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We designed a trigonal symmetric imine-linked covalent organic framework (COF), TFPC-DAB, with control over the angularity of the building units, where a bent C2-symmetric diamine, such as 1,3-diaminobenzene (1,3-DAB or DAB), with an exo-angle of 120° was used instead of those with an exo-angle of 180°, in combination with a C3-symmetric trialdehyde, such as tri(4-formylphenoxy)cyanurate (TFPC). Its synthesis was accomplished by reacting the building units in a mixture of mesitylene/dioxane/6 M acetic acid under solvothermal conditions. The phase purity, thermal stability, and porosity of TFPC-DAB were established by various analytical techniques. Utilizing the Density Functional Tight Binding (DFTB+) simulation and Pawley refinement, the best fit of the small angle x-ray pattern was found to have an AA stacking of TFPC-DAB in the trigonal space group P3 with low refinement parameters. Such smart materials are in huge demand to detect hazardous corrosive chemicals, such as HCl and NH3. The dual features of electron deficient π-acidic triazine moiety and heteroatoms (N/O) from TFPC and electron rich phenyl units from DAB embodied in the framework enhance its luminescent property and thereby make it suitable for solvent-based HCl and NH3 sensing. The detection limits for HCl and NH3 in methanol were found to be 14 and 82 ppb, respectively. The effect of solvent polarity on the sensing studies was observed with much lower detection limits in dioxane: 2.5 and 11 ppb for HCl and NH3, respectively. A detailed theoretical calculation using density functional theory and configurational bias Monte Carlo modules was conducted for understanding interactions between the COF and HCl or NH3 analytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Robustness of higher‐order network (HON) with dependency is different from first‐order network (FON), as the attack orders and the number of iterations are totally different. To measure the robustness of HON with dependency, this study proposed new attack strategies on node and edge failure through measuring the size of the giant component and global efficiency. And two real‐world systems of hazardous materials transportation accident causation system and Chinese high‐speed railway system with different network size were empirically studied. Results show that HON is more fragile to robustness attacks than FON. The number of attack iterations is uncertain in HON, which depends on the attack strategies and the network structure. Meanwhile, nodes and edges with high dependency have greater impacts on network robustness, providing valuable insights into capturing critical information. This study may be helpful to design the robust system, improve the system's reliability and serve as a valuable reference for future exploration of HONs robustness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a polarization-insensitive magnetic tunable perfect metamaterial absorber is analyzed which shows its functionality as a refractive index (RI) sensor. The unit cell structure of reported absorber consists of a cross-shaped Indium Arsenide (InAs) array over aluminum ground plane and has dimensions less than λ c / 4 with thickness of 7.5 μ m and periodicity of 9 μ m making it an ultra-thin absorber. The proposed absorber provides an average absorption of 99.99% on the implementation of magnetic field (B) at 0.4 T. The resonance frequency and corresponding absorption rates can be controlled by varying the magnetic field from B = 0. 1 –0.4 T which provides high absorption as well as shift in the frequency spectrum by 0.3 THz/T. Additionally, parametric analysis has also been done to confirm the selection of the optimum value of the designed parameters of the structure. Furthermore, simulation results reveal that the proposed structure is very sensitive to the change of RI values in the surroundings thus, the proposed structure can be employed as a RI sensor high sensitivity of 1.083 THz/RIU over the range of 1–1.6 RI. In addition, the result shows that the sensor can detect different chemical compounds such as ethanol, gasoline, paraffin, sodium chloride, carbon disulfide with an average sensitivity of 0.925 THz/RIU. Thus, the proposed absorber with obtained sensitivity can be utilized as a biochemical sensor, making it one of the best contenders for chemical industry uses in diagnosis of different hazardous chemicals as well as finding its applicability in biomedical uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a comprehensive review of the various synthetic pathways developed over the last four decades for the synthesis of 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline (2-AP), a compound known for its significant contribution to flavor of rice. These approaches can be categorized into four main types based on retrosynthetic analysis: oxidation of suitable precursors, Grignard reactions involving 1-pyrroline carboxylates, cyclization of 6-amino 2,3-hexanedione, and hydrolysis of the enol ether of 2-AP. While these methods have aimed to provide alternative routes to produce 2-AP, some of them exhibit clear limitations, including complex and time-consuming synthetic steps, the use of expensive or hazardous chemicals. Additionally, the well-known instability of 2-AP presents significant obstacles to the development of its synthesis. Therefore, there is a pressing requirement for the creation of a simple, effective, and feasible method for preparing 2-AP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquatic animals are viewed as a good source of healthy lipids. Although drying is an effective method for the preservation of aquatic animal products (AAPs), the whole process is accompanied by lipid oxidation. This article reviews the main mechanism of lipid oxidation in the drying process. It also summarizes the effects of lipid oxidation on the quality of dried aquatic animal products (DAAPs), including nutrients, color, flavor, and hazard components, especially for those harmful aldehydes and heterocyclic amines. In addition, it concluded that moderate lipid oxidation contributes to improving the quality of products. Still, excessive lipid oxidation produces hazardous substances and induces health risks. Hence, to obtain high-quality DAAPs, some effective control technologies to promote/prevent lipid oxidation are introduced and deeply discussed, including salting, high-pressure processing, irradiation, non-thermal plasma technology, defatting treatments, antioxidants, and edible coating. A systematic review of the effect of lipid oxidation on quality attributes and control technologies in DAAPs is presented, and some perspectives are made for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tardigrades are the most resilient biospecies on Earth, capable of surviving extreme conditions including high temperatures, pressures, air deprivation, and exposure to noxious chemicals and radiation. The study here undertakes biomimicry of the remarkable adaptability of tardigrades by designing biomorph soft actuators (BSAs) that can endure these harsh environments. Unlike previous tardigrade‐inspired materials, which lacked a naturalistic interaction with their surroundings, the BSAs replicate the anatomical macrostructures and the non‐monotonic environmental resilience of tardigrades, especially their ability to adapt via dehydration and rehydration. Dual‐layer hydrogel spheres are employed with embedded fluid bubbles, creating cohesive yet non‐monolithic smart BSA structures. These structures exhibit high resilience to compressive, thermal, and radiation stimuli, achieved through thermoresponsive shape morphing driven by fluid balance. Their advanced capabilities are also demonstrated, such as driving a McKibben‐type artificial muscle