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Industrial processes and municipal wastes largely contribute to the fluctuations in iron (Fe) content in soils. Fe, when present in unfavorable amount, causes harmful effects on human, flora, and fauna. The present study is an attempt to evaluate the composition of Fe in surface soils from paper mill and municipal landfill sites and assess their potential ecological and human health risks. Geochemical fractionation was conducted to explore the chemical bonding of Fe across different fractions, i.e., water-soluble (F1) to residual (F6). Different contamination factors and pollution indices were evaluated to comprehend Fe contamination extent across the study area. Results indicated the preference for less mobile forms in the paper mill and landfill, with 26.66% and 43.46% of Fe associated with the Fe–Mn oxide bound fraction (F4), and 57.22% and 24.78% in the residual fraction (F6). Maximum mobility factor (MF) of 30.65% was observed in the paper mill, and 80.37% in the landfill. The enrichment factor (EF) varied within the range of 20 < EF < 40, signifying a high level of enrichment in the soil. The individual contamination factor (ICF) ranged from 0 to >6, highlighting low to high contamination. Adults were found to be more vulnerable towards Fe associated health risks compared to children. The Hazard Quotient (HQ) index showed the highest risk potential pathways as dermal contact > ingestion > inhalation. The study offers insights into potential Fe contamination risks in comparable environments, underscoring the crucial role of thorough soil assessments in shaping land use and waste management policies. [Display omitted] • Geochemical fractionation unveils less bioavailable Fe in contaminated soil. • EF, ICF, and I geo indicate high Fe contamination. • Adults are more susceptible to potential health risks from surplus Fe exposure. • HQ analysis pinpoints dermal contact as the primary pathway for Fe exposure risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over time, the risk assessment of dermal exposure to pollutants in print paper products has received considerable attention. Most studies have focused on organic pollutants, especially bisphenol A (BPA). However, little is known about the levels of trace elements in print paper products, despite the knowledge that these elements are components of printing inks and toners. This study was aimed at determining the concentrations of trace elements in 5 types of paper products, namely bulletins, magazines, special events program booklets, handbills, and newspapers. The average daily intake (ADI) of each element was subsequently estimated through dermal exposure to the papers. The detection frequency of the elements of interest was high (nearly 100%) in most paper products, with the exception of chromium, whose detection was low. In contrast, Ag was not detected in any sample. The levels of the elements in the paper products were low and comparable to those found in other personal and consumer products with the potential for skin contact. The range values of estimated ADIs were 1.70–3.90E-08, 2.30–18.2E-10, 2.60–16.4E-09, 3.65–5.75E-08, 1.29–4.38E-08, 6.23–15.6E-10, 1.51–2.80E-10, 1.43–9.16E-09, 0.00–9.47E-09, and 4.68–220E-08 mg/kg bw/day for Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, Pb, Cr and Fe respectively. These values were well below the dermal standard reference doses (R f D) for each element. The present results indicate that dermal exposure to trace elements from print paper products was low and does not pose significant risks for toxic (non-carcinogenic) effects on humans. • Previous efforts have focused on the risk assessment of organic contaminants in print paper products. • Limited attention accorded to risk assessment of trace elements in print paper products • Human dermal exposure to trace elements via print paper products was low • Exposure to trace elements via print paper products has low risks of non-carcinogenic events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three specific catalysts, namely ZIF-67 (zeolitic imidazolate framework-67), Co@NCF (Co@Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Framework), and 3D NCF (Three-Dimensional Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Framework), were prepared and studied for pulp and paper mill effluent degradation using heterogeneous activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS). Numerous characterizations, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and N 2 adsorption, were used to characterize the properties of three different catalysts. 3D NCF is remarkably effective at heterogeneous activation of PMS to generate sulfate radicals to degrade pulp and paper mill effluent (PPME) compared to the other as-prepared catalysts. The catalytic activity reveals a sequence of 3D NCF > Co@NCF > ZIF-67.3D NCF could degrade organic pollutants in 30 min at an initial COD concentration of 1146 mg/L of PPME, 0.2 g/L catalysts, 2 g/L PMS, and 50 °C. Consequently, it was observed that the degradation of PPME using 3D NCF followed first-order kinetics, with an activation energy of 40.54 kJ mol−1. Overall, 3D NCF/PMS system reveals promising performance for PPME removal. • 3D NCF synthesized via calcining and etching a zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF-67). • 3D NCF presented the highest activity in the pulp and paper mill effluent degradation. • 3D NCF proved to be a promising catalyst and has superior stability. • Pulp and paper mill effluent degradation on 3D NCF followed pseudo-first-order kinetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agro-based pulp and paper mills (PPMs) inevitably produce numerous refractory pollutants in their wastewater, including chlorolignin, chlorophenols, chlorocatechols, chloroguaiacol, cyanide, furan, dioxins, and other organic compounds, as well as various heavy metals, such as nickel (Ni), zinc (Zn), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), lead (Pb), arsenic (As), etc. These pollutants pose significant threats to aquatic and terrestrial life due to their cytogenotoxicity, mutagenicity, impact on sexual organs, hormonal interference, endocrine disruption, and allergenic response. Consequently, it is crucial to reclaim pulp paper mill wastewater (PPMW) with high loads of refractory pollutants through effective and environmentally sustainable practices to minimize the presence of these chemicals and ensure environmental safety. However, there is currently no comprehensive published review providing up-to-date knowledge on the fate of refractory pollutants from PPMW in soil and aquatic environments, along with valuable insights into the associated health hazards and remediation methods. This critical review aims to shed light on the potential adverse effects of refractory pollutants from PPMW on natural ecosystems and living organisms. It explores existing effective treatment technologies for remediating these pollutants from wastewater, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of each approach, all in pursuit of environmental safety. Special emphasis is placed on emerging technologies used to decontaminate wastewater discharged from PPMs, ensuring the preservation of the environment. Additionally, this review addresses the major challenges and proposes future research directions for the proper disposal of PPMW. It serves as a comprehensive source of knowledge on the environmental toxicity and risks associated with refractory pollutants in PPMW, making it a valuable reference for policymakers and researchers when selecting appropriate technologies for remediation. The scientific community, concerned with mitigating the widespread risks posed by refractory pollutants from PPMs, is expected to take a keen interest in this review. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The heteroatoms and transition metal co-doped carbon-based catalysts are an important way to improve the catalytic activity of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Herein, we reported a facile method to obtain iron, nitrogen, and sulfur co-doped cellulose paper carbon fibers as catalysts (Fe–N–S/CFs) for ORR in microbial fuel cells (MFCs) with the adsorption recovery of Congo red molecules from dye wastewater. The thermal treatment promoted the etching of carbon surface by ferric ions, resulting in increased surface roughness for forming the defective carbon structure. The rich active species and defective carbon formed on the etched surface to enhance the electroactive surface area and effective sites. Fe–N–S/CFs catalysts achieved high half-wave potential due to the synergy effect between chemical components and defect structures. The assembled single-chamber air cathode MFC gained a high maximum power density of 1773 ± 40 mW m−2 versus Pt/C MFC of 1325 ± 94 mW m−2. This work provides a strategy for recovering dye molecules from wastewater to prepare non-precious metal catalysts for enhancing ORR activity. • Mg(OH) 2 @PF was employed to efficiently adsorb Congo red from the dye wastewater. • Congo red/Mg(OH) 2 @PF co-calcined with iron nitrate to fabricate Fe–N–S/FCs catalyst. • The Fe–N–S/CFs showed the excellent ORR performance with the active specie of FeN x. • The assembled air cathode MFCs achieved high maximum power density (1773 ± 40 mW m−2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accompanying China's accession to the World Trade Organization, the rapid development of the Chinese economy has led to increasingly serious environmental issues. However, the inherent mechanisms underlying the impact of Environmental Information Disclosure (EID) policy and trade on the environmental effects of Chinese paper enterprises remain unclear in the context of the era's requirement for a resource-conserving and environmentally-friendly society. The pollution problem in the papermaking industry has received attention worldwide, and how to balance the environmental and development issues of papermaking enterprises is an urgent issue that needs to be solved in the academic community. This study explores the impact mechanisms of EID policy and trade on the environmental effects of enterprises from the perspective of financial constraints. Utilizing the PSM-DID model, the study investigates the moderating effects of financial constraints on the EID policy and import-export trade. The findings reveal that both external and internal financial constraints have negative, detrimental effects on the environmental effects of the EID policy and trade. These constraints impede research and development investment and technological upgrades, hinder productivity improvement, and hamper the realization of "regulatory and trade innovation effects". This study enriches our understanding of the mechanisms by which trade affects the environmental effects of Chinese paper enterprises and further identifies the impacts of Chinese EID policy and trade on pollution emissions by enterprises, providing a theoretical basis and practical foundation for the government in formulating financial, environmental, and trade policies. • Analyzing the environmental effects of Chinese paper enterprises from the perspective of financing constraints. • This study validated the research hypothesis using three micro databases. • This study decomposes the impact mechanism into three aspects: scale effects, technical effects, and structural effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The JK Paper industry located at Rayagada discharges biologically untreated effluent more than the permissible limit prescribed by Pollution Control Board, Odisha in to the