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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]

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]

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]

Abstract Using waste paper as fuel for domestic heating is a beneficial recycling option for small island developing states where there are lacks of resources for energy and waste treatment. However, there are concerns about the impact of air pollutants emitted from the burning of the self-made paper briquettes as household air pollution is recognised as the greatest environmental risk for human. In this study, combustion tests were carried out for paper briquettes made in one Pacific island and three commercial fuels in Australia including wood briquettes, kindling firewood and coal briquettes in order to: 1) characterise the emissions of three criteria air pollutants including particulate matters, CO and NO x including their emission factors (EF) from the tested fuels; and 2) compare the EFs among the tested fuels and with others reported in the literature. The results showed that waste paper briquettes burned quickly and generated high temperature but the heat value is relatively low. Paper briquettes and coal briquettes produced higher CO concentration than the others while paper briquettes generated the highest NO x level. Only PM 2.5 concentration emitted from paper briquettes was similar to kindling firewood and lower than wood briquettes. Burning of paper briquettes and wood briquettes produced particulate matter with large average count median diameter (72 and 68 nm) than coal briquette and kindling firewood (45 and 51 nm). The EFs for CO, NO x and PM 2.5 of paper briquettes were within the range of EFs reported in this study as well as in the literature. Overall, the results suggested that using paper briquettes as fuel for domestic heating will not likely to generate higher level of three major air pollutants compared to other traditional fuels. Highlights • The first attempt to report emission of key air pollutants from waste paper briquettes. • Burning of paper briquettes emitted relatively high CO and NO x concentration. • Burning of paper briquettes emitted PM with large average particle size. • Waste paper could be recycled as briquettes for domestic use like other common fuels. [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 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]

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]

Abstract Bisphenol A (BPA) is a high-production-volume chemical with endocrine disrupting properties commonly used as color developer in thermal paper. Concerns about the potential hazards of human BPA exposure have led to the increasing utilization of alternatives such as bisphenol S (BPS) and bisphenol F (BPF). This study was designed to assess: (i) BPA, BPS, and BPF concentrations in 112 thermal paper receipts from Brazil, France, and Spain by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (LC-MS); and (ii) hormone-like activities of these receipts using two receptor-specific bioassays, the E-Screen for (anti-)estrogenicity and PALM luciferase assay for (anti-)androgenicity. BPA was present in 95.3% of receipts from Spain, 90.9% of those from Brazil, and 51.1% of those from France at concentrations up to 20.27 mg/g of paper. Only two samples from Brazil, two from Spain, and ten from France had a BPS concentration ranging from 6.46 to 13.29 mg/g; no BPA or BPS was detected in 27.7% of French samples. No BPF was detected in any receipt. Estrogenic activity was observed in all samples from Brazil and Spain and in 74.5% of those from France. Anti-androgenic activity was observed in > 90% of samples from Brazil and Spain and in 53.2% of those from France. Only 25.5% of French samples were negative for both estrogenic and anti-androgenic activity. Estrogenic and anti-androgenic activities per gram of paper were up to 1.411 µM estradiol (E 2) equivalent units (E 2 eq) and up to 359.5 mM procymidone equivalent units (Proceq), respectively. BPA but not BPS concentrations were positively correlated with both estrogenic and anti-androgenic activities. BPA still dominates the thermal paper market in Brazil and Spain, and BPS appears to be one of the main alternatives in France. There is an urgent need to evaluate the safety of alternatives proposed to replace BPA as developer in thermal printing. The large proportion of samples with hormonal activity calls for the adoption of preventive measures. Highlights • BPA or BPS but not BPF was present in nearly all thermal paper receipts. • Hormone-like activity was detected in > 80% of the receipts. • BPA levels were 30- to 100-fold higher than the EU-recommended level (0.2 mg/g). • BPS only appears to be an alternative to BPA in thermal paper from France. [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]

Abstract Environmental pollution due to various elements is increasing all across the planet owing to their use in industrial processes. The tobacco plants and the vegetables used in the manufacturing of smoking paper may accumulate these elements from the environment. Thus, tobacco and smoking paper may be relevant contributors among the content of elements in cigarettes, including some emerging pollutants such as rare earth elements (REEs). Thirty-two elements related to hi-tech industrial processes were analyzed in tobacco, rolling paper, and filters (n = 257 samples) by ICP-MS. A variety of industrial brands and "roll-your-own" cigarette papers were considered. The potential maximum daily exposure to these elements by a hypothetical heavy smoker was calculated for each type of cigarette. We found significant differences in the levels of most elements, both in the tobacco and in the paper. Black tobacco cigarettes contained the maximum levels. We found that the paper used in roll-your-own cigarettes may significantly modify their concentration of elements. Fast-burning, bleached, and flavored papers also contribute to higher levels of these pollutants. Thus, the differences in theoretical exposure depending on the type of cigarette consumed–either branded or hand-rolled–may be very striking, of up to 35–40 times. In addition to the number of cigarettes consumed per day, it is necessary to consider the type of cigarette consumed to assess the risk of exposure to toxic elements. Tobacco paper is a prominent source of exposure to toxic elements. Cigarette smoke is another source of exposure to emerging contaminants such as REE. Highlights • The type of cigarettes consumed influences the exposure to toxic elements. • Black tobacco cigarettes contain the highest concentrations of toxic elements. • The rolling paper may be a major contributor to the concentration of toxic elements released. • Cigarette consumption represents an additional source of exposure to rare earth elements. [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 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]

