Search Results (46,266)

Olyokma Nature Reserve, where we conducted our research, is in Eastern Siberia in the middle taiga zone in an area characterized by continuous permafrost. This is the only protected area in the region with a complete reserve regime, where there is no human activity. Here, we studied 14 different types of water bodies located along the Olyokma River valley, 13 of which were studied for the first time. For some of the studied water bodies, a high content of biogenic elements was noted, which may be associated with the characteristics of permafrost water bodies, which are under nutrient release from permafrost thaw. The concentration of several biogenic elements, including ammonium, nitrates and phosphates, increases in the water of the lakes toward the bottom of the river valley. In the composition of various communities of these water bodies, including both planktonic and non-planktonic, we identified 246 species and varieties of microalgae. The abundance and biomass of phytoplankton, as well as the number of species, decreased down the river valley. At the same time, at the upper stations there were more diatoms; while at the stations down the valley, green algae came to the fore; and even lower down, cyanobacteria prevailed. At the lower stations, the indicators of microalgae development were minimal. In accordance with the bioindicative properties of microalgae, a decrease in the trophic status of water bodies was noted down the river valley, which, in our opinion, is a characteristic feature of the waters of an undisturbed catchment basin in the permafrost area. This indicates that the studied aquatic ecosystem changes within a set of environmental and biological indicators, that is, it exists in natural conditions for this catchment basin. Research on the territory of Olyokma Nature Reserve allowed us to obtain information on natural transformation and removal of nutrients in permafrost catchments, while excluding the likelihood of anthropogenic impact on these processes. Full article

Green policies serve as a crucial instrument for the state to incentivize enterprises toward green transformation. Utilizing panel data from manufacturing firms listed on the Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share markets between 2011 and 2022, this study employs a dual fixed-effects model to analyze the impact of central green policies on the green transformation of manufacturing enterprises. It further explores the role of central-local policy synergy and applies the WSR (Wuli–Shili–Renli) methodology to investigate the boundary effects of local manufacturing comparative advantages (Wuli dimension), local assessment pressures (Shili dimension), and local green awareness (Renli dimension) on the effectiveness of central green policies in promoting enterprise green transformation. The empirical analysis delves into the mechanisms through which central policies influence enterprise green transformation under the context of central-local decentralization. The results show that the central green policies are beneficial for the green transformation of enterprises, and the coordination of central and local green policies has a promoting effect on the green transformation of enterprises. The boundary effect analyses show that in the Wuli dimension, the comparative advantage of the local manufacturing industry has no significant boundary effect. In the Shili dimension, local assessment pressure has a nonlinear boundary effect on the positive relationship between the central green policy and enterprises’ green transformation. In the Renli dimension, local governments’ attention to green can significantly enhance the positive effect of central green policies on enterprises’ green transformation. The conclusions provide empirical insights for promoting enterprise green transformation and exploring the effective boundaries of green policies, offering policy implications for green development in developing countries: (1) improve the central green policy supply system and enhance support for enterprise green transformation through supply-side and environmental policies. (2) Strengthen central-local coordination mechanisms during the implementation of green policies. (3) Local governments should base their implementation plans on practical considerations, engaging in green governance with a clear understanding of Shili and Renli principles. Full article

Soil potentially toxic element (PTE) contamination remains a global concern, particularly in rural agricultural regions. This study collected 157 agricultural topsoil samples within a rural area in SW China. Combined with multivariate statistical analysis in the compositional data analysis (CoDa) perspective, the PMF model was applied to identify key contamination sources and quantify their contributions. Potential ecological risk assessment and Monte Carlo simulation were employed to estimate ecological-health risks associated with PTE exposure. The results revealed that the main exceeding PTEs (Mercury—Hg and Cadmium—Cd) are rich in urbanized areas and the GFGP (Grain for Green Program) regions. Source apportionment indicated that soil parent materials constituted the dominant contributor (32.48%), followed by traffic emissions (28.31%), atmospheric deposition (21.48%), and legacy agricultural effects (17.86%). Ecological risk assessment showed that 60.51% of soil samples exhibited higher potential ecological risk (PERI > 150), with moderate-risk areas concentrated in the GFGP regions. The elements Cd and Hg from legacy agricultural effects and atmospheric deposition contributed the most to ecological risk. Health risk assessment demonstrated that most risk indices fell within acceptable ranges for all populations, while only children showed elevated non-carcinogenic risk (THI_max > 1.0). Among PTEs, the element As, mainly from traffic emissions, was identified as a priority control element due to its significant health implications. Geospatial distributions showed significant risk enrichment in the GFGP regions (legacy agricultural areas). These findings present associated risk levels in sustainable agricultural regions, providing valuable data to support soil environmental management in regions requiring urgent intervention worldwide. Full article

