Search Results (38,709)

Growing pressure from shrinking freshwater supplies and worsening pollution has heightened the demand for more effective water treatment solutions, especially those that promote reuse. This review synthesizes findings from 235 peer-reviewed papers examining plant-, mineral-, and other naturally derived coagulants used in surface water purification. Overall, these materials demonstrate turbidity reduction performance on par with conventional chemical coagulants across a wide range of initial turbidity levels (roughly 50–500 NTU). They are generally inexpensive, biodegradable, low in toxicity, and produce smaller volumes of residual sludge. Most function through mechanisms such as polymer-chain bridging or charge neutralization. However, their deployment at scale is still constrained by limited commercialization pathways, technical integration issues, and uneven public acceptance. Continued cross-disciplinary work is required to refine their performance and broaden their use, particularly in regions with limited resources or rural infrastructure. Full article

A global interest in the cultivation of Kalibaus (Labeo calbasu) has emerged due to decreasing natural stocks and a consistent rise in market value and demand. Given these concerns, understanding the species’ physiological responses to environmental changes is crucial. The present research aimed to assess the effect of varying environmental temperatures on metabolism, haemato-biochemical indices, hormonal concentrations and immune responses in L. calbasu. This study was conducted in triplicate using 100 L glass aquariums at four different temperatures: 22, 26, 30, and 34 °C. The highest weight and length gain were observed at 30 °C, while the lowest occurred at 22 °C. Notably, the best feed conversion ratio (FCR) of 1.51 ± 0.03 was also recorded at 30 °C. Although haematological and biochemical parameters remained within normal ranges, they varied with temperature changes. Indicators of cold and heat stress were evident through lower hematocrit levels and higher white blood cell (WBC) counts. Biochemical indicators such as serum albumin (1.84 ± 0.05 g dL⁻¹), serum globulin (1.64 ± 0.06 gdL⁻¹), HCO₃ (30.93 ± 0.62), Na⁺ (115.60 ± 3.72 mmolL⁻¹), alkaline phosphatase (93.33 ± 9.39 AP, IUL⁻¹), and AST/SGOT (21.00 ± 4.55 UL⁻¹) were significantly higher at 30 °C. Regarding hormonal responses, peak levels of growth hormone (GH), triiodothyronine (T3) (1.44 ± 0.07 ngmL⁻¹), and thyroxine (T4) were recorded at 30 °C. Meanwhile, serum cortisol (1.62 ± 0.06 µgdL⁻¹) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) (18.01 ± 3.26 pgmL⁻¹) were highest at 34 °C. Immune responses were strongest between 26 and 30 °C. In conclusion, the results suggest that L. calbasu should ideally be cultured between 26 and 30 °C for optimum growth and health, making it ideal for commercial farming. Full article

In response to the growing need for efficient, stable, and non-destructive gripping in apple harvesting robots, this study proposes a novel rigid–flexible coupled end-effector. The design integrates an underactuated mechanism with a real-time force feedback control system. First, compression tests on ‘Red Fuji’ apples determined the minimum damage threshold to be 24.33 N. A genetic algorithm (GA) was employed to optimize the geometric parameters of the finger mechanism for uniform force distribution. Subsequently, a rigid–flexible coupled multibody dynamics model was established to simulate the grasping of small (70 mm), medium (80 mm), and large (90 mm) apples. Additionally, a harvesting experimental platform was constructed to verify the performance. Results demonstrated that by limiting the contact force of the distal phalange region silicone (DPRS) to 24 N via active feedback, the peak contact forces on the proximal phalange region silicone (PPRS) and middle phalange region silicone (MPRS) were effectively maintained below the damage threshold across all three sizes. The maximum equivalent stress remained significantly below the fruit’s yield limit, ensuring no mechanical damage occurred, with an average enveloping time of approximately 1.30 s. The experimental data showed strong agreement with the simulation, with a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 5.98% for contact force and 5.40% for enveloping time. These results confirm that the proposed end-effector successfully achieves high adaptability and reliability in non-destructive harvesting, offering a valuable reference for agricultural robotics. Full article