Abstract: Using data from the North Carolina School Asthma Survey about the respiratory health of 64,432 adolescents attending public schools in North Carolina and data provided by school employees about the environmental health conditions of the school buildings, we assessed the prevalence of daytime wheezing during the past year among students estimated to be exposed to air pollutants arising from pulp and paper mills located near the schools. Of the schools the students attended, 14% (37/266) were located within 30 miles of one or more pulp and paper mills and odor from the mills was identified by survey respondents for 9 of the 266 schools. The prevalences of daytime wheezing in smokers and nonsmokers with household cigarette smoke exposure were elevated among students attending schools located within 30 miles of a pulp and paper mill, compared to the prevalence among students attending schools located beyond 30 miles (⩽10 miles, prevalence ratio (PR): 1.21, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.99, 1.43; 10–⩽30 miles, PR: 1.06, 95% CI: 0.96, 1.16) and among students attending schools with noticeable odor from a pulp and paper mill (PR: 1.12, 95% CI: 0.93, 1.31). These results indicate a possible association between paper mill location and wheezing symptoms among adolescents and suggest that community-based exposure to pulp and paper mill emissions may have a greater impact on smokers and individuals exposed to cigarette smoke in the home than on nonsmokers without such household exposure. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

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]

Biovalorization of pulp and paper activated sludge to value-added products could be an effective alternative to traditional sludge management methods, which tend to pose serious environmental issues. Since pulp and paper activated sludge consists of microbial biomass, cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin and thus, could be subjected to different hydrolysis methods to solubilize sludge solids and release simple sugars to form value-added products by the microbial fermentation process. Hence, different sludge hydrolysis methods have been summarized in this review paper. However, hydrolysis of lignocellulosic materials generates variety of toxic compounds during hydrolysis and causes detrimental effects. Therefore, different toxic compounds and their impact on microorganisms, cellulolytic enzymes and fermentation process have been discussed in detail and recent strategies to counteract the problems of inhibitors have also been briefly explained. 1 Biovalorization of pretreated pulp and paper sludge to value added products. 2 Toxic compounds released during sludge hydrolysis affects microbial fermentation. 3 The concentration of toxic compounds depends upon pretreatment strategy. 4 Economical and industrially feasible detoxification strategy is necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mold deterioration of historical documents in archives and libraries is a frequent and complex phenomenon that may have important economic and cultural consequences. In addition, exposure to toxic fungal metabolites might produce health problems. In this work, samples of broths of fungal species isolated from the documentary material and from indoor environmental samples of the Archive of Bogotá have been analyzed to investigate the presence of mycotoxins. High resolution mass spectrometry made possible to search for a large number of mycotoxins, even without reference standards available at the laboratory. For this purpose, a screening strategy based on ultra-high pressure liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole-time of flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC–QTOF MS) under MS E mode was applied. A customized home-made database containing elemental composition for around 600 mycotoxins was compiled. The presence of the (de)protonated molecule measured at its accurate mass was evaluated in the samples. When a peak was detected, collision induced dissociation fragments and characteristic isotopic ions were also evaluated and used for tentative identification, based on structure compatibility and comparison with literature data (if existing). Up to 44 mycotoxins were tentatively identified by UHPLC–QTOF MS. 34 of these tentative compounds were confirmed by subsequent analysis using a targeted LC–MS/MS method, supporting the strong potential of QTOF MS for identification/elucidation purposes. The presence of mycotoxins in these samples might help to reinforce safety measures for researchers and staff who work on reception, restoration and conservation of archival material, not only at the Archive of Bogotá but worldwide. [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]

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]

Conventional plastic take-out food containers exert a substantial environmental impact, necessitating the identification of viable alternatives. A quantitative study assessed the environmental traits of five takeaway lunch boxes made from distinct materials (PP, PE-coated paper, pulp molding, aluminum foil, PLA). A life cycle assessment from 'cradle to grave' was conducted on the evaluation object. Combined with a carbon footprint scenario analysis, this study quantitatively compared and analyzed the environmental impacts of traditional plastic takeaway lunch boxes and their substitutes, spanning from raw material preparation to post-use disposal(including both landfill and recycling). Sensitivity analysis of the study data revealed that the production process significantly influences the environmental footprint of each assessed item. Among the five types of lunch boxes, the PE-coated paper lunch box had the lowest environmental impact, while the pulp-molded lunch box showed the least carbon emissions. Conversely, the PLA lunch box emitted higher carbon emissions than the conventional PP lunch box. Scenario analysis, using a 1250 ml lunch box as the functional unit, indicated that substituting the PP box with PE-coated paper or pulp-molded boxes could reduce the annual carbon footprint of Chinese take-out boxes by 43.20% and 54.35%, respectively. A material substitution ratio of 20:3:1:1 for PE-coated paper, pulp molding, PP, and PLA resulted in a 39.16% reduction in the lunch box's annual carbon footprint. Full recycling of lunch boxes could cut carbon emissions from PE-coated paper boxes by 54%. Implementing a synergistic material replacement scheme and complete recycling could further reduce the carbon footprint by 68.15%. [Display omitted] • The life cycle assessment was conducted on commonly utilized takeaway lunch boxes and their alternative products in China. • The study examined how various processes impact the carbon footprint. • Scenario analysis probes carbon cuts via material, recycling, energy, and material swaps. • Utilizing a synergistic material replacement scheme and complete recycling can decrease the carbon footprint by 68.15%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper–TiO 2 –Ag 2 O floating photocatalysts were produced under mild condition and their photocatalytic activity for the degradation of aromatic amine under sunlight stimulant was investigated. Characterizations by Raman, XRD, XPS, DRS and PL confirmed the presence of TiO 2 and Ag 2 O, and the morphology of the appended TiO 2 /Ag 2 O layer was probed by FE-SEM. The photocatalytic activity of the prepared samples was investigated by the degradation of aniline (AN) in water under simulated sun-light illumination and constrained conditions, i.e. non-stirring and non-oxygenation. The presence of Ag 2 O combined with TiO 2 was shown to improve the resistance of paper to bacteria attack, thus increasing the durability of the photocatalyst. Thanks to its hydrophobic character, the paper–TiO 2 –Ag 2 O NPs can be employed as useful floating photocatalyst and can be reused in continuous cycles. • Paper–TiO 2 decorated with Ag 2 O nanoparticles was prepared by a facile method. •Generation of TiO 2 anatase and Ag 2 O phases was confirmed by XRD, Raman and XPS. •Paper–TiO 2 –Ag 2 O exhibits excellent photodegradation activity toward of aniline. •Paper–TiO 2 –Ag 2 O displays good antibacterial activity against E. Coli under sunlight. [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]