Meat secondary streams command low value along the meat value chain, with a significant portion of these exiting the food value chain and contributing to global food loss and waste. Valorizing these substantial secondary streams through the efficient extraction of high-biological-value proteins could translate into significant social, economic, and environmental benefits. Protein extraction from meat secondary streams offers a promising approach to enhance their nutritional and commercial value while supporting global food security initiatives. This approach could also help to distant these by-products from their original source, making them more appealing to consumers. The current review evaluates the protein content and valorization potential of meat secondary streams from various animal sources. It further provides a critical assessment of both traditional and emerging protein extraction techniques, highlighting their advantages, limitations, and applications. Existing knowledge gaps are also identified to guide future research. This review aligns the role of protein recovery technologies with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal target 12.3, which seeks to halve global food waste by 2030. Full article

Wastewater containing triphenylmethane dyes such as malachite green (MG), discharged by textile and food industries, poses significant carcinogenic risks and ecological hazards. Conventional physical adsorption methods fail to degrade these pollutants effectively. To address this challenge, we focused on two-dimensional SnSe₂ semiconductor materials. While their narrow bandgap and unique structure confer exceptional optoelectronic properties, prior research has predominantly emphasized heterojunction systems. We synthesized SnSe₂ with well-defined hexagonal plate-like structures via a one-step hydrothermal method by precisely controlling precursor ratios (Sn:Se = 1:2) and reaction temperatures (120–240 °C). Systematic investigations revealed that hydrothermal temperature modulates the van der Waals forces between crystal planes, enabling selective exposure of (001) and (011) facets, as confirmed by XRD, SEM, and XPS analyses, thereby influencing the exposure of specific crystal facets. Experiments demonstrated that pure SnSe₂ synthesized at 150 °C achieved complete degradation of MG (40 mg/L) within 60 min under visible light irradiation, exhibiting a reaction rate constant (k) of 0.099 min⁻¹. By regulating the exposure ratio of the active (001)/(011) facets, we demonstrate that crystal facet engineering directly optimizes carrier separation efficiency, thereby substantially enhancing the catalytic performance of standalone SnSe₂. This work proposes a novel strategy for designing noble-metal-free, high-efficiency standalone photocatalysts, providing crystal facet-dependent mechanistic insights for the targeted degradation of industrial dyes. Full article