Scylla paramamosain is a commercially important crab species widely cultured in China. However, artificial breeding remains limited by the high mortality of ovigerous females and asynchronous embryo hatching. In vitro embryo hatching has emerged as a promising alternative, yet its practical feasibility and underlying molecular mechanisms have not been systematically investigated. In this study, we examined the developmental characteristics of S. paramamosain embryos under different temperature regimes and hatching modes, evaluated embryo viability following maternal death, and compared transcriptomic profiles of Zoea I larvae between in vitro and maternal hatching. Our results demonstrated that temperature had a pronounced effect on embryogenesis and survival, with 27–30 °C identified as the optimal range for development and hatching. Both low and high temperature extremes markedly reduced embryo survival. Developmental trajectories were largely comparable between in vitro and maternal hatching, confirming the reliability and feasibility of the in vitro approach. Embryos collected within 4 h after maternal death exhibited high hatching success, whereas those obtained after 8 h failed to hatch. Transcriptomic analysis revealed 3505 differentially expressed genes, including 1933 upregulated and 1572 downregulated, which were significantly enriched in pathways related to cell cycle regulation, energy metabolism, immune defense, and ion transport. These findings implied that in vitro embryos could maintain developmental competence by stabilizing genomic integrity, reallocating energy resources, and activating stress responsive mechanisms. This study provides the first comprehensive evidence supporting the feasibility of in vitro embryo hatching in S. paramamosain and offers practical insights for optimizing temperature regimes, improving the utilization of maternal resources, and advancing large scale seedstock production in Full article

Reducing urban–rural income inequality is a central objective of sustainable development and a critical challenge for inclusive growth in emerging economies. This study examines the impact of the digital economy on urban–rural income inequality in China. Using panel data across 279 cities in China and Chinese Household Income Project (CHIP) data, we find that the digital economy significantly widens urban–rural income inequality. Specifically, digital industries and innovations are the main drivers, contrasting with inclusive infrastructure. Although we observe a positive association between the digital economy and educational attainment among rural residents, such improvements do not appear to be fully translated into higher income. One possible explanation is that the digital economy is more effective in alleviating skill mismatch among urban residents than among their rural counterparts. Finally, our results suggest that Public Employment Services may help mitigate this negative effect through channels such as fiscal subsidies and improving skills training accessibility. Our findings highlight the need for caution regarding the inequality implications of digital economy development in emerging economies and underscore the crucial role of institutional arrangements in promoting socially sustainable and inclusive development. Full article

Drought stress and insecticide exposure are two significant environmental factors that can impact the physiology and behaviour of aphids, a major agricultural pest. An understanding of the mechanisms of green peach aphids’ response to insecticides under drought stress is a critical area of research that needs urgent attention. In view of this, we conducted this study to determine the impact of drought and insecticides on the activity of detoxification enzymes in green peach aphid. A 2 × 2 × 3 factorial experiment involving two levels of water treatments (drought and no drought), two levels of aphids infestation (aphids and no aphids), and three levels of pesticides applications (thiacloprid, flonicamid and no pesticide) was conducted. The treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The results showed that there was a significant (p < 0.01) interaction effect of drought × insecticides on the green peach aphid performance under drought or no drought conditions. Generally, the highest aphids host acceptance, survival rate, colonization success, and average daily reproduction under drought and well-watered conditions occurred on flonicamid-treated plants, whereas thiacloprid-treated plants had the least. However, the thiacloprid-treated plants had higher photosynthetic rate, water use efficiency, lower stomatal conductance, and decreased transpiration rate. Moreover, flonicamid treatment increased the accumulation of glutathione–S-transferase, acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, 1-napthyle acetate, and 1-napthyle butyrate activities in aphids, compared to the thiacloprid treatments. The thiacloprid pesticide, which demonstrated higher efficacy against green peach aphid, can be used in areas where green peach aphids and drought stress are major concerns. Full article

