bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender Lens Investing: A Scoping Review from Theoretical Foundations to Public Equity Applications
Authors: Thorarinsdottir Freyja Vilborg , Óladóttir Ásta Dís , Darmstadt Gary L. , Benediktsdóttir Sigríður
Published: October 2024

This scoping review explores the dynamic field of Gender Lens Investing (GLI), examining its evolution from a niche approach to its current status as a widely recognized investment strategy with the potential to contribute to sustainable development and yield social, financial, and economic benefits. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the theoretical foundations of GLI and its practical applications across public equity markets. By conducting research across four major databases, we performed a thematic analysis that identified four principal themes: Benefits and Impacts, GLI Strategies, GLI Instruments and Innovations, and Challenges and Barriers to Implementation. Key findings reveal an increased implementation of GLI in various forms and a gradual increase in publications, reflecting growing interest within academia and industry. Despite these advancements, critical gaps remain in understanding the financial and social impacts of GLI strategies and instruments. While GLI has been broadly defined and implemented, further empirical research is necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of GLI in public equities and its long-term impacts. The limitations of this review include a focus on English-language publications, which might limit the comprehensiveness of the analysis.
Correction: Sulaiman et al. Understanding Antecedents of Learning Management System Usage among University Lecturers Using an Integrated TAM-TOE Model. Sustainability 2023, 15, 1885
Authors: Sulaiman Twana Tahseen , Mahomed Anuar Shah Bali , Rahman Azmawani Abd , Hassan Mazlan
Published: October 2024

The authors would like to make the following corrections about the published paper [1]:(1)Adding an affiliation to the first author: Twana Tahseen Sulaiman 1,2,*, Department of Banking and Finance, College of Administration and Financial Sciences, University of Cihan-Erbil, Erbil 44001, Kurdistan Region, IraqSchool of Business and Economics, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia [...]
Impact of Digital Economy on Carbon Emissions and Its Mechanism: Evidence from China
Authors: Huang Fang , Wu Chong
Published: October 2024

Advancing the digital economy while curbing carbon emissions is essential for fostering high-quality economic growth. Based on China’s provincial panel data from 2011 to 2021, this study adopts an empirical model to investigate the direct influence of digital economic development on carbon emissions and utilizes both a mediating effects model and a moderating effects model to explore the transmission mechanism of green technological innovation and the moderating effect of R&D investment. The research results indicate that the following: (1) The digital economy contributes to carbon emissions reduction. (2) The analysis of heterogeneity demonstrates that the impact of the digital economy on carbon emissions is pronounced in the eastern and central regions of China but is insignificant in the western provinces. Furthermore, the carbon mitigation effect of the digital economy is more potent in regions with high marketization compared to those with low marketization. (3) The mediation effect analysis shows that green technology innovation plays a transmitting role between the digital economy and carbon emissions reduction. (4) The moderating effect test reveals that R&D investment enhances the digital economy’s ability to reduce carbon emissions. The conclusions highlight the need to optimize digital economy development and strengthen green technology innovation to achieve carbon emissions reduction.
Carbon Footprint Optimization with Data Resolution Conversion via Kalman Filter for Smart Energy Hub
Authors: Khattab Mohammed Mahmoud , Abdelrahim Ahmed , Youssef Eman , Hamad Mostafa Saad , Elmanfaloty Rania A.
Published: October 2024

The severe climate changes due to global warming pushed the world to strive to reduce carbon emissions. And transitioning to renewable energy sources is essential for achieving sustainability and combating climate change. This study aims to minimize the carbon emissions for a proposed smart energy hub. This paper prioritizes the minimization of carbon emissions, considering the minimization of operational running costs, and the maximization of profit. In this paper, two optimization scenarios were studied to compare the results. In the first scenario, the minimization of carbon emissions was achieved. In the second scenario, the minimization of running costs and the maximization of profit from the hub assets were studied. The proposed model was designed in MATLAB. Then, the results were verified by CPLEX and validated by RTDS. The multi-objective model was presented to obtain the optimal operation. The mitigation of data uncertainty was achieved by applying the Kalman filter. In this work, a novel method was proposed for the estimation of the quarter-hour resolution data from the hourly ones via the Kalman filter rather than by applying the classic polynomial interpolation methods.
Artificial Intelligence Adoption in Sustainable Banking Services: The Critical Role of Technological Literacy
Authors: Mei Hengjun , Bodog Simona-Aurelia , Badulescu Daniel
Published: October 2024