environment. The industry is seriously polluting the surrounding aquatic and terrestrial environment. No detailed intensive study was carried out by previous workers on this industry earlier. The present study aims at finding out the impact of effluent on the flora at the contaminated site. The chemically treated effluent (TE) contained significant amount of mercury and cadmium. The TE has high BOD, COD, dissolved solids and suspended solids when compared to normal river water at the site of discharge. The TE deteriorated the natural water bodies changing the physico-chemical properties of natural river water. After meeting the river water the TE was diluted after 1 km distance from the meeting point of the river. Crop plants collected from the contaminated site showed higher level of residual Hg and Cd and significant depletion in pigment was observed. Plants collected from both the sides of the treated effluent canal showed significant amount residue mercury and cadmium in the plant leaves. The plants exposed to the TE, showed variation in chlorophyll and Phaeophytin pigment content when compared to their respective control values in all terrestrial plants collected from the contaminated site. In some plant leaves little increment in the pigment level was noted but the values were not significant. The changes observed in the plant pigment might be due to heavy metal accumulation. The presence of residual Hg and Cd in crop plants and plant leaves grazed by grazing animals after absorption, accumulation and enrichment may lead to a possible biological magnification, warrants attention. Proper biological treatment, treatment of effluent by modern methods and removal of heavy metals from the effluent before discharge by the industry is suggested. • Biological treatment of the effluent was not carried out by the industry & chemicals present in the effluent were significantly high.. • The water quality of the river water deteriorated due to the discharge of effluent of the paper mill. • Plants collected from the contaminated site showed significant accumulation of cadmium and mercury in leaf tissues • Significant depletion in pigment content of exposed plant leaves was noticed. • Depletion in plant pigment was due to accumulation of cadmium and mercury in plant tissues absorbed from the effluent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary source of soil pollution is a complex mixture of numerous inorganic and organic compounds (including chlorinated compounds, nutrients, and heavy metals, etc.). The presence of all of these compounds makes remediation and cleanup difficult. In this study, the phytoremediation ability of Jatropha curcas and Pongamia pinnata was tested to remove nickel (Ni) and Zinc (Zn) from paper mill and municipal landfill contaminated soils, to understand the uptake potential and to estimate the accumulation pattern of Ni and Zn in the vegetative parts of the plant. The experiments were carried out in pots (3 kg capacity) and the different combinations of soil were made by mixing the contaminated soil with a reference soil (forest soil) as T 0 , T 25 , T 50 , T 75 and T 100. The plant biomass, chlorophyll content, proline, nitrate reductase activity and metal removal efficiency (%)were determined after 120 DAS (i.e., the days after sowing). The results of the study showed that with increasing metal stress, there is a reduction in the above-ground biomass content in both the plant species with a slightly less impact on the root biomass. Over a period of 4 months, J. curcas and P. pinnata removed 82–86% and 93-90% Ni, respectively. The removal of Zn was significantly less as compared to Ni as most of the Zn remained in the belowground part (roots) and in the soil. Besides, the phytostabilization capacities of the plants were calculated on the basis of their tolerance index (TI), bioaccumulation factor (BAF) and translocation factor (TF). The low BAF and TF values with increasing heavy metals (HMs) content indicates its higher phytostabilization capacity in the root and rhizospheric region as compared to phytoaccumulation. [Display omitted] • J. curcas and P. pinnata removes 82 - 86 % and 93- 90 % Ni respectively. • High biomass and bioaccumulation factor (BAF) > 1: Suitable for metal phytoextraction. • Low biomass and BAF < 1: Suitable for metal phytostabilization. • Low translocation factor (< 1) indicated the phytostabilization capacity of the plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effectiveness of extended aeration system (EAS) and rice straw activated carbon-extended aeration system (RAC-EAS) in the treatment of pulp and paper biorefinery effluent (PPBE). RAC-EAS focused on the efficient utilization of lignocellulosic biomass waste (rice straw) as a biosorbent in the treatment process. The experiment was designed by response surface methodology (RSM) and conducted using a bioreactor that operated at 1–3 days hydraulic retention times (HRT) with PPBE concentrations at 20, 60 and 100%. The bioreactor was fed with real PPBE having initial ammonia-N and total phosphorus (TP) concentrations that varied between 11.74 and 59.02 mg/L and 31–161 mg/L, respectively. Findings from the optimized approach by RSM indicated 84.51% and 91.71% ammonia-N and 77.62% and 84.64% total phosphorus reduction in concentration for EAS and RAC-EAS, respectively, with high nitrification rate observed in both bioreactors. Kinetic model optimization indicated that modified stover models was the best suited and were statistically significant (R2 ≥ 0.98) in the analysis of substrate removal rates for ammonia-N and total phosphorus. Maximum nutrients elimination was attained at 60% PPBE and 48 h HRT. Therefore, the model can be utilized in the design and optimization of EAS and RAC-EAS systems and consequently in the prediction of bioreactor behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research assessed waste-based briquettes consumption compared to conventional fuels in the Andes. Laboratory tests were conducted together with on-field analysis in Colquencha (Bolivia). The laboratory study shows that the performances of briquettes are better in terms of PM2.5 (933.4 ± 50.8 mg kg−1) and CO emissions (22.89 ± 2.40 g kg−1) compared to animal dung (6265.7 ± 1273.5 mgPM2.5 kg−1 and 48.10 ± 12.50 gCO kg−1), although the boiling time increased due to the lower fuel consumption rate and firepower compared to shrubs. The social survey organized with 150 Bolivian citizens suggested that low-income households are not able to pay for an alternative fuel: about 40% would pay less than 4 USD per month, while methane use for cooking is positively correlated with the income level (r = 0.244, p < 0.05). On field analysis suggested that local cookstoves are not appropriate for briquettes combustion since indoor air pollution overcomes 30 ppm of CO and 10 mgPM2.5 m-3. On balance, local small manufactures can be the main target for selling waste-based briquettes to reduce shrubs and wood consumption. However, briquettes production costs seem not yet competitive to natural easy-to-obtain fuels (i.e., animal dung). The research encourages the use of cellulosic and biomass waste-based briquettes in the Andean area for cooking, heating, or manufacturing and strongly advises policy-makers to introduce economic incentives for the recovery of secondary raw materials. • Analysis of waste-based briquettes use in Andean areas were conducted. • Laboratory analysis, social surveys, and on field evaluations are the methods. • Briquettes can be employed for reducing about 30% of the conventional fuels. • The research encourages the employment of waste-based briquettes in the Andes. • Incentives to briquettes production and consumption should be introduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel Carbon quantum dots-graphite composite ink-based Screen-printed electrodes (CQDs/SPEs) were used to assemble a highly sensitive electrochemical aptasensor against chlorpyrifos (CPF). The aptasensor showed a broad linear range from 1 pM (0.445 ng/ml) to 500 nM (0.22 mg/ml) with a detection limit (LOD) 0.834 pM (0.37 ng/ml); sensitivity 21.39 μA pM−1 cm− 2 and with good linearity of R2 = 0.973. Moreover, the aptasensor's showed better selectivity among few other pesticides. Further, the aptasensor electrode showed high stability for five months when stored at 4 °C. In the final step, the aptasensor's ability to identify CPF in real samples was evaluated on spiked potato (Solanum tuberosum) extract samples. Potato extract spiked with CPF in the electrochemical aptasensing platform showed excellent linearity of R2 = 0.981. The developed aptasensor showed good response to without spiked potato extract with increasing volumes. Hence, the developed aptasensor demonstrated reasonable applicability in real food and agriculture samples. • Chlorpyrifos (CPF), an organophosphate pesticide, is known for detrimental effects on environment raising global health concern. • Electrochemical based disposable screen printed aptasensor is developed for the detection of chlorpyrifos pesticide. • The CQDs/SPE aptasensor was fabricated using carbon quantum dots (CQDs) through drop cast method. • The aptasensor exhibited a wide linear range (1 pM-500 nM) with LOD (0.834 pM) and high sensitivity (21.39 μA pM−1 cm− 2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Review papers help researchers understand the direction and flow of research and help beginners quickly acquire relevant knowledge. Therefore, the review paper should describe only accurate contents and should be written with only core and important matters. Recently, Othmani et al. (2022) reviewed more than 200 papers related to the adsorptive removal of three harmful pollutants: toxic organics (phenols), anionic heavy metal (Cr(VI)) and cationic heavy metal (Cd(II)) by agricultural waste materials. However, Cr(VI)-related section of this review is missing something important that should be provided to the readers of this journal. In fact, the removal mechanism of Cr(VI) by nonliving biomass including agricultural waste materials under acidic conditions is not a simple anion adsorption but a complex mechanism involving redox reaction called "adsorption-coupled reduction". Therefore, when interpreting the factors affecting Cr(VI) removal, it should be interpreted in terms of the redox reaction concept, not anion adsorption. • Reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III) by agricultural waste materials. • Complex mechanism called "adsorption-coupled reduction". • Interpretation of experimental data with reduction reaction concept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study analyzed the high heating values (HHVs) of various waste biomass materials intending to the effective management and more sustainable consumption of waste as clean energy source. Various biomass waste samples including date leaves, date branches, coconut leaves, grass, cooked macaroni, salad, fruit and vegetable peels, vegetable scraps, cooked food waste, paper waste, tea waste, and cardboard were characterized for proximate analysis. The results revealed that all the waste biomass were rich in organic matter (OM). The total OM for all waste biomass ranged from 79.39% to 98.17%. Likewise, the results showed that all the waste biomass resulted in lower ash content and high fixed carbon content associated with high fuel quality. Based on proximate analysis, various empirical equations (HHV=28.296-0.2887(A)-656.2/VM, HHV=18.297-0.4128(A)+35.8/FC and HHV=22.3418-0.1136(FC)-0.3983(A)) have been tested to predict HHVs. It was observed that the heterogeneous nature of various biomass waste