This study investigates urban warming in Rajshahi City, Bangladesh, by examining changes in land surface temperature (LST) from 1990 to 2023 and exploring its relationship with key biophysical factors. LST was derived from Landsat thermal imagery, and both spatial and temporal variations were analyzed using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Key biophysical indices, including Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Normalized Difference Built-up Index (NDBI), Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI), Normalized Difference Moisture Index (NDMI), and Normalized Difference Bareness Soil Index (NDBSI), were calculated using corresponding Landsat satellite sensors, and they evaluated the impact of LULC types (vegetation, water, soil, and built-up areas) on thermal variations. LULC was derived following the Support Vector Machine classification technique. The Urban Thermal Field Variance Index (UTFVI) was employed to assess surface urban heat island (SUHI) effects, warming conditions, ecological stress, and thermal comfort zones. Spatial trend and hotspot analyses of LST change were performed using spatial trend analysis and the Getis-Ord Gi* statistic, respectively. Linear regression analysis examined the relationship between LST and biophysical indices. Results show that winter mean LST increased by 2.66 °C during the 33-year period, with maximum LST rising by 4.29 °C. The most significant warming occurred in central-northern, central-western, and south-eastern zones. The rise in LST and the growing intensity of SUHI effects are largely due to urban growth, especially where green spaces and water bodies have been replaced by impervious surfaces. Hotspot analysis identified clusters of high-temperature zones, while UTFVI analysis confirmed a marked expansion of strong heat island conditions, especially in central urban areas. Linear regression results showed notable links between LST and key biophysical variables, where higher LST values were commonly linked to greater built-up density and declines in vegetation cover and surface water. Overall, the results highlight the need for better urban planning approaches such as increasing green cover, using permeable materials, and adopting strategies that can adapt to climate impacts. This study presents a framework for analyzing urban climate dynamics that can be adapted to other rapidly growing cities, aiding efforts to promote sustainable development and build urban resilience. Full article

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a major global health challenge, necessitating the development of more effective and environmentally sustainable treatments. This study presents a novel green synthetic protocol for 1,3,5-triazine derivatives with anticancer potential, employing both microwave-assisted and ultrasound-assisted methods. The synthesis was optimized using 4-chloro-N-(2-chlorophenyl)-6-(morpholin-4-yl)-1,3,5-triazin-2-amine as the key intermediate, with sodium carbonate, TBAB, and DMF providing optimal yields under microwave conditions. To enhance sustainability, a modified sonochemical method was also developed, enabling efficient synthesis in aqueous media with a minimal use of organic solvents. A series of nine morpholine-functionalized derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for cytotoxic activity against SW480 and SW620 colorectal cancer cell lines. Compound 11 demonstrated superior antiproliferative activity (IC₅₀ = 5.85 µM) compared to the reference drug 5-fluorouracil, while compound 5 showed promising dual-line activity. In silico ADME analysis supported the drug likeness of the synthesized compounds, and biomimetic chromatography analysis confirmed favorable physicochemical properties, including lipophilicity and membrane affinity. These results underscore the potential of the developed protocol to produce bioactive triazine derivatives through an efficient, scalable, and environmentally friendly process, offering a valuable strategy for future anticancer drug development. Full article

The fermentation product FP-WeiGuangSu is regarded as a novel, green and efficient antibiotic substitute. Such products constitute one of the principal strategies for addressing bacterial diseases in aquaculture in the future. This study investigates the effects of FPs derived from Bacillus subtilis on the antioxidant capacity and gut microbiota of Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides). Experimental diets containing 0, 1%, 3% and 5% FPs (Control, H1, H2 and H3) were fed to M. salmoides. Although short-term administration of FPs exerted no significant influence on the growth performance of Largemouth Bass, serological findings demonstrated that supplementation with FPs decreased the contents of the liver injury markers ALT, AST and AKP, along with liver MDA content, and enhanced antioxidant capacity (SOD, CAT and GSH-px). Notably, the addition of 1% FPs significantly improved the systemic antioxidant performance (SOD, CAT, GSH-px and T-AOC). Moreover, the FP supplementation increased the expression levels of il-10 and IgM, and lipolysis-related genes. The results of gut microbiota analysis revealed that FPs significantly altered the diversity and structure of gut microbiota. The LEfSe results indicated that the microbial marker of the control group was Cetobacterium, those of the H1 group were Bacillus and Mycoplasma, those of the H2 group were Acinetobacter, Paenibacillus and g_unclassified_Rhizobiaceae, and that of the H3 group was Enterococcus. The most significant microbial marker upon the addition of FPs was Paenibacillus, and the pathways for biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, biosynthesis of antibiotics, and biosynthesis of amino acids were significantly activated. The Bugbase analysis results suggested that, compared with the control group, the abundance of anaerobic bacteria in the FP group decreased, while the abundance of microorganisms with mobile-element-containing and oxidative-stress-tolerant phenotypes increased. Hence, this study demonstrated that 1–3% FP dietary supplementation can be used to enhance antioxidant ability, and liver and intestine health of M. salmoides in the aquaculture industry and can be regarded as a promising feed additive in aquaculture. Full article

