Search Results (40,298)

Precipitation changes have significant impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem productivity. However, the effects of precipitation changes on species diversity have been the focus of most previous studies. Little is known about the contributions of different dimensions of biodiversity (species, functional, and phylogenetic diversity) in linking long-term precipitation changes to ecosystem functions. In this study, a randomized design was conducted in the desert steppes of Ningxia, which included three treatments: natural rainfall, precipitation reduced by 50%, and precipitation increased by 50%. After 4 years of treatment, the effects of precipitation changes on aboveground productivity and its underlying mechanisms were explored. The results showed that (1) reduced precipitation significantly decreased phylogenetic diversity and species diversity, but had no significant effect on functional diversity; (2) reduced precipitation significantly decreased aboveground productivity, while increased precipitation significantly enhanced aboveground productivity; and (3) changes in precipitation primarily regulated aboveground productivity by altering soil nitrogen availability and the size of dominant plant species. This study provides important theoretical and practical guidance for the protection and management of desert steppe vegetation under future climate change. Full article

In the process of producing ferroalloys, a large amount of secondary raw materials is formed, including slag, aspiration dusts and sludge. The recycling of secondary raw materials can create resources and bring environmental and economic benefits. Wet secondary raw materials (WSRMs) are characterized by a high chromium oxide content (averaging 24%), but due to their high moisture levels, they cannot be directly used in arc furnaces. As a strategic approach, mixing WSRMs with drier, more chromium-rich dusts (up to 45% Cr₂O₃) has been proposed. This not only reduces the overall moisture content of the mixture but also enhances the metallurgical value of the charge material. This paper presents the results of laboratory studies on the agglomeration of secondary wet raw materials using briquetting, extrusion and pelletizing methods. The main factors influencing the quality of the resulting product were analyzed, including the method of agglomeration, the composition of the mixture, as well as the type and dosage of the binder component. The strength characteristics of the finished agglomerated samples were evaluated in terms of resistance to splitting, impact loads and falling. Notably, the selected binders are organic and polymer substances capable of complete combustion under metallurgical smelting conditions. Full article

In the context of the global response to climate change and the active promotion of energy transformation, a number of low-carbon policies coupled with the development of synergies to help power system transformation is an important initiative. However, the insufficient articulation of the green power market, tradable green certificate (TGC) market, and carbon emission trading (CET) mechanism, and the ambiguous policy boundaries affect the trading decisions made by its market participants. Therefore, this paper systematically analyses the composition of the main players in the electricity-CET-TGC markets and their relationship with each other, and designs the synergistic mechanism of the electricity-CET-TGC markets, based on which, it constructs the optimal profit model of the thermal power plant operators, renewable energy manufacturers, power grid enterprises, power users and load aggregators under the electricity-CET-TGC markets synergy, and analyses the behavioural decision-making of the main players in the electricity-CET-TGC markets as well as the electric power system to optimise the trading strategy of each player. The results of the study show that: (1) The synergistic mechanism of electricity-CET-TGC markets can increase the proportion of green power grid-connected in the new type of power system. (2) In the selection of different environmental rights and benefits products, the direct participation of green power in the market-oriented trading is the main way, followed by applying for conversion of green power into China certified emission reduction (CCER). (3) The development of independent energy storage technology can produce greater economic and environmental benefits. This study provides policy support to promote the synergistic development of the electricity-CET-TGC markets and assist the low-carbon transformation of the power industry. Full article

This study systematically investigated the corrosion behavior of P110 pipeline steel in simulated carbonated concrete environments through a combination of electrochemical testing and multiphysics simulation, with particular focus on revealing the evolution mechanisms of corrosion product deposition and ion concentration distribution under half crevice structures, providing new insights into localized corrosion in concealed areas. Experimental results showed that no significant corrosion occurred on the P110 steel surface in uncarbonated simulated pore solution. Conversely, the half crevice structure significantly promoted the development of localized corrosion in carbonated simulated pore solution, with the most severe corrosion and substantial accumulation of corrosion products observed at the crevice mouth region. COMSOL Multiphysics simulations demonstrated that this phenomenon was primarily attributed to local enrichment of Cl⁻ and H⁺ ions, leading to peak corrosion current density, and directional migration of Fe²⁺ ions toward the crevice mouth, causing preferential deposition of corrosion products at this location. This “electrochemical acceleration-corrosion product deposition” multiphysics coupling analysis of corrosion product deposition patterns within crevices represents a new perspective not captured by traditional crevice corrosion models. The established ion migration-corrosion product deposition model provides new theoretical foundations for understanding crevice corrosion mechanisms and predicting the service life of buried concrete pipelines. Full article

