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The document "Grand challenges in heat engines" published in the Frontiers in Thermal Engineering Journal discusses the historical impact, scientific challenges, and future directions of heat engines. It highlights key challenges such as reducing pollutant emissions, increasing thermal efficiency, and decarbonization through the use of alternative fuels like biofuels and e-fuels. The document emphasizes the importance of research and development efforts to address these challenges and improve the sustainability and efficiency of heat engines for various applications. [Extracted from the article]

Li-ion battery is currently considered to be the most proven technology for energy storage systems when it comes to the overall combination of energy, power, cyclability and cost. However, there are continuous expectations for cost reduction in large-scale applications, especially in electric vehicles and grids, alongside growing concerns over safety, availability of natural resources for lithium, and environmental remediation. Therefore, industry and academia have consequently shifted their focus towards 'beyond Li-ion technologies'. In this respect, other non-Li-based alkali-ion/polyvalent-ion batteries, non-Li-based all solid-state batteries, fluoride-ion/ammonium-ion batteries, redox-flow batteries, sand batteries and hydrogen fuel cells etc. are becoming potential cost-effective alternatives. While there has been notable swift advancement across various materials, chemistries, architectures, and applications in this field, a comprehensive overview encompassing high-energy 'beyond Li-ion' technologies, along with considerations of commercial viability, is currently lacking. Therefore, in this review article, a rationalized approach is adopted to identify notable 'post-Li' candidates. Their pros and cons are comprehensively presented by discussing the fundamental principles in terms of material characteristics, relevant chemistries, and architectural developments that make a good high-energy 'beyond Li' storage system. Furthermore, a concise summary outlining the primary challenges of each system is provided, alongside the potential strategies being implemented to mitigate these issues. Additionally, the extent to which these strategies have positively influenced the performance of these 'post-Li' technologies is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid development and deployment of marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR) approaches will be required to prevent the worst consequences of climate change and meet national treaty obligations under the Paris agreement. However, approaches to monitor the efficacy and environmental safety of mCDR are not being developed with the same intensity as the technology. Verification will be required to convince a sceptical public and regulatory community of the overall benefit of mCDR as well as provide the regulatory community a basis for risk assessments that will be required for at scale deployments. In this perspective, we posit that genomics-based approaches can be used to assess the efficacy of carbon sequestration and monitor for the possibility of unintended consequences. By adopting these approaches, it will be feasible to develop the evidence portfolio necessary to underpin assessments of the risks, benefits and trade-offs involved in responsible deployment of mCDR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, bimetallic NiCo nanoparticles (NPs) were encapsulated within the mesopores of carboxylic acid functionalized mesoporous silica (CMS) through the chemical reduction approach. Both NaBH4 and NH3BH3 were used as reducing agents to reduce the metal ions simultaneously. The resulting composite was used as a catalyst for hydrolysis of ammonia borane (NH3BH3, AB) to produce H2. The bimetallic NiCo NPs supported on carboxylic group functionalized mesoporous silica, referred to as NixCo100−x@CMS, exhibited significantly higher catalytic activity for AB hydrolysis compared to their monometallic counterparts. The remarkable activity of NixCo100−x@CMS could be ascribed to the synergistic contributions of Ni and Co, redox reaction during the hydrolysis, and the fine-tuned electronic structure. The catalytic performance of the NixCo100−x@CMS nanocatalyst was observed to be dependent on the composition of Ni and Co. Among all the compositions investigated, Ni40Co60@CMS demonstrated the highest catalytic activity, with a turn over frequency (TOF) of 18.95 molH2min−1molcatalyst−1 and H2 production rate of 8.0 L min−1g−1. The activity of Ni40Co60@CMS was approximately three times greater than that of Ni@CMS and about two times that of Co@CMS. The superior activity of Ni40Co60@CMS was attributed to its finely-tuned electronic structure, resulting from the electron transfer of Ni to Co. Furthermore, the nanocatalyst exhibited excellent durability, as the carboxylate group in the support provided a strong metal–support interaction, securely anchoring the NPs within the mesopores, preventing both agglomeration and leakage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The landscape of general surgery education has undergone a significant transformation over the past few years, driven in large part by the advent of surgical simulation and training technologies. These innovative tools have revolutionized the way surgeons are trained, allowing for a more immersive, interactive, and effective learning experience. In this review, we will explore the impact of surgical simulation and training technologies on general surgery education, highlighting their benefits, challenges, and future directions. Enhancing the technical proficiency of surgical residents is one of the main benefits of surgical simulation and training technologies. By providing a realistic and controlled environment, With the use of simulations, residents may hone their surgical skills without compromising patient safety. Research has consistently demonstrated that training with simulations enhances surgical skills., reduces errors, and enhances overall performance. Furthermore, simulators can be programmed to mimic a wide range of surgical scenarios, enabling residents to cultivate the essential critical thinking and decision-making abilities required to manage intricate surgical cases. Another area of development is incorporating simulation-based training into the wider surgical curriculum. As simulation technologies become more widespread, they will need to be incorporated into the fabric of surgical education, rather than simply serving as an adjunct to traditional training methods. This will require a fundamental shift in the way surgical education is delivered, with a greater emphasis on simulation-based training and assessment. Highlights: Surgical simulation and training technologies have revolutionized general surgery education, enhancing technical skills and critical thinking abilities of surgical residents. Integration of simulation-based training into the broader surgical curriculum is necessary for its widespread adoption and effectiveness. With the support of educational agendas led by national neurosurgical committees, industry and new technology, simulators will become readily available, translatable, affordable, and effective. As specialized, well-organized curricula are developed that integrate simulations into daily resident training, these simulated procedures will enhance the surgeon's skills, lower hospital costs, and lead to better patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquaculture in exposed and/or distant ocean sites is an emerging industry and field of study that addresses the need to improve food security along with the challenges posed by expansion of urban and coastal stakeholders into nearshore and sheltered marine waters. This move necessitates innovative solutions for this industry to thrive in high-energy environments. Some innovative research has increased understanding of the physics, hydrodynamics, and structural requirements enabling the development of appropriate systems. The blue mussel (Mytilus edulis), the New Zealand green shell or green lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus), and the Pacific Oyster (Magallana gigas), are the primary targets for commercial exposed bivalve aquaculture. Researchers and industry members are actively advancing existing structures and developing new structures and methodologies for these and alternative high-value species suitable for such conditions. For macroalgae (seaweed) cultivation, such as sugar kelp (Saccharina latissimi), oar weed (Laminaria digitata), or kelp sp. (Ecklonia sp.), longline systems are commonly used, but further development is needed to withstand fully exposed environments and improve productivity and efficiency. In marine finfish aquaculture, three primary design categories for open ocean net pens are identified: flexible gravity pens, rigid megastructures, closed pens, and submersible pens. As aquaculture ventures into more demanding environments, a concerted focus on operational efficiency is imperative. This publication considers the commercial and research progress relating to the requirements of aquaculture's expansion into exposed seas, with a particular focus on the cultivation of bivalves, macroalgae, and marine finfish cultivation technologies and structural