Urban parks are critical components of green infrastructure, supporting recreation and public health. This study investigates the association between urban park quality and health outcomes in 85 South Korean cities, utilizing a localized version of the ParkScore Index. The Korean ParkScore evaluates five dimensions: acreage, amenities, investment, accessibility, and equity. The health indicators include municipal-level rates of mental health disorders (anxiety, depression, insomnia, ADHD, and schizophrenia) and obesity. Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed significant negative associations between ParkScore rankings and mental health indicators, particularly depression and anxiety. Higher-quality, more accessible parks correlated with lower levels of psychological distress, emphasizing the public health benefits of urban green spaces. While the cross-sectional design limits causal inference, the results support the role of urban parks as essential infrastructure for mental well-being. The findings underscore the need for equitable and data-driven urban park policies in fostering health-supportive urban environments and highlight the importance of considering specific ParkScore dimensions in urban planning. Full article

Natural coagulants have gained significant attention as effective agents for wastewater treatment, particularly in the removal of heavy metals. This study conducts a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of 268 publications over the past decade, aiming to assess research trends and developments in the application of natural coagulants in wastewater management. The analysis reveals a marked increase in publication output, with the number of articles rising from just five in 2015 to fifty-one in 2024, indicating a growing global awareness and investment in sustainable wastewater treatment practices. “Environmental science” emerges as the leading discipline, accounting for 31.3% of the total publications. Notably, Malaysia is identified as the foremost contributor, with 60 publications and 1149 citations, followed by India and Brazil, highlighting the robust research activity in these regions. The study identifies key natural coagulants, such as Moringa oleifera and chitosan, which are frequently cited for their efficacy in reducing heavy metal concentrations and improving overall water quality. Leading funding organizations, such as the Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior in Brazil, have significantly contributed to the growth of this field by financing numerous studies. Prominent journals, including the Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering and Water Research, play a crucial role in disseminating research findings and advancing knowledge in this area. These publications are vital for sharing innovative methodologies and effective treatment solutions in the field of natural coagulants. Effective treatment methodologies identified in the literature include coagulation/flocculation and adsorption. The study highlights a variety of natural materials utilized for wastewater treatment, including plant-based coagulants derived from agricultural by-products, which not only address environmental concerns but also promote resource recovery. Full article

Natural deep eutectic solvents (NaDESs) are emerging solvents for their yield when used for extraction of different molecules, including polyphenols. NaDESs are a cutting-edge technology that offers numerous advantages, including cheap cost, safety, effectiveness and environmental friendliness. However, due to NaDES’ high boiling point, the recovery and separation of compounds after the extraction is the bottleneck of the process. In this work, two affordable methods were tested for the recovery of phenolic compounds from three binary NaDESs (composed of choline chloride mixed separately with lactic acid, tartaric acid or glycerol as hydrogen bond donors): the antisolvent and the liquid–liquid extraction methods. The former was assessed by diluting the extracts with different aliquots of water, employed as antisolvent, which was ineffective. For the liquid–liquid extraction method, ethyl acetate (EtOAc), acetonitrile (ACN), 2-chlorobutane (2-CB) and 2-methyltetrahydrofuran (2-MeTHF) were compared. Except for ACN, all solvents were perfectly immiscible with the three NaDESs, forming biphasic systems that were analyzed by colorimetric assays and HPLC/MS. 2-MeTHF applied on a 10-fold water dilution of the NaDES extract reached recovery percentages higher than 90% for most of the non-anthocyanin phenols and good recovery (up to 80%) for some anthocyanins. 2-MeTHF appears to be the first known solvent capable of extracting anthocyanins from NaDESs. Finally, a two-step liquid–liquid extraction performed firstly with EtOAc and subsequently with 2-MeTHF is proposed for the separation of different phenolic fractions. Full article

