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Currently, analyzing pharmaceuticals and biomarkers is crucial for ensuring medication safety and protecting life and health, and there is an urgent need to develop new and efficient analytical techniques in view of the limitations of traditional analytical methods. Molecularly imprinted ratiometric fluorescent (MI-RFL) sensors have received increasing attention in the field of analytical detection due to their high selectivity, sensitivity and anti-interference ability, short response time, and visualization. This review summarizes the recent advances of MI-RFL sensors in the field of pharmaceuticals and biomarkers detection. Firstly, the fluorescence sources and working mechanisms of MI-RFL sensors are briefly introduced. On this basis, new techniques and strategies for preparing molecularly imprinted polymers, such as dummy template imprinting, nanoimprinting, multi-template imprinting, and stimulus-responsive imprinting strategies, are presented. Then, dual- and triple-emission types of fluorescent sensors are introduced. Subsequently, specific applications of MI-RFL sensors in pharmaceutical analysis and biomarkers detection are highlighted. In addition, innovative applications of MI-RFL sensors in point-of-care testing are discussed in-depth. Finally, the challenges of MI-RFL sensors for analysis of pharmaceuticals and biomarkers are proposed, and the research outlook and development trends of MI-RFL sensors are prospected. Full article

Efficient and clean treatment of wastewater and energy recovery and utilization are important links to realize low-carbon development of oilfields. Therefore, this paper innovatively proposes a multi-energy complementary co-production heating system which fully and efficiently utilizes solar energy resources, oilfield waste heat resources, and biomass resources. At the same time, a typical dormitory building in the oil region was selected as the research object, the system equipment selection was calculated according to the relevant design specifications. On this basis, the simulation system model is established, and the evaluation index and operation control strategy suitable for the system are proposed. The energy utilization rate of the system and the economic, energy-saving, and environmental benefits of the system are simulated. The results show that, under the simulated conditions of two typical days and a heating season, the main heat load of the system is borne by the sewage source heat pump, the energy efficiency is relatively low in the cold period, and the energy-saving characteristics are not obvious. With the increase in heating temperature and anaerobic reactor volume, the energy consumption of the system also increases, and the energy efficiency ratio of each subsystem and the comprehensive energy efficiency ratio of the system gradually decrease. In addition, although the initial investment in cogeneration heating systems is high, the operating costs and environmental benefits are huge. Under the condition of maintaining 35 °C, the anaerobic reactor in the system can reduce carbon emissions by 12.15 t per year, reduce sulfur dioxide emissions by 98.4 kg, reduce dust emissions by 49.2 kg, and treat up to 2700 t of sewage per year, which has broad application prospects. Full article

In the context of global carbon emission reduction (CER) targets and slowing economic growth, it is imperative for suppliers to make informed choices regarding CER and financing strategies. However, limited research has explored the impact of financing strategies on CER. This paper develops a supply chain model that includes a supplier, a manufacturer, an E-commerce platform (E-C platform), and consumers with a preference for low-carbon products. The supplier sets the wholesale price, while the manufacturer controls both the production quantity and the unit amount of CER. We examine whether the manufacturer will invest in CER with sufficient capital or under various financing scenarios, namely (1) traditional production with sufficient capital (Scenario ST); (2) CER implementation with sufficient capital (Scenario SG); (3) CER implementation with E-C platform financing (Scenario EG); (4) CER implementation with bank financing (Scenario BG). Through comparative analysis, the analysis reveals that, regardless of the financing method chosen, the supplier’s profit and the manufacturer’s production quantity increase when the manufacturer invests in CER technology innovation compared to the traditional scenario. Furthermore, in terms of the manufacturer’s profit, if the service cost of bank financing exceeds a certain threshold, the manufacturer should either seek financing from the E-C platform or abandon the CER investment. Additionally, with respect to CER outcomes, Scenario BG outperforms Scenario EG. These findings provide a theoretical foundation and decision-making support for supply chain participants when addressing carbon reduction and financing strategy decisions. Full article

In this study, a low-carbon freight routing problem for time-sensitive goods is investigated in the context of water–rail–road multimodal transportation. To enhance the on-time transportation of time-sensitive goods, hard time windows are employed to regulate both pickup and delivery services at the start and end of their transportation. The uncertainty of both the demand for time-sensitive goods and the capacity of the transportation network are modeled using L-R triangular fuzzy numbers in the routing process to make the advanced routing more feasible in the actual transportation. Based on the carbon tax policy, a fuzzy linear optimization model is established to address the proposed problem, and an equivalent chance-constrained programming formulation is then obtained to make the solution to the problem attainable. A numerical experiment is carried out to verify the feasibility of incorporating the carbon tax policy, uncertainty, and water–rail–road multimodal transportation to optimize the low-carbon freight routing problem for time-sensitive goods. Furthermore, a multi-objective optimization is used to reveal that lowering the transportation costs, reducing the carbon emissions, and avoiding the risk are in conflict with each in the routing. We also analyze the sensitivity of the optimization results concerning the confidence level of the chance constraints and the uncertainty degree of the uncertain demand and capacity. Based on the numerical experiment, we draw several conclusions to help the shipper, receiver, and multimodal transportation operator to organize efficient water–rail–road multimodal transportation for time-sensitive goods. Full article