developments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As ionic liquids (ILs) continue to be prepared, there is a growing need to develop theoretical methods for predicting the properties of ILs, such as gas solubility. In this work, different strategies were employed to obtain the solubility of CO2 and N2, where a conductor-like screening model for real solvents (COSMO-RS) was used as the basis. First, experimental data on the solubility of CO2 and N2 in ILs were collected. Then, the solubility of CO2 and N2 in ILs was predicted using COSMO-RS based on the structures of cations, anions, and gases. To further improve the performance of COSMO-RS, two options were used, i.e., the polynomial expression to correct the COSMO-RS results and the combination of COSMO-RS and machine learning algorithms (eXtreme Gradient Boosting, XGBoost) to develop a hybrid model. The results show that the COSMO-RS with correction can significantly improve the prediction of CO2 solubility, and the corresponding average absolute relative deviation (AARD) is decreased from 43.4% to 11.9%. In contrast, such an option cannot improve that of the N2 dataset. Instead, the results obtained from coupling machine learning algorithms with the COSMO-RS model agree well with the experimental results, with an AARD of 0.94% for the solubility of CO2 and an average absolute deviation (AAD) of 0.15% for the solubility of N2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multi‐enzymatic cascade reaction provides a new avenue for C─C coupling directly from CO2 under mild conditions. In this study, a new pathway with four enzymes including formate dehydrogenase (PaFDH), formaldehyde dehydrogenase (BmFADH), glycolaldehyde synthase (PpGALS), and alcohol dehydrogenase (GoADH) is developed for directly converting CO2 gas molecules to ethylene glycol (EG) in vitro. A rhodium‐based NADH regeneration electrode is constructed to continuously provide the proton and electron of this multi‐enzymatic cascade reaction. The prepared electrode can reach the Faradaic Efficiency (FE) of 82.9% at −0.6 V (vs. Ag/AgCl) and the NADH productivity of 0.737 mM h−1. Shortening the reaction path is crucial for multi‐enzymatic cascade reactions. Here, a hydrogen‐bonded organic framework (HOF) nano‐reactor is successfully developed to immobilize four enzymes in one pot with a striking enzyme loading capacity (990 mg enzyme g−1 material). Through integrating and optimization of NADH electro‐regeneration and enzymatic catalysis in one pot, 0.15 mM EG is achieved with an average conversion rate of 7.15 × 10−7 mmol CO2 min−1 mg−1 enzymes in 6 h. These results shed light on electro‐driven multi‐enzymatic cascade conversion of C─C coupling from CO2 in the nano‐reactor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The sport of cycling has witnessed phenomenal growth over the past decade. Globally, over 200 million television hours across five continents watched the recent inaugural World Championships in Glasgow, in 2023. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), the world cycling governing body, has highlighted its mission to " promote and support research in cycling epidemiology and medicine, especially for the benefit of lesser-known disciplines" within its 2030 Agenda. This paper outlines a proposed protocol to conduct a systematic review that comprehensively analyses and synthesises the existing literature about cycling-related injuries and illness across all competitive disciplines. Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines will be followed through each stage of this systematic review. Cycling is an umbrella term used for many individual disciplines. Investigation of all types of injuries and/or illnesses sustained during training and/or competition among competitive athletes across all disciplines will be included in this review. A computerised, systematic literature search will be conducted in electronic databases MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane Library. Independent screening by two reviewers in a two-step process: title/abstract screening followed by full-text review. The reference lists of included articles will be searched to identify any other potentially relevant articles. Narrative synthesis and tabular/charted presentation of the extracted data will be included. Discussion: This protocol paper outlines the methodology to conduct a systematic review of injuries and illness across all competitive cycling disciplines. The aims of outlining this systematic review protocol are to aid research transparency, help reduce publication bias, prevent selective publication, and prevent the selective reporting of results. Future systematic reviews based on the proposed protocol will summarise the known prevalence, incidences, locations and burden of injury and illness across the sport of cycling. Trial Registration: This study has been registered with the PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (registration number CRD42024502703). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban green spaces, including parks, plazas, and squares, are essential components of healthy and sustainable cities. These areas play a central role in enhancing the wellbeing of citizens, fostering social interactions, and promoting sustainable urban development. This study investigates the multifaceted benefits of integrating green spaces into urban environments, such as improving physical and mental health, facilitating social engagement, and supporting environmental sustainability. Despite these benefits, the development and maintenance of urban green spaces face significant challenges, including limited suitable land, financial constraints, and inadequate access, which can exclude certain populations from enjoying these green havens. The study examines specific case studies, including Linyi People's Park, Lanshan Youth Park, and Yumin Park, to highlight the factors contributing to the success or failure of these spaces. It also draws inspiration from international examples like New York City's High Line and Germany's Emscher Landscape Park, which have successfully transformed neglected areas into vibrant green oases. The findings underscore the importance of adopting principles of spatial justice, resource management, urban policy revision, and access reform to ensure the equitable distribution and accessibility of urban green spaces. The study concludes with key recommendations for urban planning and public health policy, aiming to enhance the wellbeing of citizens and strengthen the harmonious relationship between urban development and the natural environment. This study explores the multifaceted benefits of urban green spaces, including parks and plazas, highlighting their critical roles in enhancing physical and mental health, fostering social interactions, and promoting environmental sustainability. Through in-depth case studies of Linyi People's Park, Lanshan Youth Park, and Yumin Park, the research identifies key factors contributing to the success and challenges of these spaces. Innovations in the study include a holistic analysis of green space benefits, a focus on spatial justice for equitable access, and comparative insights from international examples like New York City's High Line and Germany's Emscher Landscape Park. The research identifies several gaps, including the need for longitudinal studies on health impacts, understanding socioeconomic and cultural variability in green space use, evaluating the effectiveness of policy interventions, exploring technological integration, assessing environmental and economic trade-offs, and developing models for community engagement and ownership. Addressing these gaps will enhance strategies for integrating green spaces into urban environments, ensuring their benefits are accessible to all citizens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper's purpose is to challenge the traditional assumption in leadership studies that leaders' traits and capabilities impact effectiveness irrespective of the environment in which they operate. We identify the cognitive capabilities (CCs) of moral leaders that increase their efficacy in turbulent environments. To identify these capabilities, we integrate the strategic management literature on dynamic managerial capabilities (DMCs) into the field of moral leadership. We explore the micro-foundations of DMCs—that is, the CCs of moral leaders that underpin their abilities to sense and seize opportunities and reconfigure organizations—and show that CCs are effective in environmental turbulence. Design/methodology/approach: We review 74 articles on moral leaders—including ethical, authentic, and servant leaders—and analyze their CCs that enable effectiveness in turbulent environments. Findings: Moral leaders sense opportunities by drawing on their CCs for attention and perception. They seize opportunities with intuitive moral judgment and conscious moral reasoning, and by considering diverse perspectives and followers' needs when problem solving. They reconfigure with vision-inspired storytelling, collaboration, and trust-building among stakeholders. Practical implications: Organizations should use coaching, mentoring, and training to develop the CCs of moral leaders, and institutionalize these skills in their organizations. Originality/value: We illustrate that the environment is an important determinant of