Illegal logging is a major threat to tropical forests; however, control mechanisms and efforts to combat illegal logging have not effectively curbed fraud in the production chain, highlighting the need for effective methods to verify the geographic origin of timber. This study investigates the application of multi-elemental analysis combined with Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to discriminate the provenance of tropical timber in the Brazilian Legal Amazon. Wood samples of Hymenaea courbaril L. (Jatobá), Handroanthus sp. (Ipê), and Manilkara huberi (Ducke) A. Chevalier. (Maçaranduba) were taken from multiple sites. Elemental concentrations were determined via Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), and CA was applied to evaluate geographic differentiation. Significant differences in elemental profiles were found among locations, particularly when using the intermediate disk portions (25% to 75%), and especially the average of all five sampled portions, which proved most effective in geographic discrimination of the trunk. Elements such as Ca, Sr, Cr, Cu, Zn, and B were especially important for spatial discrimination. These findings underscore the forensic potential of multi-elemental wood profiling as a tool to support law enforcement and environmental monitoring by providing scientifically grounded evidence of timber origin. Full article

Proteomic profiling using ultrafast chromatography–mass spectrometry provides valuable insights into plant responses to abiotic factors by linking molecular changes with physiological outcomes. Nanopriming, a novel approach involving the treatment of seeds with nanoparticles, has demonstrated potential for enhancing plant metabolism and productivity. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying nanoparticle-induced effects remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the impact of gold nanoparticle (Au-NP) seed priming on the proteome of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) seedlings. Differentially regulated proteins (DRPs) were identified, revealing a pronounced reorganization of the photosynthetic apparatus (PSA). Both the light-dependent reactions and the Calvin cycle were affected, with significant upregulation of chloroplast-associated protein complexes, including PsbC (CP43), chlorophyll a/b-binding proteins, Photosystem I subunits (PsaA and PsaB), and the γ-subunit of ATP synthase. The large subunit of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (RuBisCo) exhibited over a threefold increase in expression in Au-NP-treated seedlings. The proteomic changes in the large subunit RuBisCo L were corroborated by transcriptomic data. Importantly, the proteomic changes were supported by physiological and biochemical analyses, ultrastructural modifications in chloroplasts, and increased photosynthetic activity. Our findings suggest that Au-NP nanopriming triggers coordinated molecular responses, enhancing the functional activity of the PSA. Identified DRPs may serve as potential biomarkers for further elucidation of nanopriming mechanisms and for the development of precision strategies to improve crop productivity. Full article

In modern agriculture, tractors play a crucial role in powering tools and implements. Proper operation of agricultural tractors in mechanized field operations can support sustainable agriculture and reduce emissions of pollutants such as carbon dioxide (CO₂). This has been a recurring concern associated with agricultural intensification for food production. This study aimed to evaluate the optimization of tractor gears and engine speed during crop operations to minimize CO₂ emissions and promote sustainability. The experiment was conducted using a strip plot design with subdivided sections and six replications, following a double factorial structure. The first factor evaluated was the type of agricultural implement (disc harrow, subsoiler, or sprayer), while the second factor was the engine speed setting (nominal or reduced). Operational and energy performance metrics were analyzed, including fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions, travel speed, effective working time, wheel slippage, and working depth. Optimized gear selection and engine speeds resulted in a 20 to 40% reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions. However, other evaluated parameters remain unaffected by the reduced engine speed, regardless of the implement used, ensuring the operation’s quality. Thus, optimizing operator training or configuring machines allows for environmental impact reduction, making agricultural practices more sustainable. Full article

The eruption of the Cumbre Vieja volcano on 19 September 2021 resulted in the deposition of over 20 million cubic meters of tephra, posing significant environmental and logistical challenges in the affected areas. This study aimed to explore the valorization of volcanic ash (VA) by evaluating its potential use in producing sustainable mortar by incorporating it as a replacement for cement or sand. Various experimental mixtures were prepared with different proportions of VA which substituted either cement or sand, and these mixes were characterized through a mechanical and microstructural campaign. Additionally, shrinkage was evaluated for the mixtures which showed good mechanical results. The results suggest that partially replacing cement with up to 15% ground VA as well as substituting sand with up to 25% VA are promising strategies for the production of sustainable mortar mixes. This research contributes to the understanding of the influence of VA in cementitious matrices and offers a novel approach for integrating locally available geomaterials into infrastructure design in volcanic active regions. Full article