and rapidly regenerating themselves from a state exposed to hazardous chemicals. Such versatile actuating biomorphs hold great promise for various autonomous applications, including soft robotic operations in aqueous effluents, deserts, polar regions, and outer space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persistent and toxic chemicals remain a significant pollution concern, underscored by the European Union's Zero Pollution Action Plan. Daily exposure to complex chemical mixtures starts early and continues throughout life, for instance for consumer products such as toys, plasticware, furniture, and synthetic fibres. EU-funded research projects like COPHES/DEMOCOPHES, HBM4EU, and PARC have documented population exposure to these substances. The outcomes of such research initiatives have contributed to highlighting the adverse health impacts of Substances of Concern (SoCs), leading to several regulatory actions within the EU. SoCs include hazardous chemicals such as carcinogens, mutagens, endocrine disruptors, and "persistent, bioaccumulative, and mobile" (PBM) chemicals. The digital transformation in chemicals management has resulted in policies that mandate electronic submissions of chemical risk assessment-relevant data, and the creation of industry-specific databases like the Substances of Concern in Products (SCIP) database, established by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) under the revised Waste Framework Directive (WstFD). These databases describe SoCs and their link with products, offering a comprehensive view of chemical quantities, emission sources, exposure pathways, and other relevant data, contingent on robust data governance. Effective chemical risk assessment requires characterizing hazards, exposure sources and levels, and drawing conclusions concluding on potential risks, supported by a well-defined problem formulation and monitoring. This includes setting objectives and defining the scope of the risk assessment and decision-making, particularly regarding early warning signal detection for the purpose of public health protection. Successful risk assessment hinges on access to robust, traceable, accessible, and interoperable data across scientific disciplines and regulatory frameworks. This paper discusses the challenges of aggregating human health risk assessment-relevant chemical information from multiple sources, especially from the perspective of data fusion and reuse. It presents findings from a research project focused on utilizing chemicals datasets from various governmental and scientific sources. The study highlights the need for improved data presentation and availability to enhance usability for all stakeholders. Recommendations are made for the EU Commission, ECHA, industry, and academia to support harmonized data practices, increased transparency, and the development of sustainable chemical applications fostering safer market introductions. These recommendations can also be useful to other data providers that care about the reusability of the data they publish or manage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Karst represents approximately 15% of the planet's surface, hundreds of millions of people live on and rely on these aquifers for water supply and agricultural irrigation. In karstic landscapes, groundwater is exposed in sinkholes, inundated caves, and artesian wells, which are two-way communication spots. When the phreatic level is exposed, the groundwater can change substantially as a result of anthropogenic impacts, modifying the water quality and the environmental integrity by incoming excess nutrients, contaminants, pathogens, and other hazardous substances such as metals and microplastics. In this paper, we develop and test a multimetric index to evaluate the condition status of dolines located within urban areas, including seven indicators: trophic index, fecal bacteria, fecal viruses, microplastics, heavy metals, zooplankton biodiversity, and fish biodiversity. Lastly, we made a proof of concept for the index in the dolines on the island of Cozumel (Mexico), resulting in evaluations from fair to good. The index is powerful due to its sensitivity to pathogens and exotic invasive species. This additive weighted index allows to assess the condition status of dolines in urban areas anywhere in the world; if required, modifications are possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of cosmetic products is expanding globally, and with it, so is the range of chemical substances employed in their production. As a result, there is also a higher risk of intoxication, allergic reactions, prolonged chemical exposure, adverse effects, and indiscriminate use. Cosmetic products can contain more than 10,000 ingredients. Most users of synthetic cosmetics are unaware of the harmful effects if they even are. However, it is linked to many diseases like cancer, congenital disabilities, reproductive impairments, developmental systems, contact dermatitis, hair loss, lung damage, old age, skin diseases and reactions, allergies, and harm to human nails. Many beauty products also create a high demand for natural oils, leading to extensive and intensive cultivation, harming natural habitats through deforestation, and contaminating soil and water through pesticides and fertilizers. The adverse effects of hazardous substances in synthetic cosmetics extend beyond human health and influence ecosystems, air quality, and oceans. Thus, this review aims to assess the environmental and health impacts of cosmetics using published scientific articles. The study used a systematic review based on Scopus, Science Direct, Web databases, Scholar Google, and PubMed. The results of this review showed that the formulation of cosmetics until the disposal of their containers could adversely affect environmental and human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Food and Alcohol Disturbance (FAD) is the phenomenon in which individuals exhibit co-occurring hazardous alcohol and eating behaviors to either negate caloric intake associated with alcohol and/or maximize intoxication. While the Compensatory Eating and Behaviors in Response to Alcohol Scale (CEBRACS) is the most widely used measure to assess FAD to date, its factor-structure has yet to be confirmed. Methods: The current study utilized confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to examine the CEBRACS' four factor subscales as well as recently proposed alternative scoring structures. Participants: Participants (N = 582) were American college students from seven universities (18–24 years; 67% cisgender women; 70% non-Hispanic White). Results: The CFA failed to provide optimal fit for all models tested. Results of invariance testing found no measurement variance by sex, suggesting the failure of the four-factor solution was not due to noninvariance. Conclusions: Overall, findings do not support continued use of the original 21-item CEBRACS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lycopene is a natural carotenoid with well-known benefits due to its antioxidant properties, including an anti-inflammatory effect in colorectal cancer and anti-angiogenic effects along with a reduction in the risk of prostate cancer and coronary heart disease. Due to their poor water solubility, photosensitivity and heat sensitivity, their incorporation in cosmetic and food matrices should be through encapsulation systems. In the present work, lycopene-loaded emulsions were prepared using two different types of stabilizers: non-ionic surfactants, testing several ratios of Tween 80 and Span 80, and chitosan, using chitosans of different viscosities and molecular weights. Soybean oil was found to be a suitable candidate for O/W emulsion preparation. Lycopene encapsulation efficiency (EE) of 70–75% and