considerably affects the HHVs and hence has different fuel characteristics. Similarly, the HHVs of waste biomass were also determined experimentally using the bomb calorimeter, and it was observed that among all the selected waste biomass, the highest HHVs (21.19 MJ kg−1) resulted in cooked food waste followed by cooked macaroni (20.25 MJ kg−1). The comparison revealed that experimental HHVs for the selected waste biomass were slightly deviated from the predicted HHVs. Based on HHVs, various thermochemical and biochemical technologies were critically overviewed to assess the suitability of waste biomass to energy products. It has been emphasized that valorizing waste-to-energy technologies provides the dual benefits of sustainable management and production of cleaner energy to reduce fossil fuels dependency. However, the key bottleneck in commercializing waste-to-energy systems requires proper waste collection, sorting, and continuous feedstock supply. Moreover, related stakeholders should be involved in designing and executing the decision-making process to facilitate the global recognition of waste biorefinery concept. [Display omitted] • The high heating values (HHVs) of biomass waste were assessed with the aim for the sustainable consumption of waste as a source of clean energy. • All the biomass waste were rich in organic matter and fixed carbon content that ranged from 79.39% to 98.17% and 50.64%–54.26% respectively. • The maximum HHVs (21.19 MJkg−1) were recorded for cooked food waste. • The heterogeneous nature of various biomass waste considerably affects the HHVs and hence serve as suitable feedstock for various energy conversion technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper microzones method (PMZs) is a green chemical method that uses the principle of the three primary colors of red, green and blue (RGB) to detect the water quality of the droplets on white paper. However, this method is rarely used in the performance evaluation of photocatalysts. The paper details the first use of paper microzones utilized in the evaluation of photocatalyst performance. A sol-gel method was used to prepare molecularly imprinted modified TiO 2 photocatalysts for the treatment of different wastewaters, and characterized the catalysts using XRD and several other methods. The reliability of PMZs on the evaluation of photocatalytic activity and selectivity was also analyzed. The following results were obtained: EP-TiO 2 catalysts (EP, ethyl paraben, the imprinting molecule) with different S doping levels were synthesized using a one-step sol-gel method, and the best S doping ratio was found to be n(Ti):n(S) 3:1. S-EP-TiO 2 was found to be 100% anatase and showed excellent photocatalytic performance, while the PMZs method accurately determined changes in RGB levels for the photocatalytic degradation process of pollutants using S-EP-TiO 2 as the photocatalyst. A photocatalytic kinetic analysis showed the PMZs method was quite suitable for the evaluation of photocatalyst activity, but the evaluation of selectivity needs improvement. This method is a promising green chemistry way to evaluate photocatalyst performance and the rapid detection of outdoor sewage water quality. [Display omitted] • Innovative application of Paper microzones in the evaluation of photocatalytic performance. • Paper microzones method is compared with the traditional spectroscopic method. • Simple operation and green chemistry for environmental research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To ensure safe drinking water, it is necessary to have a simple method by which the probable pollutants are detected at the point of distribution. Nitrite contamination in water near agricultural locations could be an environmental concern due to its deleterious effects on the human population. The development of a frugal paper-based microfluidic sensor could be desirable to achieve the societal objective of providing safe drinking water. This work describes the development of a facile and cost-effective microfluidic paper-based sensor for quantitative estimation of nitrite in aquatic environments. A simple punching machine was used for fabrication and rapid prototyping of paper-based sensors without the need of any specialized equipment or patterning techniques. A reusable 3D printed platform served as the support for simultaneous testing of multiple samples. The nitrite estimation was carried out with smartphone-assisted digital image acquisition and colorimetric analysis. Under optimized experimental conditions, the variation in average grayscale intensity with concentration of nitrite was linear in the range from 0.1 to 10 ppm. The limits of detection and quantitation were 0.12 ppm and 0.35 ppm respectively. The reproducibility, expressed as relative standard deviation was 1.31%. The selectivity of nitrite detection method was determined by performing interference studies with commonly existing co-ions in water, such as bicarbonates, chloride and sulphate. The paper-based sensor was successfully applied for estimation of nitrite in actual water samples and showed high recoveries in the range of 83.5–109%. The results were in good agreement with those obtained using spectrophotometry. The developed paper-based sensor method, by virtue of its simplicity, ease of fabrication and use, could be readily extended for detection of multiple analytes in resource-limited settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO 2 NPs) are becoming more and more renowned as biocompatible nanomaterials with diverse biological functions. In the present study, the aqueous extract of tea residue (tea filtered waste powder) was used to synthesize the TiO 2 NPs and treated for effluent bioremediations. Maximum absorption in the UV–Vis spectrum of the TiO 2 NPs was seen at 358 nm, and the XRD pattern reveals peaks at 2 h values of 25.78, 38.24, 47.98, 54.76, 55.32, 62.64, 69.05, 70.15, 75.24, and 83.59 that may be indexed to the (101), (004), (200), (105), (211), (204), (116), (220), (215) and (303). The FT-IR spectra of TiO 2 NPs showed a peak at 3420, 2925, 1621, 1382, 1098, and 687 cm-1. The spherical form and size were disclosed by FE-SEM analyses, and the EDAX pattern verified the purity of the TiO 2 NPs. The average particles size of the TiO 2 NPs was 32 nm. The photodegradation of paper mill waste water is significantly deteriorated up to 99.08% for 600 min, but textile waste water is degraded up to 98.06% for the same duration. Furthermore, we reported that TiO 2 NPs may rapidly breakdown industrially hazardous effluents when exposed to sunshine. Overall, this new, straightforward, and environmentally beneficial strategy may be of interest to the management of efficient degradation of dye solutions in the polluted regions. • Biofabricated of TiO 2 NPs is using Tea residue for the first time. • Biofabricated TiO 2 NPs have Crystalline, Uniform, Spherical and monodispersed nanoparticles. The average size of the particle are 24 nm. • The biofabricated TiO 2 NPs have shown excellent photocatalytic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of lignin along with other pollutants makes effluent more complex when it is discharged from Pulp and paper mills. The present study investigates the use of biofilm-forming bacteria isolated from pulp paper mill effluent contaminated sites (PPMECSs) for lignin degradation. Isolated biofilm-forming and lignin-degrading bacteria were identified as Bacillus subtilis , Enterobacter cancerogenus, and Bacillus licheniformis by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Thin liquid chromatography (TLC) analysis showed that the consortium of bacteria produced acyl-homoserine lactone (AHL) as quorum sensing molecules and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) that protect the bacterial consortium under unfavorable conditions. The potential consortium was able to reduce lignin (900 ppm) by 73% after 8 days of incubation in a minimal salt medium containing kraft lignin and glucose at pH 7.0 and 37 °C as compared to individual strains. The degradation by-products were identified as amides, alcohols, and acids. The major organic pollutants in the effluent were reduced after treatment of the constructed consortium, thus confirming active biotransformation and biodegradation of the lignin. Microscopic examination also indicated the presence of lignin induced biofilm formation. Hence, the constructed biofilm-forming bacterial consortia based on quorum sensing offered a sustainable and effective solution to treat lignin-containing complex pollutants. • Quorum sensing (QS) induced biofilm formation. • Biofilm formation was maximum by bacterial consortium. • Lignin (900 ppm) reduction was maximum 73% by consortium. • Treatment of lignin by QS based biofilm lead an effective approach to treat effluent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both the environment and human health have suffered as a result of excessive and irrational pesticide use. The human body is vulnerable to a wide range of illnesses brought on by prolonged exposure to or intake of food contaminated with pesticide residues, including immunological and hormonal abnormalities and the development of certain tumors. Sensors based on nanoparticles stand out from more conventional spectrophotometry analytical methods due to their low detection limits, high sensitivity, and ease of use; that is why the demand for simple, fast, and less expensive sensing methods increases daily and presents myriad uses. Such demands are fulfilled by employing paper-based analytical devices having intrinsic properties. The presented work reports an on-site, easy-to-handle, and disposable paper-based sensing device for performing fast screening along with readout from a smartphone. The fabricated device utilizes luminescent silica quantum dots, immobilized into a paper cellulose matrix, and the resonance energy transfer phenomenon is employed. The silica quantum dots probes were fabricated from citric acid and, by undergoing physical adsorption, were confined on the nitrocellulose substrate in small wax-traced spots. The silica quantum dots were excited by smartphone ultraviolet LED, acting as an energy source and for capturing the image. The obtained LOD is 0.054 μM, and the coefficient of variation is less than 6.1%, comparable to the result obtained by UV–Visible and fluorometric analysis under similar experimental conditions. In addition, high reproducibility (≥9.8%) and high recovery ≥90% were obtained in spiked blood samples. The fabricated sensor sensitively detected pesticides giving a LOD of 2.5 ppm along with the development of yellow color within a short period of 5 min. The sensor functions well when sophisticated instrumentation is not accessible. The presented work shows the potential of the paper strip for the on-site detection of pesticides in biological and environmental samples. • The easy-to-handle, less expensive and disposable paper-based sensing device for the rapid on-site detection of pesticides is fabricated. • The luminescent silica quantum dots were immobilized in detection zones fabricated on paper for detection. • High reproducibility (≥9.8%) and high recovery ≥90% were obtained in real samples containing chlorpyrifos, lambda, and bifenthrine. • The fabricated nanosensors sensitively detected pesticides giving a LOD of 2.5 ppm. • The present method is an effective approach for analytical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adequate protection of the environment is one of the hot spots of concern for all sectors of society due to severe environmental pollution. The solution to this issue is friendly management