Quadratic unconstrained binary optimization (QUBO) is a classic NP-hard problem with an enormous number of applications. Local search strategy (LSS) is one of the most fundamental algorithmic concepts and has been successfully applied to a wide range of hard combinatorial optimization problems. One LSS that has gained the attention of researchers is the r-flip (also known as r-Opt) strategy. Given a binary solution with n variables, the r-flip strategy “flips” r binary variables to obtain a new solution if the changes improve the objective function. The main purpose of this paper is to develop several results for the implementation of r-flip moves in QUBO, including a necessary and sufficient condition that when a 1-flip search reaches local optimality, the number of candidates for implementation of the r-flip moves can be reduced significantly. The results of the substantial computational experiments are reported to compare an r-flip strategy-embedded algorithm and a multiple start tabu search algorithm on a set of benchmark instances and three very-large-scale QUBO instances. The r-flip strategy implemented within the algorithm makes the algorithm very efficient, leading to very high-quality solutions within a short CPU time. Full article

This study proposes an integrated approach to developing a Microservice, Cloud Computing, and Software as a Service (SaaS)-based Real-Time Storm Sewer Simulation System (MBSS). The MBSS combined the Storm Water Management Model (SWMM) microservice running on the EC2 Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud platform and an Internet of Things (IoT) monitoring device to prevent disasters in smart cities. The Python language and Docker container were used to develop the MBSS and Web API of the SWMM microservice. The IoT comprised a pressure water level meter, an Arduino, and a Raspberry Pi. After laboratory channel testing, the simulated and IoT-monitored water levels under different flow rates indicate that the simulated water level in MBSS was such as that monitored by the IoT. These findings suggest that MBSS is feasible and can be further used as a reference for smart urban early warning systems. The MBSS can be applied in on-site stormwater sewers during heavy rain, with the goal of issuing early warnings and reducing disaster damage. The use case can be the process by which the SWMM model parameters will be optimized based on the water level data from IoT monitoring devices in stormwater sewer systems. The predicted rainfall will then be used by the SWMM microservices of MBSS to simulate the water levels at all manholes. The status of the water levels will finally be applied to early warning. Full article

The origin of the spins of stellar-mass black holes is still controversial, and angular momentum transport inside massive stars is one of the main sources of uncertainty. Here, we apply hierarchical Bayesian inference to derive constraints on spin models from the 59 most confident binary black hole merger events in the third gravitational-wave transient catalogue (GWTC-3). We consider up to five parameters: chirp mass, mass ratio, redshift, effective spin, and precessing spin. For the model selection, we use a set of binary population synthesis simulations spanning drastically different assumptions for black hole spins and natal kicks. In particular, our spin models range from the maximal to minimal efficiency of angular momentum transport in stars. We find that if we include the precessing spin parameter into our analysis, models predicting only vanishingly small spins are in tension with GWTC-3 data. On the other hand, models in which most spins are vanishingly small but that also include a subpopulation of tidally spun-up black holes are a good match to the data. Our results show that the precessing spin parameter has a crucial impact on model selection. Full article

Vitis vinifera L. has been present in Ibiza and Formentera, two islands of the Balearic Islands (Spain), since the 7th century BC. In the past few years, there have been several studies and investigations on the Balearic Islands. These have focused mainly on Mallorca and Menorca with a small representation of Ibiza and none that take into account Formentera. This research aims to contribute to the knowledge of Vitis cultivars cultivated on those islands and to investigate whether there are local cultivars still being grown. To do this, using an ethnobotanical approach, 15 persons were interviewed to gather information about local grapevines, and 36 accessions from 12 plots were characterized using ampelographic descriptors and identified using SSR markers. Relationships of the accessions studied with other cultivars were also assessed. The results show 21 different genotypes profiles, where six were new genotypes: ‘Colló de gall’, ‘Grec’, ‘Maçanet’, ‘VIEIV015-Maçanet’, ‘Morzacà’, and ‘Vermelleta’. Ten new synonyms and three homonyms have been proposed. Additionally, we suggest three new relationships for the ‘Hebén’ cultivar, one new relationship for the ‘Llora’ cultivar and one new relationship for the ‘Beba’ cultivar. These results show the first reported information for Ibiza and Formentera on Vitis. Full article