the effectiveness of moral leaders' capabilities. By integrating the DMC literature into the moral leadership field, we identify the distinctive CCs of ethical, authentic, and servant leaders that make them effective in turbulent environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we conducted a comparative analysis of the catalytic behavior of Ni-CaO-Al2O3 dual functional material (DFM) and a physical mixture of Ni-Al2O3 and CaO-Al2O3 in the integrated carbon capture methanation (ICCM) process for promoted methane production. H2-temperature-programmed surface reaction (H2-TPSR) analysis revealed that in Ni-CaO-Al2O3 DFM, CO2 adsorbed on the CaO surface can spillover to metallic Ni surface, enabling direct hydrogenation without desorption of CO2. Ni-CaO-Al2O3 DFM exhibited a rapid initial methanation rate due to CO2 spillover. The Ni-CaO-Al2O3 DFM, with Ni and CO2 adsorption sites in close distance, allows efficient utilization of the heat generated by methanation to desorb strongly adsorbed CO2, leading to enhanced methane production. Consequently, Ni-CaO-Al2O3 DFM produced 1.3 mmol/gNi of methane at 300 °C, converting 35% of the adsorbed CO2 to methane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While several studies have utilized potato peel to prepare biochar involved in dye adsorption from wastewater, there is still a research gap in managing the spent feedstock to minimize secondary pollution formation. Hence, this study focuses on recycling the exhausted potato peel-based biochar after methylene blue (MB) adsorption for dual biogas and char production. Biochar was synthesized from potato peel pyrolysis (at 600 °C for 2 h) and employed for MB removal according to Box–Behnken statistical design. The optimized time and adsorbent dosage were 55.2 min and 2.6 g/L, giving 81.76 ± 4.34% removal at initial MB = 50 mg/L and pH = 9. The exhausted biochar was regenerated and supplemented to an anaerobic digester using a biochar: chicken droppings (CD) ratio of 1:4 (w/w) at 37 °C for 25 days. The biochar/CD synergy exhibited a bio-CH4 yield of 159.6 ± 10.5 mL/g CODinitial greater than the sole CD digester by 32.4%. Another experiment was introduced to maintain a sustainable circular economy by thermally treating the anaerobic digestate at 500 °C for 60 min. The generated biochar acquired a yield of 0.62 g/g sludge-cake, exhibiting heterogenic surface and 52% carbon content. This novel adsorption/digestion/pyrolysis strategy enjoyed carbon credit and biogas/biochar selling, getting a 5.62-year payback period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dry reforming reaction (DRM) had capacity to mitigate the greenhouse gases from environment as well as to produce syngas as a chemical feedstock. Various doped metal oxides, supported metal catalysts and promoted catalyst system over different supported metal catalysts had profound activity toward this specific reaction. Herein, a sequential review on DRM is presented which covers most of the excellent and conceptual work of this field from the last two decades. The review covers 8 active metals i.e. Fe, Co, Ni, Ru, Rh, Pd, Ir, Pt dispersed over 12 support system as activated carbon or Char, MgO, CeO2, La2O3, Y2O3, TiO2, Si2O3, Al2O3, ZrO2, SiC BN, Clay for DRM reaction. Further under each support, a deep literature review of a long range of promotors (total 35) belonging to different groups of periodic tables is elaborated. At the end, a brief about the state-of-the-art of possible industrial potent catalyst and the future research portfolio for catalytic advancement are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unpredictable nature of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, raises concerns about consistent power supply based on a single type. Green hydrogen presents a promising solution to mitigate the environmental effects of fossil fuels and control the unpredictability of renewable energy sources. Yet, developing green hydrogen systems mandates immense financial commitments, vitally stressing the importance of determining the most appropriate locations before constructing them. As such, the primary purpose of this paper was to propose an initial spatial analysis and prioritize the most suitable locations for installing solar-based green hydrogen systems in Tunisia. For this reason, an exhaustive literature survey was conducted to develop a GIS-based MCDM approach, taking into account technical, topography, environmental, and accessibility criteria. Then, EDAS, ARAS, MOORA, and COPRAS techniques were used to rank the most promising sites resulting from the previous stage. The study revealed that sites of high suitability, primarily in the southeastern and southwestern parts of Tunisia, spanned a total area of 1591 km2 (0.78%). Among such regions, Sfax, Monastir, and Sousse appeared to hold the top ranking as the most suitable locations for solar-based hydrogen. The "most suitable" sites had a hydrogen potential capacity of 9910 Mt per year, with Sfax, Monastir, and Sousse accounting for 14.5% of that capacity. By tapping into this immense potential and embracing the green hydrogen industry, Tunisia has the opportunity to lead in renewable energy adoption. This move could help ensure energy security, reduce dependence on imports, stimulate economic growth, and steer the nation toward a more sustainable and prosperous future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable biofuel and green chemical products are produced by the pyrolysis of Camellia oleifera shell at 400–800 °C. The pyrolysis temperature significantly influences the yield of pyrolysis products, which indicates that a high pyrolysis temperature promotes the generation of biogas and restrains biochar production. The main compounds in bio-oil are hydrocarbons, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, phenols, and furans that have promising applications in the chemical industry. The composition and heating value of biogas are significantly influenced by pyrolysis temperature. The maximum heating value of biogas is 13.51 MJ/Nm3. The pyrolysis temperature also influences the physicochemical properties of biochar. The results indicate that biochar can be used as an adsorbent for wastewater treatment. The present work demonstrates that waste Camellia oleifera shells can be converted into valuable pyrolysis products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Loess Plateau is one of the most vulnerable areas in the world. Numerous studies have been conducted to investigate alfalfa fields with different planting years. Soil microorganisms and nematodes are vital in ecosystem functionality and nutrient cycling. Therefore, comprehending their response to alfalfa fields with varying years of planting is essential for predicting the direction and trajectory of degradation. Alfalfa fields with different planting years (2 years, 9 years, and 18 years) were used as the research object, and farmland was used as the control (CK). High-throughput sequencing and morphological methods determined the community composition of microorganisms and nematodes. Carbon metabolic footprints, correlation networks, and structural equations were used to study soil microorganisms and nematode interactions. Principal component analysis (PCA) results showed that alfalfa fields with different planting years significantly impacted soil microorganisms and nematode community structures. Planting alfalfa significantly increased the nematode channel ratio (NCR) and Wasilewska index (WI), but significantly reduced the soil nematode PPI/MI and dominance (λ). The correlation network results indicated that, for the 2-year and 18-year treatments, the total number of links and positive links are higher than other treatments. Conversely, the 9-year treatment had fewer positive links and more negative links compared to other treatments. Additionally, the keystone species within each network varied based on the treatment years. Structural equation results show that alfalfa planting years directly impact soil fungal community structure and plant-parasitic nematodes' carbon metabolism omnivorous-predatory nematodes. Furthermore, the carbon metabolism of omnivorous-predatory nematodes directly influences soil organic carbon fixation. Moreover, as the duration of alfalfa planting increases, the metabolic footprint of plant-parasitic nematodes decreases while that of omnivorous-predatory nematodes rises. Among treatments varying in alfalfa planting durations, the 9-year treatment exhibited the most incredible energy conversion and utilization efficiency within the soil food web, demonstrating the most stable structure. This study reveals optimal alfalfa planting duration for soil ecosystem stability in the Loess Plateau. Future research should explore sustainable crop rotations and alfalfa–soil–climate interactions for improved agricultural management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a vital component of the global carbon pool, soils in arid and semi-arid regions play a significant role in carbon sequestration. In the context of global warming, increasing temperatures and moisture levels promote the transformation of barren land into wetlands, enhancing carbon sinks. However, the overdevelopment of oases and excessive extraction of groundwater lead to the opposite effect, reducing carbon sequestration. This study examines two soil types—meadow