loading capacities of 0.14 mg/g were registered in stable emulsions stabilized either by non-ionic surfactants or acidified chitosans. Therefore, chitosan is a good alternative as a sustainable stabilizer to partially replace traditional synthetic ingredients with a new biodegradable, renewable and biocompatible material which could contribute to reduce the environmental impact as well as the ingestion of synthetic toxic materials by humans, decreasing their risk of suffering from chronic and complex pathologies, among which several types of cancer stand out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green nanotechnology comprises the use of natural sources such as plant extracts as both reducing and stabilizing agents thereby reducing the reliance on hazardous chemicals. Recent breakthroughs in nanotechnology involve the incorporation of various metals to create mono and bimetallic nanoparticles, catalyzing transformative shifts. However, concerns arise due to the environmental impact of traditional synthesis methods. An alternative approach focuses on biosynthesized metal nanoparticles using clay, specifically Bentonite, MMT (Montmorillonite) and Kaolinite as supportive materials, emphasizing the prevention of agglomeration with clay and the use of plant extracts. The integration of clay, especially Bentonite, MMT and Kaolinite enhances the stability and functionality. The review emphasizes mitigating environmental impact by reducing metal ions and explores the use of phytochemicals fro environmentally friendly nanoparticle synthesis. Incorporating clay minerals not only improves synthesis efficiency but also minimizes the ecological footprint. Future research is expected to focus on integrative approaches in plant nanotechnology, particularly in agriculture and broader plant science. The comprehensive review covers literature from 2015 to 2023, providing systematic and interpretative data, highlighting progress and potential in eco-friendly metal nanoparticles synthesis supported on clay minerals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent years have witnessed an exponential increase in the research on gold nanoparticles (AuNPs)-based colorimetric sensors to revolutionize point-of-use sensing devices. Hence, this review is compiled focused on current progress in the design and performance parameters of AuNPs-based sensors. The review begins with the characteristics of AuNPs, followed by a brief explanation of synthesis and functionalization methods. Then, the mechanisms of AuNPs-based sensors are comprehensively explained in two broad categories based on the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) characteristics of AuNPs and their peroxidase-like catalytic properties (nanozyme). SPR-based colorimetric sensors further categorize into aggregation, anti-aggregation, etching, growth-mediated, and accumulation-based methods depending on their sensing mechanisms. On the other hand, peroxidase activity-based colorimetric sensors are divided into two methods based on the expression or inhibition of peroxidase-like activity. Next, the analytes in environmental and food samples are classified as inorganic, organic, and biological pollutants, and recent progress in detection of these analytes are reviewed in detail. Finally, conclusions are provided, and future directions are highlighted. Improving the sensitivity, reproducibility, multiplexing capabilities, and cost-effectiveness for colorimetric detection of various analytes in environment and food matrices will have significant impact on fast testing of hazardous substances, hence reducing the pollution load in environment as well as rendering food contamination to ensure food safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing demand for research on hazardous chemicals in high-rise research and development (R&D) buildings, the use of a large number of flammable chemicals increases the fire risk significantly. Therefore, the research on the storage of hazardous chemicals in high-rise R&D buildings becomes more and more important. This paper presents a maximum dynamic design method for hazardous chemical storage. A set of fire risk indicators has been established in the research, including temperature, carbon monoxide concentration, and visibility. The representative hazardous chemicals are selected through the investigation of the distribution and quantity of hazardous chemicals. Through numerical simulation of high-rise building fire with different stocks of dangerous chemicals and evacuation simulation of different fire floors, the time when the risk factors of fire occurrence reach the critical threshold of human body (ASET) and the necessary time for human evacuation (RSET) are obtained. By adjusting the amount of hazardous chemicals stored, the time to reach the hazardous critical threshold (RSET) and the time to evacuate (ASET) are changed accordingly. When RSET < ASET, the storage capacity of hazardous chemicals in the high-rise R&D building meets the target requirements. In the case study, ethanol was selected as the representative substance, and numerical simulation and example calculation were carried out on a 16-story R&D building. The amount of ethanol stored on each floor was calculated. Among them, the eighth layer has the largest ethanol storage capacity (1.81 L/m2) and the ninth layer has the smallest ethanol storage capacity (0.89 L/m2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article explores the computational modeling approaches used by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) for toxicity assessments to evaluate the impact of environmental pollutants on public health. It describes the different approaches, including Computational Systems Biology Modeling and Benchmark Dose Modeling, and their applications, such as toxicity prediction and exposure level assessment. It explains the role of the Simulation Section within the ATSDR.

Individuals are exposed to a wide arrays of hazardous chemicals on a daily basis through various routes, many of which have not undergone comprehensive toxicity assessments. While traditional developmental toxicity tests involving pregnant animals are known for their reliability, they are also associated with high costs and time requirements. Consequently, there is an urgent demand for alternative, cost-efficient, and rapid in vitro testing methods. This study aims to address the challenges related to automating and streamlining the screening of early developmental toxicity of chemicals by introducing a mouse embryoid body test (EBT) model in a 384-ultra low attachment well format. Embryoid bodies (EBs) generated in this format were characterized by a spontaneous differentiation trajectory into cardiac mesoderm by as analyzed by RNA-seq. Assessing prediction accuracy using reference compounds suggested in the ICH S5(R3) guideline and prior studies resulted in the establishment of the acceptance criteria and applicability domain of the EBT model. The results indicated an 84.38% accuracy in predicting the developmental toxicity of 23 positive and 9 negative reference compounds, with an optimized cutoff threshold of 750 µM. Overall, the developed EBT model presents a promising approach for more rapid, high-throughput chemical screening, thereby facilitating well-informed decision-making in environmental management and safety assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses how the designation of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) as hazardous substances may impact liability and due diligence under the U.S. Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). It explored the regulation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the scope of EPA's enforcement discretion policy, and the outlook for CERCLA cost-recovery actions.