Eggplant is one of the most important vegetable crops worldwide and has been considered to have great antioxidant activity. However, little information is available about the primary metabolic composition of the nutritional values of eggplant. Using a widely targeted metabolome approach, the current study investigated primary metabolic variation in 13 eggplant varieties with different morphologies. A total of 503 primary metabolites (amino acids, lipids, nucleotides, organic acids, vitamin, saccharides, and alcohols) and 170 phenolic acids were detected, among which 211 metabolites were differently accumulated. Metabolic pathway analysis of the differential metabolites revealed the significant enrichment of phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, arginine biosynthesis, alpha-linolenic acid metabolism, and linoleic acid metabolism. The higher levels of amino acids and lipids were related to the umami, soft, and waxy taste of eggplant fruit. The present work substantially contributes to the knowledge of primary metabolite compositions regarding fruit-eating quality and provides useful information for the future breeding of eggplant. Full article

The continuous growth of roots depends on their ability to maintain a balanced ratio between cell production and cell differentiation at the tip. This process is regulated by the hormonal balance of cytokinin and auxin. However, other important regulators, such as plant folates, also play a regulatory role. In this study, we investigated the impact of the folate precursor para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) on root development. Using pharmacological, genetic, and imaging approaches, we show that the growth of Arabidopsis thaliana roots is repressed by either supplementing the growth medium with PABA or overexpressing the PABA synthesis gene GAT-ADCS. This is associated with a smaller root meristem consisting of fewer cells. Conversely, reducing the levels of free root endogenous PABA results in longer roots with extended meristems. We provide evidence that PABA represses Arabidopsis root growth in a folate-independent manner and likely acts through two mechanisms: (i) the G2/M transition of cell division in the root apical meristem and (ii) promoting premature cell differentiation in the transition zone. These data collectively suggest that PABA plays a role in Arabidopsis root growth at the intersection between cell division and cell differentiation. Full article

Antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (ASOs) have long been used to selectively inhibit or modulate gene expression at the RNA level, and some ASOs are approved for clinical use. However, the practicability of antisense technologies remains limited by the difficulty of reliably predicting the sites accessible to ASOs in complex folded RNAs. Recently, we applied a plant-based method that reproduces RNA-induced RNA silencing in vitro to reliably identify sites in target RNAs that are accessible to small interfering RNA (siRNA)-guided Argonaute endonucleases. Here, we show that this method is also suitable for identifying ASOs that are effective in DNA-induced RNA silencing by RNases H. We show that ASOs identified in this way that target a viral genome are comparably effective in protecting plants from infection as siRNAs with the corresponding sequence. The antiviral activity of the ASOs could be further enhanced by chemical modification. This led to two important conclusions: siRNAs and ASOs that can effectively knock down complex RNA molecules can be identified using the same approach, and ASOs optimized in this way could find application in crop protection. The technology developed here could be useful not only for effective RNA silencing in plants but also in other organisms. Full article

This paper presents the results of the two-dimensional modeling of the hydrodynamic instability of a detonation wave, which results in the formation of an oscillating cellular structure on the wave front. This cellular structure of the wave, unstable due to its origin, demonstrates the constant statistically averaged characteristics of the cell size. The suppression of detonation propagation in synthesis gas mixtures with air using a combustible inhibitor is studied numerically. Contrary to the majority of inhibitors being either inert substances, which do not take part in the chemical reaction, or take part in chemical reaction but do not contribute to energy release, the suggested inhibitor is also a fuel, which enters into an exothermic reaction with oxygen. The unsaturated hydrocarbon propylene additive is used as an inhibitor. The dependence of the effect of the inhibitor content on the mitigation of detonation for various conditions of detonation initiation is researched. The results make it possible to determine a critical percentage of inhibitor which prevents the occurrence of detonation and the critical percentage of inhibitor which destroys a developed detonation wave. Full article