This study explores how customers recognize and accept artificial intelligence devices (AIDs) in the realm of sustainable banking services, applying the Artificially Intelligent Device Use Acceptance (AIDUA) model. This research not only seeks to corroborate the AIDUA model in the banking sector, but also aims to enrich it by introducing technological literacy as a moderating factor, particularly in the perspective of sustainable banking. Data were collected through 435 valid, self-administered face-to-face surveys from bank customers in China, determined through convenience sampling. The hypotheses, covering both direct and moderating effects, were examined using structural equation modeling. This study verifies the applicability and reliability of the AIDUA model, in assessing customer acceptance of AIDs within sustainable banking services. The findings indicate that customer acceptance of AIDs unfolds in three distinct phases. Initially, the consumers’ perceptions of social influence (SI), hedonic motivation (HM), and perceived anthropomorphism (PA) positively influence their green performance expectancy (GPE) and green effort expectancy (GEE) concerning AIDs. As a result, greater GPE and GEE among bank customers lead to stronger positive emotions, which greatly contribute to increased AIDs usage and a reduction in resistance to their implementation. Additionally, the findings determine that technological literacy plays a substantial moderating role in the association connecting green performance expectancy and customer emotions in relation to adopting AIDs, thereby highlighting its importance in advancing sustainable banking initiatives.
A Design Study on Commercial Cleaning Robots Based on Kano–QFD
Authors: Liu Wei , Chen Jiaqi , Fei Yinan , Hu Ziyan , Yu Changlong , Gao Wa
Published: October 2024

In the post-pandemic era, public space safety has emerged as a central public concern. As global public health awareness rose, traditional manual cleaning methods were increasingly inadequate for large-scale and high-standard cleaning requirements. Therefore, the design of a commercial cleaning robot that combined cleaning efficiency, environmental performance, and sustainability was essential to meet evolving societal demands. This paper systematically gathered and analyzed commercial cleaning robot functional requirements through a comprehensive investigation. According to the Kano model, functional requirements were categorized by attributes and their importance was quantified. Subsequently, using the QFD model, the design requirements for commercial cleaning robots were determined, and their significance weights were established. This identified the key design requirements. The results of this study indicated that the integration of the Kano and QFD models provided a novel perspective for the design of functional integration in commercial cleaning robots. Furthermore, it provided a practical methodological framework for addressing similar issues in the future.
Sustainable Innovations in Oat-Based Yogurts: Modulating Quality and Sensory Properties with Chia Seeds and Honey
Authors: Petrevska Simona , Trajkovska Biljana , Nakov Gjore , Zlatev Zlatin , Raykova Violeta , Ivanova Nastia
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the impact of adding varying concentrations (1%, 3%, 5%, 7%, and 9%) of chia seeds on the physicochemical and antioxidant properties of oat-based yogurt fortified with 2% honey. The research analyzed changes in pH, titratable acidity, water-holding capacity (WHC), dry matter content, total phenolic content (TPC), and antioxidant activity over a 7-day storage period. The pH values ranged from 4.33 ± 0.01 to 4.57 ± 0.01, with no significant impact observed due to chia seed addition. Titratable acidity increased most rapidly in the 9% chia seed sample, particularly between days 5 and 7. WHC significantly improved with higher chia seed concentrations, with the 9% chia sample reaching 99.9 ± 0.07% compared with 69.9 ± 0.12% in the control. Dry matter content showed a similar trend, with the highest increase observed in the 9% chia sample. TPC and antioxidant activity were positively correlated with chia seed concentration and storage time, with the 9% chia sample exhibiting the highest values on day 7. Sensory evaluation revealed that the 3% chia seed concentration was most preferred by panelists for its balanced texture and flavor. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) highlighted the clustering of higher chia concentrations with improved functional properties. This study presents novel insights into the impact of varying concentrations of chia seeds on the physicochemical properties and antioxidant potential of oat-based yogurt, specifically fortified with honey, contributing to the development of functional plant-based dairy alternatives.
Development and Application of an Employee Moral Quotient (MQ) Evaluation Index System for Chinese Petroleum Enterprises
Authors: Xu Junzhu , Yu Xiaozhong , Li Hu
Published: October 2024

Recognizing the critical role of oil and gas resources as strategic assets and acknowledging the increasing emphasis on green development and social responsibility driven by international energy agreements and the “dual carbon” strategy, this study addresses the urgent need for a robust employee evaluation framework within China’s petroleum sector. While existing systems often prioritize competence-based indicators, they frequently overlook the crucial aspect of employee Moral Quotient (MQ). This research focuses on developing and validating a holistic, scientifically grounded, multi-dimensional, and dynamic MQ evaluation index system tailored specifically for Chinese petroleum enterprises. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, integrating a comprehensive literature review, semi-structured interviews with industry experts, and robust quantitative techniques, including the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and the entropy weight method. A two-round Delphi study, involving 18 experts from six provinces across China, ensured broad representation and facilitated the construction of the evaluation index system and the determination of indicator weights. The Delphi process achieved a high degree of expert consensus, evidenced by a 100% questionnaire response rate in both rounds, expert authority coefficients of 0.851 and 0.879, respectively, and Kendall’s coefficient of concordance of 0.243 and 0.247 (p < 0.01), respectively, demonstrating strong reliability and scientific validity. The resulting MQ evaluation index system comprises eight first-level indicators and thirty-three s-level indicators, encompassing key dimensions of employee morality relevant to the petroleum industry. This comprehensive system provides a robust and objective tool for employee selection, training, performance evaluation, and career development within Chinese petroleum enterprises, supporting informed decision-making in human resource management and fostering a culture of ethical conduct and sustainable development. Furthermore, the developed framework offers valuable insights and serves as a potential model for petroleum enterprises and other resource-intensive industries globally seeking to integrate MQ assessment into their human capital management strategies.
Recovery and Restructuring of Fine and Coarse Soil Fractions as Earthen Construction Materials
Authors: Hussain Mazhar , Lamrous Ines , Provost Antony , Leblanc Nathalie , Zmamou Hafida , Levacher Daniel , Kane Abdoulaye
Published: October 2024