soil (MS) and swamp soil (SS)—from Qingtu Lake, an arid lake in western China. It analyzes the sources of soil inorganic carbon, the composition and origin of dissolved organic matter (DOM), and the relationships between microbes, soil organic carbon (SOC), soil inorganic carbon (SIC), mineral composition, and soil texture. The results indicate that inorganic carbon in the study area consists of both primary carbonate minerals and secondary pedogenic carbonates. The DOM primarily consists of two components, both identified as terrestrial humic substances. In meadow soils, bacterial activity drives the weathering of plagioclase, which releases Ca2+ necessary for the formation of pedogenic carbonates. Plagioclase also provides colonization sites for microbes and, along with microbial activity, participates in the soil carbon cycle. Within the soil community, bacteria appear to play a more critical role than fungi. In contrast, microbial contributions to the carbon cycle in swamp soils are weaker, with minerals predominantly interacting with organic carbon to form mineral-associated organic matter, thus promoting the soil carbon cycle. These findings have important implications for understanding soil carbon sinks under different micro-ecological conditions in arid and semi-arid regions. Through targeted human intervention, it is possible to enhance carbon sequestration in these areas, contributing to the mitigation of global climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar amendment and substituting chemical fertilizers with organic manure (organic substitution) have been widely reported to improve intensive vegetable production. However, considering its high potential for reducing carbon and reactive nitrogen (Nr) footprints, very few comprehensive evaluations have been performed on the environmental and economic aspects of biochar amendment or organic substitution. In this study, the comprehensive environmental damage costs from carbon and Nr footprints, measured using the life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology, followed a cradle-to-gate approach, and the carbon storage benefits were incorporated into the newly constructed net ecosystem economic benefit (NEEB) assessment frame in addition to the conventional product income–input cost-benefit methods. One kilogram of harvested vegetables for carbon/Nr footprints and one hectare of cultivated land per crop for cost and benefit were adopted as functional units considering the multi-cropping characteristics for intensive vegetable production. Five fertilization treatments were included: no fertilizer (CK); synthetic fertilizer application (SN); biochar amendment (NB); organic substitution (NM); and a combination of biochar and organic substitution (NMB). These were investigated for five consecutive years of vegetable crop rotations in a typically intensified vegetable production region in China. Adopting the revised NEEB methodology, NB significantly reduced carbon footprint by 73.0% compared to no biochar addition treatment. Meanwhile, NB significantly increased the total benefits by 9.7% and reduced the environmental damages by 52.7% compared to NM, generating the highest NEEB, making it the most effective fertilization strategy among all treatments. It was 4.3% higher compared to NM, which was not significant, but significantly higher than SN and NMB, by 23.0% and 13.6%, respectively. This finding highlights the importance of considering carbon storage benefit for properly assessing NEEB, which is important for developing effective agricultural management strategies and promoting intensive vegetable production with a more sustainable approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to explore how a new type of workplace training program can be created that truly enables participants to move from words to action. Recognizing the need to understand trainee–work environment dynamics the authors criticize training efforts that center on targeted learning events, instead highlighting the role of preparation and following up. In doing so, the authors tackle the lack of guidance practitioners experience when designing and implementing workplace training programs. Design/methodology/approach: The authors present action research on a pilot workplace training program focused on wellbeing in an academic work setting. The data collection draws from the case study tradition. The authors collect data through interviews (21), field notes of participant observation (3 occasions), participant-produced written materials and a feedback survey. Findings: The authors find that restorative practices, workplace mediation and reteaming enhance the participants' perceptions of self-efficacy and agency. Throughout the training program, facilitators observe the dynamics of the situation and take part in discussions to encourage exploration and reflection. Thus, facilitators likely need a coaching mindset. Originality/value: The theoretical contribution stems from an in-depth exploration of trainee–work environment dynamics and novel insights brought to workplace training from adjacent fields of research. The authors introduce a framework for planning participatory workplace training and organizational development programs, which answers a call from practitioners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The escalating global population and subsequent demand for agricultural products have led to a surge in agricultural waste generation, posing significant disposal challenges. Conventional disposal methods such as burning and dumping not only harm the environment but also jeopardize human health and safety. Recognizing the urgent need for sustainable waste management, researchers have increasingly focused on repurposing agricultural plant waste as a valuable resource. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the potential of agricultural plant waste in wealth creation and sustainable development. It highlights the detrimental impacts of current disposal methods and emphasizes the necessity for alternative approaches. By analyzing the physical, mechanical, and chemical properties of plant fibers, particularly cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, this review underscores their suitability for diverse applications. Moreover, it explores the emerging trend of utilizing pineapple leaf fiber, a sustainable and lightweight material, in structural applications, such as UAV construction. With its exceptional mechanical properties and biodegradability, pineapple leaf fiber holds promise as a viable alternative to traditional materials, contributing to a more sustainable future. In conclusion, this review advocates for a paradigm shift towards embracing agricultural plant waste as a valuable asset for economic prosperity and environmental sustainability. It underscores the importance of continued research and technological advancements to unlock the full potential of agricultural waste in fostering a circular economy and driving sustainable development globally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cobalamin, generally known as vitamin B12, is a crucial component required for humans in several physiological processes. It has been produced from sources that are derived from animals, making it difficult for vegetarians and vegans to consume the recommended amount each day. The importance of vitamin B12 in red blood cell production, DNA synthesis, and brain processes has been highlighted. Recent studies have looked at different methods of producing vitamin B12, such as microbial fermentation. Propionibacterium shermanii and Pseudomonas denitrificans have demonstrated remarkable potential as fermented sources of vitamin B12. Compared to conventional sources, the bioavailability of vitamin B12 produced by P. denitrificans and P. shermanii is more effective in meeting dietary needs. Vitamin B12 can be produced naturally by P. denitrificans. It is equipped with the enzymes and metabolic pathways required to produce this vital vitamin. The fermentation of several dietary substrates by P. shermanii can improve nutrient bioavailability. P. shermanii generates enzymes during fermentation that aid in the breakdown of complex nutrients, facilitating easier absorption and utilization by the body. The motive of the following critical evaluation is to assess the advantages of vitamin B12 for health and the capacity of P. denitrificans and P. shermanii to produce it through fermentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaerobic digestion is a well-established technology for the sustainable production of biogas. However, to be used as a substitute for natural gas or as vehicle fuel, it is necessary to remove carbon dioxide (CO2) and other contaminants from biogas that can compromise the useful life of combustion engines. Upgraded biogas is known as biomethane (>95% methane content). This work reviews the different technologies used for upgrading biogas, emphasizing microalgae–nanoparticle systems, representing a more sustainable and environmentally friendly system. Parameters affecting these systems performance are discussed, and the trends and areas of opportunity for subsequent work are evaluated through a bibliometric analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing demand for renewable energy and sustainable technologies, lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have