This article explores the integration of food ethics as a proposed fifth and emerging pillar of food security, complementing the four dimensions established by the FAO 1996 framework (availability, accessibility, utilization, and stability). Using Romania as a case study, the research combines descriptive statistical analysis, legislative review, and conceptual interpretation to examine how moral responsibility, social equity, and food citizenship shape sustainable food systems. Quantitative data from Eurostat (2020–2022) reveal that Romania generates over 3.4 million tons of food waste annually, with households accounting for more than half of the total. This wasted abundance coexists with persistent food insecurity, affecting 14.7% of the population who cannot afford a protein-based meal even once every second day. Given the short time series (n = 3), including the entire data that was reported to date and the exclusive use of secondary data, the statistical results are interpreted descriptively and, where applicable, exploratorily. In this context, the findings demonstrate that food waste is not merely an issue of economic inefficiency, but rather a profound ethical and social imbalance. This research argues for the conceptual recognition of an ethical pillar within the food security framework linking moral awareness, responsible consumption, and equitable access to food. By advancing food ethics as a normative and societal foundation of sustainable food systems, this article offers a framework relevant for policy design, civic engagement, and collective responsibility, reframing food security beyond a purely technical objective. Full article

To address the inefficiency and high labor intensity associated with traditional manual mussel seedling unloading, this study proposes an automated traction-rope mussel unloading machine. This study focuses on the thick-shelled mussel (Mytilus coruscus) as the research subject. Furthermore, the key mussel unloading processes were simulated using the EDEM software to analyze mechanical interactions during detachment. A breakable mussel discrete element model was developed, and its Bonding V2 model parameters were systematically calibrated. Using the ultimate crushing displacement (2.25 mm) and ultimate crushing load (552 N) as response variables, the model was optimized through a sequential experimental design comprising Plackett–Burman screening, the steepest ascent method, and the Box–Behnken response surface methodology. The results demonstrate that the optimal parameter combination consists of unit area normal stiffness (2.48 × 10¹¹ N/m³), unit area tangential stiffness (3.80 × 10⁸ N/m³), critical normal stress (3.15 × 10⁶ Pa), critical tangential stress (2.90 × 10⁷ Pa), and the contact radius (1.60 mm). The model’s accuracy was validated through integrated discrete element simulations and prototype testing. The equipment achieves an exceptionally low mussel damage rate of only 1.2%, effectively meeting the operational requirements for mussel unloading. This study provides both theoretical foundations and practical insights for the design of mechanized mussel unloading systems in China. Full article

Against the backdrop of China’s comprehensive rural revitalization strategy and ongoing national park development, how universities can leverage scientific research innovation and talent resources to engage in sustainable development practices within local communities has become a focal point for both academia and policymakers. This study examines the “Harmonious and Beautiful Mountains and Seas” (HBMS) rural revitalization platform established by the Landscape Architecture discipline at Hainan University, summarizing its practical experience and analyzing its operational mechanisms. From the perspective of innovative governance, the study identifies three core values—“Nurturing Culture,” “Rural Brilliance,” and “Constructing Meaning”—and, on this basis, explores mechanisms for enhancing community resilience and pathways for brand-oriented operation in national park communities. The study aims to elucidate a novel model of university–rural collaborative revitalization. Research indicates that the “Mountain–Sea Synergy” model is not a singular community development solution, but rather a practical governance framework centered on multi-stakeholder collaborative governance mediated by universities. Its core value manifests across three dimensions: cultural revitalization, youth empowerment, and community-building significance. This model provides replicable endogenous development insights for national park communities operating under ecological conservation constraints, while also enriching university–rural collaborative research with practical case studies within the Chinese context. Full article