A benzothiazole-based derivative aggregation-induced emission (AIE) fluorescent ‘turn-on’ probe named 2-(2-((4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)benzyl)oxy)phenyl)benzo[d]thiazole (probe BT-BO) was developed and synthesized successfully for detecting hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) in living cells. The synthesis method of probe BT-BO is facile. Probe BT-BO demonstrates a well-resolved emission peak at 604 nm and the ability to prevent the interference of reactive oxygen species (ROS), various metal ions and anion ions, and good sensitivity. Additionally, the probe boasts impressive pH range versatility, a fast response time to H₂O₂ and low cytotoxicity. Finally, probe BT-BO was applied successfully to image A549 and Hep G2 cells to monitor both exogenous and endogenous H₂O₂. Full article

China’s carbon emissions trading policy represents a significant institutional innovation designed to advance the country’s economic and social development towards sustainability and low-carbon growth. This study investigates the effects of China’s carbon emissions trading policy by employing the difference-in-differences model and spatial Durbin model, using provincial panel data spanning from 2005 to 2020. We find that the carbon emissions trading policy can inhibit per capita carbon emissions in the pilot areas. This work is primarily driven by green technological innovation and the upgrade of industrial structure. Furthermore, the carbon emissions trading policy exhibits a positive spatial spillover effect, inhibits per capita carbon emissions in the areas adjacent to the pilot through demonstration effect and competition effect, and does not cause carbon leakage. These findings reveal the policy’s effectiveness in emissions reduction, and may be useful reference for promoting sustainable economic and social development. This is of great practical significance for exploring how to optimize environmental governance measures, avoid carbon leakage, and achieve balance and fairness in responsibilities in achieving low-carbon sustainable development. Our study proposes policy recommendations for synergizing the national trading market in China. Full article

In light of efforts to reduce GHG emissions, liner ship operators in coastal navigation are undertaking numerous activities to contribute to the reduction of fossil fuel consumption during the transitional period toward environmentally friendly propulsion systems without compromising their regular operations. Regular ship overhauls, which include removing fouling from the underwater part of the hull and optimizing propellers, also contribute to this goal and are the focus of this research. The ship propeller, as a key component of the propulsion system, plays a significant role in ensuring reliable, safe, and economical navigation. Proper selection and regular maintenance of the propeller are essential for achieving optimal performance. This paper presents the optimization of a fixed-pitch propeller according to the ISO 484/2 standard to Class I using Metrascan 3D technology. This technology enables a detailed analysis of the propeller geometry, identification of irregularities, correction, and adjustment to achieve better hydrodynamic characteristics. The pitch corrections of the propeller resulted in improved overall vessel performance and fuel consumption, as demonstrated by comparing the consumption before and after the optimization. Full article

Environmental protection and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are getting increasingly high priority in the area of mobility. Several regulations, goals and projects have been published in recent years that clearly encourage the reduction of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emission, the adoption of green alternatives and the use of renewable energy sources. The study compares CO₂ emissions between conventional diesel and liquefied natural gas (LNG) heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs), and furthermore investigates the main influencing factors of GHG emissions. This study was carried out in a test–track environment, which supported the perfect reproducibility of the tests with minimum external influencing factors, allowing different types of measurements. At the results level, our primary objective was to collect and evaluate consumption and emission values using statistical methods, in terms of correlations, relationships and impact assessment. In this research, we recorded CO₂ and pollutant emission values indirectly via the fleet management system (FMS) using controller area network (CAN) messages. Correlation, regression and statistical analyses were used to investigate the factors influencing fuel consumption and emissions. Our scientific work is a unique study in the field of HDVs, as the measurements were performed on the test track level, which provide accuracy for emission differences. The results of the project clearly show that gas technology can contribute to reducing GHG emissions of HDVs, and LNG provides a reliable alternative way forward for long-distance transportation, especially in areas of Europe where filling stations are already available. Full article