The carotid body is a major peripheral chemoreceptor that senses changes in arterial blood oxygen, carbon dioxide, and pH, which is important for the regulation of breathing and cardiovascular function. The mechanisms by which the carotid body senses O₂ and CO₂ are well known; conversely, the mechanisms by which it senses pH variations are almost unknown. Here, we used immunohistochemistry to investigate how the human carotid body contributes to the detection of acidosis, analyzing whether it expresses acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) and determining whether these channels are in the chemosensory glomic cells or in the afferent nerves. In ASIC1, ASIC2, and ASIC3, and to a much lesser extent ASIC4, immunoreactivity was detected in subpopulations of type I glomus cells, as well as in the nerves of the carotid body. In addition, immunoreactivity was found for all ASIC subunits in the neurons of the petrosal and superior cervical sympathetic ganglia, where afferent and efferent neurons are located, respectively, innervating the carotid body. This study reports for the first time the occurrence of ASIC proteins in the human carotid body, demonstrating that they are present in glomus chemosensory cells (ASIC1 < ASIC2 > ASIC3 > ASIC4) and nerves, presumably in both the afferent and efferent neurons supplying the organ. These results suggest that the detection of acidosis by the carotid body can be mediated via the ASIC ion channels present in the type I glomus cells or directly via sensory nerve fibers. Full article

Pancreatic cancer (PC) poses significant clinical challenges, with late-stage diagnosis and limited therapeutic options contributing to its dismal prognosis. A hallmark feature of PC is the presence of a profoundly hypoxic tumour microenvironment, resulting from various factors such as fibrotic stroma, rapid tumour cell proliferation, and poor vascularization. Hypoxia plays a crucial role in promoting aggressive cancer behaviour, therapeutic resistance, and immunosuppression. Previous studies have explored the molecular mechanisms behind hypoxia-induced changes in PC, focusing on the role of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs). Among the myriad of molecules affected by hypoxia, microRNA-210 (miR-210) emerges as a central player. It is highly responsive to hypoxia and regulated by HIF-dependent and HIF-independent pathways. miR-210 influences critical cellular processes, including angiogenesis, metastasis, and apoptosis, all of which contribute to PC progression and resistance to treatment. Understanding these pathways provides insights into potential therapeutic targets. Furthermore, investigating the role of miR-210 and its regulation in hypoxia sheds light on the potential development of early diagnostic strategies, which are urgently needed to improve outcomes for PC patients. This review delves into the complexities of PC and introduces the roles of hypoxia and miR-210 in the progression of PC. Full article

The interleukin-17 (IL-17) has a crucial role during inflammation and has been associated with cardiovascular diseases, but its role in epigenetics is still poorly understood. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the DNA methylation status of the IL-17A gene promoter to establish whether it may represent a risk factor for subclinical atherosclerosis (SA) or clinical coronary artery disease (CAD). We included 38 patients with premature CAD (pCAD), 48 individuals with SA, and 43 healthy controls. Methylation in the CpG region of the IL-17A gene promoter was assessed via methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (MSP). Individuals with SA showed increased methylation levels compared to healthy controls and pCAD patients, with p < 0.001 for both. Logistic regression analysis showed that high methylation levels represent a significant risk for SA (OR = 5.68, 95% CI = 2.38–14.03, p < 0.001). Moreover, low methylation levels of the IL-17A gene promoter DNA represent a risk for symptomatic pCAD when compared with SA patients (OR = 0.16, 95% CI = 0.06–0.41, p < 0.001). Our data suggest that the increased DNA methylation of the IL-17A gene promoter is a risk factor for SA but may be a protection factor for progression from SA to symptomatic CAD. Full article

Malignant tumors exhibit rapid growth and high metabolic rates, similar to embryonic stem cells, and depend on aerobic glycolysis, known as the “Warburg effect”. This understanding has enabled the use of radiolabeled glucose analogs in tumor staging and therapeutic response assessment via PET scans. Traditional treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy target rapidly dividing cells, causing significant toxicity. Despite immunotherapy’s impact on solid tumor treatment, gaps remain, leading to research on cancer cell evasion of immune response and immune tolerance induction via interactions with the tumor microenvironment (TME). The TME, consisting of immune cells, fibroblasts, vessels, and the extracellular matrix, regulates tumor progression and therapy responses. TME-targeted therapies aim to transform this environment from supporting tumor growth to impeding it and fostering an effective immune response. This review examines the metabolic disparities between immune cells and cancer cells, their impact on immune function and therapeutic targeting, the TME components, and the complex interplay between cancer cells and nontumoral cells. The success of TME-targeted therapies highlights their potential to achieve better cancer control or even a cure. Full article