Due to its sea urchin-like structure, Schwertmannite is commonly applied for heavy metals (HMs) pollutant adsorption. The adsorption influence parameters of Schwertmannite are numerous, the traditional experimental enumeration is powerless. In recent years, machine learning (ML) has been gradually employed for adsorbent materials, but there is no comprehensive research on the Schwertmannite adsorbent. In this paper, 27 features and 814 groups of experimental data were used to systematically analyze the adsorption modeling of Schwertmannite first time. The results indicated that the adsorption capacity of Schwertmannite was better predicted by the Random Forest (RF) model (the R2 was 0.874). Then, the RF model was used to analyze the features importance that affects the adsorption of HMs by Schwertmannite. And the importance of Schwertmannite synthesis conditions, Schwertmannite characteristics, adsorption environment, and HMs properties were 11.88%, 30.01%, 48.26%, and 8.19% respectively. Moreover, the synthesis and adsorption conditions of Schwertmannite were predicted and optimized based on RF model, it was predicted that the better synthesis method of Schwertmannite was biological oxidation > Fe2+ oxidation > Fe3+ hydrolysis. Finally, a predictive Graphical User Interface Web Page for Schwertmannite-HMs was developed. We hope that this paper can promote the integration of machine learning and Schwertmannite. [Display omitted] • Using machine learning to predict the adsorption capacity of schwertmannite. • Comparing the prediction performance of RF, MLP, XGboost, RF is the best. • Optimization of synthesis and environmental conditions of schwertmannite by RF. • A Graphical User Interface (GUI) for predicting schwertmannite adsorption was made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) stands as China's foremost region in air pollution control. Shenzhen, as a model city, was selected to quantify the health-economic gains brought about by pollution control efforts. The paper showcased the exemplary practices of GBA in safeguarding the blue sky, providing a template for other regions. We assessed the variation of health impacts and economic burdens in Shenzhen from 2014 to 2022 using the proportional hazards model based on Poisson regression, along with the value of a statistical life, the cost of illness, and the willingness-to-pay approach. The results showed that only the premature mortality and economic burdens attributable to PM 2.5 exhibited improvement prior to the COVID-19, with a total reduction of 9846.65 (95%Cl: 9846.65–9846.65) premature deaths and a cost saving of 63.93 (95%Cl: 63.93–63.93) million dollars. Short-term public health policies may affect the outcomes of air quality management, most types of health impacts and economic burdens showed a cliff decline during the pandemic. In addition, the study revealed that cardiovascular health economic burdens outweighed respiratory ones at the premature mortality level, while the opposite scenario was observed at the hospitalization level. This paper advocated for the strengthening of pollution control efforts, especially focusing on industrial emission reduction and intelligent transportation. The theoretical study of O 3 and the synergistic management of O 3 and PM 2.5 should be advanced. Additionally, health education should be emphasized, and residents should be encouraged to cultivate personal hygiene habits. • Only all-cause premature deaths attributed to PM2.5 improved. • Respiratory diseases cause more burdens in hospitalization, but as to premature death, the converse scenarios prevailed. • Short-term public health policies may affect the outcomes of air quality management. • After the normalized approach of pandemic management, all type of the health economic burdens trended upward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a novel numerical model capable of high-resolution, accurate simulation of the accumulation, wash-off, and migration of nonpoint source (NPS) pollutants on roads is proposed, effectively addressing the challenge of limited pipe network data for high-density urban building communities. This approach is based on a 1D-2D hydrodynamic and water quality dynamic bidirectional coupling model: GAST-SWMM. The calculation accuracy of the GAST two-dimensional road NPS wash-off model is validated via comparison with experimental data. The obtained Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) is greater than 0.8. Moreover, the model was used to simulate the NPSs in a densely populated urban region of Xi'an, China, lacking building community pipeline data. The NPS pollutant transport and fate under the influence of both road runoff and the building community hydrodynamic water quality during rainfall events with a specific return period were examined. The proposed model can effectively and accurately replicate the accumulation and removal of NPS pollutants on a two-dimensional road and their dynamic interaction with the drainage network. With increasing rainfall return period, the peak time of the surface contaminant total load is postponed. The maximum surface pollutant load durations during rainfall events with 2-, 10-, and 50-year return periods are 60, 75, and 80 min, respectively. During the peak surface pollutant load time, the overflow pollutant fraction can exceed 85% for a 50-year rainfall return period. The simulation method presented in this paper accurately captures the spatial and temporal variations in NPS pollutants in densely populated urban areas, even when pipe network data for building communities are lacking. This method offers valuable technical assistance for urban environmental management and water quality protection. • Proposed a new method for high-resolution NPS modeling in dense urban areas. • The model suits NPS simulation in urban areas with incomplete pipe data. • Water and NPS dynamic interaction between surface and drainage system were simulated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new direction for China in exploring sustainable development is the Innovative City Pilot Policy (ICPP), which provides policy guidance for accelerating carbon peaking and carbon neutrality by reducing carbon emissions. With data from 282 cities spanning 2006–2018, this paper examines ICPP's effect on carbon intensity (CI) through a multi-period difference-in-differences (DID) model, as well as exploring the mediating effect, moderating effect, heterogeneity, and spatial spillover effects. The results show that ICPP reduces CI significantly by enhancing technology innovation (TI), and when industrial structure (IS) is added, the effect of ICPP is expanded. The ICPP gains additional advantages in reducing CI by optimizing the efficiency of resource allocation (ERA). Compared with the concentration of human capital (HCL), the amount of scientific research institutes (SRI) has a slightly greater moderating effect. ICPP impacts considering location, size, and hierarchy heterogeneity. ICPP has a greater impact on mitigating CI in the western, larger size, and provincial capital cities. There are positive spillover effects of the ICPP on neighboring CI. To support the idea that ICPP can effectively contribute to CI reduction, this paper provides empirical evidence and theoretical guidelines. • Innovative city pilot policy (ICPP) has a significant positive effect on Carbon intensity (CI). • Technology innovation and industrial structure mediate the effect of ICPP on CI. • Carbon reduction can be positively moderated by the efficiency of resource allocation (ERA). • The effect of ICPP on CI is heterogeneous in terms of