of the environment. With the rapid growth of Chinese Manufacturing SMEs for economic development, environmental pollution and abuse of resources are arising. To resolve these issues, Chinese manufacturing SMEs are accelerating the implementation of green innovation in their industries. However, it is a complex task that involves enterprise, government, and social considerations. Therefore, it is essential to identify the green drivers for this implementation. With a focus on China's current situation from previous research and views from experts, this study aims to investigate how Chinese Manufacturing Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) are responding to resource misuse and environmental pollution by implementing green innovation, emphasising the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in improving environmental performance. This study primarily looks into the factors that influence the adoption of green innovations by analysing the growth paths of Chinese SMEs operating in highly polluting industries over a longer time frame than five years. Artificial Intelligence is a valuable tool for solving the issues of ecological degradation. A quantitative method has been implemented for the Chinese companies' samples from the deeply polluting industries for more than five years. The findings of this paper advise that the average board size, the governing board meetings, and organizational performance are positively connected with the Chinese firms' environmental process. Board independence and diversity of gender have irrelevant associations with ecological performance. A convenient threshold regression model has been used to accumulate the respondents' data. It also reveals that larger board sizes and more frequent governing board meetings are positively associated with improved environmental performance among these firms. The findings state the critical implications for the firm executives, policymakers, environmental activists, and regulators. This result supports the insight drained from the resource dependence, stakeholder, firm agency, and legitimacy theories. • The paper tackles severe environmental pollution and the need for eco-friendly management practices. • The paper emphasizes the need for these enterprises to adopt green innovation practices. • Implementing green innovation is a complex task requiring coordination between enterprises, government, and society. • The paper highlights AI's role as a valuable tool in addressing ecological degradation issues. • The research utilized a threshold regression model to analyse respondent data effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Household garbage rooms release abundant bioaerosols and are an important source of pathogens; however, information on the distribution and survival patterns of pathogens in different waste components is limited. In this study, a culture method and 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing were used to determine bacterial communities, culturable pathogens, and human bacterial pathogens (HBPs). The results showed that abundant culturable bacteria were detected in all waste types, and a large number of S. aureus was detected on the surface of recyclable wastes, whereas S. aureus , total coliforms, Salmonella , Enterococcus , and hemolytic bacteria were detected in food waste and other waste. The activities of these detected pathogenic bacteria decreased after 24 h of storage but re-activated within one week. Factors affecting the emergence of pathogens varied with different waste components. Sequencing results showed that Pseudomonas , Acinetobacter, and Burkholderia were abundant in the waste samples, whereas Achromobacter , Exiguobacteriums, Bordetella , and Corynebacterium were the primary pathogens in the bioaerosol and wall attachment. The results of traceability analysis showed that bioaerosol microbes were mainly derived from raw kitchen waste (5.98%) and plastic and paper contaminated with food waste (19.93%) in garbage rooms. In addition, bioaerosols were the main source of microflora in the wall attachment, which possessed high HBP diversity and required more attention. These findings will help in understanding the microbial hazards in different waste components and provide guidance for the control and risk reduction of bioaerosols during waste management and recycling. [Display omitted] • Abundant Staphylococcus aureus were detected on the surface of recyclable wastes. • Diverse pathogenic bacteria were detected in food wastes and other wastes. • The activities of pathogens decreased after 24 h but re-activated within one week. • Abundant and diverse human bacterial pathogens were detected in the wall attachment. • Raw kitchen waste and contaminated plastic and paper were main sources of bioaerosol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental monitoring of mercury (Hg2+) ions has become increasingly important as a result of their detrimental effects on biological organisms at all levels. To recognize toxic metal ions, utmost effort has been devoted to developing new materials that are highly selective, ultra-sensitive, and provide rapid response. In this context, a new chemosensor, 2-imino [N - (N-amido phenyl)]-6-methoxy-3-carbethoxy quinoline (L), has been synthesized by combining 2-formyl-6-methoxy-3-carbethoxy quinoline and benzhydrazide and it has been extensively characterized by NMR, FTIR, ESI-Mass and SCXRD analysis. Probe L has excellent specificity and sensitivity toward Hg2+ ions in semi-aqueous solutions, with a detection limit of 0.185 μM, regardless of the presence of other interfering cations. Chromogenic behavior was demonstrated by the L when it changed the color of the solution from colorless to light yellow, a change that can be observed visually. The probe L forms a 1:1 stochiometric complex with an estimated association constant (K a) of 6.74 × 104 M−1. The 1H NMR change and density functional theory calculations were analyzed to improve our understanding of the sensing mechanism. Also, an inexpensive and simple paper-based test kit has been developed for the on-site detection of mercury ions in water samples. • Quinoline Schiff base probe (L) was designed and synthesized as a colorimetry sensor for Hg2+ ions. • Probe L showed highly selective towards Hg2+ ions with a LOD of 0.185 μM. • Probe L forms a 1:1 stochiometric complex with a binding constant of 6.74 × 104 M−1. • The paper-based test kit has been developed for detecting mercury ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chlorinated paraffins (CPs) are hazardous to humans, and dietary intake acts as the primary pathway for human exposure to CPs. Takeout food is popular worldwide, but the presence of CPs in takeout food and its packaging is unclear. In this study, the concentrations and distributions of short- and median-chain CPs (SCCPs and MCCPs, respectively) were measured in 97 samples of four categories of takeout food and 33 samples of three types of takeout packaging. The SCCP and MCCP median concentrations for the takeout food samples were 248 and 339, 77.2 and 98.2, 118 and 258, 42.9 and 64.4 ng/g wet weight in meat, starch, half meat/half starch, and vegetables, respectively. Takeout food contained higher concentrations of SCCPs than MCCPs. The dominant SCCP and MCCP congener groups in takeout food were C 10 Cl 6–7 and C 14 Cl 7–8 , respectively. The CP concentrations in takeout food were lower than those in packaging. The SCCP and MCCP median concentrations, respectively, in packaging were 9750 and 245 ng/g in polypropylene, 2830 and 135 ng/g in paper, and 2060 and 119 ng/g in aluminum foil. The concentrations of SCCPs and MCCPs were comparable in aluminum foil, whereas the concentrations of SCCPs were higher than those of MCCPs in polypropylene and paper. Correlations between CP concentrations in the takeout food and packaging indicated that CPs in packaging were potentially an important source of CPs in the takeout food. A dietary exposure risk assessment showed the takeout food posed a low risk for human exposure to CPs; however, high-frequency consumption may pose a health risk. This study clarified the current contamination situation in takeout food in Beijing, China. The resulting data could be used to prevent human exposure to CPs through dietary intake and to facilitate the market's control over the quality of takeout food. • Chlorinated paraffin (CP) concentrations are highest in animal-origin takeout food. • CP concentrations are highest in polypropylene and lowest in aluminum foil. • Shorter carbon chain and lower chlorination CPs are dominant in food and packaging. • CPs in packaging are a potential source for CPs in takeout food. • The human exposure risk to CPs through takeout food intake is low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental pollution is a growing concern, particularly the impact of sewage treatment gas on the atmosphere's greenhouse effect. Efficient sewage resource recycling is crucial to achieving carbon neutrality. The bacteria-algae symbiotic sewage treatment system combines wastewater treatment, carbon dioxide fixation, and biomass energy recovery to achieve the goal of carbon neutrality, environmental protection, and the transformation of high-value added products. This paper presents the construction of a sequencing batch photobiological reaction system that utilizes a microbial-algae symbiotic relationship. The system was used to analyze the degradation effects of sCOD, TN, AN, and TP in anaerobic digestion wastewater by varying the microbial-algae ratios. Additionally, changes in the microbial community were analyzed to explore the system's potential for reducing carbon emissions. The study's findings indicate that: 1)When the ratio of bacteria to algae was 2:3, the removal rates of TN, AN, sCOD, and TP were 81.38%, 94.28%, 75.33%, and 96.56%. 2)Changing the ratio of bacteria to algae would affect the bacterial concentration in the mixed system, but not the bacterial community structure. The results indicate that a ratio of 2:3 enhances the removal of pollutants by bacteria and algae symbionts.3) Under the context of carbon neutralization, this paper investigates the reduction of carbon emissions in ADE treated by bacteria-algae symbiosis at the optimal bacteria to algae ratio. The experimental process can reduce 177.03 mg CO 2 compared to complete nutrient consumption treatment, which is equivalent to a reduction of 355.08 g CO 2 per 1 m3 of ADE. For full anaerobic treatment, this experimental process can reduce 228.35 mg of CO 2 equivalent CH 4 , which translates to a reduction of 456.71 g of CO 2 equivalent CH 4 per 1 m3 of ADE. • Optimize the symbiotic system of bacteria and algae in anaerobic digestion wastewater treatment. • Determine the best ratio of bacteria to algae. • Low carbon emissions during the symbiotic treatment of bacteria and algae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although studies dealing with adsorption/desorption (and/or retention/release) of pollutants present in environmental compartments is a classical field of research, recent papers are focusing on some weak points of investigations and publications within the area. In addition, an increasing number of works are being published related to new possibilities and alternatives in this kind of research works, many of them in relation to the use of artificial intelligence (AI). Considering the existence of eventual controversies, eventual mistakes, and the convenience of suggesting alternatives to go ahead in the future, in this work, after taking into account some relevant publications in the previous literature, a