The aim of this study was to investigate trends in selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), cholangiocarcinoma (CCC), and liver metastasis in Germany. We analyzed the nationwide German hospital billing database from 2006 to 2019 for the diagnosis of HCC, CCC or liver metastasis in combination with SIRT. For analyses of SIRT on the hospital level, we used the reimbursement.INFO tool based on German hospitals’ quality reports from 2008 to 2021. Linear regression analysis was performed to detect changes over time. We included a total of 14,165 SIRT procedures. The annual numbers increased from 99 in 2006 to 1605 in 2015 (p < 0.001; increase by 1521%), decreasing to 1175 cases in 2019 (p < 0.001). In 2008, 6 of 21 hospitals (28.6%) performed more than 20 SIRTs per year, which increased to 19 of 53 (35.8%) in 2021. The share of SIRT for HCC increased from 29.8% in 2006 to 44.7% in 2019 (p < 0.001) and for CCC from 0% in 2006 to 9.5% in 2019 (p < 0.001), while the share of SIRT for liver metastasis decreased from 70.2% in 2006 to 45.7% in 2019 (p < 0.001). In-hospital mortality was 0.2% after the SIRT procedure. Gastritis (2.7%), liver failure (0.4%), and sepsis (0.3%) were the most common in-hospital complications reported. We observed an increase in SIRT procedures in Germany, with the number of hospitals offering the procedure going up from 21 in 2008 to 53 in 2021. While the treatment of liver metastasis remains the most common indication, SIRT for HCC and CCC increased significantly over the last few years. The mortality and complication rates show that SIRT is a relatively safe procedure. Full article

With a burgeoning market and a multitude of on-demand food delivery (OFD) platforms offering diverse options, comprehending the reasons that drive consumers to switch between platforms is paramount. The push-pull-mooring (PPM) theory provides a comprehensive framework for assessing why and how consumers navigate, guiding strategic decisions for service providers seeking to optimize their offerings and retain their customer base. This research employs the PPM theory to rigorously analyze how these elements influence consumers’ intentions to switch between OFD platforms in Taiwan. Findings from a comprehensive survey of 441 OFD users reveal that both pull and mooring factors exert a significant influence on consumers’ inclination to switch platforms, collectively explaining about 42% of the switching intention. Recognizing these critical factors empowers managers to make judicious decisions aimed at enhancing platform offerings and refining marketing strategies, ultimately fortifying customer retention and bolstering satisfaction levels. Full article

Computed tomography (CT) is used in a wide range of medical imaging diagnoses. However, the reconstruction of CT images from raw projection data is inherently complex and is subject to artifacts and noise, which compromises image quality and accuracy. In order to address these challenges, deep learning developments have the potential to improve the reconstruction of computed tomography images. In this regard, our research aim is to determine the techniques that are used for 3D deep learning in CT reconstruction and to identify the training and validation datasets that are accessible. This research was performed on five databases. After a careful assessment of each record based on the objective and scope of the study, we selected 60 research articles for this review. This systematic literature review revealed that convolutional neural networks (CNNs), 3D convolutional neural networks (3D CNNs), and deep learning reconstruction (DLR) were the most suitable deep learning algorithms for CT reconstruction. Additionally, two major datasets appropriate for training and developing deep learning systems were identified: 2016 NIH-AAPM-Mayo and MSCT. These datasets are important resources for the creation and assessment of CT reconstruction models. According to the results, 3D deep learning may increase the effectiveness of CT image reconstruction, boost image quality, and lower radiation exposure. By using these deep learning approaches, CT image reconstruction may be made more precise and effective, improving patient outcomes, diagnostic accuracy, and healthcare system productivity. Full article

Nomophobia is a phenomenon that describes the fear of not having one’s mobile phone accessible. This study aimed to evaluate the presence of nomophobia among nursing students as well as its relationship with procrastination and social anxiety. Methods: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in a sample of 308 nursing students. Data were collected using the Nomophobia Questionnaire, Academic Procrastination Scale-Short Form, and Social Anxiety Questionnaire for Adults. Additionally, sociodemographic variables related to academic performance and smartphone use were collected. We performed a descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analysis of the Nomophobia Questionnaire score. Results: 19.5% (n = 60) of the students presented with or were at high risk of nomophobic behaviour. Moreover, nomophobic behaviour was positively correlated with high levels of social anxiety (p < 0.001), longer daily smartphone usage time (p < 0.001), and a high frequency of smartphone checking in class (p < 0.001). The predictive variables for nomophobic behaviour included age, variables related to smartphone use, social anxiety levels, work, procrastination tendency, sex, and self-reported average grade. Conclusion: One out of five students in the sample studied presented with or were at high risk of nomophobic behaviour. Additionally, nomophobic behaviour was associated with social anxiety and variables related to smartphone use. This study was not registered. Full article