geographical location, size, and hierarchy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate warming has become a global issue of close concern, and China, as a significant agricultural country, has an increasing demand for food, which requires China to increase carbon reduction in this industry. This paper accounts for carbon emissions from the food production industry (CEFI) using the input-output method, then screens the influencing factors of CEFI based on Random Forest (RF), analyzes the heterogeneous effects of the influencing factors on CEFI in different clusters through K-means-SHAP, and finally explores the potential of carbon emissions from this industry for the period 2024–2040. The study's findings are as follows: First, there are apparent inequalities in CEFI, especially between provinces, which are gradually increasing. Second, addressing people's consumption awareness and behaviors is not the fundamental solution to alleviate CEFI; instead, it should focus on sustainable agricultural production transformation and "food miles" in the transportation phase. In addition, attention needs to be paid to the impacts of fertilizer application, transport modes, and livestock management on the CEFI of each cluster. Finally, the study suggests that around 2028, 70% of China's provinces will be at the "carbon peak" and that less developed and more developed regions have more significant potential to reduce emissions. In this regard, this paper encourages a series of policies that are key to promoting the sustainable development of CEFI, such as reducing the volume and efficiency of traditional fertilizers, vigorously developing organic fertilizer inputs, strengthening technological innovation and R&D inputs in the transportation sector, and steadily supporting germplasm innovation in the livestock sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last two decades, cage culture industries have developed in Iranian seas, supplying a portion of the needed protein and contributing to food security. In this paper, environmental impacts of cage culture are investigated, focusing on the physical, hydrodynamical, chemical, geological, and biological oceanographic aspects at the Abbas Abad fish farm in the southern Caspian Sea. Multidisciplinary field measurements were conducted from fall 2018 to late summer 2019 in different oceanographic aspects. Results showed that the cages have not significantly affected the hydrodynamics and physical parameters of the aroundwater, and have actually caused a slight decrease in current speed within a few 10 m of the cage. The maximum levels of inorganic phosphates, total phosphorus, total organic phosphorus, nitrite, nitrate, ammonium, total nitrogen, silicate, BOD 5 and COD were 22 ppb, 34.91 ppb, 26.92 ppb, 6 ppb, 103.69 ppb, 69.5 ppb, 1423.99 ppb, 679.06 ppb, 1.9 mg / l , 80 mg / l respectively. The water quality is considered safe and not concerning based on levels of phosphate, nitrite, nitrate, ammonium, BOD 5 , and COD. Also, planltonic (phyto and zooplankton) and benthic communities and benthic around the cages were the same with sourounding waters. This paper presented comprehensive information about the effects of cage culture farms on the surrounding waters of the Caspian Sea. • Effects of fish cages on physical parameters and water hydrodynamics are minimal. • Water quality is considered safe based on levels of chemical parameters. • There are no significant differences in the biological indices of marine organisms between the cages and surround waters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The discharge of aquaculture wastewater, comprising nitrogen, phosphorus, heavy metals, and antibiotics from large-scale aquaculture, poses a significant threat to marine ecosystems and human health. Consequently, addressing the treatment of marine aquaculture wastewater is imperative. Conventional physicochemical treatment methods have various limitations, whereas microalgae-based biological treatment technologies have gained increasing attention in the field of water purification due to their ability to efficiently absorb organic matter from mariculture wastewater and convert CO₂ into biomass products. Microalgae offer potential for highly efficient and cost-effective mariculture wastewater treatment, with particularly noteworthy advancements in the application of combined microalgae technologies. This paper explores the research hotspots in this field through bibliometric analysis and systematically discusses the following aspects: (1) summarizing the current pollution status of mariculture wastewater, including the types and sources of pollutants in various forms of mariculture wastewater, treatment methods, and associated treatment efficiencies; (2) analyzing the factors contributing to the gradual replacement of single microalgae technology with combined microalgae technology, highlighting its synergistic effects, enhanced pollutant removal efficiencies, resource recovery potential, and alignment with sustainable development goals; (3) exploring the mechanisms of pollutant removal by combined microalgae technologies, focusing on their technical advantages in bacterial-algal coupling, immobilized microalgae systems, and microalgal biofilm technologies; (4) discussing the challenges faced by the three main categories of combined microalgae technologies and proposing future improvement strategies to further enhance their application effectiveness. In conclusion, this paper offers a detailed analysis of these emerging technologies, providing a forward-looking perspective on the future development of microalgae-based mariculture wastewater treatment solutions. [Display omitted] • Detailed microalgal role in removing nutrients in mariculture wastewater. • Demonstrated synergy of microalgae with bacteria and biofilter for better efficiency. • Examined biochemical mechanisms and microbial dynamics in microalgal technologies. • Genetic engineering, integration, and scaling prospects for mariculture wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reliance solely on the government or enterprises to promote climate governance is contingent upon the vested interests of economic entities and the regulatory bodies' efficiency in governance. Can the model of government-enterprise green collaborative governance evolve into a long-term mechanism for addressing the climate crisis and achieving the goals of sustainable development? By crawling data on public-private partnerships (PPP), employing ChatGPT to identify green PPP projects, and building a generalized difference-in-differences framework based on the Guidance on Building a Green Financial System issued in 2016, this present study investigates whether the involvement of private capital in government-led environmental and climate governance can effectively facilitate government-enterprise green collaborative governance, thereby mitigating urban carbon emissions. The study finds government-enterprise green collaborative governance can significantly reduce urban carbon emissions. The conclusion remains valid even after several rounds of robustness tests, including removing the influence of pertinent climate policies, adjusting the settings of independent and dependent variables, and removing self-selection issues. Heterogeneity tests show, on the first hand, the carbon emission reduction effect of government-enterprise green collaborative governance differs due to the differences in the characteristics of green PPP(Pubic-private partnership) projects such as project return mechanism, project investment volume, and project cooperation term; on the other hand, the carbon emission