Explicit analytic forms, in terms of Lommel functions of two variables, for the evanescent and traveling components of the electromagnetic Green tensor are presented. The field in the focal region, including defocus, of hemispherically focused electric dipole, magnetic dipole, and mixed-dipole waves are expressed analytically in closed form. Full article

Patent licensing is essential for sustainable technological diffusion, fostering innovation and strengthening industrial resilience. However, the determinants influencing patent licensing decisions remain underexplored. This study investigates these factors at both the enterprise and patent levels, emphasizing their role in promoting sustainable industrial innovation and knowledge transfer. Given the low proportion of licensed patents, this research proposes a measurement framework to identify thematically similar but unlicensed patents and applies a conditional logistic regression model to analyze the factors affecting licensing decisions. Using patent abstracts from the intelligent connected vehicles (ICVs) sector, topic modeling is conducted to classify technological themes, and Kullback–Leibler divergence is applied to measure differences between licensed and unlicensed patents. The results indicate that technological prestige and depth negatively influence licensing, whereas technological breadth, advancement, and stability have a positive effect. From a sustainability perspective, enterprises should optimize technology management to support responsible knowledge transfer and green innovation. Universities should enhance patent quality and innovation impact to contribute more effectively to sustainable development. Policymakers should refine patent licensing frameworks to foster an efficient, inclusive, and sustainable intellectual property ecosystem, thereby facilitating cross-sectoral technology diffusion, advancing eco-friendly industrial transformation, and promoting sustainable economic growth. Full article

Urban green development has become a crucial approach for balancing ecological conservation and socio-economic development. The digital economy (DE) and new-type urbanization (NTU), as technological and social systems, respectively, are both driving urban green development. In this context, furthering their synergistic effects could substantially improve urban sustainability outcomes. Grounded in sociotechnical systems theory, this study applied pooled and multi-period fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to analyze urban green development pathways in 79 Yellow River Basin cities (2020–2022). The pooled fsQCA indicates that urban green development is driven by synergistic interaction within the NTU-DE subsystem, especially industrial digitalization–spatial urbanization. The multi-period fsQCA further demonstrates that industrial digitization has always existed as a core condition, which means that it plays a more general role. In addition, the Yellow River Basin exhibits distinct regional variations in urban green development, where the downstream region is dominantly driven by DE and spatial urbanization, the upstream region by industrial digitization, and the midstream region demonstrates diversified pathways. This study enhances understanding of complex system interactions in urban green development and provides policy-relevant insights. For policy implementation, local governments should not only prioritize effective synergies between industrial digitization and spatial urbanization but also develop differentiated strategies for the DE and NTU subsystems based on local conditions. Full article

Global digitalization drives policy-led transformation in the construction industry, yet its effectiveness hinges on localized implementation. However, research on China’s regional digital policies remains insufficient, particularly in systematic evaluation mechanisms. Focusing on Wuhan, this study proposes a progressive “3M” (macro–meso–micro) policy evaluation framework to analyze local policy efficacy under national strategies. Macro-level PESTEL analysis identifies weak legal frameworks as a critical gap. Meso-level PMC index modeling establishes a hierarchical optimization pathway prioritizing incentive measures, followed by policy timeliness, assessment mechanisms, policy focus, and policy nature. Micro-level Spearman’s correlation analysis further pinpoints five implementation drivers: pilot projects, long-term planning, detailed measures, talent cultivation, and regulatory reinforcement. The results indicate that Wuhan’s policies require targeted improvements: (1) synergizing pilot innovation with legal safeguards, (2) integrating green principles into long-term planning, (3) refining technical standards and policy alignment, (4) enhancing multidisciplinary talent development through industry–academia collaboration, and (5) establishing IoT-enabled dynamic monitoring platforms. This hierarchical evaluation system provides empirical evidence for optimizing China’s construction policies while offering a transferable governance framework for global cities navigating digital transitions. Future research should extend the temporal and spatial coverage while incorporating adaptive evaluation tools to address policy dynamism. Full article