simple workflow is proposed as a kind of protocol to revise successive steps that could guide the direction to follow when programing research dealing with the retention/release of pollutants in soils and sorbent materials. [Display omitted] • Recent papers show weak points of publications on pollutants adsorption/desorption. • Increasing works on the use of artificial intelligence in this kind of research. • A protocol is proposed to guide programing research on pollutants retention/release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supercritical water oxidation (SCWO) has been regarded as a new and efficient technology for the harmless treatment and energy utilization of organic wastes, resulting in the quickly homogeneous oxidation between organics and oxidizers and the former being wholly degraded into small environment-friendly green molecules such as H 2 O and N 2 and inorganic salts. This paper systematically analyzed the influencing behavior and mechanisms of the reaction factors, such as temperature, pressure, residence time, oxidant type, oxidation coefficient, and the concentration and pH values of the raw material, on the treatment effect of organic wastes. For most organic wastes, the SCWO conditions at 550 °C with a residence time of 1min and an oxidation coefficient of 100% can meet the removal rate of more than 99%. To further enhance the degradation rate of organics, the principles, implementation cases, and related equipment components of general enhancement technologies of supercritical water oxidation were discussed, such as fractional oxygen injection, auxiliary fuel co-oxidation, and hydrothermal flame-assisted degradation. This paper proposes a novel supercritical flame-assisted oxidation process in which the reactor performs preheating, corrosion protection, and desalination functions. The use of additive-enhanced oxidation, segmented oxidation, and supercritical hydrothermal flame-assisted oxidation has achieved good results in the complicated treatment process of brutal degradation of organic matter. Figure Schematics of supercritical water oxidation flowchart and focused process enhancement perspectives. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel multimode colorimetric and fluorescent chemosensor was developed using an 8-hydroxy quinoline carbaldehyde Schiff base with a quinoline hydrazide probe (E)-2-((2-(quinolin-2-yl)hydrazineylidene)methyl)quinolin-8-ol (L). NMR (1H &13C), FTIR, and HR-mass spectral characterization techniques confirmed the probe L structural conformation. As Probe L contacts Pb2+ ions, a color change and turn-off emission can be visually detected in EtOH:H 2 O (1:1, v/v, pH = 7.21) medium. The probe displays a good emission at 440 nm due to the combined ESIPT and ICT process. The Pb2+ ion interacts with the probe and selectively quenches fluorescence by inhibiting ESIPT and >C N- isomerization. As per Job's plot, L-Pb 2+ complex formation occurred in a 1:1 stoichiometric ratio, with association constant (K a) and quenching constant (K sv) estimated at 1.52 × 105 M−1 and 4.12 × 105 M, respectively. The detection limits of Pb2+ by spectrophotometric and spectrofluorometric were 1.99 μM (41 ppb) and 23.4 nM (485 ppt), respectively. Additionally, the test paper kit and RGB tool were used to monitor the color changes of L with Pb2+ and the LOD was found to be 5.99 μM (125 ppb). Its recognition mechanism has been verified by 1H NMR, ESI-mass, and theoretical studies. [Display omitted] • Quinoline-Quinoline based probe (L) was Synthesized and Characterized by NMR, IR, and Mass. • Probe L shows visually detectable color change with Pb2+ via turn-off emission. • The LOD of Pb2+ by spectrophotometric and spectrofluorometric were 41 ppb and 485 ppt, respectively. • Used smartphone RGB tool and test paper kit for real-time Pb2+ ion detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constructed wetlands (CWs) are a pollutant treatment design inspired by natural wetlands and are widely utilized for the removal of common pollutants. The research focus lies in the circulation of manganese (Mn) in the environment to enhance pollutant removal within CWs. This paper provides a comprehensive review of recent advancements in understanding the role and effects of Mn in chemical weapons, based on literature retrieval from 2002 to 2021. Ecological risk assessment and heavy metals within CWs emerge as current areas of research interest. Mn sources within CWs primarily include natural deposition, heavy metal wastewater, and intentional addition. The cycling between Mn(II) and Mn(IV) facilitates enhanced wastewater treatment within CWs. Moreover, employing a Mn matrix proves effective in reducing ammonia nitrogen wastewater, organic pollutants, as well as heavy metals such as Cd and Pb, thereby addressing complex pollution challenges practically. To comprehensively analyze influencing factors on the system's performance, both internal factors (biological species, design parameters, pH levels, etc.) and external factors (seasonal climate variations, precipitation patterns, ultraviolet radiation exposure, etc.) were discussed. Among these factors, microorganisms, pollutants, and temperature are the most important influencing factors, which emphasizes the importance of these factors for wetland operation. Lastly, this paper delves into plant absorption of Mn along with coping strategies employed by plants when faced with Mn poisoning or deficiency scenarios. When utilizing Mn for the regulation of constructed wetlands, it is crucial to consider the tolerance levels of associated plant species. Furthermore, the study predicts future research hotspots encompass high-efficiency catalysis techniques, matrix-filling approaches, and preparation of resource utilization methods involving Mn nanomaterials. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Economic transformation and development serve as effective strategies for resource-based regions to avoid the "resource curse." By optimizing industrial structure and enhancing energy efficiency through government macro-regulation, these regions can achieve sustainable and environment-friendly growth. The general equilibrium model is widely employed to assess the effectiveness of economic transformation and development. In this study, we constructed a provincial social accounting matrix based on macro data from Shanxi, China, to examine the impact of different environmental protection tax rates on the macro economy, industrial structure, and energy consumption. The findings reveal that the implementation of environmental protection tax has successfully optimized the industrial structure and improved energy utilization efficiency. However, it has also led to a slight decline in total output. Hence, it is imperative to establish a more balanced and reasonable environmental protection tax rate to further promote economic transformation and development in resource-based areas. Consequently, this paper puts forth policy recommendations aimed at achieving a harmonious balance between ecological preservation and economic progress in resource-based regions, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of economic development in such areas. • Economic transformation and development are effective ways for resource-based regions to avoid the "resource curse". • This paper is based on macro data from Shanxi, and constructs a provincial social accounting matrix to study the impact of different environmental protection tax rates on macroeconomic, industrial structure, and energy consumption. • Setting a reasonable environmental protection tax rate can promote the economic transformation and development of resource-based areas [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden) have effectively kept lower antibiotic-resistant bacterial (ARB) pathogen rates than many other countries. However, in recent years, these five countries have encountered a rise in ARB cases and challenges in treating infections due to the growing prevalence of ARB pathogens. Wastewater-based surveillance (WBS) is a valuable supplement to clinical methods for ARB surveillance, but there is a lack of comprehensive understanding of WBS application for ARB in the Nordic countries. This review aims to compile the latest state-of-the-art developments in WBS for ARB monitoring in the Nordic countries and compare them with clinical surveillance practices. After reviewing 1480 papers from the primary search, 54 were found relevant, and 15 additional WBS-related papers were included. Among 69 studies analyzed, 42 dedicated clinical epidemiology, while 27 focused on wastewater monitoring. The PRISMA review of the literature revealed that Nordic countries focus on four major WBS objectives of ARB: assessing ARB in the human population, identifying ARB evading wastewater treatment, quantifying removal rates, and evaluating potential ARB evolution during the treatment process. In both clinical and wastewater contexts, the most studied targets were pathogens producing carbapenemase and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL), primarily Escherichia coli and Klebsiella spp. However, vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) have received more attention in clinical epidemiology than in wastewater studies, probably due to their lower detection rates in wastewater. Clinical surveillance has mostly used culturing, antibiotic susceptibility testing, and genotyping, but WBS employed PCR-based and metagenomics alongside culture-based techniques. Imported cases resulting from international travel and hospitalization abroad appear to have frequently contributed to the rise in ARB pathogen cases in these countries. The many similarities between the Nordic countries (e.g., knowledge exchange practices, antibiotic usage patterns, and the current ARB landscape) could facilitate collaborative efforts in developing and implementing WBS for ARB in population-level screening. [Display omitted] • The Nordic countries are facing a growing problem of antibiotic-resistant pathogens. • Travel abroad and overseas hospitalization frequently lead to imported cases. • Wastewater monitoring cost-effectively gathers population-level data. • Nordic countries can harmonize wastewater surveillance for antibiotic-resistant pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploring the effect of local government multi-objective competition on the transfer of polluting industries is of great practical significance for promoting the high-quality development in the Yangtze River Economic Belt. This paper adopted the extended shift-share analysis method to measure the scale of inter-provincial transfer of polluting industries in the Yangtze River Economic Belt from 2008 to 2020. Considering local governments' economic, innovation, talent and environmental protection competition, the paper examined the effects of local government multi-objective competition on the transfer of polluting industries in the region, and tested its spatial spillover effects. The results showed that: 1. Different competitions had different effects on the transfer of polluting industries. Economic competition intensified the transfer of polluting industries, while talent, innovation, and environmental protection competition all restrained it, among which environmental protection competition had the strongest restraining effect. 2. Compared with the transfer of polluting industries, the direction of economic competition and environmental protection competition on the transfer of industries did not change, but the degree of influence was reduced, talent competition instead promoted industrial transfer of the research region to some extent. 