reduction effect also shows heterogeneity with various urban characteristics such as geographical location, city type and city size. Mechanism tests indicate government-enterprise green collaborative governance affects urban carbon emissions mainly through structural effects, technological effects and co-investment effects. This paper offers a valuable framework for effectively promoting environmental and climate co-governance between governmental bodies and enterprises, while enhancing the market's role in resource benefit allocation within climate governance to mitigate the risks associated with climate change. • This paper first verifies the effectiveness of the green PPP model in carbon emission control. • The use of ChatGPT to identify green PPP projects, which provides an innovative method for data processing. • The carbon reduction effect varies with the characteristics of green PPP projects and cities. • This paper offers a valuable framework for effectively promoting climate co-governance between governmental and enterprises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review is aimed at researchers in air pollution control seeking to understand the latest advancements in volatile organic compound (VOC) removal. Implementing of plasma-catalysis technology for the removal of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) led to a significant boost in terms of degradation yield and mineralization rate with low by-product formation. The plasma-catalysis combination can be used in two distinct ways: (I) the catalyst is positioned downstream of the plasma discharge, known as the "post plasma catalysis configuration" (PPC), and (II) the catalyst is located in the plasma zone and exposed directly to the discharge, called "in plasma catalysis configuration" (IPC). Coupling these two technologies, especially for VOCs elimination has attracted the interest of many researchers in recent years. The term "synergy" is widely reported in their works and associated with the positive effect of the plasma catalysis combination. This review paper investigates the state of the art of newly published papers about catalysis, photocatalysis, non-thermal plasma, and their combination for VOC removal application. The focus is on understanding different synergy sources operating mutually between plasma and catalysis discussed and classified into two main parts: the effect of the plasma discharge on the catalyst and the effect of the catalyst on plasma discharge. This approach has the potential for application in air purification systems for industrial processes or indoor environments. [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]

Metallic and nonmetallic nanoparticles are bioactive compounds that exhibit broad resistance to bacteria, fungi, and even viruses. In this paper, a deep eutectic solvent (DES) based on betaine, glucose, and ethylene glycol was used to obtain suspensions of silver, copper, and selenium nanoparticles. Depending on the nanoparticle precursor used, Ag, Cu, and Se nanoparticles (NPs) with an average particle size of 50–100 nm were prepared, and the properties of the products were confirmed by the STEM, XPS, DLS, and UV–VIS methods. The use of a DES, without the need for additional reactants, allowed the production of stable nanoparticles with increased bioactivity against microorganisms. The obtained systems showed high bioactivity against strains of S. aureus, E. coli, and C. albicans. Nanosuspensions, by generating reactive oxygen species (ROSs), caused enzyme inactivation and the inhibition of the metabolic processes of microorganisms. Particle-generated cell degradation processes were investigated through ROS generation assays, API assays, the determination of the MIC/MBC, and cell decomposition rate assays in the early logarithmic growth phase. Copper nanoparticles derived from copper(II) acetate were also highly active against the human influenza A/H1N1 viruses, human coronavirus (HCoV-OC43, Betacoronavirus 1), and vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV, Rhabdoviridae), showing a virus titer reduction of more than 93.7−99.96%. • Ag, Cu, Se NPs in DES showed high bioactivity against bacteria, fungi and viruses. • The production of specific ROS by NPs influences the bioactivity of suspensions. • ROS and API tests increase understanding of the bioactivity and selectivity of NPs. • The interaction between DES and Me NPs ensures the stability of NPs over time. • DES increase the bioactive properties of NPs without increasing their concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyanobacterial Harmful Algal Bloom (CyanoHAB) is a global aquatic environmental issue, posing considerable eco-environmental challenges in freshwater lakes. Comprehensive monitoring and accurate prediction of CyanoHABs are essential for their scientific management. Nevertheless, traditional satellite-based monitoring and process-oriented prediction methods of CyanoHABs failed to satisfy this demand due to the limited spatiotemporal resolutions of both monitoring data and prediction results. To address this issue, this paper proposes an upgraded framework for comprehensive monitoring and accurate prediction of CyanoHABs. A collaborative CyanoHAB monitoring network was firstly constructed by integrating space, aerial, and ground-based monitoring means. As a result, CyanoHAB conditions were assessed frequently covering the entire lake, its key areas, and core positions. Furthermore, by overcoming technical limitations associated with high-precision simulation of the growth-drift-accumulation process of CyanoHABs, such as the unclear drifting process of CyanoHABs and the mechanism of its coastal accumulation, the multi-scale CyanoHAB prediction was realized interconnecting the entire lake and its nearshore areas. The implemented framework has been applied in Lake Chaohu for over three years. It provided high-frequency and high-spatial-resolution CyanoHAB monitoring, as well as its multi-scale and accurate simulation. The application of this framework in Lake Chaohu had significantly improved the accuracies of CyanoHAB monitoring, simulation, and early warning. This advancement holds significant scientific value and offers potential for CyanoHAB prevention and control in eutrophic lakes. [Display omitted] • An upgraded framework was developed for lacustrine CyanoHAB management. • High spatiotemporal precision of CyanoHAB monitoring was realized. • Multi-scale CyanoHAB prediction in lakes was innovatively realized. • CyanoHAB status was obtained rapidly (hourly) and precisely (MRE<15%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper was to discover the key factors driving the lignocellulose degradation in litter along a forest succession chronosequence from the perspective of functional genes. We investigated four natural successive stages of forests (white birch forest, broad-leaved mixed forest, coniferous-broad-leaved mixed forest, and mixed broadleaved-Korean pine forest). We determined the lignocellulose degradation of litter and the absolute abundance of related functional genes by using high-throughput-qPCR. There was strong degradation of cellulose content, hemicellulose and lignin contents in the litter decomposition layer in the early and late stages of forest succession, respectively. Furthermore, forest succession changed microbial communities' succession and increased fungal Shannon diversity, and then enhanced the absolute abundance of lignocellulose-degrading genes and nitrogen-cycling genes. By network analysis, bacterial and fungal module 1 were key modules for producing lignocellulose-degrading genes and nitrogen