Used lubricating oil is generated by various machinery after extended operation. It is also referred to as spent mobile oil. Extremely hazardous waste lubricating oil is detrimental to the environment because it produces oxidative products when additives break down. Used lubricating oil is classified as a hazardous waste substance and has a negative impact on the environment. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), carcinogenic substances and other impurities make lubricating oil poisonous and pose a serious threat to human health and the environment. Re‐refining is considered the preferred technology for resource conservation, waste minimisation and reduced environmental hazards. The present study focuses on optimising the method of re‐refining waste lubricating oil. The effects of various operating parameters such as refining time, refining temperature, solvent‐to‐used oil ratio and flocculant dosage have been extensively studied to maximise the percentage recovery of lubricating oil. Optimum process parameters are (i) a refining time of 80 min, (ii) a refining temperature of 48°C, (iii) solvent‐to‐waste oil ratio of 5:1 (w/w) and (iv) a flocculant dosage of 2 g/kg of solvent; the optimum yield was found to be 75% with the solvent extraction method and 78% with the extraction–flocculation method, respectively. The purity and physico‐chemical properties of the recovered oil were thoroughly analysed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and ASTM standard methods. It was concluded that refined oil can effectively reduce the ongoing oil crisis and create a clean, healthy environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To address the parameter instability issues in hazardous materials handling during multi-machine loading and unloading operations, we propose a Full-Scale Smart Parameter Optimization Control (FSPOC) system specifically designed for multi-machine coordination. This system leverages a novel fish scale prediction algorithm tailored for cooperative multi-machine environments. Initially, the fish scale prediction algorithm, inspired by bionic fish scales, is developed to predict future system behavior by analyzing historical data. Building on this algorithm, we introduce a disturbance cancellation control theorem and design a parameter optimization controller to enhance stability in high-dimensional nonlinear spaces. The FSPOC method is then applied to a multi-machine cooperative system, enabling online distributed parameter optimization for complex systems with multiple degrees of freedom. The effectiveness of the proposed method was validated through simulations, where it was compared with two other optimization techniques: Genetic Algorithm-based PID (GAPID) and Chaotic Atomic Search Algorithm-based PID (CHASO). The simulation results confirm the superiority of the FSPOC method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to produce sunflower oil using pectinase, flavor protease, and alkaline protease. The optimal parameters for the enzymatic hydrolysis process were determined through sensory evaluation, resulting in a temperature of 120°C, a duration of 30 minutes, a polysaccharide to protein ratio of 2:1 for the enzymatic hydrolysate, and an enzymatic hydrolysate to oil ratio of 1:3. Under these specific conditions, the sunflower oil (K4) achieved the highest sensory score of 13.9, exhibiting a pronounced oily flavor alongside moderate baked and nutty flavors. Compared to the controls of first‐grade sunflower oil (K1), sunflower kernel oil (K2) and sunflower oil prepared by roasting (K3), the acid value (AV) in K4 exhibited a statistically significant decrease compared to K2 and K3, conversely, the peroxide value (PV) and BaP content in K4 demonstrated a statistically significant increase compared to K1 and K2. Additionally, the tocopherols in K4 exhibited a lower concentration compared to K1, while the sterols were effectively retained and showed no significant difference to these control groups. The fatty acid composition of the four different sunflower oil samples were analyzed, revealing that the contents of oleic acid (C18:1) and monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) in K4 were significantly higher than K2, and there was no significant difference compared to K1. This investigation of the present study could provide a certain theoretical basis for the production of sunflower oil by enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to identify the most suitable high‐oleic rapeseed blended oil for frying. Six high‐oleic rapeseed blended oils were formulated based on a polyunsaturated fatty acid/saturated fatty acid ratio of 2.0 and an n‐3 fatty acid/n‐6 fatty acid ratio of 1:4–1:6, after which the physiochemical properties, frying performance, tocopherol content, and hazardous substance contents were evaluated. The blended oil containing high‐oleic rapeseed oil: soybean oil: palm oil (85:12:3) had a reasonable fatty acid composition, better oxidative stability index (9.05 h), higher total tocopherol content (0.3 mg/kg), and longer time to reach a total polar component content of 27% (29.3 h). Moreover, after frying for 30 h, the peroxide value (7.25 mmol/kg), residual oil rate (0.57%), trans‐fatty acid content (0.37%), malondialdehyde content (1.57 μg/kg), and 3‐monochloro‐1,2‐propanediol ester content (0.24 mg/kg) were lower than those of the other samples. Principal component analysis revealed that the quality of the high‐oleic rapeseed blended oil was positively correlated with benzo[a]pyrene, 18:2, and 18:3, and negatively correlated with the residual oil rate, trans‐fatty acids, and 18:1 content. This high‐oleic rapeseed blended oil is potentially suitable for frying. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid growth of e-commerce has significantly increased demands on logistics providers, particularly in the areas of product handling and shipment. One of the most challenging and critical aspects of this process is the handling of dangerous goods (DG). This is a complex and time-intensive operation that requires safety measures and proper packaging and labelling, because mishandling DG can lead to severe injuries, property loss, and legal liability. This puts additional pressure on logistics providers to efficiently manage DG while maintaining speed and safety in the context of e-commerce. To meet this challenge, there is an urgent need to advance training programs and enhance the operational efficiency for DG handling. The use of mixed reality (MR) technology offers a promising solution. By seamlessly integrating virtual elements with real-world environments, MR has the potential to greatly improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the training of DG handling. Earlier research has examined MR in various fields, while there is still a research gap in applying MR specifically to the training of DG handling. This paper seeks to address the current research gap by presenting a novel MR model, named "MRSafe," for a training program on the safe handling of DG. The model offers users virtual experiences and comprehensive guidance to provide operational decision support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a comprehensive risk assessment of ammonia leaks, focusing on the quantitative modelling of hazardous area ranges, concentration dynamics, and thermal radiation effects under varying leakage scenarios using the ALOHA 5.4.7 software. The analysis involves two key scenarios: an ammonia gas leak and a pool fire, each modelled under distinct atmospheric conditions. For the gas leak scenario, ammonia concentrations were mapped across ERPG-defined hazard zones, ranging from low-level irritation zones (ERPG-1) to life-threatening exposure levels (ERPG-3), with maximum concentrations reaching 1500 ppm within a 110 m radius. The second scenario examined the impact of thermal radiation from a pool fire, identifying critical radiation zones where exposure to heat fluxes exceeding 10 kW.m−2 could cause fatal outcomes within 12 m. Despite ALOHA's strengths in modelling acute exposure risks and providing valuable input for emergency response planning, the study identifies several limitations, particularly regarding the long-term environmental and health impacts of chemical releases and the effects of varying meteorological conditions. These findings suggest that integrating ALOHA with advanced real-time monitoring and AI-based prediction systems could significantly improve its capacity to manage dynamic, rapidly evolving industrial hazards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, increasing emissions of hazardous chemicals cause serious environmental pollution. The advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), which produce numbers of reactive oxygen species (ROS), are one of the most widely used technologies for degrading refractory pollutants in aqueous phase. Among these, Fenton reaction including both