3. From the basin level, government competition in the upstream region more obviously intensified the transfer of polluting industries; while from the economic scale level, the restraining effect of government competition in the developed region on the transfer of polluting industries was much stronger. 4. Both innovation and environmental protection competition had positive spatial spillover effects. Therefore, it is necessary to optimize the promotion and assessment mechanism of local officials, adopt differentiated competitive constraint mechanisms in accordance with local conditions, guide local governments to transform their development concepts, promote the sharing and common use of technological innovations, and promote the orderly transfer of industries in the Yangtze River Economic Belt. • Government economic competition intensified the transfer of polluting industries. • Talent, innovation, and environmental protection competition had restraining effect. • Environmental protection competition had the strongest restraining effect. • The impact of government competition had regional and scale heterogeneity. • Innovation and environmental protection competition had spatial spillover effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Carbon peaking and carbon neutralization" is an important measure to promote China's ecological and environmental protection and high-quality economic development, and the innovation and application of green technology are critical factors in achieving the "double carbon" goal. Based on the number of citations of green patents of listed enterprises in 30 provinces in China from 2011 to 2020, this paper uses GGDP to replace traditional GDP and calculate carbon emission intensity. Based on the relevant panel data at the provincial level, this paper constructs a spatial Durbin model to analyze the impact mechanism of whether the promotion and application of green technologies promote regional carbon emission reduction. The specific research results are as follows: (1) Through regression of the core explanatory variables with a one-stage lag, it is verified that the promotion and application of green technology has a significant positive promoting effect on regional carbon emission reduction, and there are significant spatial spillover effects and "learning by doing" effects. (2) In the part of heterogeneity test, the impact of green technology promotion and application on carbon emission reduction presents apparent regional heterogeneity and factor endowment heterogeneity. (3) The mediating effect test verifies the mediating effect of energy structure and industrial structure on the influence of green technology promotion and application on regional carbon emission reduction. (4) In the part moderating effect test, it is verified that marketization level and new infrastructure construction have a positive moderating effect in their influencing process, financial development, and government support will weaken the influence of green technology promotion and application on carbon emission reduction effect, and human capital level has a nonlinear regulating effect. The research conclusions of this paper provide necessary enlightenment for the coordination and unification of China's economic transition to innovation-driven and green and low-carbon development. • The impact of GTPA on reduction in China was analyzed from a macro perspective. • The GS and FDL plays a negative moderating role in the influence process. • The HCL plays a nonlinear moderating role in the influence process. • The GTPA can significantly reduce regional CEI except in Western China. • Regions with high EDL and high GTI have better carbon reduction effects of GTPA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current methods of treating organic waste suffer from limited resource usage and low product value. Research and development of value-added products emerges as an unavoidable trend for future growth. Electro-fermentation (EF) is a technique employed to stimulate cell proliferation, expedite microbial metabolism, and enhance the production of value-added products by administering minute voltages or currents in the fermentation system. This method represents a novel research direction lying at the crossroads of electrochemistry and biology. This article documents the current progress of EF for a range of value-added products, including gaseous fuels, organic acids, and other organics. It also presents novel value-added products, such as 1,3-propanediol, 3-hydroxypropionic acid, succinic acid, acrylic acid, and lysine. The latest research trends suggest a focus on EF for cogeneration of value-added products, studying microbial community structure and electroactive bacteria, exploring electron transfer mechanisms in EF systems, developing effective methods for nutrient recovery of nitrogen and phosphorus, optimizing EF conditions, and utilizing biosensors and artificial neural networks in this area. In this paper, an analysis is conducted on the challenges that currently exist regarding the selection of conductive materials, optimization of electrode materials, and development of bioelectrochemical system (BES) coupling processes in EF systems. The aim is to provide a reference for the development of more efficient, advanced, and value-added EF technologies. Overall, this paper aims to provide references and ideas for the development of more efficient and advanced EF technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Benzene is a commonly used industrial chemical that is a significant environmental pollutant. Occupational health specialists and industrial toxicologists are concerned with determining the exact amount of exposure to chemicals in the workplace. There are two main approaches to assess chemical exposure; air monitoring and biological monitoring. Air monitoring has limitations, which biological monitoring overcomes and could be used as a supplement to it. However, there are several factors that influence biological monitoring results. It would be possible to assess exposure more accurately if these factors were taken into account. This study aimed to review published papers for recognizing and discussing parameters that could affect benzene biological monitoring. Two types of effects can be distinguished: positive and negative effects. Factors causing positive effects will increase the metabolite concentration in urine more than expected. Furthermore, the parameters that decrease the urinary metabolite level were referred to as false negatives. From the papers, sixteen influential factors were extracted that might affect benzene biological monitoring results. Identified factors were clarified in terms of their nature and mechanism of action. It is also important to note that some factors influence the quantity and quality of the influence of other factors. As a result of this study, a decision-making protocol was developed for interpreting the final results of benzene biological monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genetic load hypothesis of Hermann Muller raised the profound question of possible species extinction, even for humans, following a prolonged accumulation of recessive genes due to ionizing radiation exposure within the population. Two major mouse radiation research teams in the United States provided the most extensive tests of Muller's hypothesis. One group continued its study for more than two decades, over 82 consecutive generations, approximating 2500 human years. Even though Muller had stressed for decades his fear of species-threatening effects, no significant effects were observed for related factors such as reproductive fitness and longevity. Yet, the paper presenting the data of the 82-generation negative study has only been cited five times in 45 years. Altogether numerous laboratories worldwide collected vast amounts of data on mice, rats, and swine in an unsuccessful attempt to see if there was convincing evidence to support the genetic load theory and claims that species might deteriorate or be rendered extinct. This paper re-examines Muller's genetic load hypothesis with a new evaluation of how that hypothesis was tested and the significance of the findings, with most of those studies being completed before the BEIR I Committee Report in 1972. That committee briefly discussed the available evidence, mostly ignoring those results as they proceeded to make hereditary risk estimates both for (1) the first generation after a radiation exposure and (2) for the time, in the distant future, when a hypothetical genetic equilibrium would be reached. Their estimates assumed accumulation of harmful mutations and a linear no-threshold dose response extending all of the way down to a single ionization. More recent data on induction by ionizing radiation of dominant mutations that affect the skeletons of mice provide further robust supporting evidence that the generationally cumulative and LNT-based assumptions underpinning Muller's genetic load hypothesis are not correct. • Accumulation of recessive mutation were hypothesized to cause species extinction. • Muller referred to this as his genetic load hypothesis. • This hypothesis was based upon the LNT model for mutation. • Multiple large-scale experimental studies failed to support this hypothesis. • An 82-generation mouse study failed to support this hypothesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scientists and scientific institutions are adopting more extensive participatory models, hoping to revisit the existing relationship between science and society. Though citizen science has become more common in environmental monitoring, it is seldom utilized in environmental epidemiology. In the CitieS-Health project, we co-created epidemiological studies with citizens in five European countries. The aim of this paper is to share our experiences and impart methodological insight into the application of co-created citizen science strategies in environmental epidemiology. We applied the CitieS-Health framework, involving citizens in all the phases of the studies: identifying research questions, designing research protocols, collecting data, analysing data, interpreting data, formulating conclusions, authoring scientific articles and communicating the results to diverse audiences. These epidemiological studies, conducted in specific areas in Italy, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Spain, covered diverse local environmental issues and health effects ranging from air pollution and mental health to industrial pollution and kidney disease. Together with citizens, we successfully conducted environmental epidemiological studies that generated new scientific knowledge reflecting the concerns and knowledge of citizens. Citizens contributed in all the research activities, including activities beyond formulating the research questions, though the researchers initiated several design discussions and conducted time-consuming and complex tasks (e.g. data analysis, measurement of specific exposures and health outcomes). The challenges we encountered were engaging effectively with citizens throughout the study, harmonizing citizens' knowledge and values with the academics' expertise, managing civic expectations, making complex concepts understandable to citizens and representativeness of participating citizens. The co-created studies were able to empower citizens to address local health concerns by sharing and using scientific knowledge generated from studies. Integration of co-created citizen science in environmental epidemiology is feasible and