cycling genes, while fungal module 2 was a key module for lignin-degrading genes. Fungi were strongly correlated with functional genes based on Procrustes analysis. Additionally, cellulose-degrading genes were the key factor driving the cellulose degradation in the early period of forest succession, while fungal diversity and composition were key drivers in promoting the degradation of lignin in the late period of forest succession. Our study provided insight into the mechanisms underlying the soil microbe-driven functional changes in nutrient cycling and an understanding of the decomposition kinetics of litter at a more microscopic level in the process of forest succession. • Forest succession decreased cellulose degradation of litter. • Forest succession increased hemicellulose and lignin degradation of litter. • Forest succession changed fungal community and increased fungal diversity. • Cellulose-degrading genes drove the cellulose degradation in WBF and BMF. • Fungal diversity and composition promoted degradation of lignin in CBMF and BKPE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oil and gas wells (OGWs) can lead to soil and well emissions of methane (CH 4), a potent greenhouse gas, and hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S), a highly toxic gas, both of which reduce air quality and can cause explosions when emitted into confined spaces. Developments have been occurring over OGWs, posing health and safety risks. However, to our knowledge, previous studies have not conjunctively analyzed well and soil emissions while considering development on or near OGWs. In this paper, we characterize 343 CH 4 and H 2 S emission rate measurements from 67 non-producing (abandoned) and 35 producing (active) OGWs, including 205 measurements from soils surrounding 81 OGWs in Ontario and Quebec. We also provide the first emission rate estimates from an abandoned water and OGW-linked explosion and map OGWs in urban and built-up areas in Ontario and Quebec. We estimate the explosion-linked emissions to be 3,000 g CH 4 /hour and 7 g H 2 S/hour. Moreover, we find that 7,264 and 161 OGWs in Ontario and Quebec, respectively, are in urban and built-up areas, with 94% of these wells being abandoned. For the 102 wells we measured, of which 9.7% had H 2 S detections, we find OGW emission rate ranges of −16 to 47,000 mg CH 4 /hour and 0.001 to 3,300 mg H 2 S/hour. Although soil CH 4 emissions at a 1-m distance from the wells are most correlated with well emissions, the highest soil emission rate was observed at a 3-m distance, indicating the potential for OGW-related emissions into buildings to occur away from the well. Overall, our multi-faceted measurement dataset provides a basis for conjunctive analysis of the broad range of environmental risks of OGWs to climate, indoor and outdoor air quality, and explosions. [Display omitted] • CH 4 and H 2 S emissions associated with the explosion exceed the highest previously measured emissions from wells in Ontario. • H 2 S emissions associated with the explosion exceed any previously measured H 2 S emissions from active and abandoned wells. • 7,264 wells in Ontario and 161 wells in Quebec overlap urban and built-up areas, increasing safety risks if they emit. • CH 4 and H 2 S emissions are strongly correlated, and high H 2 S emitting wells are high CH 4 emitters. • Soil CH 4 emissions average 90 mg/h and are dominated by one well emitting at a rate of 4,900 mg/h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ocean acidification (OA) driven by human activities and climate change presents new challenges to marine ecosystems. At the same time, the risks posed by micro(nano)plastics (MNPs) and engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) to marine ecosystems are receiving increasing attention. Although previous studies have uncovered the environmental behavior and the toxic effects of MNPs and ENPs under OA, there is a lack of comprehensive literature reviews in this field. Therefore, this paper reviews how OA affects the environmental behavior of MNPs and ENPs, and summarizes the effects and the potential mechanisms of their co-exposure on marine organisms. The review indicates that OA changes the marine chemical environment, thereby altering the behavior of MNPs and ENPs. These changes affect their bioavailability and lead to co-exposure effects. This impacts marine organisms' energy metabolism, growth and development, antioxidant systems, reproduction and immunity. The potential mechanisms involved the regulation of signaling pathways, abnormalities in energy metabolism, energy allocation, oxidative stress, decreased enzyme activity, and disruptions in immune and reproductive functions. Finally, based on the limitations of existing research, actual environment and hot issues, we have outlined future research needs and identified key priorities and directions for further investigation. This review deepens our understanding of the potential effects of MNPs and ENPs on marine organisms under OA, while also aiming to promote further research and development in related fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cobalt/iron bimetallic oxide coated with graphitized nitrogen-doped carbon (Fe 2 O 3 -CoO@NC) was synthesized by convenient solid phase coordination combined with calcination method to activate PMS for the degradation of BSM. A series of Co/Fe bimetallic oxides with different metal ratios were designed and prepared to select the most efficient catalyst and Fe 2 O 3 -CoO@NC(Co:Fe = 1:1) demonstrated the highest catalytic activity and the lowest ions leaching. The reasons for high catalytic activity of Fe 2 O 3 -CoO@NC(Co:Fe = 1:1) were evaluated by a range of characterization techniques and the results showed it stemmed from higher mental content and larger current density. Complete (100%) degradation of 10 g L−1 BSM was achieved within 10 min under the conditions of 0.05 g L−1 catalyst and 0.3 mmol/L PMS dosage at 25 °C. Moreover, Fe 2 O 3 -CoO@NC(Co:Fe = 1:1) showed more excellent catalytic activity and lower ions leaching than Fe 2 O 3 , CoO and Fe 2 O 3 -CoO, indicating superior bimetallic synergy and carbon encapsulation effect. Furtherly, radical experiments and XPS analysis revealed the main active species and catalytic mechanism of the Fe 2 O 3 -CoO@NC/PMS system, respectively. Finally, the degradation pathway of BSM by Fe 2 O 3 -CoO@NC/PMS system was deduced by LC-TOF-MS. This paper is aimed to provide a new insight into the convenient preparation method for the construction of catalysts which could reach efficient removal of complex organic pollutants. [Display omitted] • Fe 2 O 3 -CoO@NC was prepared by solid phase coordination-calcination method to degrade BSM. • Catalytic activity and ions leaching of Fe 2 O 3 -CoO@NC with different metal ratio was compared. • The reason for high catalytic activity of Fe 2 O 3 -CoO@NC was explored by EDS, AAS, CV, SEM and BET. • Bimetallic recombination and carbon encapsulation inhibited Co2+ leaching efficiently. • Bimetallic synergy can improve the catalytic activity of Fe 2 O 3 -CoO@NC remarkably. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concerns over the ecological impacts of urban road runoff have increased, partly due to recent research into the harmful impacts of tire particles and their chemical leachates. This study aimed to help the community of researchers, regulators and policy advisers in scoping out the priority areas for further study. To improve our understanding of these issues an interdisciplinary, international network consisting of experts (United Kingdom, Norway, United States, Australia, South Korea, Finland, Austria, China and Canada) was formed. We synthesised the current state of the knowledge and highlighted priority research areas for tire particles (in their different forms) and their leachates. Ten priority research questions with high importance were identified under four themes (environmental presence and detection; chemicals of concern; biotic impacts; mitigation and regulation). The priority research questions include the importance of increasing the understanding of the fate and transport of these contaminants; better alignment of toxicity studies; obtaining the holistic understanding of the impacts; and risks they pose across different ecosystem services. These issues have to be addressed globally for a sustainable solution. We highlight how the establishment of the intergovernmental science-policy panel on chemicals, waste, and pollution prevention could further address these issues on a global level through coordinated knowledge transfer of car tire research and regulation. We hope that the outputs from this research paper will reduce scientific uncertainty in assessing and managing environmental risks from TP and their leachates and aid any potential future policy and regulatory development. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Health Impact Assessments (HIAs) for air pollutant mixtures are challenging because risk estimates are primarily derived from single-pollutant models. Combining risk estimates from multiple pollutants requires new approaches, as a simple addition of single pollutant risk estimates from correlated air pollutants may result in double counting. We investigated approaches applying concentration-response functions (CRFs) from single- and two-pollutant models in HIAs, focusing on long-term exposure to particulate matter with a diameter less than 2.5 μm (PM 2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO 2) and their associations with all-cause mortality. A systematic literature search of MEDLINE and EMBASE identified cohort studies employing single- and two-pollutant models of long-term exposure to PM 2.5 and NO 2 with all-cause mortality. Pooled CRFs were calculated through random-effects meta-analyses of risk estimates from single- and two-pollutant models. Coefficient differences were calculated by comparing single- and two-pollutant model estimates. Four approaches to estimating population-attributable fractions (PAFs) were compared: PM 2.5 or NO 2 single-pollutant models to represent the mixture, the sum of single-pollutant models, the sum of two-pollutant models and the sum of single-pollutant models from a larger body of evidence adjusted by coefficient difference. Seventeen papers reported both single and two-pollutant estimates. Pooled hazard ratios (HRs) for mortality from single- and two-pollutant models were 1.053 (95% confidence interval: 1.034–1.071) and 1.035 (1.014–1.057), respectively, for a 5 μg/m3 increase in PM 2.5. HRs for a 10 μg/m3 increase in NO 2 were 1.032 (1.014–1.049) and 1.024 (1.000–1.049) for single- and two-pollutant models, respectively. The average coefficient difference between single- and two-pollutant models was 0.017 for PM 2.5 and 0.007 for NO 2. Combined PAFs for the PM 2.5 -NO 2 mixture using joint HRs from single- and two-pollutant model CRFs were 0.09 and 0.06, respectively. Utilizing CRFs from two-pollutant models or applying the coefficient difference to a more extensive evidence base seems to mitigate the potential overestimation of mixture health impacts from adding single-pollutant CRFs. • Seventeen studies included both single- and two-pollutant models of PM 2.5 and NO 2. • Two-pollutant models attenuated HRs compared to single-pollutant models. • The coefficient difference was 0.017 per 5 μg/m³ PM 2.5 and 0.007 per 10 μg/m³ NO 2. • Four approaches to estimating population-attributable fractions were compared. • Applying coefficient differences can enhance mixture health impacts estimation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large body of literature shows that living near greenery supports healthy lifestyles and improves mental health. Much of this research has used greenery measured from a bird's eye perspective. Street view images (SVI) are an important alternative data source that could assess visible greenery experienced by residents in daily life. The current review is the first to systematically critique and synthesize the evidence relating to greenery and bluespace in SVI and its associations with mental health outcomes. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to conduct this review. First, we identified relevant articles published as of April 2023 in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and CINAHL. Articles meeting inclusion criteria were narratively synthesized. Quality assessments were conducted with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Based on our search, we identified 35 articles on greenery and bluespace measured with SVI and mental health outcomes. Two-thirds of the included papers found positive associations between greenery in SVI and mental health. The average score for risk of bias was good. Association between visible greenery in SVI and all 10 of the mental health outcomes studied were low or very low quality of evidence and showed limited or inadequate strength of evidence. SVI is likely to be an increasingly used and a validated instrument for estimating health-promoting exposure to greenery. Future research would benefit from the standardization of SVI datasets and computational processes, and studies conducted outside of China and high-income countries. Such advancements would improve the generalizability and robustness of associations between visible greenery and mental health outcomes. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The combined pollution of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heavy metals (HMs) has attracted wide attention due to their high toxicity, mutagenicity, carcinogenicity and teratogenicity. A thorough understanding of the progress of the relevant studies about their co-toxicity and co-contamination remediation is of great importance to prevent environmental risk and develop new efficient remediation methods. This paper summarized the factors resulting in different co-toxic effects, the interaction mechanism influencing co-toxicity and the development of remediation technologies for the co-contamination. Also, the inadequacies of the previous studies related to the co-toxic effect and the remediation methods were pointed out, while the corresponding solutions were proposed. The specific type and concentration of PAHs and HMs, the specific type of their action object and environmental factors could affect their co-toxicity by influencing each other's transmembrane process, detoxification process and increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and some other mechanisms that need to be further studied. The specific action mechanisms of the concentration, environmental factors and the specific type of PAHs and HMs, their effect on each other's transmembrane processes, investigations at the cellular and molecular levels, non-targeted metabolomics analysis, as well as long-term ecological effects were proposed to be further explored in order to obtain more information about the co-toxicity. The combination of two or more methods, especially combining bioremediation with other methods, is a potential development field for the remediation of co-contamination. It can make full use of the advantages of each remediation method, to achieve an increase of remediation efficiency and a decrease of both remediation cost and ecological risk. This