About 70% of patients with Sjogren’s syndrome suffer from fatigue, and for a large proportion of patients, it is one of the most noticeable manifestations leading to disability. To date, no study has been conducted in Romania to determine the quality of life of patients and the impact of fatigue in patients with Sjogren’s syndrome. The present work proposes the translation, cultural adaptation, and validation of two questionnaires for the Romanian context, namely the ‘Profile of Fatigue and Discomfort–Sicca Symptoms Inventory’ (PROFAD-SSI-SF) and ‘Primary Sjogren’s Syndrome—Quality of Life’ (PSS-QoL), whose purpose is to assess quality of life and fatigue in patients with Sjogren’s syndrome. These two questionnaires were administered to 52 patients with Sjogren’s syndrome diagnosed according to the 2016 ACR-EULAR criteria. Subsequently, the conceptual, semantic, and operational analyses of the data were performed with the aim of cultural adaptation. The data obtained were statistically analyzed using indices of measurement accuracy such as internal consistency. Based on statistical analyses, this pilot study shows that the Romanian versions of the PROFAD-SSI and PSS-QoL questionnaires are as reliable as their English counterparts. Full article

Thyroid cancer is more aggressive in elderly patients due to biological causes related to age, histotype, and the advanced stage at diagnosis. In the elderly, both the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid cancer impact quality of life. This review aimed to collect and discuss the different therapeutic approaches in elderly patients affected by thyroid cancer. Our analysis examined the therapeutic surgical approach according to age and how this affects the prognosis of patients with thyroid cancer, along with how iodine 131 therapy is tolerated and how effective it is. Furthermore, we investigated whether levothyroxine suppressive therapy is always necessary and safe in elderly patients with thyroid cancer and the safety and efficacy of systemic therapy in the elderly. We also intended to identify peculiar features of thyroid cancer in elderly subjects and to evaluate how the disease and its treatment affect their quality of life. Full article

Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with increasing prevalence. This review aims to systematically investigate the relationship between the levels of toxic and trace elements in hair and the occurrence of ASD. Methods: Original articles reporting trace element levels in hair were included. A comprehensive search was conducted in databases such as Medline (via PubMed), Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, covering publications from 1 January 2000, to 2 January 2023. Keywords including “hair element analysis”, “trace elements”, and “autism”, were utilized in the search. Results: A direct comparison of the data was not possible due to the variety of methodologies observed in the available studies, including variations in sample sizes and analytical procedures. Conclusions: Exposure to toxic elements, notably Mercury (Hg) and Lead (Pb), which act as neurotoxicants, was found to be associated with the pathogenesis of ASD. Furthermore, a significant correlation was identified between the Zinc (Zn) to Copper (Cu) ratio and ASD. Full article

Global warming occurs as a result of the build-up of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, causing an increase in Earth’s average temperature. Two major greenhouse gases (CH₄ and CO₂) can be simultaneously converted into value-added chemicals and fuels thereby decreasing their negative impact on the climate. In the present work, we used a plasma-catalytic approach for the conversion of methane and carbon dioxide into syngas, hydrocarbons, and oxygenates. For this purpose, CuCe zeolite-containing catalysts were prepared and characterized (low-temperature N₂ adsorption, XRF, XRD, CO₂-TPD, NH₃-TPD, TPR). The process of carbon dioxide methane reforming was conducted in a dielectric barrier discharge under atmospheric pressure and at low temperature (under 120 °C). It was found that under the studied conditions, the major byproducts of CH₄ reforming are CO, H₂, and C₂H₆ with the additional formation of methanol and acetone. The application of a ZSM-12 based catalyst was beneficial as the CH₄ conversion increased and the total concentration of liquid products was the highest, which is related to the acidic properties of the catalyst. Full article