Tomato leafminer (Tuta absoluta) significantly affects tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) and eggplant (Solanum melongena) crops worldwide, with its feeding patterns being closely associated with its gut microbiota. We aimed to compare the cultivable gut bacteria of T. absoluta larvae fed on tomato and eggplant to investigate their role in host adaptation. Gut bacteria were cultivated on Luria–Bertani broth, nutrient agar, and Brain Heart Infusion media under different temperature conditions, followed by morphology- and 16S rRNA-based identification. Notably, both feeding groups revealed distinct gut bacterial community structures. Tomato-fed larvae harbored bacteria spanning eight species, five genera, four families, and two phyla. In contrast, eggplant-fed larvae exhibited greater microbial diversity, encompassing 15 species, 10 genera, 9 families, and 3 phyla, including unique genera such as Pseudomonas and Pectobacterium, which was attributed to the host plant contribution. Enterococcus mundtii was the most dominant bacterium, and species such as Bacillus wiedmannii and Micrococcus luteus were most thermotolerant. Overall, these findings highlight the importance of multi-condition culture approaches for thoroughly characterizing insect gut microbiota and underscore the role of host plants in pest adaptability by modulating gut microbial communities, providing new insights for developing sustainable control strategies utilizing “plant–insect–microorganism” interactions. Full article

The domestic donkey (Equus asinus) remains an essential component of agricultural systems worldwide, particularly in rural Tunisia. This study aims to conduct a comprehensive morphological characterization of the Tunisian donkey population, focusing on phaneroptic variation, sexual dimorphism and live weight prediction. A total of 556 clinically healthy donkeys, consisting of 207 males and 349 females, were sampled from various governorates in Tunisia. Descriptive statistics revealed significant variability in withers height (98–147 cm), thoracic circumference (100–165 cm) and body length (86–144 cm). Principal Component Analysis identified coat color and belly pigmentation as major contributors to phaneroptic variation, explaining 69.556% of the total variance. Hierarchical Ascendant Classification further classified the population into three distinct groups, with Group I exhibiting smaller body dimensions, Group II having medium sizes, and Group III consisting of larger donkeys. Sexual dimorphism was detected in neck circumference (females: 64.30 cm vs. males: 61.97 cm; FDR-adjusted p = 0.0468). Regression models for predicting live weight indicated that thoracic circumference was the most reliable single predictor (R² = 95.4%). Overall, the study documents a wide range of morpho-biometric variation within the Tunisian donkey population and provides practical tools for field-based weight estimation, offering valuable insights for future conservation strategies and management programs. Full article

The prevailing challenges of fading characteristics and identity crises in historical and cultural districts of small and medium-sized cities have been identified. Traditional analytical methods have been found to be deficient in systematically capturing the unique forms and urban memory of these districts. The present study thus adopts the Shangcheng Historical and Cultural District of Huangling County as a case study, proposing a comprehensive analytical framework that integrates urban memory and multi-dimensional methods such as space syntax, grounded-theory-inspired coding, and urban image analysis. The district is subject to a systematic assessment of its spatial form, structural design, and the mechanisms by which urban memory is conveyed. The proposal sets out targeted renewal strategies for four aspects: paths, edges, nodes and landmarks, and districts. The research findings are as follows: (1) Paths with high integration and connection degrees simultaneously serve as both sacrificial axes and carriers of folk narratives. (2) Edges are composed of the city wall ruins, Loess Plateau landform, and street spaces. The fishbone-like street structure leads to significant differences in the connection degrees of main and secondary roads. (3) Nodes such as Guanyv Temple-Confucian Temple, the South Gate, and the North City Wall Ruins Square have high visual control, while the visual integration and visual control of the Qiaoshan Middle School and Gongsun Road historical nodes are relatively low, and their spatial accessibility is insufficient. (4) Based on the “memory–space” coupling relationship, the district is divided into the Academy Life Area, the Historical and Cultural Core Experience Area, and the Comprehensive Service Area, providing an effective path to alleviate the problem of functional homogenization. The present study proffers a novel perspective on the revitalization mechanisms of historical districts in small and medium-sized cities, encompassing both theoretical integration and practical strategy levels. It further contributes methodological inspirations and localized planning experiences for addressing the cultural disconnection and spatial inactivity problems of historical urban areas on a global scale. Full article