Excessive consumption of natural resources to meet the growing demands of building and infrastructure projects has put enormous stress on these resources. On the other hand, a significant quantity of soil is excavated for development activities across the globe and is usually treated as waste material. This study explores the potential of excavated soils in the Brittany region of France for its reuse as earthen construction materials. Characterization of soil recovered from building sites was carried out to classify the soils and observe their suitability for earthen construction materials. These characteristics include mainly Atterberg limits, granulometry, organic matter and optimum moisture content. Soil samples were separated into fine and coarse particles through wet sieving. The percentage of fines (particles smaller than 0.063 mm) in studied soil samples range from 28% to 65%. The methylene blue value (MBV) for Lorient, Bruz and Polama soils is 1, 1.2 and 1.2 g/100 g, and French classification (Guide de terrassements des remblais et des couches de forme; GTR) of soil samples is A1, B5 and A1, respectively. The washing of soils with lower fine content helps to recover excellent-quality sand and gravel, which are a useful and precious resource. However, residual fine particles are a waste material. In this study, three soil formulations were used for manufacturing earth blocks. These formulations include raw soil, fines and restructured soil. In restructured soil, a fine fraction of soil smaller than 0.063 mm was mixed with 15% recycled sand. Restructuring of soil fine particles helps to improve soil matrix composition and suitability for earth bricks. Compressed-earth blocks of 4 × 4 × 16 cm were manufactured at a laboratory scale for flexural strength testing by using optimum molding moisture content and compaction through Proctor normal energy. Compressive strength tests were performed on cubic blocks of size 4 × 4 × 4 cm. Mechanical testing of bricks showed that bricks with raw soil had higher resistance with a maximum of 3.4 MPa for Lorient soil. Removal of coarse particles from soil decreased the strength of bricks considerably. Restructuring of fines with recycled sand improves their granular skeleton and increases the compressive strength and durability of bricks.
Optimization of a Biomass-Based Power and Fresh Water-Generation System by Machine Learning Using Thermoeconomic Assessment
Authors: Parnian Gharamaleki Fatemeh , Sharafi Laleh Shayan , Ghasemzadeh Nima , Soltani Saeed , Rosen Marc A.
Published: October 2024

Biomass is a viable and accessible source of energy that can help address the problem of energy shortages in rural and remote areas. Another important issue for societies today is the lack of clean water, especially in places with high populations and low rainfall. To address both of these concerns, a sustainable biomass-fueled power cycle integrated with a double-stage reverse osmosis water-desalination unit has been designed. The double-stage reverse osmosis system is provided by the 20% of generated power from the bottoming cycles and this allocation can be altered based on the needs for freshwater or power. This system is assessed from energy, exergy, thermoeconomic, and environmental perspectives, and two distinct multi-objective optimization scenarios are applied featuring various objective functions. The considered parameters for this assessment are gas turbine inlet temperature, compressor’s pressure ratio, and cold end temperature differences in heat exchangers 2 and 3. In the first optimization scenario, considering the pollution index, the total unit cost of exergy products, and exergy efficiency as objective functions, the optimal values are, respectively, identified as 0.7644 kg/kWh, 32.7 USD/GJ, and 44%. Conversely, in the second optimization scenario, featuring the emission index, total unit cost of exergy products, and output net power as objective functions, the optimal values are 0.7684 kg/kWh, 27.82 USD/GJ, and 2615.9 kW.
Long-Term Comparative Life Cycle Assessment, Cost, and Comfort Analysis of Heavyweight vs. Lightweight Construction Systems in a Mediterranean Climate
Authors: Costantino Carlo , Bigiotti Stefano , Marucci Alvaro , Gulli Riccardo
Published: October 2024

Massive construction systems have always characterized traditional architecture and are currently the most prevalent, straightforward, and cost-effective in many Mediterranean countries. However, in recent years, the construction industry has gradually shifted towards using lightweight, dry construction techniques. This study aims to assess the effects on energy consumption, comfort levels, and environmental sustainability resulting from the adoption of five high-performance construction systems in a multi-family residential building: (i) reinforced concrete structure with low-transmittance thermal block infill; (ii) reinforced concrete structure with light-clay bricks and outer thermal insulation; (iii) steel frame; (iv) cross-laminated timber (CLT); (v) timber-steel hybrid structure. To achieve this goal, a multidisciplinary approach was employed, including the analysis of thermal parameters, the evaluation of indoor comfort through the adaptive model and Fanger’s PMV, and the quantification of environmental and economic impacts through life cycle assessment and life cycle cost applied in a long-term analysis (ranging from 30 to 100 years). The results highlight that heavyweight construction systems are the most effective in terms of comfort, cost, and long-term environmental impact (100 years), while lightweight construction systems generally have higher construction costs, provide lower short-term environmental impacts (30 years), and offer intermediate comfort depending on the thermal mass.
Systemic Approach Applied to the “R” Paradigm of the Circular Economy: A Critical Reading of the Winemaking Process Through Case Studies from Northwest Italy
Authors: Destefanis Roberta , Cela Nazarena , Torri Luisa , Fassio Franco
Published: October 2024

