoretical provisions of the application of methods for
assessing land plots and other real estate objects. The authors explore modern approaches to
land valuation, the advantages and disadvantages of various methods for assessing the market
value of land plots.
Salmonellose et volailles de compagnie ou de basse-cour : un problème de santé publique ?
Authors: Couquet Claude , Brugere-Picoux Jeanne
Published: February 2025

Les élevages particuliers de volailles (animaux de compagnie non traditionnels ou de basse-cour) ont augmenté ces dernières années. En France, la poule est devenue le 3e animal de compagnie après le chien et le chat et le premier animal de compagnie non traditionnel (ACNT) (si l'on excepte les poissons). Or le risque d’une salmonellose pour l’Homme au contact de ces animaux ne peut être exclu puisque la prévention ne concerne que les élevages de plus de 250 oiseaux. En l’absence d’une surveillance épidémiologique des cas sporadiques de salmonelloses humaines, il est difficile de connaître l’importance en santé publique des contacts avec des volailles vivantes. Seul le CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) aux États-Unis a démontré que ce risque ne devait pas être négligé, grâce à des enquêtes réalisées depuis près de 30 ans, dont les résultats confirment qu’il existe un risque pour la santé publique. Une surveillance épidémiologique en Europe des cas sporadiques de salmonelloses humaines permettrait d’y évaluer ce risque potentiel.
Le porc en transplantation d’organes : du modèle préclinique à la xénotransplantation
Authors: Schwartz-Cornil Isabelle , Sage Edouard
Published: February 2025

La transplantation est le traitement curatif des défaillances terminales des organes solides. Les modèles animaux ont joué un rôle clé dans son histoire, d’abord avec l’utilisation du chien au début du XXe siècle, puis celle des rongeurs, des primates non humains et plus particulièrement du porc. Celui-ci, de par ses similitudes avec l’homme, représente une espèce intermédiaire entre rongeurs et primates, qui a grandement contribué aux avancées en matière de chirurgie et en gestion de l’immunosuppression. De plus, avec l’essor de techniques de l’édition de génome, le porc apporte une solution prometteuse à la pénurie de greffons, ouvrant aux xénogreffes la voie vers une réalité clinique.