Plant disease specimens are invaluable resources for investigating the origin and spread mechanisms of plant pathogenic microorganisms. Citrus canker, caused by Xanthomonas citri pv. citri (Xcc), is one of the most devastating bacterial diseases in citrus production. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of Xcc strain GD82, isolated from Guangdong Province during the early outbreak stage in the 1980s. Comparative analysis with modern genomes revealed key differences in structural variations, functional single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), and phage-related fragments, suggesting potential associations between insertions/deletions (InDels) and pathogenicity or environmental adaptation. This study provides critical insights into the evolutionary trajectory of Xcc and the epidemiological dynamics of citrus canker in China. Full article

Researchers are increasingly engaged in studies to determine and correct negative welfare consequences of animal husbandry and behaviour modification procedures, not least in response to industries’ growing need to maintain their social licence through demonstrable welfare standards that address public expectations. To ensure that welfare recommendations are scientifically credible, the studies must be rigorously designed and conducted, and the data produced must be interpreted with full regard to conceptual, methodological, and experimental design limitations. This commentary provides guidance on these matters. In addition to, and complementary with, the ARRIVE guidelines that deal with animal studies in general, there is a need for additional specific advice on the design of studies directed at procedures that alter behaviour, whether through training, handling, or restraint. The COMPASS Guidelines offer clear direction for conducting welfare-focused behaviour modification research. They stand for the following: Controls and Calibration, emphasising rigorous design, baseline measures, equipment calibration, and replicability; Objectivity and Open data, ensuring transparency, validated tools, and data accessibility; Motivation and Methods, with a focus on learning theory, behavioural science, and evidence-based application of positive reinforcers and aversive stimuli; Precautions and Protocols, embedding the precautionary principle, minimising welfare harms, listing stop criteria, and using real-time monitoring; Animal-centred Assessment, with multimodal welfare evaluation, using physiological, behavioural, functional, and objective indicators; Study ethics and Standards, noting the 3Rs (replacement, reduction, and refinement), welfare endpoints, long-term effects, industry independence, and risk–benefit analysis; and Species-relevance and Scientific rigour, facilitating cross-species applicability with real-world relevance and robust methodology. To describe these guidelines, the current article is organised into seven major sections that outline detailed, point-by-point considerations for ethical and scientifically rigorous design. It concludes with a call for continuous improvement and collaboration. A major purpose is to assist animal ethics committees when considering the design of experiments. It is also anticipated that these Guidelines will assist reviewers and editorial teams in triaging manuscripts that report studies in this context. Full article

SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) analysis has been applied in disease diagnosis and treatment effect evaluation. However, its application in the prediction and diagnosis of dairy cow diseases remains limited. We investigated whether the variance and autocorrelation of deviations in daily activity, rumination time, and milk electrical conductivity, along with daily milk yield, could be used to predict clinical mastitis in dairy cows using popular machine learning (ML) algorithms and identifying key predictive features using SHAP analysis. Quantile regression (QR) with second- or third-order polynomial models with the median or upper quantiles was used to process raw data from mastitic and healthy cows. Nine variables from the 14-day period preceding mastitis onset were identified as significantly associated with mastitis through logistic regression. These variables were used to train and validate prediction models using eleven classical ML algorithms. Among them, the partial least squares model demonstrated superior performance, achieving an AUC of 0.789, sensitivity of 0.500, specificity of 0.947, accuracy of 0.793, precision of 0.833, and F1-score of 0.625. SHAP analysis results revealed positive contributions of three features to mastitis prediction, whereas two features had negative contributions. These findings provide a theoretical basis for developing clinical decision-support tools in commercial farming settings. Full article