How does the circular economy contribute to the sustainable development of the wine sector? What benefits and limitations can come from the application of the “10Rs”, the circular strategies theorized in 2017 and today a valid tool for the orientation and evaluation of sustainable business models? Through the analysis of 10 case studies (relevant to Northwest Italy), the research confronts a sector of great importance for Italy, the world’s leading wine exporter and second-largest producer. Through the systemic approach, which reads the systems of relationships between matter, energy, information, living beings, inorganic units, and other systems, the 10Rs become filters for a critical reading of winemaking and the post-use phases of wine when the producer’s responsibility meets that of the consumer. A number of relevant issues emerge, in terms of the negative socio-environmental impact of the supply chain; the case studies try to describe them and present a possible ethical and critical response. Although it emerges that the actions of circular economy practitioners focus on the valuing of by-products and waste from the supply chain, rather than on measures to minimize the amount of resources used, extend the life of goods, and reduce waste, the case studies help to broaden this “narrow” view of the circular economy.
Evaluation of Water Quality and Eutrophication of Typical Lakes in Southeast Hubei, China
Authors: Leng Mingkai , Wu Xiaodong , Ge Xuguang , Yang Xiaoqing , Huang Zhi , Liu Haoran , Zhu Jiali , Li Jinge , Gong Mengting , Sun Zhepeng , Li Zixiang
Published: October 2024

Field surveys and sample analyses were conducted from January 2018 to December 2019 on Daye Lake, Cihu Lake, Baoan Lake, and Xiandao Lake to understand the water quality characteristics of typical lakes in southeast Hubei. A fuzzy comprehensive evaluation was conducted and the comprehensive trophic level index was applied to evaluate the lakes’ water quality. The results showed differences in the regional, spatial, and temporal distributions of physical and chemical indicators in typical lakes in southeast Hubei. The fuzzy comprehensive evaluation showed that the water quality levels in Daye, Cihu, Baoan, and Xiandao Lakes for 2018 and 2019 were IV, IV, III, and II and V, IV, III, and II, respectively, with seasonal variations in water quality occurring during the year. The trophic level index results showed that Cihu Lake was mildly eutrophic in 2018 and moderately eutrophic in 2019, and Daye, Baoan, and Xiandao Lakes were mildly eutrophic, mildly eutrophic, and mesotrophic, respectively. Lake water quality was influenced by land use types, landscape configuration, inflowing rivers, precipitation, and interactions between land use and seasons. This study helps us to understand the trend and causes of lake pollution in Southeast Hubei, which is conducive to watershed management and the control of water quality deterioration, and also has an important role in regulating the sustainable development of industry and agriculture in the watershed.
Innovation in Teacher Training: Curricular and Operational Keys in Pedagogy Programs
Authors: Figueroa-Vargas Andrea , Casillas-Martín Sonia
Published: October 2024

This study addresses the curricular components and operational conditions required for the success of curricular innovations in teacher education programs. This quantitative study analyzed components related to epistemic meanings, organization, design, and curricular policies, as well as operational conditions for the development of curricular innovations in teacher training. A Likert-scale survey was administered to academics from public universities in Chile that train teachers. The method of analysis used SPSSv28 software, establishing a descriptive and inferential analysis through descriptive statistics of sex, age, gender, and position in the organization. The results show that operational conditions, academic teams, organizational aspects, updating of regulatory frameworks, infrastructure, and curricular policies are essential for the success of curricular innovations. We conclude that curricular innovations at the institutional level require the generation of curricular policies that contemplate the design, monitoring, and evaluation of the curriculum to favor the processes of curriculum review and quality assurance.
Acid Mine Drainage Neutralization by Ultrabasic Rocks: A Chromite Mining Tailings Evaluation Case Study
Authors: Kokkinos Evgenios , Kotsali Vasiliki , Tzamos Evangelos , Zouboulis Anastasios
Published: October 2024

Chromite is formed in nature in ophiolitic layers and ultrabasic rocks through fractional crystallization. The corresponding mining technologies separate the ore from these ultrabasic rocks, which are considered to be tailings for the process but may be valorized in other applications. The need to utilize this material is due to the large quantities of its production and the special management required to avoid possible secondary pollution. In the present work, the ultrabasic rocks of chromite mining were applied to acid mine drainage (AMD) neutralization. The aim was to increase the technological maturity of the method and promote circular economy principles and sustainability in the mining sector. Ultrabasic rocks were obtained from a chromite mining facility as reference material. Furthermore, an artificial AMD solution was synthesized and applied, aiming to simulate field conditions. According to the results, the sample was successfully utilized in AMD neutralization (pH 7), achieving rapid rates in the first 30 min and maximum efficiency (liquid to solid ratio equal to 8.3) at 24 h. However, the method presented a drawback since Mg was leached, even though the concentration of other typical metals contained in an AMD solution decreased.
Is the Wavefunction Already an Object on Space?
Authors: Stoica Ovidiu Cristinel
Published: October 2024