This study proposed a mechanochemical activation strategy using ethanol-diisopropanolamine (EDIPA) to improve the grindability and hydration reactivity of basic oxygen furnace slag (BOFS), aiming for its large-scale industrial utilization. The incorporation of EDIPA significantly refined the particle size distribution and reduced the repose angle. As a result, the compressive strength of BOFS paste increased by 25.4 MPa at 28 d with only 0.08 wt.% EDIPA. Conductivity tests demonstrated that EDIPA strongly complexes with Ca²⁺, Al³⁺, and Fe³⁺, facilitating the dissolution of active mineral phases, such as C₁₂A₇ and C₂F, and accelerating hydration reactions. XRD and TG analyses confirmed that the incorporation of EDIPA facilitated the formation of Mc (C₄(A,F)ČH₁₁) and increased the content of C-S-H, both of which contributed to microstructural densification. Microstructural observations further revealed that EDIPA refined Ca(OH)₂ crystals, increasing their specific surface area from 4.7 m²/g to 35.2 m²/g. The combined effect of crystal refinement and enhanced hydration product formation resulted in reduced porosity and improved mechanical properties. Overall, the results demonstrated that EDIPA provided an economical, effective, and scalable means of activating BOFS, thereby promoting its high-value utilization in low-carbon construction materials. Full article

Oxidative stress significantly contributes to the exacerbation of brain damage during cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIR/I). In our previous study, purified cornel iridoid glycoside (PCIG), consisting of morroniside (MOR) and loganin (LOG), showed neuroprotective effects against CIR/I. To further explore the antioxidative effects and underlying molecular mechanisms, we applied PCIG, MOR, and LOG to rats injured by middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) as well as H₂O₂-stimulated PC12 cells. Additionally, the molecular docking analysis was performed to assess the interaction between the PCIG constituents and Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1). The results showed that the treated rats experienced fewer neurological deficits, reduced lesion volumes, and lower cell death accompanied by decreased levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl, as well as increased activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px). In H₂O₂-stimulated PC12 cells, the treatments decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, mitigated mitochondrial dysfunction, and inhibited mitochondrial-dependent apoptosis. Moreover, the treatments facilitated Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) translocation into the nucleus and selectively increased the expression of NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO-1) and heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) through MOR and LOG, respectively. Both MOR and LOG demonstrated strong binding affinity to Keap1. These findings suggested that PCIG, rather than any individual components, might serve as a valuable treatment for ischemic stroke by activating the Nrf2/NQO-1 and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. Full article

In UGC-based knowledge trading platforms, the abundance of personalized content often leads to varying quality levels. By incorporating embedded advertising, platforms can incentivize knowledge producers to produce high-quality content; however, the uncertainty in managing embedded advertisements increases the complexity of pricing knowledge products. This paper examines the impact of embedded advertising on the pricing of knowledge products, aims to maximize the profits of both knowledge producer and the platform. Based on Stackelberg game theory, two pricing decision models are developed under different advertising management modes: the platform-managed mode (where the platform determines the advertising intensity) and the advertiser-managed mode (where the advertiser determines the advertising intensity). The study analyzes the effects of UGC product quality, consumer sensitivity to advertising, and power structure on knowledge product pricing, and derives threshold conditions for optimal pricing. The results indicate that (1) When the quality of UGC knowledge product exceeds a certain threshold, platform-managed advertising becomes profitable. (2) Under the platform-managed mode, both the platform and knowledge producer can adopt price-increasing strategies to enhance profits. (3) Under the advertiser-managed mode, the platform can leverage differences in power structure to optimize revenue, while knowledge producer can actively enhance his pricing power to achieve mutual benefits with the platform. This study provides theoretical support and practical guidance for advertising cooperation mechanisms and pricing strategies for knowledge products in UGC-based knowledge trading platforms. Full article