homogeneous and heterogeneous processes, has received increasing attention for water treatment. In this review, various nanomaterials with different size such as nanocrystals, nanoparticles (e.g., iron-based minerals, bimetallic oxides, zero-valent iron, quantum dots) and metal-based single atom catalysts (SACs) applied in homogeneous and heterogeneous Fenton reactions, as well as the corresponding catalytic mechanisms will be systematically summarized. Several factors including the morphology, chemical composition, geometric/electronic structures influence the catalytical behavior simultaneously. Here, the recent research advancement including the advantages and further challenges in homogeneous and heterogeneous Fenton system will be introduced in detail. Furthermore, developments for different nanomaterials, from nanocrystals, nanoparticles (minerals, bimetallic oxides represented by Fe-based catalysts, and nanosized zero valent iron materials) to SACs will be discussed. Some representative catalysts for Fenton reaction and their applications will be presented. In addition, commonly-used supports (e.g., graphene oxide, g-C3N4, and carbon nanotubes) and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs)/derivatives and metal-support interaction for improving Fenton-like performance will be introduced. Finally, different types of catalysts for Fenton reaction are compared and their practical application and operational costs are summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Healthcare waste (HCW) consists of hazardous material that may be radioactive, toxic or infectious. Inappropriate treatment and disposal of HCW may pose health risks to humans indirectly through the release of pathogens and toxic pollutants into the environment. The biggest problem in HCW management is its handling, which causes anxiety over sorting and categorizing the waste. Hence, the current study identifies and addresses the challenges towards sustainable environmental development by managing infectious HCW in developing countries. Fuzzy Delphi method is used in the present study to carefully examine the barrier drawn from the literature and experts' opinions. The number of barriers taken into consideration for study are 30, which are then grouped into four main categories, that is, social, environmental, technological and economic barriers. Additionally, a hybrid strategy based on the fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory is developed in this work to examine the significance and interrelationships of the identified barrier. The research outcome is a hierarchy and classification model based on the relative importance of the barriers. The results of this study indicate that: 'Lack of segregation', 'Inconsistency in waste collection', 'Unregulated disposal site' and 'Inadequate programme for training and awareness' require quick action. The conclusions obtained through the study would facilitate the preparation of check sheets for documenting HCW management procedures by the healthcare administration and Pollution Control Boards. Understanding the priority cause-group barrier would improve the long-term protection of the hospital environment from the spread of infection caused by the HCW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study focuses on the current state of curative mud deposits in Estonia as of 2022, examining changes over the past decade and providing essential information on curative mud quality. Total of 64 curative mud samples were collected in 2022, marking the first investigation into hazardous substances such as phenols, petroleum products, and pesticides. The study encompassed analyses of organic and mineral matter content, grain size, microbiology, and heavy metal concentrations, totalling 1649 measurements. Comparisons with previous data revealed stable organic matter concentrations in lake and marine sediments over the last decade. Microbiological contamination in curative mud samples was relatively low, indicating cleanliness. Petroleum product concentrations varied, with Haapsalu at 42 mg/kg, Värska at 118.6 mg/kg, and Käina below the limit of quantification. Phenol concentrations were generally below the limit of quantification, except for Värska. Pesticides were found in Värska samples, but in other sediments, levels were below the limit of quantification. Average heavy metal concentrations in curative mud decreased between 2013–2014 and 2022, remaining below the target value. The study's results are crucial for curative mud-related entrepreneurship in Estonia, facilitating compliance with the new regulatory standards. The comprehensive data obtained will contribute to the consistency and efficacy of curative mud-related practices in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a sustainable approach to extracting hydrogen fluoride (HF) from wastewater using hollow fiber membrane contactors. HF, a widely used yet hazardous chemical, requires efficient separation techniques due to its environmental and health concerns. Our research compared two operational modes, vacuum mode and liquid–liquid extraction mode, revealing the latter as more efficient for HF separation. Notably, this study introduces a novel aspect by employing a data‐driven decision‐making method, Bayesian optimization (BO) for process optimization of the liquid–liquid extraction mode, aiming to maximize HF removal efficiency at low experimental costs. Subsequent validation through a 96‐h experimental run confirms the suitability of the optimized conditions for industrial applications. This study not only demonstrates an efficient HF separation process using hollow fiber membrane contactors but also establishes a new standard for complex industrial process optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

E-cigarettes have gained notable popularity among youth in recent years, posing a serious societal issue that has elicited much concern from public health professionals and legislators. The increase in e-cigarette consumption among adolescents can be ascribed to assertive marketing strategies employed by corporations that focus on appealing to young consumers through flavored offerings and aesthetically pleasing designs. This rise is concerning because of the possible long-term health ramifications linked to vaping, such as nicotine addiction and exposure to hazardous chemicals found in numerous e-cigarette formulations. The normalization of e-cigarette usage in social contexts may result in heightened peer pressure and the endorsement of detrimental conduct. To properly address this issue, government agencies must enforce stronger rules on e-cigarette sales and marketing directed at minors, while schools and community organizations should educate youth about the risks of vaping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractPyrazole is among many synthetic compounds’ most privileged five-membered nitrogenous structural nuclei. Among a diverse range of heterocyclic analogs, pyrazole derivatives presented remarkable therapeutic significances, including antibacterial, antifungal, antimalarial, antitubercular anti-leishmanial, antidiabetic, antihypertensive and anticancer effects, etc. Pyrazole motif is also available as a structural part of many marketed drugs and clinical trial candidates bearing therapeutic importance. In traditional synthetic methodologies, synthesizing pyrazole derivatives requires several harsh reaction environments, such as introducing organic solvent, longer duration of time, elevated temperature, and energy consumption. By considering the pyrazoles’ utility and several drawbacks associated with their traditional synthetic approach, researchers have developed more economical reaction conditions to obtain them. In this regard, microwave irradiation, reaction at room temperature, and solvent and catalyst-free circumstances are ecologically favorable and cost-effective. Microwave-assisted organic synthesis (MAOS) of pyrazole derivatives has exhibited environment-friendly reaction conditions with the minor consumption of hazardous chemicals/solvents and significantly reduced reaction duration. Therefore, this review highlights the microwave-associated synthesis of pyrazole derivatives, likely an excellent alternative to eco-friendly synthetic methodologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrochloric acid is one of the most prevalent and hazardous chemicals. Accidental spills occur in industrial plants or during transportation. Exposure to HCl can induce severe health impairment, including acute and chronic pulmonary diseases. We have previously described the molecular, structural, and functional aspects of the development of chronic lung injury and pulmonary fibrosis caused by intratracheal instillation of HCl in mice. Although mouse models of human disease have many advantages, rodents are evolutionary far from human and exhibit significant anatomical and physiological differences. Genetic