Since the discovery of quantum mechanics, the fact that the wavefunction is defined on the 3n-dimensional configuration space rather than on the 3-dimensional space has seemed uncanny to many, including Schrödinger, Lorentz, and Einstein. Even today, this continues to be seen as a significant issue in the foundations of quantum mechanics. In this article, it will be shown that the wavefunction is, in fact, a genuine object on space. While this may seem surprising, the wavefunction does not possess qualitatively new features that were not previously encountered in objects known from Euclidean geometry and classical physics. The methodology used involves finding equivalent reinterpretations of the wavefunction exclusively in terms of objects from the geometry of space. The result is that we will find the wavefunction to be equivalent to geometric objects on space in the same way as was always the case in geometry and physics. This will be demonstrated to hold true from the perspective of Euclidean geometry, but also within Felix Klein’s Erlangen Program, which naturally fits into the classification of quantum particles by the representations of spacetime isometries, as realized by Wigner and Bargmann, adding another layer of confirmation. These results lead to clarifications in the debates about the ontology of the wavefunction. From an empirical perspective, we already take for granted that all quantum experiments take place in space. I suggest that the reason why this works is that they can be interpreted naturally and consistently with the results presented here, showing that the wavefunction is an object on space.
Computational Tools to Facilitate Early Warning of New Emerging Risk Chemicals
Authors: Tariq Farina , Ahrens Lutz , Alygizakis Nikiforos A. , Audouze Karine , Benfenati Emilio , Carvalho Pedro N. , Chelcea Ioana , Karakitsios Spyros , Karakoltzidis Achilleas , Kumar Vikas , Mora Lagares Liadys , Sarigiannis Dimosthenis , Selvestrel Gianluca , Taboureau Olivier , Vorkamp Katrin , Andersson Patrik L.
Published: October 2024

Innovative tools suitable for chemical risk assessment are being developed in numerous domains, such as non-target chemical analysis, omics, and computational approaches. These methods will also be critical components in an efficient early warning system (EWS) for the identification of potentially hazardous chemicals. Much knowledge is missing for current use chemicals and thus computational methodologies complemented with fast screening techniques will be critical. This paper reviews current computational tools, emphasizing those that are accessible and suitable for the screening of new and emerging risk chemicals (NERCs). The initial step in a computational EWS is an automatic and systematic search for NERCs in literature and database sources including grey literature, patents, experimental data, and various inventories. This step aims at reaching curated molecular structure data along with existing exposure and hazard data. Next, a parallel assessment of exposure and effects will be performed, which will input information into the weighting of an overall hazard score and, finally, the identification of a potential NERC. Several challenges are identified and discussed, such as the integration and scoring of several types of hazard data, ranging from chemical fate and distribution to subtle impacts in specific species and tissues. To conclude, there are many computational systems, and these can be used as a basis for an integrated computational EWS workflow that identifies NERCs automatically.
Machine Learning Models for Predicting Bioavailability of Traditional and Emerging Aromatic Contaminants in Plant Roots
Authors: Li Siyuan , Shen Yuting , Gao Meng , Song Huatai , Ge Zhanpeng , Zhang Qiuyue , Xu Jiaping , Wang Yu , Sun Hongwen
Published: October 2024

To predict the behavior of aromatic contaminants (ACs) in complex soil–plant systems, this study developed machine learning (ML) models to estimate the root concentration factor (RCF) of both traditional (e.g., polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, polychlorinated biphenyls) and emerging ACs (e.g., phthalate acid esters, aryl organophosphate esters). Four ML algorithms were employed, trained on a unified RCF dataset comprising 878 data points, covering 6 features of soil–plant cultivation systems and 98 molecular descriptors of 55 chemicals, including 29 emerging ACs. The gradient-boosted regression tree (GBRT) model demonstrated strong predictive performance, with a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.75, a mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.11, and a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.22, as validated by five-fold cross-validation. Multiple explanatory analyses highlighted the significance of soil organic matter (SOM), plant protein and lipid content, exposure time, and molecular descriptors related to electronegativity distribution pattern (GATS8e) and double-ring structure (fr_bicyclic). An increase in SOM was found to decrease the overall RCF, while other variables showed strong correlations within specific ranges. This GBRT model provides an important tool for assessing the environmental behaviors of ACs in soil–plant systems, thereby supporting further investigations into their ecological and human exposure risks.
Spatial and Bioaccumulation of Heavy Metals in a Sheep-Based Food System: Implications for Human Health
Authors: Fechete Florin-Ioan , Popescu Maria , Mârza Sorin-Marian , Olar Loredana-Elena , Papuc Ionel , Beteg Florin-Ioan , Purdoiu Robert-Cristian , Codea Andrei Răzvan , Lăcătuș Caroline-Maria , Matei Ileana-Rodica , Lăcătuș Radu , Hoble Adela , Petrescu-Mag Ioan Valentin , Bora Florin-Dumitru
Published: October 2024