This paper examines the effect of digital innovation on cost stickiness in manufacturing firms, focusing on the underlying mechanisms and contextual factors. Using data from Chinese A-share listed manufacturing firms from 2012 to 2023, we find that, first, for each one-unit increase in the level of digital technology, the cost stickiness index of enterprises decreases by an average of 0.4315 units, primarily through digital process innovation and digital business model innovation, whereas digital product innovation does not exhibit a statistically significant impact. Second, manufacturing servitization and the optimization of human capital structure are identified as key mediating mechanisms. Digital innovation promotes servitization by transitioning firms from product-centric to service-oriented business models, thereby reducing fixed costs and improving resource flexibility. It also optimizes human capital by increasing the proportion of high-skilled employees and reducing labor adjustment costs. Third, the effect of digital innovation on cost stickiness is found to be heterogeneous. Firms with high financing constraints benefit more from the cost-reducing effects of digital innovation due to improved resource allocation efficiency. Additionally, mid-tenure executives are more effective in leveraging digital innovation to mitigate cost stickiness, as they balance short-term performance pressures with long-term strategic investments. These findings contribute to the understanding of how digital transformation reshapes cost behavior in manufacturing and provide insights for policymakers and firms seeking to achieve sustainable development through digital innovation. Full article

This study explores the role of solidarity finance in promoting local development and the empowerment of marginalized communities through financial inclusion and access to community credits. It focuses on how solidarity-based financial mechanisms provide accessible credit with fewer barriers, fostering productive activities and economic resilience. This study employed a quantitative and exploratory design, analyzing data from 51 community funds in Ecuador out of a total of 220 through a self-administered online survey, validated by auditing professionals and answered by community representatives. The 25-item questionnaire gathered data on organizational dynamics, financial practices, and perceptions of sustainability. Descriptive analysis was complemented with an analysis of variance to test hypotheses concerning associativity, self-management, and organizational performance. The results show that while associativity, self-management, and organizational management are perceived as institutional strengths, aspects such as autonomy and solidarity received lower evaluations, suggesting critical areas for strategic improvement. Notably, significant differences emerged between self-management–organization and solidarity–organization groups, emphasizing the importance of associativity (collaboration) in enhancing the sustainability of solidarity finance, which proves to be a vital mechanism for community empowerment and local development; however, its long-term sustainability depends on strengthening internal dimensions, particularly autonomy and solidarity, and reinforcing associativity as a core driver of organizational resilience. Full article

The sustainable development of teaching expertise in research-intensive universities remains a critical global challenge. This study investigates the distinctive characteristics of expert teachers—exemplary faculty in research universities—addressing their developmental trajectories and motivational mechanisms within prevailing incentive systems that prioritize research productivity over pedagogical excellence. Employing grounded theory methodology, we conducted iterative coding of 20,000-word interview transcripts from 13 teaching-awarded professors at Chinese “Double First-Class” universities. Key findings reveal the following: (1) Compared to the original K-12 expert teacher model, university-level teaching experts exhibit distinctive disciplinary mastery—characterized by systematic knowledge structuring and cross-disciplinary integration capabilities. (2) Their developmental trajectory transcends linear expertise acquisition, instead manifesting as a problem-solving continuum across four nonlinear phases: career initiation, dilemma adaptation, theoretical consciousness, and leadership expansion. (3) Sustainable teaching excellence relies fundamentally on teachers’ professional passion, sustained through a virtuous cycle of high-quality instructional engagement and external validation (including positive student feedback, institutional recognition, and peer collaboration). Universities must establish comprehensive support systems—including (a) fostering a supportive and flexible learning atmosphere, (b) reforming evaluation mechanisms, and (c) facilitating interdisciplinary collaboration through teaching development communities—to institutionalize this developmental ecosystem. Full article

Unemployment and weak economic productivity are significant global issues, particularly in West Africa. Recently, through diverse mechanisms, remittances and foreign direct investment (FDI) have been sources of foreign capital flow that have positively influenced many less developed economies, including ECOWAS (ECOWAS stands for Economic Community of West African States). Nevertheless, these financial flows have exhibited significant inconsistencies, primarily resulting from economic downturns in migrants’ destination countries, with remarkable implications for beneficiary economies. This study, therefore, examines the effect of remittances and FDI on employment in ECOWAS. Specifically, the study assesses the effects of the inflow of remittances and FDI on employment using panel dynamic ordinary least squares (PDOLS) and also investigates the shock effects of remittances and FDI by employing Panel Vector Error Correction (PVECM), which involves variance decomposition. The results show that foreign direct investment (FDI) positively and significantly affects employment. Other variables that show a significant relationship with employment are wage rate, education expenditure, and interest rate. The variance decomposition result revealed that external shocks on remittances and FDI have short- and long-term effects on employment. The above findings imply that foreign direct investment has a far-reaching positive impact on the economy-wide management of the West African sub-region and thus calls for relevant policy options. Full article