become crucial energy storage components. Despite the promising properties of the high capacity and stability of TiO2, its large-scale application as an anode for LIBs is hindered by challenges like poor conductivity and volumetric changes during cycling. Here, a rutile TiO2 composite material with a thinned carbon coating (TiO2@TC) was synthesized through chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and a subsequent annealing process, which significantly improved the reversibility, cycling stability, and rate performance of the TiO2 anode materials. The thickness of the carbon layer on TiO2 was precisely controlled and thinned from 4.2 nm to 1.9 nm after secondary annealing treatment, leading to a smaller steric hindrance and an improved conductivity while serving as protective coatings by preventing the electrochemical degradation of the TiO2 surface and hindering volumetric changes during cycling. The resulting TiO2@TC with the thin carbon layer demonstrated a high specific capacity of 167 mAh g−1 at 0.5 C in Li-based half cells, which could stably run for 200 cycles with nearly 100% capacity retention. The thin carbon layer also contributes to an improved rate performance of 90 mAh g−1 at even 20 C. This work provides an innovational strategy for improving the conductivity and volumetric changes during the cycling of TiO2 anodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The routine assessment of pilot fatigue is paramount to ensuring aviation safety. However, current designs of pilot fatigue factors often lack the comprehensiveness needed to fully account for the dynamic and cumulative nature of fatigue. To bridge this gap, this study introduces a biomathematical fatigue model (BFM) that leverages system dynamics theory, integrating a dynamic feedback mechanism for fatigue information. The novelty of this approach lies in its capability to continuously capture and model fatigue fluctuations driven by varying operational demands. A comparative analysis with international methodologies for evaluating cumulative fatigue on weekly and monthly scales demonstrates that the proposed BFM effectively reproduces variations in pilot fatigue characteristics. Moreover, the pilot fatigue coefficient derived from the model provides a robust differentiation of fatigue profiles across diverse work types, making it particularly suitable for estimating cumulative fatigue over monthly intervals. This BFM-based approach offers valuable insights for the strategic planning of flight schedules and establishes an innovative framework for utilizing BFMs in fatigue management. By employing a scientifically grounded evaluation method rooted in system dynamics and the BFM, this study rigorously assesses cumulative pilot fatigue, confirming the model's accuracy in replicating fatigue patterns and validating the efficiency and reliability of the derived fatigue coefficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) induces oxidative stress in the skin by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can lead to inflammatory conditions including erythema (a sign of sunburn). This clinical study aims to develop an instrumental evaluation method to determine the minimal erythema dose (MED) for UVR. Methods: Fourteen human subjects aged 27 to 57 years (48.93 ± 8.54) participated in this study. Six subsites were designated on the test skin site of each subject and irradiated with UVR at different doses. The examiner visually assessed erythema, determining the 'visual MED'. Additionally, the a* value (a chrominance parameter presenting greenness to redness) was measured using a spectrophotometer as an indicator of erythema. The a* values of the UVR-irradiated subsites were compared to the non-irradiated control value, and the differences were referred to as Δa*. The Δa* value of the subsites irradiated with UVR at the 'visual MED' was referred to as the Δa*VMED for each subject. The mean of the Δa*VMED values of all subjects was chosen as a criterion value for the 'instrumental MED'. The 'instrumental MED' was defined as the lowest dose of UVR that causes an Δa* value equivalent to the criterion value. The 'visual MED' and 'instrumental MED' values of all subjects were subjected to correlation analysis. Results: The mean of the Δa*VMED values of all subjects was 1.88 ± 0.8. The means of the 'visual MED' and 'instrumental MED' values (in J m−2 unit) of all subjects were 300.14 ± 84.16 and 303.29 ± 77.99, respectively. In Pearson correlation analysis, the 'instrumental MED' and 'visual MED' values had a very strong positive correlation with each other (r = 0.864, p = 0.000). Conclusions: This study suggests that the instrumental evaluation method of MED based on the spectrophotometric measurement of the a* values can complement or replace the visual evaluation method and that this method will be useful in monitoring skin tolerance to oxidative stress affected by prooxidant factors and defensive factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digestate is a product with valuable fertilizing properties, remaining after the anaerobic fermentation process. An essential feature of the substance in question is its high water content of up to 97%. To improve the fertilizer value of the digestate, it is necessary to dehydrate it to produce a concentrated product. This paper determined the possibility of dewatering the digestate using an innovative reactor design. The study, conducted on a laboratory scale, used digestate from a Polish biogas plant. The dewatering technique described in the paper is based on the evaporation and condensation of water vapor on the inner surface of the reactor dome. The condensate accumulated on the leach trough and was directed to a storage tank. During the weeks of testing, 11.5 kg of condensate was separated from the initial weight of the digestate (32 kg), with a dry weight of 6.11%. The resulting condensate from dehydration had an average pH value of 9.0 and an average ammonium nitrogen content of 2.07 g∙kg−1. The economic calculations made in the paper allowed for estimating the expected savings associated with the management of digestate in Poland. The research showed the proposed technology's high potential for dewatering digestate under laboratory conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coupling of solar cells and Li-ion batteries is an efficient method of energy storage, but solar power suffers from the disadvantages of randomness, intermittency and fluctuation, which cause the low conversion efficiency from solar energy into electric energy. In this paper, a circuit model for the coupling system with PV cells and a charge controller for a Li-ion battery is presented in the MATLAB/Simulink environment. A new three-stage charging strategy is proposed to explore the changing performance of the Li-ion battery, comprising constant-current charging, maximum power point tracker (MPPT) charging and constant-voltage charging stages, among which the MPPT charging stage can achieve the fastest maximum power point (MPP) capture and, therefore, improve battery charging efficiency. Furthermore, the charge controller can improve the lifetime of the battery through the constant-current and constant-voltage charging scheme. The simulation results indicate that the three-stage charging strategy can achieve an improvement in the maximum power tracking efficiency of 99.9%, and the average charge controller efficiency can reach 96.25%, which is higher than that of commercial chargers. This work efficiently matches PV cells and Li-ion batteries to enhance solar energy storages, and provides a new optimization idea for hybrid PV/Li-ion systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European ban on internal combustion engines has raised several questions from both the automotive players and society. The proliferation of electric vehicles is struggling as it is facing issues related to energy supply and distribution and to infrastructure availability. These problems are considerably different across the various countries. It is consequently a tough challenge to provide a worldwide comprehensive evaluation. In this paper we first outline the common problems to later move to provide a clear picture of the Italian scenario, starting from the available data related to mobility for the period 2018–2022. We outline the main problems to be tackled and the related costs. Italy is an interesting and representative case as it is bound to the timeline set by the European green transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the experience of in-person esports events from attendees' perspectives by integrating the co-creation concept into the experience economy framework. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach to investigate the underlying psychological mechanism of attendees to actively participate in experience co-creation. The quantitative results validated the experience economy scale within the esports event context. Facilitated by Leximancer, qualitative findings revealed that co-creation elements are key ingredients that contribute to the quality of event experiences. The co-created experience at in-person esports events involves interactions among multiple actors, the physical environment, and other contributing factors that shape the overall experience. The study identified four key dimensions as crucial factors in co-creating a high-quality esports experience: shared fantasy world, immersive experience, social-learning experience, and active engagement. The proposed framework sheds light on a better understanding of the quality of experiences in esports events and provides valuable insights for industry practitioners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a data-driven, in situ proximal multi-sensor digital soil mapping approach to develop digital twins for multiple agricultural fields. A novel Digital Soil CoreTM (DSC) Probe was engineered that contains seven sensors, each of a distinct modality, including sleeve friction, tip force, dielectric permittivity, electrical resistivity, soil imagery, acoustics, and visible and near-infrared spectroscopy. The DSC System integrates the DSC Probe, DSC software (v2023.10), and deployment equipment components to sense soil characteristics at a high vertical spatial resolution (mm scale) along in situ soil profiles up to a depth of 120 cm in about 60 s. The DSC Probe in situ proximal data are harmonized into a data cube providing vertical high-density knowledge associated with physical–chemical–biological soil conditions. In contrast, conventional ex situ soil samples derived from soil cores, soil pits, or surface samples analyzed using laboratory and other methods are bound by a substantially coarser spatial resolution and multiple compounding errors. Our objective was to investigate the effects of the mismatched scale between high-resolution in situ proximal sensor data and coarser-resolution ex situ soil laboratory measurements to develop soil prediction models. Our study was conducted in central California soil in almond orchards. We collected DSC sensor data and spatially co-located soil cores that were sliced into narrow layers for laboratory-based soil measurements. Partial Least Squares Regression (PLSR) cross-validation was used to compare the results of testing four data integration methods. Method A reduced the high-resolution sensor data to discrete values paired with layer-based soil laboratory measurements. Method B used stochastic distributions of sensor data paired with layer-based soil laboratory measurements. Method C allocated the same soil analytical data to each one of the high-resolution multi-sensor data within a soil layer. Method D linked the high-density multi-sensor soil data directly to crop responses (crop performance and behavior metrics), bypassing costly laboratory soil analysis. Overall, the soil models derived from Method C outperformed Methods A and B. Soil predictions derived using Method D were the most cost-effective for directly assessing soil–crop relationships, making this method well suited for industrial-scale precision agriculture applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, the conversion of waste plastics into high-value products via catalytic pyrolysis enables the advancement of plastics' open-loop recycling. However, enhancing selectivity remains a critical challenge. This study introduces a novel approach to catalytic pyrolysis, utilizing a combination of MCM-41 and modified gallium-based HZSM-5 catalysts, to achieve exceptional selectivity for aromatic liquid-phase products from linear low-density polyethylene. Firstly, to enhance the probability of dehydroaromatization optimization, the type and proportion of metal active sites within the HZSM-5 catalyst are fine-tuned, which would establish equilibrium with acid sites, resulting in a remarkable 15.72% increase in the selectivity of aromatic hydrocarbons. Secondly, to enhance the accessibility of volatiles to active sites, mesoporous MCM-41 with cracking capabilities is introduced. The doping ratio of MCM-41 is meticulously controlled to facilitate the diffusion of cracked volatiles to the active centers of modified gallium-based HZSM-5, enabling efficient reforming reactions. Experimental findings demonstrate that MCM-41 significantly enhances the dehydroaromatization activity of the modified gallium-based HZSM-5 catalyst. Under the influence of MCM-41:Zr2Ga3/HZSM-5 = 1:2 catalyst, the selectivity for aromatic hydrocarbons reaches an impressive 93.11%, with a notable 60.01% selectivity for benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene. Lastly, this study proposes a plausible pathway for the generation of high-value aromatic hydrocarbons using the combined catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green hydrogen production from water is one attractive route to non-fossil fuel and a potential source of clean energy. Hydrogen is not only a zero-carbon energy source but can also be utilized as an efficient storage of electrical energy generated through various other sources, such as wind and solar. Cost-effective and environmentally benign direct hydrogen production through neutral water (∼pH 7) reduction is particularly challenging due to the low concentration of protons. There is currently a major need for easy-to-prepare, robust, as well as active electrode materials. Herein we report three new molecular electrodes that were prepared by anchoring commercially available, and environmentally benign cobalt-containing electrocatalysts with three different ligand frameworks (porphyrin, phthalocyanine, and corrin) on a structurally modified graphite foil surface. Under the studied reaction conditions (over 7 h at 22°C), the electrode with Co-porphyrin is the most efficient for the water reduction with starting ∼740 mV onset potential (OP) (vs. RHE, current density 2.5 mA/cm2) and a Tafel slope (TS) of 103 mV/dec. It is followed by the molecular electrodes having Co-phthalocyanine [825 mV (OP), 138 mV/dec (TS)] and Vitamin-B12 (Co-corrin moiety) [830 mV (OP), 194 mv/dec (TS)]. A clear time-dependent improvement (>200 mV over 3 h) in the H2 production overpotential with the Co-porphyrin-containing cathode was observed. This is attributed to the activation due to water coordination to the Co-center. A long-term chronopotentiometric stability test shows a steady production of hydrogen from all three cathode surfaces throughout seven hours, confirmed using an H2 needle sensor. At a current density of 10 mA/cm2, the Co-porphyrin-containing electrode showed a TOF value of 0.45 s−1 at 870 mV vs. RHE, whereas the Co-phthalocyanine and Vitamin-B12-containing electrodes showed 0.37 and 0.4 s−1 at 1.22 V and 1.15 V (vs. RHE), respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Farmed freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) and black tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon) comprise a significant portion of Bangladesh's seafood exports, raising concerns about their environmental impacts. Freshwater prawn farms, which require a relatively high amount of feed supply, release 1.0 MT CO2-equivalents/year, equating to 18.8 kg CO2e/MT prawn, contributing significantly to global warming and climate change risks. Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) offers an alternative farming method to conventional prawn farming systems, as it minimizes greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and climate change impacts. Systematically reviewing 112 scientific articles on IMTA, this article offers recommendations for adopting IMTA to promote sustainable freshwater prawn farming in Bangladesh. IMTA is undergoing extensive experimentation and practice in many parts of the world, offering economic benefits, social acceptability, and environmental sustainability. In addition to native prawn species, various indigenous organic extractive freshwater mollusks, and inorganic extractive plants are available which can seamlessly be used to tailor the IMTA system. Extractive organisms, including aquatic mollusks and plants within prawn farms, can capture blue carbon effectively lowering GHG emissions and helping mitigate climate change impacts. Aquatic mollusks offer feed for fish and livestock, while aquatic plants serve as a dual food source and contribute to compost manure production for crop fields. Research on IMTA in Bangladesh was primarily experimented on finfish in freshwater ponds, with the absence of studies on IMTA in prawn farms. This necessitates conducting research at the prawn farmer level to understand the production of extractive aquatic mollusk and plants alongside prawn in the prawn-producing regions of southwestern Bangladesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Work-study programmes aim to support young adults transitioning from tertiary education to work and contribute to enhancing their employability. The purpose of this study is to provide a detailed analysis of the learning experiences of trainees in work-study programmes within the broad field of engineering. Design/methodology/approach: The data gathering procedures used interviews with participants of a specific work-study programme and conducting thematic analyses to identify and understand the motivations of these adults for enrolling in work-study programmes and their associated workplace learning experiences. Fifty-two alumni of electrical and logistics engineering programmes completed 12 months of a separate work-study programme and consented to participate in an hour-long interview. They elaborated upon their work-learn experiences to explicate their work-learn needs and challenges in those interviews. Findings: Findings include workplaces facilitated skills development through