Heavy metal contamination in agricultural soils presents serious environmental and health risks. This study assessed the bioaccumulation and spatial distribution of nickel, cadmium, zinc, lead, and copper within a sheep-based food chain in the Baia Mare region, Romania, which includes soil, green grass, sheep serum, and dairy products. Using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), we analyzed the concentrations of these metals and calculated bioconcentration factors (BCFs) to evaluate their transfer through trophic levels. Spatial analysis revealed that copper (up to 2528.20 mg/kg) and zinc (up to 1821.40 mg/kg) exceeded permissible limits, particularly near former mining sites. Elevated lead (807.59 mg/kg) and cadmium (2.94 mg/kg) were observed in industrial areas, while nickel and cobalt showed lower concentrations, but with localized peaks. Zinc was the most abundant metal in grass, while cadmium transferred efficiently to milk and cheese, raising potential health concerns. The results underscore the complex interplay between soil properties, contamination sources, and biological processes in heavy metal accumulation. These findings highlight the importance of continuous monitoring, risk assessment, and mitigation strategies to protect public health from potential exposure through contaminated dairy products.
Simultaneous Degradation of AFB1 and ZEN by CotA Laccase from Bacillus subtilis ZJ-2019-1 in the Mediator-Assisted or Immobilization System
Authors: Gao Boquan , An Wei , Wu Jianwen , Wang Xiumin , Han Bing , Tao Hui , Liu Jie , Wang Zhenlong , Wang Jinquan
Published: October 2024

The global prevalence of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and zearalenone (ZEN) contamination in food and feed poses a serious health risk to humans and animals. Recently, enzymatic detoxification has received increasing attention, yet most enzymes are limited to degrading only one type of mycotoxin, and free enzymes often exhibit reduced stability and activity, limiting their practicality in real-world applications. In this study, the laccase CotA gene from ZEN/AFB1-degrading Bacillus subtilis ZJ-2019-1 was cloned and successfully expressed in Escherichia coli BL21, achieving a protein yield of 7.0 mg/g. The recombinant CotA (rCotA) completely degraded AFB1 and ZEN, with optimal activity at 70 °C and pH 7.0. After rCotA treatment, neither AFB1 nor ZEN showed significantly cytotoxicity to mouse macrophage cell lines. Additionally, the AFB1/ZEN degradation efficiency of rCotA was significantly enhanced by five natural redox mediators: acetosyringone, syringaldehyde, vanillin, matrine, and sophoridin. Among them, the acetosyringone-rCotA was the most effective mediator system, which could completely degrade 10 μg of AFB1 and ZEN within 1 h. Furthermore, the chitosan-immobilized rCotA system exhibited higher degradation activity than free rCotA. The immobilized rCotA degraded 27.95% of ZEN and 41.37% of AFB1 in contaminated maize meal within 12 h, and it still maintained more than 40% activity after 12 reuse cycles. These results suggest that media-assisted or immobilized enzyme systems not only boost degradation efficiency but also demonstrate remarkable reusability, offering promising strategies to enhance the degradation efficiency of rCotA for mycotoxin detoxification.
Decision Support Framework for Water Quality Management in Reservoirs Integrating Artificial Intelligence and Statistical Approaches
Authors: Farzana Syeda Zehan , Paudyal Dev Raj , Chadalavada Sreeni , Alam Md Jahangir
Published: October 2024

Planning, managing and optimising surface water quality is a complex and multifaceted process, influenced by the effects of both climate uncertainties and anthropogenic activities. Developing an innovative and robust decision support framework (DSF) is essential for effective and efficient water quality management, so it can provide essential information on water quality and assist policy makers and water resource managers to identify potential causes of water quality deterioration. This framework is crucial for implementing actions such as infrastructure development, legislative compliance and environmental initiatives. Recent advancements in computational domains have created opportunities for employing artificial intelligence (AI), advanced statistics and mathematical methods for use in improved water quality management. This study proposed a comprehensive conceptual DSF to minimise the adverse effects of extreme weather events and climate change on water quality. The framework utilises machine learning (ML), deep learning (DL), geographical information system (GIS) and advanced statistical and mathematical techniques for water quality management. The foundation of this framework is the outcomes from our three studies, where we examined the application of ML and DL models for predicting water quality index (WQI) in reservoirs, utilising statistical and mathematical methods to find the seasonal trend of rainfall and water quality, exploring the potential connection between streamflow, rainfall and water quality, and employing GIS to show the spatial and temporal variability of hydrological parameters and WQI. Three potable water supply reservoirs in the Toowoomba region of Australia were taken as the study area for practical implementation of the proposed DSF. This framework can serve as a comprehensive mechanism to identify distinct seasonal characteristics and understand correlations between rainfall, streamflow and water quality. This will enable policy makers and water resource managers to enhance their decision making processes by selecting the management priorities to safeguard water quality in the face of future climate variability, including prolonged droughts and flooding.
Features and Constitutive Model of Hydrate-Bearing Sandy Sediment’s Triaxial Creep Failure
Authors: Sun Shihui , Zhang Xiaohan , Zhou Yunjian
Published: October 2024