review intends to further improve the understanding on co-toxicity and provide references for the development and innovation of remediation technologies for the co-contamination of PAHs and HMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change has brought significant alterations to the aquatic environment, leading to the rapid spread of infectious fish diseases with increasing water temperatures. It is crucial to understand how aquatic pathogens will impact fish in the context of climate change. This study aimed to assess the effects of climate change on fish diseases globally. Data from 104 papers published between 2003 and 2022 were analyzed to identify recent trends in the field. The majority of the studies (54%) focused on parasites, particularly proliferative kidney disease, while 22% examined bacteria. The United States accounted for 19% of the studies, followed by Canada at 14%, covering a wide range of fish species. More research was published on farmed fish (54%) than wild fish (30%), with a higher emphasis on freshwater species (62%) compared to marine species (34%). Most published studies (64%) focused on the local environment rather than the farm level (7%). The findings highlight temperature as a significant threat to global aquaculture and fisheries, impacting the progression of fish diseases. These impacts could be exacerbated by factors such as pH, salinity, and ocean acidification, posing challenges to fish health. Therefore, there is a pressing need for enhanced research and management strategies to address these issues effectively in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constructed wetlands (CWs) are increasingly considered for secondary wastewater treatment, removing both conventional contaminants and emerging pollutants, notably pharmaceutical and personal care products (PPCPs). However, the CW design and operational conditions to biodegrade PPCPs as micropollutants may promote greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, raising sustainability concerns. This meta-analysis investigates the relationship between PPCP removal (caffeine, ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac, ketoprofen, carbamazepine, sulfonamide compounds) and GHG emissions (methane, carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide) in CWs. We uniquely integrate two sets of studies, as prior research has not linked PPCP biodegradation with GHG emissions. Data from 26 papers identify factors driving PPCP removal and 26 publications inform GHG emission factors. Spearman's correlation coefficient and multiple linear regression assess parameter effects and interlinkages. Results highlight biological processes, particularly secondary metabolism or co-metabolism, as pivotal for PPCP removal and GHG emissions, with inlet PPCP concentration, carbon load, and temperature being significant influencers (p < 0.05). Challenges persist in optimizing operations to improve PPCP removal and abate GHG emissions simultaneously. Still, CW depth, influent chemical oxygen demand (COD), hydraulic retention time, and subsurface flow wetland configuration emerge as strategic parameters. This study underscores the need for integrated approaches to enhance PPCP removal and decrease GHG emissions in CWs, thereby advancing sustainable water management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, typical industrial scenarios were analyzed optimized by machine learning algorithms, which fills the gap of massive data and industrial requirements in ultrasonic sludge treatment. Principal component analysis showed that the ultrasonic density and ultrasonic time were positively correlated with soluble chemical oxygen demand (SCOD), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorus (TP). Within five machine learning models, the best model for SCOD prediction was XG-boost (R2 = 0.855), while RF was the best for TN and TP (R2 = 0.974 and 0.957, respectively). In addition, SHAP indicated that the importance feature for SCOD, TN, and TP was ultrasonic time, and sludge concentration, respectively. Finally, the typical industrial scenario of ultrasonic pretreatment of sludge was analyzed. In the secondary sludge, treatment volume at 0.6 L, the pH at 7.0, and the ultrasonic time at 20 min was best to improve the SCOD. In the ultrasonic pretreatment primary sludge, treatment volume of 0.3 L, pH of 7.0, and ultrasonic time of 15 min was best to improve the SCOD. Furthermore, the ultrasonic power at 700 W and ultrasonic time at 20 min were best to improve the C/N and C/P in the secondary sludge. In the primary sludge, the ultrasonic power at 600 W, and the ultrasonic time at 15 min were best to improve C/N and C/P. This study lays a foundation for the practical application of ultrasonic pretreatment of sludge and provides basic information for typical industrial scenarios. [Display omitted] • Machine learning for cracking effectiveness of ultrasonic pretreatment sludge. • The best algorithm of SCOD release was extreme gradient boosting (R2 = 0.855). • The optimum algorithm of TN and TP release was random forest (R2 = 0.974, 0.957). • This paper determined the optimum conditions for typical engineering applications. • Importance feature for SCOD was ultrasonic time; for TN and TP was sludge concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental matrices have been considered of paramount importance in the spread of antibiotic-resistance; however, the role of drinking waters is still underexplored. Therefore, a scoping review was performed using a systematic approach based on PRISMA guidelines, with the aim of identifying and characterizing antibiotic-resistance in tap water, specifically, water treated at a potabilization plant and provided for drinking use through a water distribution system. The review included 45 studies, the majority of which were conducted in upper-middle-income economies (42.2%), mainly from the Western Pacific region (26.7%), followed by Europe (24.4%). Most of the papers focused on detecting antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB), either alone (37.8%) or in combination with antibiotic-resistant genes (ARGs) (26.7%). Multidrug-resistance profile was often identified in heterotrophic bacteria, including various species of nontuberculous mycobacteria, Pseudomonas spp., and Aeromonas spp., which were especially resistant to penicillins, cephalosporins (including 3rd-generation), and also to macrolides (erythromycin) and tetracyclines. Resistance to a wide range of antibiotics was also prevalent in fecal bacteria, e.g., the Enterobacteriaceae family, with common resistance to (fluoro)quinolones and sulfonamide groups. ARGs were investigated either in bacterial strains isolated from tap waters or directly in water samples, and the most frequently detected ARGs belonged to β-lactam, sulfonamide, and tetracycline types. Additionally, mobile genetic elements were found (i.e., int 1 and tnp A). Sulfonamides and macrolides were the most frequently detected antibiotics across countries, although their concentrations were generally low (<10 ng/L) in Europe and the United States. From a health perspective, tap water hosted ARB of health concern based on the 2024 WHO bacterial priority pathogens list, mainly Enterobacteriaceae resistant to 3rd-generation cephalosporin and/or carbapenem. Despite the fact that tap water is treated to meet chemical and microbiological quality standards, current evidence suggests that it can harbor antibiotic-resistance determinants, thus supporting its potential role in environmental pathways contributing to antibiotic resistance. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]