and anatomic similarities between rabbits and humans are significantly higher. Rabbit models of HCl-induced lung injury have been used sparsely to evaluate acute lung injury. In this study, for the first time, we utilized rabbits as a model of HCl-induced pulmonary fibrosis and chronic lung injury. We present molecular, histological, and functional evidence that demonstrate the utility of using this model for studying new pharmaceutics against pulmonary fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (ED-XRF) is evaluated as an alternative to conventional acid-mediated soil digestion methods for analysis of aluminum (Al), calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), sodium (Na), phosphorus (P), silicon (Si), strontium (Sr), titanium (Ti), and zirconium (Zr). The Kellogg Soil Survey Laboratory (KSSL) currently uses microwave-assisted digestion with inductively coupled plasma – atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) to measure the 12 elements (Al, Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, P, Si, Sr, Ti, Zr). The equipment needed to conduct the digestion method is expensive, the materials are hazardous, and the method is laborious. The Kellogg Soil Survey Laboratory (KSSL) has observed variable elemental recoveries for certain elements. The objective of the study was to evaluate an ED-XRF method as an alternative to the KSSL digestion method. The literature offers few examples of X-ray fluorescence (XRF) method development and validation. The candidate ED-XRF method offered a more efficient, less expensive, and less hazardous approach for measuring the 12 elements. Relative to the digestion method, the candidate ED-XRF method showed improved precision and accuracy for specific elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the fabrication of a biodegradable dry packaging material for fruits, vegetables, and flowers, with an emphasis on affordability for street vendors. Approximately 55% of waste originates from packaging materials. To address this issue, a biodegradable Polyvinyl alcohol/Pomegranate peel powder (PVA/PPP) composite film was fabricated. The PVA, a water-soluble synthetic biodegradable polymer, served as the matrix, while PPP, an agro-waste product, was used as the filler. The PVA/PPP films were characterized through optical microscopy, FTIR, XRD, TGA, DSC, moisture absorption analysis, water vapour transmission rate (WVTR), water vapour permeability (WVP), and oxygen permeability testing. The inclusion of PPP enhanced the film's properties via increasing moisture absorption by 85%, reducing PVA crystallinity index from 33.2 to 17.5%, percentage crystallinity reduced from 73.90 to 0.57%, lowering WVTR from 0.063 to 0.042 g/h.m2, low oxygen permeability and improving thermal stability up to 423 °C. Additionally, the pH of PPP (4.5) contributed to microbial resistance. The fabricated PVA/PPP films were fully biodegradable and produced via green synthesis without any hazardous chemicals. The use of PPP as a filler not only improved film performance but also reduced environmental hazard, demonstrating the material's suitability for sustainable packaging applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic chromophores emerged as diverse functional materials in the areas of organic catalysis, toxic materials sensing, bio-imaging, and organic electronic devices. With rich chemical and electronic structures, main-group elements have been extensively implanted in organic chromophores to fine-tune the chemical/electronic structures and optoelectronic properties. In this Synpact article, we present a concise overview of the development of phosphorus (P)-containing organic chromophores, further highlighting our recent contributions in the field. A new aspect of combining the P element with the indole moiety was pursued to construct a new series of seven-membered P-organic chromophores; namely, indole-functionalized phosphepines. The new combination endowed the system with rich chemical and electronic structures, for which intriguing photophysical properties were consequently revealed. The combination provided an efficient synthetic protocol to access new P-heterocycles and also offered a new strategy to design functional organic chromophores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The insatiable demand for lithium in portable energy storage necessitates a sustainable and low-carbon approach to its recovery. Conventional hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical methods heavily involve hazardous chemicals and significant CO2 emissions. Herein, by integrating electrode oxidation with electrolyte oxidation, we establish a photovoltaic-driven “dual-oxidation” seawater electrolyzer system for low-carbon footprint and high lithium recovery. A 98.96% lithium leaching rate with 99.60% product purity was demonstrated for lithium recovery from spent LiFePO4 cathode materials. In-depth mechanism studies reveal that the electric field-driven electrode oxidation and in situ generated oxidative electrolyte synergetically contributes to lithium ions leaching via a structural framework elements oxidation and particle corrosion splitting synergy. This dual-oxidation mechanism facilitates rapid and efficient lithium extraction with broad universality, offering significant economic and environmental benefits. Our work showcases a promising strategy for integrating dual oxidation within a photovoltaic-driven seawater electrolyzer, paving the way for low-carbon lithium recovery from diverse solid wastes and minerals within a sustainable circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The CLP mandates manufacturers and importers to classify substances and mixtures according to hazard criteria, with notifications submitted to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). Substances meeting hazard criteria must be appropriately labelled and packaged to communicate hazards effectively. The CLP establishes hazard classification criteria but does not independently prohibit or restrict the use of hazardous chemicals. Instead, it serves as a basis for regulatory obligations in other specific regulations. This study investigates the regulatory implications of meeting hazard criteria under the CLP across EU regulations and directives listed in EU Chemicals Legislation Finder (EUCLEF). The results show that fulfilling criteria for human health hazard classes trigger regulatory obligations in the highest number of regulations/directives, with carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, and reproductive toxicity (CMR) leading to obligations in 19 of 20 pieces of legislation linked to the CLP. Conversely, physical, environmental, and ozone layer hazards are associated with fewer regulations and directives, and lead to fewer prohibitions. The study underscores the pivotal role of the CLP in EU chemical legislation and the need for coherence and consistency across regulations. While regulatory obligations are primarily aimed at substances meeting hazard criteria, the variability in self-classification notifications and limitations in harmonized classification processes were observed. Moreover, the complexity of the regulatory structure poses challenges for stakeholders and policymakers, including inconsistencies, compliance difficulties, and the need for frequent revisions. Addressing these challenges is critical for enhancing regulatory effectiveness and ensuring a more coherent and harmonized approach to chemical management in the EU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Textile wastewater poses a significant environmental challenge, primarily due to the presence of diverse contaminants, especially textile dyes. Untreated release of these effluents directly into aquatic systems can lead to esthetic degradation, eutrophication, reduced photosynthetic activity, and accumulation of hazardous substances. Although conventional treatment methods are employed for reducing the contaminant load in effluents, they often are less efficient, thus prompting the exploration of innovative alternatives. Current review highlights myco-remediation as an inexpensive, promising and environmentally sustainable solution. Fungi, with their diverse decontamination mechanisms such as biosorption, biotransformation, and immobilization, prove effective in reducing heavy metals, persistent organic pollutants, and emerging contaminant levels present in these effluents, However, more research effort is needed to apply the biodegradation strategy to decompose completely the "forever chemicals" per‐ and polyfluorinated alkyl substances. Fungi play a key role in degrading and decolorizing textile dyes due to their biocatalytic activity mediated by the production of oxidative enzymes, such as laccases, lignin peroxidases, and manganese peroxidases, as well as their dye adsorption capabilities. This comprehensive review concentrates on fungi-based remediation of textile wastewater effluents, including the mechanisms they employ. While most studies concentrate on effluent treatment, this review also explores the concurrent utilization of biomass and growth kinetics for efficient reduction in pollutant concentrations. Further, the current work showed data on optimization of growth conditions such as pH, temperature and nutrient requirements that lead to efficient effluent decontamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document discusses the significance of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and nanosheets for sustainable solutions, highlighting their unique properties such as ultrahigh strength, thermal conductivity, and biocompatibility. The Special Issue features articles from various countries, showcasing global collaboration in nanotechnology research. Specific applications of CNTs are explored, including biomedical sensors, seed priming for agriculture, superconductivity, supercapacitors, road de-icing, vibration analysis, and defect engineering. The research presented in the document contributes to the advancement of nanotechnology and its potential applications in diverse fields. [Extracted from the article]