In the longstanding development of hydrate-bearing sediment (HBS) reservoirs, slow and permanent deformation of the formation will occur under the influence of stress, which endangers the safety of hydrate development projects. This paper takes hydrate-bearing sandy sediment (HBSS) as the research object and conducts triaxial compression creep tests at different saturation degrees (20%, 30%, and 40%). The results show that the hydrate-containing sandy sediments have strong creep characteristics, and accelerated creep phenomenon will occur under the long-term action of high stress. The longstanding destructive power of the specimen progressively raises with the increase in hydrate saturation, but the difference in the triaxial strength of the specimen progressively increases. This indicates that the damage to the hydrate structure during long-term loading is the main factor causing the strength decrease. Further, a new nonlinear creep constitutive model was developed by using the nonlinear Burgers model in series with the fractional-order viscoplastic body model, which can well describe the creep properties of HBSS at different saturation levels.
Effects of Sublethal Exposure to Three Water Pollutants on Scototaxis in Rare Minnow (Gobiocypris rarus)
Authors: Qiu Ning , Li Wenjing , Jia Jianna , Ma Guoqiang , Peng Shitao
Published: October 2024

The biological early warning system with fish behavior as the detection index is an efficient and rapid early warning technology for the ecological damage caused by water pollutants. However, the attempt to apply the scototaxis (dark preference) behavior of fish to biological early warning is still relatively lacking. In this study, we delved into the dark and light preferences of the rare minnows (Gobiocypris rarus), employing three distinct tank configurations. Additionally, we systematically examined the modulating effects of environmental illumination, nutritional status, and the number of test subjects on this behavior, aiming to establish optimal experimental parameters for its observation. Furthermore, cadmium ions [Cd2+], tricaine methanesulfonate [MS222], and p-chloroaniline were employed as representative heavy metal ions, neuroactive agents, and organic toxicants, respectively, to test the impact of chemicals on scototaxis in gradient concentrations. The results demonstrated that the rare minnow exhibited a clear scototaxis (dark preference), and this behavior was not affected by the nutritional status of the test fish, the illumination, or the number of subjects. While the dark chamber was consistently the preferred location of rare minnows during the chemical exposure tests, the degree of scototaxis by the rare minnow significantly decreased at Cd2+ ≥ 3 mg/L, MS222 ≥ 11 mg/L, and p-chloroaniline ≥ 29 mg/L, suggesting a potential disruption of their innate behavioral patterns by these chemicals. These findings underscore the sensitivity of rare minnows to water pollutants. Therefore, the scototaxis behavior of rare minnows can be a potential and useful behavioral indicator for biological early warning, which can be used for early biological warning of sudden water pollution caused by chemicals such as Cd2+, MS222, and p-chloroaniline.
Plant-Based Flocculants as Sustainable Conditioners for Enhanced Sewage Sludge Dewatering
Authors: Hadj Mansour Yosra , Othmani Bouthaina , Ben Rebah Faouzi , Mnif Wissem , Khadhraoui Moncef , Saoudi Mongi
Published: October 2024

With the aim to establish clean and sustainable sludge treatment, green conditioning using natural flocculants has recently gained a growing interest. In this study, a variety of plant materials, namely Moringa (Moringa oleifera) seeds, Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) seeds, Potato (Solanum tuberosum) peels, Aloe (Aloe vera) leaves, Cactus (Opuntia ficus indica) cladodes, and Phragmites (Phragmites australis) stems, were evaluated for their potential bioflocculant activity in conditioning sewage sludge. They were thoroughly characterized to determine their active flocculating compounds. Sludge dewaterability was evaluated by assessing various sludge parameters, including specific resistance to filtration (SRF), dryness of filtration cake (DC), and total suspended solid removal (TSS) from sludge filtrate. The collected results from various physicochemical characterizations of plant materials suggest that the main flocculating agents are carbohydrates in Cactus and Fenugreek and proteins in Moringa, Potato, and Phragmites. Additionally, all tested plant-based flocculants demonstrated effective dewatering performance. Interestingly, compared to the chemical flocculant polyaluminum chloride, Moringa and Cactus showed superior conditioning effects, yielding the lowest SRF values and the highest DC. As a result, the use of these natural flocculants improved sewage sludge filterability, leading to a significant removal of total suspended solids from the filtrate. The conditioning properties of Moringa and Cactus can be attributed to their high protein and sugar content, which facilitates the effective separation of bound water from solids through charge neutralization and bridging mechanisms. Thus, green conditioning using plant-based flocculants, particularly Moringa and Cactus materials, presents a promising and eco-friendly approach to enhance sewage sludge dewatering for safer disposal and valorization.
Формируя образ желаемого будущего: парадигма профессора Попова (к выходу в свет монографии Г.Х. Попова «Россия XXI века»)
Authors: Манюшис А.Ю.
Published: October 2024

Россия, как и все мировое сообщество, вступила в период радикальных трансформаций. Для того, чтобы дать адекватный ответ на вызовы и риски XXI века, необходим научно-обоснованный прогноз, формирующий образ желаемого будущего и стратегии достижения поставленных целей. Этому и посвящена новая монография Г.Х. Попова. В соответствии с общей методологией долгосрочного целеполагания и разработки стратегий, Г.Х. Попов вначале анализирует среду, в которой предстоит развиваться мировой цивилизации (естественно-природную, общественно-политическую, социально-экономическую) и тенденции ее изменений на обозримый период. Двигаясь «от общего к частному», он рассматривает генезис цивилизационных изменений на общемировом уровне (Мир XXI века), затем исследует Россию как самостоятельную цивилизацию (Стратегия Россия в XXI веке), далее формулирует основные вызовы и риски, с которыми столкнется Россия, и, наконец, пути их преодоления — узлы стратегии развития и базовые характеристики нового общества (Социальный строй. Структура. Переходный период).