Cardiomyopathies are major causes of heart failure. Chagas disease (CD) is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, and it is endemic in Central and South America. Thirty percent of cases evolve into chronic chagas cardiomyopathy (CCC), which has worse prognosis as compared with other cardiomyopathies. In vivo bioenergetic analysis and ex vivo proteomic analysis of myocardial tissues highlighted worse mitochondrial dysfunction in CCC, and previous studies identified nuclear-encoded mitochondrial gene variants segregating with CCC. Here, we assessed the role of the mitochondrial genome through mtDNA copy number variations and mtDNA haplotyping and sequencing from heart or blood tissues of severe, moderate CCC and asymptomatic/indeterminate Chagas disease as well as healthy controls as an attempt to help decipher mitochondrial-intrinsic genetic involvement in Chagas disease development. We have found that the mtDNA copy number was significantly lower in CCC than in heart tissue from healthy individuals, while blood mtDNA content was similar among asymptomatic Chagas disease, moderate, and severe CCC patients. An MtDNA haplogrouping study has indicated that African haplogroups were over represented in the Chagas subject groups in comparison with healthy Brazilian individuals. The European lineage is associated with protection against cardiomyopathy and the macro haplogroup H is associated with increased risk towards CCC. Using mitochondria DNA sequencing, 84 mtDNA-encoded protein sequence pathogenic variants were associated with CCC. Among them, two variants were associated to left ventricular non-compaction and two to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The finding that mitochondrial protein-coding SNPs and mitochondrial haplogroups associate with risk of evolving to CCC is consistent with a key role of mitochondrial DNA in the development of chronic chagas disease cardiomyopathy. Full article

This article addresses a common issue in the design of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) by introducing a comprehensive methodology for the modeling and simulation of BEVs, referred to as the “PerfECT Design Tool”. The primary objective of this study is to provide engineers and researchers with a robust and streamlined approach for the early stages of electric vehicle (EV) design, offering valuable insights into the performance, energy consumption, current flow, and thermal behavior of these advanced automotive systems. Recognizing the complex nature of contemporary EVs, the study highlights the need for efficient design tools that facilitate decision-making during the conceptual phases of development. The PerfECT Design Tool is presented as a multi-level framework, divided into four logically sequential modules: Performance, Energy, Currents, and Temperature. These modules are underpinned by sound theoretical foundations and are implemented using a combination of MATLAB/Simulink and the vehicle dynamics software VI-CRT. The research culminates in the validation of the model through a series of experimental maneuvers conducted with a Tesla Model 3, establishing its accuracy in representing the mechanical, electrical, and thermal behavior of BEVs. The study’s main findings underscore the viability of the design tool as an asset in the initial phases of BEV design. Beyond its primary application, the tool holds promise for broader utilization, including the development of active control systems, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), and solutions for autonomous driving within the domain of electric vehicles. Full article

This manuscript delves into the pivotal role of sustainable agriculture in addressing environmental challenges and meeting the nutritional demands of a burgeoning global population. The primary objective is to assess the impact of a recently developed eco-friendly fertilizer, denoted as SBO, which arises from the blend of organic and mineral components derived from agricultural waste, sulfur, and residual orange materials. These elements are bound together with bentonite. This study compares SBO with distinct fertilizer treatments, including horse manure (HM) and nitrogen–phosphorous–potassium (NPK), on two diverse tomato-growing soils, each characterized by unique chemical and biological properties. Furthermore, the research extends to evaluate the environmental implications of these fertilizers, with a specific focus on their carbon and water footprints. Soils have been chemically and biochemically analyzed, and carbon and water footprints (CF and WF, respectively) have been assessed. The results reveal substantial enhancements in soil quality with the application of SBO fertilizer. Both soils undergo a transition towards near-neutral pH levels, an increase in organic matter content, and heightened microbial biomass. SBO-treated soils exhibit notably superior enzyme activities. The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) results affirm the sustainability of the SBO-based system, boasting the lowest CF, while NPK demonstrates the highest environmental impact. Consistently, the WF analysis aligns with these findings, indicating that SBO necessitates the least water for tomato production. In summary, this study underscores the critical importance of adopting sustainable fertilization practices for enhancing soil quality and reducing environmental footprints in agriculture. The promising results offer potential benefits for both food production and environmental conservation. Full article