providing combinations of work tasks comprising both routine and novel work assignments; challenging circumstances at the workplace provided trainees with opportunities to develop adaptive capacities; and engaging in non-routine work processes fosters integration into the engineering workplace community. Originality/value: The findings contribute to the existing literature by exemplifying how routine engineering activities are practical affordances through which engineering trainees construct knowledge and dispositions for engaging in challenging, non-routine engineering work. Such experiences are crucial in preparing trainees for advanced roles in logistics or electronic sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper describes a model of "Learning to care" derived from a study exploring how care workers in care homes learn to care for people living with dementia. The "Learning to care" model is primarily informal in nature in which influences such as formalised training and organisational culture impact care outcomes indirectly rather than directly. Design/methodology/approach: This study used a focused, critical ethnographic approach in two care homes in England resulting in 63 h of observation of care of people living with advanced dementia, 15 semi-structured interviews and 90 in-situ ethnographic interviews with care staff. Findings: The findings reveal a three-level model of learning to care. At the level of day-to-day interactions is a mechanism for learning that is wholly informal and follows the maxim "What Works is What Matters". Workers draw on resources and information within this process derived from their personal experiences, resident influences and care home cultural knowledge. Cultural knowledge is created through a worker's interactions with colleagues and the training they receive, meaning that these organisational level influences affect care practice only indirectly via the "What Works is What Matters" mechanism. Originality/value: This study makes an original contribution by explaining the nature of day-to-day informal learning processes as experienced by care workers and those living with dementia in care homes. In particular, it illuminates the specific mechanisms by which organisational culture has an effect on care practice and the limitations of formal training in influencing such practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common complication of diabetes, with its prevalence increasing globally. While previous research has linked obesity indices such as body mass index (BMI) to DR, the association with weight-adjusted-waist index (WWI) remains unclear. Additionally, the relationship between WWI and DR has not been fully elucidated. This cross-sectional study analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2005–2008) to investigate these associations in Americans aged 40 and above. The study included 5436 participants (2705 men and 2731 women). Weighted logistic regression analysis revealed a significant increase in DR prevalence with higher WWI and BMI values. Smooth curve analysis demonstrated a linear correlation between WWI and DR. The findings suggest that both WWI and BMI are independently associated with DR risk among older US adults, highlighting the importance of considering central obesity measures in assessing diabetic complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With rising demand for clean energy, global focus turns to finding ideal sites for large-scale underground hydrogen storage (UHS) in depleted petroleum reservoirs. A thorough preliminary reservoir evaluation before hydrogen (H2) injection is crucial for UHS success and safety. Recent criteria for UHS often emphasize economics and chemistry, neglecting key reservoir attributes. This study introduces a comprehensive framework for the reservoir-scale preliminary assessment, specifically tailored for longterm H2 storage within depleted gas reservoirs. The evaluation criteria encompass critical components, including reservoir geometry, petrophysical properties, tectonics, and formation fluids. To illustrate the practical application of this approach, we assess the Barnett shale play reservoir parameters. The assessment unfolds through three key stages: (1) A systematic evaluation of the reservoir's properties against our comprehensive screening criteria determines its suitability for H2 storage. (2) Using both homogeneous and multilayered gas reservoir models, we explore the feasibility and efficiency of H2 storage. This phase involves an in-depth examination of reservoir behavior during the injection stage. (3) To enhance understanding of UHS performance, sensitivity analyses investigate the impact of varying reservoir dimensions and injection/production pressures. The findings reveal the following: (a) Despite potential challenges associated with reservoir compaction and aquifer support, the reservoir exhibits substantial promise as an H2 storage site. (b) Notably, a pronounced increase in reservoir pressure manifests during the injection stage, particularly in homogeneous reservoirs. (c) Furthermore, optimizing injection-extraction cycle efficiency can be achieved by augmenting reservoir dimensions while maintaining a consistent thickness. To ensure a smooth transition to implementation, further comprehensive investigations are advised, including experimental and numerical studies to address injectivity concerns and explore storage site development. This evaluation framework is a valuable tool for assessing the potential of depleted gas reservoirs for large-scale hydrogen storage, advancing global eco-friendly energy systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to conduct a thorough examination of Pakistan's energy sector, with a specific focus on renewable energy (RE) and nonrenewable energy (non-RE) sources. It intends to delve into the potential of solar and hydropower resources within Pakistan and their capacity to mitigate the effects of climate change, thus centering the discussion on RE, particularly solar and hydropower. Adopting secondary data sources, this study seeks to provide a comprehensive analysis of the current state of Pakistan's energy sector and the challenges that it faces. One of the key findings highlighted in the analysis is the serious problem within Pakistan's energy sector: existing institutions struggle to cope with the increasing demand for energy owing to insufficient growth in power generation capacity. This inadequacy has led to an increase in CO2 emissions, primarily driven by the country's growing reliance on fossil fuels to meet its energy needs. Despite this challenge, Pakistan possesses substantial potential for Resources, particularly solar energy and hydropower. Following an evaluation of renewable energy resources, this study proposes recommendations to support the adoption and utilization of renewable energy as a critical component of sustainable growth. These suggestions are geared toward accelerating the transition to renewable energy sources, thus positioning Pakistan for a more sustainable and resilient energy future. This research paper underscores the urgency of addressing the shortcomings in Pakistan's energy sector and emphasizes the pivotal role of renewable energy, especially solar and hydropower, in mitigating climate change and fostering sustainable development. By leveraging its abundant renewable energy resources and implementing strategic measures, Pakistan can chart a path toward a more environmentally friendly and economically viable energy landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study introduces the concept of "energy level" into the analysis of innovation ecosystems. Drawing on the theory of "architects", we have identified the key architects of regional digital innovation ecosystems. By integrating Necessary Condition Analysis (NCA) and Fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA), we examined the configuration effects of internal architects, external architects, and digital innovation habitats on the energy level of these ecosystems, utilizing data from 30 provinces in China as case studies. The results indicate that the contribution of a single architect to achieving a high energy level in a regional digital innovation ecosystem is limited and cannot be regarded as a necessary condition for driving a high energy level. However, core innovation actors and digital infrastructures emerge as more significant core conditions. The architects of regional digital innovation ecosystems exhibit multiple concurrent causal relationships. The configuration paths of high and non-high energy levels of ecosystems display a causally asymmetric "multiple paths to the same outcome" relationship. The three identified paths for driving high energy levels are categorized as "core actor-infrastructure"-driven paths. The findings of this paper hold substantial theoretical and practical significance for fostering the healthy development of regional digital innovation ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peels make up a considerable proportion of solid waste generated from fruit and vegetable production and processing. If not properly managed, they could contribute to environmental degradation through the dispersion of nutrient-rich leachate and the release of various greenhouse gases. Alternatively, these peels could be transformed to biosorbents, which