Russia, like the entire world community, has entered a period of radical transformations. In order to provide an adequate response to the challenges and risks of the 21st century, a scientifically based forecast is needed, forming an image of the desired future and strategies for achieving the set goals. This is the subject of a new monograph by G.Kh. Popov. In accordance with the general methodology of long-term goal-setting and strategy development, G.Kh. Popov first analyzes the environment in which the world civilization is to develop (natural, socio-political, socio-economic) and the trends of its changes for the foreseeable period. Moving "from the general to the particular", he examines the genesis of civilizational changes at the global level (the World of the XXI century), then explores Russia as an independent civilization (the Strategy of Russia in the XXI century), then formulates the main challenges and risks that Russia will face, and, finally, ways to overcome them — the nodes of the development strategy and the basic characteristics of the new society (Social system. Structure. The transition period).
أثر الحوكمة المؤسسية في الأداء المالي للبنوك التجارية الفلسطينية: دراسة تطبيقية
Authors: أبوعواد بهاء صبحي , الكببجي مجدي وائل
Published: October 2024

اشتملت هذه الدراسة على قسمين: الأول هو الدراسة الوصفية، وهدفت إلى استطلاع مدى تطبيق مبادئ الحوكمة المؤسسية في البنوك التجارية الفلسطينية المحلية من خلال تكييف نموذج "ليونيس الآسيوي للأوراق الائتمانية" (Credit Lyonnais Securities Asia-CLSA) لتصنيف البنوك وفق ثلاثة مستويات للحوكمة المؤسسية (منخفضة، متوسطة، مرتفعة). والقسم الثاني هو الدراسة التطبيقية، وهدفت إلى دراسة أثر الحوكمة المؤسسية في تحسين الأداء المالي للبنوك التجارية الفلسطينية المحلية. تضمنت عينة الدراسة سبعة بنوك محلية توافرت لها البيانات اللازمة للدراسة. وقد أشارت نتائج الدراسة الوصفية إلى إمكانية تكييف نموذج "ليونيس الآسيوي للأوراق الائتمانية" لتصنيف البنوك التجارية الفلسطينية المحلية وفق ثلاثة مستويات للحوكمة المؤسسية؛ حيث لوحظ وجود تباين واسع في مستويات الحوكمة بين بنوك العينة. أما الدراسة التطبيقية فقد أشارت إلى تأثير الحوكمة المؤسسية في ثلاثة مؤشرات للأداء المالي؛ وهي نسبة العائد على الأصول، ونسبة العائد على حقوق الملكية، ونسبة الربح لكل سهم عادي، بينما لم يكن لها دور في نسبة السعر إلى ربح السهم؛ وبناء على هذه النتائج أوصت الدراسة بضرورة تطوير نموذج (Credit Lyonnais Securities Asia-CLSA) لقياس الحوكمة المؤسسية لمختلف المؤسسات في فلسطين.
Cell Membrane-Coated Nanotherapeutics for the Targeted Treatment of Acute and Chronic Colitis
Authors: Li Shan , Chen Lei , Wu Tianyu , Wu Jingfeng , Yang Hong , Ju Qian , Liu Zhicheng , Chen Wensheng , Zhang Dinglin , Hao Yingxue
Published: October 2024

Integrin α4β1 and α4β7 are overexpressed in macrophages and leukocytes and play important roles in mediating cell homing and recruitment to inflammatory tissues. Herein, to enhance the targeting ability of nanotherapeutics for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) treatment, cyclosporine A-loaded nanoparticles (CsA NPs) were coated with macrophage membranes (MM-CsA NPs) or leukocyte membranes (LM-CsA NPs). In vitro experiments demonstrated that the physicochemical properties of the nanotherapeutics (e.g., size, zeta potential, polymer dispersity index, and drug release profiles) did not obviously change after cell membrane coating. However, integrin α4β1 and α4β7 were expressed in MM-CsA NPs and LM-CsA NPs, respectively, which significantly inhibited normal macrophage phagocytosis and obviously increased uptake by proinflammatory macrophages and endothelial cells. In vivo experiments verified that cell membrane-coated nanotherapeutics have longer retention times in inflammatory intestinal tissues. Importantly, LM-CsA NPs significantly mitigated weight loss, alleviated colon shortening, decreased disease activity indices (DAIs), and promoted colon tissue repair in acute and chronic colitis model mice. Furthermore, LM-CsA NPs significantly decreased the expression of inflammatory factors such as TNF-α and IL-6 and increased the expression of gut barrier-related proteins such as E-cadherin, ZO-1, and occludin protein in colitis mice.