has the potential to improve the quality of research whilst promoting civic trust in research and results. [Display omitted] • The Cities-Health project co-created epidemiological studies with citizens in five European countries. • This paper shares experiences in applying co-created citizen science strategies in environmental epidemiological studies. • Co-created citizens science projects still face several challenges, but the opportunities outweigh the possible drawbacks. • Integration of co-created citizen science is feasible in environmental epidemiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improper disposal of chlorinated ethenes (CEs), a class of widely used solvents in chemical manufacturing and cleaning industries, often leads to severe groundwater contamination. In situ bioremediation of CE-contaminated groundwater has received continuous attention in recent years. The reactive transport simulation is a valuable tool for planning and designing in situ bioremediation systems. This paper presents a detailed and comprehensive review on the main biotransformation pathways of CEs in aquifers, the mathematical modeling of bioremediation processes, and the available software developed for the simulation of reactive transport of CEs over past three decades. The aim of this research is to provide guidance on the selection of appropriate models and software suitable for systems of varying scales, and to discern prevailing research trends while identifying areas worthy of further study. This paper provides a detailed summary of the equations, parameters, and applications of existing biotransformation models from literature studies, highlighting the operation, benefits, and limitations of software available for CEs reactive transport simulations. Lastly, the support of reactive transport simulation programs for the design of full-scale in situ bioremediation systems was elucidated. Further research is needed for incorporating the effects of key subsurface environmental factors on biodegradation processes into models and balancing model complexity with computer data processing power to better support the development and application of reactive transport modeling software. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mental disorders among children and adolescents pose a significant global challenge. The exposome framework covering the totality of internal, social and physical exposures over a lifetime provides opportunities to better understand the causes of and processes related to mental health, and cognitive functioning. The paper presents a conceptual framework on exposome, mental health, and cognitive development in children and adolescents, with potential mediating pathways, providing a possibility for interventions along the life course. The paper underscores the significance of adopting a child perspective to the exposome, acknowledging children's specific vulnerability, including differential exposures, susceptibility of effects and capacity to respond; their susceptibility during development and growth, highlighting neurodevelopmental processes from conception to young adulthood that are highly sensitive to external exposures. Further, critical periods when exposures may have significant effects on a child's development and future health are addressed. The paper stresses that children's behaviour, physiology, activity pattern and place for activities make them differently vulnerable to environmental pollutants, and calls for child-specific assessment methods, currently lacking within today's health frameworks. The importance of understanding the interplay between structure and agency is emphasized, where agency is guided by social structures and practices and vice-versa. An intersectional approach that acknowledges the interplay of social and physical exposures as well as a global and rural perspective on exposome is further pointed out. To advance the exposome field, interdisciplinary efforts that involve multiple scientific disciplines are crucial. By adopting a child perspective and incorporating an exposome approach, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of how exposures impact children's mental health and cognitive development leading to better outcomes. • Conceptual framework of a child perspective for the exposome and mental health. • Framework combines child development, life-course perspective and vulnerability. • Social practice theory integrates multiple exposures articulating relevant concepts. • Mediating pathways provides the base for interventions. • Framework based on interdisciplinary efforts for comprehensive understanding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, the storage of coal gasification slag (CGS) is continuously increasing, as the coal gasification technology develops, posing significant environmental hazards. Due to its volcanic ash characteristics and rich residual carbon, CGS has great potential for resource utilization, which has attracted the attentions of many scholars. This paper firstly introduces the compositions and properties of CGS. Then, it reviews the existing utilization methods of CGS, including Preparation of building materials, carbon-ash separation technology, ecological restoration, and cyclic blending. The advantages and disadvantages of various methods are compared. Subsequently, some high-value utilization methods of coal gasification slag are introduced, such as the preparation of high-performance activated carbon and zeolite, of which the feasibility and advantages are evaluated. Finally, some suggestions are put forward for future developing technologies. This paper aims to provide some references and inspiration for the utilization and environmental protection of CGS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As alternatives for legacy brominated flame retardants, novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs) have a wide array of applications in the electronic and electrical fields. The shift of recycling modes of electronic and electrical waste (e-waste) from informal recycling family workshop to formal recycling facilities might come with the change the chemical landscape emitted including NBFRs, however, little information is known about this topic. This study investigated the occurrence characteristics, distribution, and exposure profiles of eight common NBFRs and their derivatives in an e-waste recycling industrial park in central China and illustrated the differences in various functional zones in the recycling park. The highest level of ΣNBFRs in dust samples was found in e-waste storage area at median concentration of 27,400 ng/g, followed by e-waste dismantling workshops (23,300 ng/g), workshop outdoor area (7770 ng/g), and residential area outdoor (536 ng/g). In the e-waste dismantling associated dust samples, tetrabromobisphenol A bis(2,3-dibromopropyl ether) (TBBPA-BDBPE), tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) and 2,4,6-tris(2,4,6-tribromophenoxy)-1,3,5-triazine (TTBP-TAZ) were the predominant components. This paper presented the first evidence regarding the occurrence characteristic and distribution of tetrabromobisphenol S (TBBPS), tetrabromobisphenol A bismethyl ether (TBBPA-BME) and tetrabromobisphenol S bis(2,3-dibromopropyl ether) (TBBPS-BDBPE) in the e-waste associated dust samples. By comparing with previous studies performed in China, this paper also noticed the significant decrease of TBBPA concentrations in the dust probably due to the shift of e-wastes sources and recycling modes. We further assessed the risk of occupational workers exposure to NBFRs. The median E DI (estimated daily intake) value of ΣNBFRs among e-waste dismantling workers was 9.71 ng/kg BW/d with the maximum E DI value being 19.6 ng/kg BW/d, hundreds of times higher than those exposed by general population. The study raises great concern for the health risk of occupational exposure to NBFRs in the e-waste recycling industrial park. • TBBPA-BDBPE, TBBPA, and TTBP-TAZ were detected at high levels in the dust from various functional zones in the e-waste recycling industrial park. • TBBPS, TBBPA-BME and TBBPS-BDBPE were also found in the dust samples from the e-waste recycling industrial park. • The risk of occupational and general dust exposure to the eight NBFRs were assessed. • Exposure doses of occupational workers to NBFRs were significantly higher than general population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid spread of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has emphasized the importance of understanding and adapting to the indoor remediation of transmissible diseases to decrease the risk for future pandemic threats. While there were many precautions in place to hinder the spread of COVID-19, there has also been a substantial increase of new research on SARS-CoV-2 that can be utilized to further mitigate the transmission risk of this novel virus. This review paper aims to identify the building parameters of indoor spaces that could have considerable influence on the transmission of SARS-CoV-2. The following building parameters have been identified and analyzed, emphasizing their link with the indoor transmission of SARS-CoV-2: temperature and relative humidity, temperature differences between rooms, ventilation rate and access to natural ventilation, occupant density, surface type and finish, airflow direction and speed, air stability, indoor air pollution, central air conditioning systems, capacity of air handling system and HVAC filter efficiency, edge sealing of air filters, room layout and interior design, and compartmentalization of interior space. This paper also explains the interactions of SARS-CoV-2 with indoor environments and its persistence. Furthermore, the modifications of the key building parameters have been discussed for controlling the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in indoor spaces. Understanding the information provided in this paper is crucial to develop effective health and safety measures that will aid in infection prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing body of modelling evidence that demonstrates the potential for immediate and substantial benefits to adult health from greenhouse gas mitigation actions, but the effects on the health of younger age groups is largely unknown. We conducted a systematic review to identify the available published evidence of the modelled effects on child and adolescent health (≤18 years of age) of greenhouse gas mitigation. We searched six databases of peer-reviewed studies published between January 1, 1990 and July 27, 2022, screened 27,282 original papers and included 23 eligible papers. All included studies were set in high- and middle-income countries; and all studies modelled the effects of interventions that could mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. Most of the available evidence suggests positive benefits for child and adolescent respiratory health from greenhouse gas mitigation actions that simultaneously reduce air pollution (specifically PM2.5 and nitrogen dioxide). We found scant evidence on child and adolescent health from regions more vulnerable to climate change, or on mitigation interventions that could affect exposures other than air pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper employs systematic literature network analysis, including a literature review and bibliometric network analysis, to explore the COVID-19 and air pollution literature. A total of 1208 relevant documents from the Scopus database were analyzed using VOSviewer and SciMAT to examine author, keyword, and country interconnections. The paper