Image classification is increasingly being utilized on construction sites to automate project monitoring, driven by advancements in reality-capture technologies and artificial intelligence (AI). Deploying real-time applications remains a challenge due to the limited computing resources available on-site, particularly on remote construction sites that have limited telecommunication support or access due to high signal attenuation within a structure. To address this issue, this research proposes an efficient edge-computing-enabled image classification framework for support of real-time construction AI applications. A lightweight binary image classifier was developed using MobileNet transfer learning, followed by a quantization process to reduce model size while maintaining accuracy. A complete edge computing hardware module, including components like Raspberry Pi, Edge TPU, and battery, was assembled, and a multimodal software module (incorporating visual, textual, and audio data) was integrated into the edge computing environment to enable an intelligent image classification system. Two practical case studies involving material classification and safety detection were deployed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed framework. The results demonstrated the developed prototype successfully synchronized multimodal mechanisms and achieved zero latency in differentiating materials and identifying hazardous nails without any internet connectivity. Construction managers can leverage the developed prototype to facilitate centralized management efforts without compromising accuracy or extra investment in computing resources. This research paves the way for edge "intelligence" to be enabled for future construction job sites and promote real-time human-technology interactions without the need for high-speed internet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Almost all implantable electronic medical devices (IEMDs) are powered by bulky Li‐ion batteries (LIBs), limiting their miniaturization and lifespan advancements. In addition, LIBs contain toxic materials and flammable electrolytes that are dangerous if they leak into human organs. In this context, there is an urgent need to explore new approaches and concepts that can address the critical challenges of designing novel electrochemical energy storage systems and gain a mechanistic understanding of the phenomena taking place in diverse scenarios. This review summarizes recent advancements in biocompatible supercapacitors (B‐SCs) as a power source for various IEMDs, offering a potential solution to these challenges. Different types of IEMDs and their power requirements are briefly discussed, along with challenges arising from energy storage systems and their applications in IEMDs. Given the importance of electrode materials in determining the electrochemical performance of B‐SCs in terms of energy and power densities, different electrode materials and their developments are systematically reviewed. Finally, new insights are offered into potential opportunities and future prospects for the rational design of next‐generation B‐SCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Remote manipulation of microcargo is essential for miniaturized automated experiments in fields such as biology, chemistry, and diagnostics, allowing efficient use of scarce, expensive, or hazardous materials. Current methods for manipulating microcargo are generally limited to droplets as cargo and rely on reduced substrate‐cargo friction and special substrate‐cargo interactions (electrowetting, anisotropic wetting, water‐repellency, etc.) to enable cargo mobility. This limits the versatility of substrate and cargo choice. Here, CART (Carrier‐based Actuatable and Reprogrammable Transport) is presented as a solution to these challenges. By introducing a carrier between the substrate and the cargo, CART physically separates them, eliminating the need to reduce substrate‐cargo friction and the need for substrate‐cargo matching. CART devices are easy to realize, tailor, and post‐functionalize. A photo‐polymerizable phase‐separating resin is used to 3D‐print porous carriers that are then infused with ferrofluid to make them magnetically responsive, enabling untethered cargo manipulation on both solid and liquid substrates. Using CART, various cargos can be remotely moved, rotated/mixed, inverted, and lifted, further facilitating interaction between two carriers for transferring, merging, and tunably splitting cargo. Overall, CART advances microcargo manipulation by decoupling cargo from the substrate and leveraging magnetic responsiveness for untethered, versatile control across different environments, opening up new actuation‐modalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: Microbial enzyme production falls into the so-called white biotechnology field, a part of modern biotechnology. Different applications of microbial enzymes have significant importance in regard to sustainable production, replacing hazardous chemicals. The newly isolated and purified haloalkalophilic pectinase enzyme revealed unique characteristics, making it suitable for application in the pretreatment of wastewaters from the textile, fabric, and paper industries, containing pectinecious wastes, in this way hindering environmental pollution. Its potential uses in the food-processing industry include improving the quality of fruit juices and wine in a cost-effective and sustainable manner. The interest in microbial pectinases is increasing due to their use in the biotechnological and food industries in response to global demand. In this study, among the 22 halophilic bacterial strains screened, 20 showed pectinase activity. The highest activity was measured for Virgibacillus salarius strain 434. As pectinase production meets many parameter optimization constraints, optimal production conditions for maximizing the yield of the pectinase synthesized using the investigated strain were followed. Enzyme purification was accomplished at up to 11.5-fold via ultrafiltration and gel filtration chromatography, until the enzyme's specific activity had increased 10-fold (104.3 U/mg). The enzyme's molecular weight was determined to be 68 kDa. Km and Vmax values of 0.38 mg/mL and 120 U/mg, respectively, were determined. The purified pectinase from Virgibacillus salarius strain 434 showed good thermal stability. A half-life of 20 min at 70 °C and high catalytic activity under haloalkaline conditions (pH 9 and 70 g L−1 NaCl) were observed. Its storage stability at −20 °C exceeded 2 months. This demonstrates its potential for application in industries where these extremes are present, as the harsh conditions in industrial processes require novel pectinases with unique properties instead of the use of hazardous chemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Edible Insects (EIs) are an alternative source of bioactive compounds such as proteins or fatty acids and micronutrients as vitamins or minerals, thus showing potential to replace traditional foodstuffs in an economical and environmentally friendly way. Nonetheless, EIs can accumulate hazardous chemicals such as mycotoxins and heavy metals. The aim of the present study is to determine mycotoxins and heavy metal content in raw insect samples and those resulting products obtained after supercritical fluid extraction (SFE). Insect samples included Acheta domesticus (cricket) meal, Tenebrio molitor (mealworm) meal, Alphitobius diaperinus (buffalo worm), and Locusta migratoria (locust). For this purpose, a QuEChERS method followed by LC-MS/MS analysis was optimized with good results for the analysis of mycotoxins, principally Aflatoxins (AFs), Ochratoxin A (OTA), and Enniatins (ENNs). In contrast, heavy metals (As, Cd, Hg, Pb) were determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The results obtained revealed that Locust was positive for AFG2 at a level of 115.5 μg/kg, and mealworm was only contaminated with OTA at 58.1 μg/kg. Emerging mycotoxins (ENNA, ENNA1, ENNB, and ENNB1) were detected at lower levels < 2.2 µg/Kg. Concerning heavy metals, limits exceeding regulation were detected for Cd in the insect species studied, with levels up to 219 μg/kg, and for Pb in crickets (100.3 μg/kg). Finally, the analysis of the post-extraction solids after SFE processing revealed that heavy metals remained in the resulting SFE cakes, while mycotoxins were detected at negligible levels (up to 1.3 µg/Kg). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Many molecules called coumarins with very varied biological activities and widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and medical industries. Their structure has a significant impact on their biological activity and their possible applications. Advanced synthesis frequently leads to an increase in the production of various chemical wastes. The amount of hazardous organic substances used and produced is reduced by the application of environmentally friendly synthesis techniques. Numerous techniques are employed in green chemistry, including the use of ionic liquids and deep eutectic solvents, solvent‐free synthesis, mechanical synthesis, multicomponent reactions, ultrasound, and microwaves. These green synthesis techniques have been successfully applied to all common condensation reactions for the synthesis of coumarin, including the Perkin, Knoevenagel, Pechmann, Kostanecki‐Robinson, and Reformansky reactions. These methods not only reduce the use and production of toxic chemicals, but also improve the yield, purity, and energy consumption of the product. This review summarizes the methods of microwave synthesis of coumarin derivatives, as well as their biological activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractDue to the worldwide growth in population, agricultural and industrial activities are expanding quickly, which pollutes the air, water, and soil and leads to the buildup of potentially hazardous substances in medicinal plants. The current study sought to determine the concentrations of various metals in Silybum marianum plants and soils in order to highlight the level of pollution in a Turkish Organized Industrial Zone in Dilovasi District, Kocaeli, and to investigate the effects of these heavy metals on plants. In order to determine the concentrations of elements evaluated within the scope of this study inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy was employed, due to the benefits of ICP that provides few or no organic molecules, few ionization interferences, as well as the ability to analyze many elements sequentially. Furthermore, in order to evaluate elemental analysis in terms of nutritional values, risk assessments using RDA, EDI, THQ, and HI parameters were conducted. The value of heavy metals in co-located soil samples is relatively high. However, except for Co, Mn, and Ni, it has stayed within the World Health Organization’s permitted limits. The evaluation of the co-located soil samples found that the highest contents (mg kg−1) of Al, Ca, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mn, Na, Ni, Pb, and Zn, were recorded as 7825.10, 4365.86, 4768.59, 2.50, 30.45, 38.49, 8352.00, 17452.26, 1495.82, 1495.82, 163.53, 1452.23, 28.67, 136.55 and 125.45, respectively, belonging to Location 1. These findings are in accordance with the Industrial Status Report since the place specified as Location 1 in the current study is characterized by its pronounced industrial activity and the robust electrical plant station with an industrial facility for generating electric power. Furthermore, the hazard index, the estimated daily intake and target hazard quotient for potentially harmful components and recommended daily allowance values for mineral nutrients were computed. Therefore, even though mineral nutritional values in some areas were found to be higher than Buyukada control location, this should be ignored. Consequently, this study warns against using S. marianum plants as food or medicine collected from current regions. As a result, ongoing inspection is necessary to prevent an excessive buildup of metals in the area and other places with similar human life-related features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants such as herbs, vegetables, fruits, and cereals are closely related to human life. Developing effective testing methods to ensure their safety and quantify their active components are of significant importance. Recently, nanomaterials with enzyme-like activity (known as nanozymes) have been widely developed in various assays, including colorimetric, fluorescence, chemiluminescence, and electrochemical analysis. This review presents the latest advances in analyzing phytochemicals and hazardous substances in plant samples based on nanozymes, including some active ingredients, organophosphorus pesticides, heavy metal ions, and mycotoxins. Additionally, the current shortcomings and challenges of the actual sample analysis were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilizing density functional theory (DFT) calculations, we systematically explored the potential of the defective NiCl2 nanosheet with Cl vacancies (VCl-NiCl2) as a gas sensor for the detection of H2, CO2, NO, O2, H2O, CO, and NO2 gases. The results revealed that NO, O2, H2O, CO, and NO2 can be chemisorbed on Ni sites around Cl vacancies with significant adsorption energy (−0.66 to −1.83 eV), accompanied by a considerable amount of charge transfer and an obvious change in the electronic and magnetic properties of the VCl-NiCl2 system. In particular, due to the short recovery times, we predicted that VCl-NiCl2 could be utilized as a promising gas sensor for CO at 398 K and O2 under ambient conditions. Our results not only further expand the potential application of NiCl2 monolayers as a gas sensor, but also offer new options for developing candidate detection materials for toxic gases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hazardous materials pose significant dangers during transportation due to their flammable and explosive properties. The consequences of accidents involving such materials are often severe and irreparable. A well‐designed hazardous materials transportation network can mitigate these risks. However, designing such a network presents two major challenges: quantifying the risk associated with hazardous materials transportation and addressing the hierarchical relationship between government and companies. To address these challenges, we enhance the accuracy of accident probability estimates and the comprehensiveness of accident consequence assessments, incorporating the uncertainty of accident outcomes. We propose a comprehensive risk assessment model and develop a bilevel programming model to reflect the hierarchical relationship. In this model, the government at the upper level aims to minimize the total risk, while companies at the lower level seek to minimize their total costs. The model is transformed using chance‐constrained programming and solved using heuristic algorithms. We apply the model to the highway network in Anhui province, China, to verify its validity. The results demonstrate that the model effectively manages the hierarchical relationship between government and companies, reduces the risk of hazardous materials transportation, and enhances the stability and safety of the transportation network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many nations have food contact material (FCM) legislation purporting to protect citizens from hazardous chemicals, often specifically by regulating genotoxic carcinogens. Despite such regulations, cancers that are associated with harmful chemical exposures are highly prevalent, especially breast cancer. Using the novel Key Characteristics of Toxicants framework, Kay et al. found 921 substances that are potential mammary carcinogens. By comparing Kay et al.'s chemicals list with our own Database on migrating and extractable food contact chemicals (FCCmigex), we found that 189 (21%) of the potential mammary carcinogens have been measured in FCMs. When limiting these results to migration studies published in 2020-2022, 76 potential mammary carcinogens have been detected to migrate from FCMs sold in markets across the globe, under realistic conditions of use. This implies that chronic exposure of the entire population to potential mammary carcinogens from FCMs is the norm and highlights an important, but currently underappreciated opportunity for prevention. Reducing population-wide exposure to potential mammary carcinogens can be achieved by science-based policy amendments addressing the assessment and management of food contact chemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]