could assist in the removal of pollutants of environmental and human health concerns from wastewaters. Using peels as raw material for biosorbent production is an environmentally friendly and cost-effective option for waste disposal. Peels also contain bio-activators, which can be used to activate the biosorbent produced, minimizing the use of synthetic chemicals for biosorbent activation. This review considers the different physicochemical characteristics of vegetable and fruit peels that make them suitable raw materials for biosorbent production. Additionally, their transformation to biosorbents using hydrothermal carbonization and pyrolysis is discussed. The review concludes with a discussion on the efficiency of peel-based biosorbents in the removal of diverse types of pollutants from wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increased adoption of the electric vehicle (EV) needs the proper charging infrastructure integrated with suitable energy management schemes. However, the available literature on this topic lacks in providing a comparative survey on different aspects of this field to properly guide the people interested in this area. To mitigate this gap, this research survey is an effort to provide know-how about the important aspects of the overall EV charging setup with 239 relevant references. It reviews the achievements of energy management systems in terms of improving fuel consumption efficiency and reducing carbon dioxide emissions in EV charging systems. State-of-the-art and most up-to-date standards of EV technology and charging infrastructure are presented. EV charging schemes based on standard grid and renewable energy resources are introduced with a brief comparison of the standard grid and photovoltaic-grid charging systems. Moreover, this article describes centralized and decentralized control configurations of EV charging. A comparative survey of different energy management algorithms is presented while highlighting the benefits and drawbacks of each algorithm. The work presented in this review will help frame future research needs. It is anticipated that the material gathered in this article will become a valuable source of information for the researchers working on this area of study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water scarcity presents a pressing challenge in Egypt, exacerbated by factors such as population growth, urbanization, and climate change impacts. With over 95% reliance on the Nile River for freshwater supply, Egypt's water resources are strained, particularly with a population exceeding 100 million. Egypt's arid climate intensifies water scarcity, necessitating sustainable management strategies. This study explored greywater treatment as a solution to alleviate water scarcity in Egypt, investigating its technical feasibility, economic viability, and environmental benefits. Greywater, derived from domestic activities, is an underutilized resource that can be reclaimed and treated for reuse, reducing demand for freshwater sources. Through greywater treatment systems, households and communities can recycle water, conserve resources, and mitigate pollution. The study investigated using polymers as a coagulant in greywater treatment, examining its efficacy in removing contaminants and improving water quality. Experimental trials were conducted to evaluate the performance of polymer addition in greywater treatment compared to conventional methods. Results demonstrate that polymer addition reduces turbidity, suspended solids, and organic pollutants in greywater. Poly aluminum chloride (PAC) polymer, in particular, exhibits strong coagulation capabilities, versatility across pH ranges, and high efficiency in contaminant removal. Additionally, PAC offers operational advantages such as low dosage requirements and reduced sludge production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The escalating global food waste crisis presents both a challenge and an opportunity for sustainable development. Every year, millions of tons of food are wasted, contributing to environmental degradation and resource inefficiency. This wasted food not only represents a loss of valuable resources but also contributes to significant greenhouse gas emissions when disposed of in landfills. In response to this pressing issue, food waste valorization biorefineries have emerged as a promising solution, transforming waste into valuable bioproducts through innovative biotechnological processes. This review critically examines recent trends in food waste biorefining, focusing on the latest advancements in microbial and enzymatic conversion technologies. Various valorization pathways that convert food waste into biofuels, biochemicals, and bio-based materials are explored, thereby integrating principles of the circular economy to minimize waste and maximize resource utilization. Key developments in the field include the optimization of microbial consortia for enhanced degradation and conversion efficiency, as well as the engineering of enzymes to improve specificity and activity. These advancements have led to significant improvements in the efficiency and feasibility of converting food waste into high-value products. The environmental benefits of these biorefineries are also discussed in depth, encompassing the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, decreased reliance on fossil fuels, and the mitigation of environmental pollution. By diverting food waste from landfills and transforming it into renewable resources, these biorefineries play a crucial role in promoting environmental sustainability. Despite these advancements, several challenges remain. Feedstock variability affects process consistency, leading to fluctuations in product yield and quality. There is a need for process optimization to improve yield and cost-effectiveness, ensuring that biorefinery operations are economically viable at an industrial scale. Issues related to scalability and industrial implementation, such as the development of infrastructure and supply chains, also pose significant hurdles. By synthesizing current research, this review underscores the considerable potential of food waste biorefineries to contribute to sustainable agriculture and biocatalysis. Critical gaps in knowledge are identified, and areas for future research are proposed, such as developing robust and flexible biorefining systems capable of handling diverse feedstocks and integrating advanced biotechnological tools for process monitoring and control. The review also highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and public-private partnerships in driving innovation and commercialization in this field. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current state of food waste biorefining and to offer a roadmap for future research and industrial implementation. By highlighting the role of these biorefineries in achieving sustainable development goals, the review emphasizes the need for continued research, technological innovation, and supportive policy frameworks. Through these efforts, food waste valorization biorefineries can play a pivotal role in creating a sustainable and resilient future, addressing both environmental and economic challenges posed by food waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is now widely confirmed by scientific evidence that greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced to counteract the effects of global warming. The production of heat for industrial purposes is responsible for 36.8% of world energy-related emissions due to the widespread use of fossil fuels. Heat pumps are a key technology in the transition towards more sustainable industrial processes. In this paper, a systematic review of the literature produced in the last 5 years in international journals regarding the integration of heat pumps in industrial processes is presented. Firstly, papers presenting innovative configurations for high temperature heat pumps (HTHP), i.e., heat pumps delivering temperatures in the range between 100 °C and 200 °C, suitable for many industrial processes but still under development, are reviewed. Then, papers reporting innovative solutions for the integration of heat pumps in specific industrial processes and sectors (e.g., distillation, drying, desalination, etc.) are analyzed. Finally, the literature about alternative low-GWP refrigerants for industrial heat pumps, both pure compounds and mixtures, is described. It is concluded that many progresses have been realized in the last 5 years (2020–2024) regarding the identification of innovative heat pumps for industrial applications, but further research is certainly required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A facile method to synthesize well-dispersed TiO2 quantum dots on graphene nanosheets (TiO2 -QDs/GNs) in a water-in-oil (W/O) emulsion system is reported. The TiO2 /graphene composites display high performance as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), such as having high reversible lithium storage capacity, high Coulombic efficiency, excellent cycling stability, and high rate capability. The excellent electrochemical performance and special structure of the composites thus offer a way to prepare novel graphene-based electrode materials for high-energy-density and high-power LIBs., (© 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.)