addresses three research questions: (1) the latest studies on COVID-19 and air pollution, (2) influential authors, documents, and sources in the field, and (3) the study's findings as a roadmap for future research. Visual representations of author and country networks highlight influential entities based on citation rate. Keyword cluster analysis via VOSviewer summarizes connections based on link strength. The strategic diagram generated by SciMAT offers insights into future research directions in specific thematic keywords: (1) air pollution, (2) nitrogen dioxide, (3) epidemiology, and (4) atmospheric aerosol. This analysis enhances understanding of COVID-19 and air pollution and guides future research endeavors. • Conducts a systematic review of the literature on COVID-19 and air pollution. • Utilizes bibliometric network analysis on a selection of documents. • Collects 1208 Scopus database documents from 2020 to 2023. • Identifies themes or keywords for further study on COVID-19 and air pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Public participation is essential to the success of ecological civilization. Whether public participation can effectively play a role in the outgoing audit of natural resources (OANR) is an important issue that remains to be explored. This paper uses the tripartite evolutionary game to explore the mechanism of the audit subjects, the leading cadres, and the public in the OANR. The research finds that there is a two-way linkage relationship between the audit subjects and the leading cadres. The audit subjects and the leading cadres affect the behavior strategies of the public in the indirect way and direct way, respectively. However, the public lacks the path to directly affect the other two subjects. The tripartite ideal audit model of "the audit subjects conduct due diligence audits, leading cadres perform duties, the public participate" cannot be realized. The external effect of the public's strategic choice is not enough to make the profit or loss of leading cadres change structurally and then change their behaviors. This paper demonstrates the reasons why the public cannot effectively participate in the OANR at the current stage from three aspects, which are the interpretation of the equations for replication dynamics, the particularity of the audit system, and the effectiveness of public participation. Three suggestions are put forward which are encouraging citizens' indirect participation in the OANR, disclosing information about the OANR, and improving citizens' awareness of the OANR. This paper has important guiding significance for other developing countries to promote public participation in natural resource auditing. • There is a two-way linkage relationship between the audit subjects and the leading cadres. • The audit subjects and the leading cadres affect the behavior strategies of the public. • The public cannot effectively participate in the audit process of OANR at present. • Citizens' indirect participation should be improved in the OANR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to improve the hydrolysis potential of paper mill sludge through a two-phase disintegration process. In Particular, attention was focused on removal of extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) i.e. deflocculation of sludge in order to improve the efficiency of subsequent disperser disintegration. During deflocculation, carbohydrate, protein and deoxyribonucleic acids (DNA) were used as assessment parameters. During disintegration, soluble chemical oxygen demand (SCOD) and suspended solids (SS) reduction were used as assessment index to evaluate the efficiency of disintegration. A greater EPS removal was attained while deflocculating the sludge at calcium peroxide dosage of 0.05 g/g suspended solids (SS) and at a temperature of 70 °C. When comparing the disintegrated samples, a clear variation was noted in deflocculated and disintegrated sludge (19.2%) than the disintegrated sludge alone (13.5%). This clearly shows the need for deflocculation prior to disintegration. Likewise, a higher biomethane production of 0.214 L/g COD was achieved in deflocculated and disintegrated sludge than the pretreated sludge alone. Deflocculation reduces sludge management cost from 170 USD (Disperser alone (D alone disintegration)) to 51 USD (Thermal calcium peroxide mediated-Disperser (TCaO 2 -D disintegration), indicating the efficiency of the proposed disintegration. [Display omitted] • Defloculation effectively enhanced hydrolysis of paper mill sludge. • A maximum methane production of 0.214 L/g COD was achieved. • Defloculation reduces the net cost of solid management from 170 USD to 51 USD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Membrane distillation crystallization (MDC) is an emerging hybrid thermal membrane technology that synergizes membrane distillation (MD) and crystallization, which can achieve both freshwater and minerals recovery from high concentrated solutions. Due to the outstanding hydrophobic nature of the membranes, MDC has been widely used in numerous fields such as seawater desalination, valuable minerals recovery, industrial wastewater treatment and pharmaceutical applications, where the separation of dissolved solids is required. Despite the fact that MDC has shown great promise in producing both high-purity crystals and freshwater, most studies on MDC remain limited to laboratory scale, and industrializing MDC processes is currently impractical. This paper summarizes the current state of MDC research, focusing on the mechanisms of MDC, the controls for membrane distillation (MD), and the controls for crystallization. Additionally, this paper categorizes the obstacles hindering the industrialization of MDC into various aspects, including energy consumption, membrane wetting, flux reduction, crystal yield and purity, and crystallizer design. Furthermore, this study also indicates the direction for future development of the industrialization of MDC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a clean and environmentally friendly energy source, deep oil and gas has always been the focus of the oil and gas industry. The study of hydrocarbon accumulation in deep strike-slip fault zones is a challenging and important area of research in the oil and gas industry. In particular, accurately modeling oil and gas accumulation in the Yuemenxi area of the Tarim Basin presents significant difficulties due to the varying physical properties and gas composition of the Ordovician reservoirs, as well as the complex origin of oil and gas in the area. However, by calculating biomarker parameter maturity on oil samples from strike-slip faults, researchers have discovered that the light oil in the area is sourced from high maturity source rocks in the Later Caledonian, with vitrinite reflectance ranging from 0.79% to 1.11%. The complete distribution of n-alkanes and high concentration of low-carbon n-alkanes in the crude oil suggest that the fluid in the reservoir has not undergone any secondary alteration since its initial accumulation. The carbon isotope and component ratio analysis of natural gas in the Yuemanxi area indicates that the Ordovician natural gas is predominantly kerogen cracking gas. Comprehensive hydrocarbon genesis and accumulation conditions, this paper presents a differential accumulation model for the Ordovician reservoirs in the region, which were controlled by strike-slip faults and source rocks. Based on these findings, it can be inferred that there is significant potential for oil and gas exploration and development in the deeper layers of these strike-slip fault zones. • The paper presents a differential model for the accumulation of oil & gas. • The Ordovician crude oil was sourced from highly mature Late Caledonian source rocks. • The Ordovician natural gas is mainly composed of gas generated by kerogen degradation. • The Ordovician crude oil didn't experience secondary alteration after accumulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tailings ponds, large man-made structures conceived during the mining process for waste storage, often become deserted post-mining, leaving behind a stark, contaminated landscape. This paper posits that these forsaken tailings ponds can be rejuvenated into fertile agricultural land through adept reclamation efforts. Serving as a discussion paper, it engages in a stimulating exploration of the environmental and health risks linked to tailings ponds. It sheds light on the potential and impediments in the transformation of these ponds into agricultural land. The discussion concludes that despite the substantial hurdles in repurposing tailings ponds for agriculture, there are encouraging prospects with the application of multifaceted efforts. • This paper explores the potential of transforming these abandoned tailings ponds into productive agricultural land. • This paper explores the environmental risks of tailings ponds and the difficulties and potentials in their restoration. • This paper underpins the importance of land reclamation in addressing issues of land contamination and food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposure to environmental noise is associated with adverse health effects, but there is potential for confounding and interaction with air pollution, particularly where both exposures arise from the same source, such as transport. To review evidence on confounding and interaction of air pollution in relation to associations between environmental noise and cardiovascular outcomes. Papers were identified from similar reviews published in 2013 and 2015, from the systematic reviews supporting the WHO 2018 noise guidelines, and from a literature search covering the period 2016–2022 using Medline and PubMed databases. Additional papers were identified from colleagues. Study selection was according to PECO inclusion criteria. Studies were evaluated against the WHO checklist for risk of bias. 52 publications, 36 published after 2015, were identified that assessed associations between transportation noise and cardiovascular outcomes, that also considered potential confounding (49 studies) or interaction (23 studies) by air pollution. Most, but not all studies, suggested that the associations between traffic noise and cardiovascular outcomes are independent of air pollution. NO 2 or PM 2.5 were the most commonly included air pollutants and we observed no clear differences across air pollutants in terms of the potential confounding role. Most papers did not appear to suggest an interaction between noise and air pollution. Eight studies found the largest noise effect estimates occurring within the higher noise and air pollution exposure categories, but were not often statistically significant. Whilst air pollution does not appear to confound associations of noise and cardiovascular health, more studies on potential interactions are needed. Current methods to assess quality of evidence are not optimal when evaluating evidence on confounding or interaction. • To our knowledge, the largest review to date to assess confounding by air pollution in studies of noise and CVD. • Also, the largest review to date to assess interactions of noise and air pollution in noise and CVD studies. • Results from the 52 noise studies reviewed showed little consistent evidence for a confounding role by air pollution. • Few studies investigated interactions, despite different proposed mechanisms for noise and air pollution on CVD risk. • There are no standard literature review approaches available to evaluate evidence on confounding and interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]