Media visual sculpture is a landscape element with high carbon emissions. To reduce carbon emission in the process of creating and displaying visual art and structures (visual communication), geo-polymer concrete (GePC) is considered by designers. It has emerged as an environmentally friendly substitute for traditional concrete, boasting reduced carbon emissions and improved longevity. This research delves into the prediction of the compressive strength of GePC (CSGePC) employing various soft computing techniques, namely SVR, ANNs, ANFISs, and hybrid methodologies combining Genetic Algorithm (GA) or Firefly Algorithm (FFA) with ANFISs. The investigation utilizes empirical datasets encompassing variations in concrete constituents and compressive strength. Evaluative metrics including RMSE, MAE, R², VAF, NS, WI, and SI are employed to assess predictive accuracy. The results illustrate the remarkable precision of all soft computing approaches in predicting CSGePC, with hybrid models demonstrating superior performance. Particularly, the FFA-ANFISs model achieves a MAE of 0.8114, NS of 0.9858, RMSE of 1.0322, VAF of 98.7778%, WI of 0.9236, R² of 0.994, and SI of 0.0358. Additionally, the GA-ANFISs model records a MAE of 1.4143, NS of 0.9671, RMSE of 1.5693, VAF of 96.8278%, WI of 0.8207, R² of 0.987, and SI of 0.0532. These findings underscore the effectiveness of soft computing techniques in predicting CSGePC, with hybrid models showing particularly promising results. The practical application of the model is demonstrated through its reliable prediction of CSGePC, which is crucial for optimizing material properties in sustainable construction. Additionally, the model’s performance was compared with the existing literature, showing significant improvements in predictive accuracy and robustness. These findings contribute to the development of more efficient and environmentally friendly construction materials, offering valuable insights for real-world engineering applications. Full article

Radiative cooling, an emerging technology that reflects sunlight and emits radiation into outer space, has gained much attention due to its energy-efficient nature and broad applicability in buildings, photovoltaic cells, and vehicles. This study focused on fabricating SiO₂-polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and TiO₂-SiO₂-PMMA thick films via the blade-coating method. The investigation aimed to improve cooling performance by adding TiO₂ particles to increase the coverage area and utilize the TiO₂ reflectance ability. The characterizations of the emissivity/absorptivity, solar reflectance, and microstructure of the thick films were conducted by using ultraviolet–visible/near-infrared (UV-Vis/NIR) diffuse reflection spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. Experimental results revealed that the maximum temperature drops of approximately 9.4 and 9.8 °C were achieved during the daytime period for SiO₂-PMMA and TiO₂-SiO₂-PMMA thick films. The total solar radiation reflectivity increased from 71.7 to 75.6% for SiO₂-PMMA radiative cooling thick films after adding TiO₂. These findings underscored the potential of TiO₂-SiO₂-PMMA thick films in advancing radiative cooling technology and cooling capabilities across various applications. Full article

This study investigated the development and optimization of sol–gel synthesized Ni/ZrO₂-Al₂O₃ catalysts, aiming to enhance the decomposition efficiency of CF₄, a potent greenhouse gas. The research focused on improving catalytic performance at temperatures below 700 °C by incorporating zirconium and tungsten as co-catalysts. Comprehensive characterization techniques including XRD, BET, FTIR, and XPS were employed to elucidate the structural and chemical properties contributing to the catalyst’s activity and durability. Various synthesis ratios, heat treatment temperatures, and co-catalyst addition positions were explored to identify the optimal conditions for CF₄ decomposition. The catalyst composition with 7.5 wt% ZrO₂ and 3 wt% WO₃ on Al₂O₃ (3W-S3) achieved over 99% CF₄ decomposition efficiency at 550 °C. The study revealed that the appropriate incorporation of ZrO₂ enhanced the specific surface area and prevented sintering, while the addition of tungsten further improved the distribution of active sites. These findings offer valuable insights into the design of more efficient catalysts for environmental applications, particularly in mitigating emissions from semiconductor manufacturing processes. Full article

The energy transition, aimed at significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions to combat climate change, presents both opportunities and challenges in addressing energy poverty. This article explores the differing approaches of Poland and Sweden in energy poverty alleviation within the context of this transition. Poland, with its historical dependence on coal, faces considerable obstacles as it seeks to shift towards cleaner energy sources while minimizing the impact on vulnerable populations. Conversely, Sweden, supported by its advanced energy infrastructure and strong welfare systems, has implemented effective strategies that have largely mitigated energy poverty, though challenges persist for low-income households, especially in rural areas. The article delves into the definitions, drivers, and alleviation strategies of energy poverty in both countries. Through a comprehensive literature review and the analysis of key initiatives such as Poland’s Clean Air Program and Sweden’s Warm Rent scheme, the study underscores the potential for policy interventions to address energy poverty. It concludes with recommendations on how both countries can further reduce energy poverty, highlighting the critical role of energy efficiency, social support systems, and the integration of renewable energy in achieving a fair and equitable energy transition. Full article

Saudi Arabia faces significant challenges in managing the rising energy consumption in buildings driven largely by its hot climatic conditions. As a result, retrofitting building facades to enhance energy efficiency has become a critical strategy. This study assesses the effectiveness of various façade retrofit strategies in reducing cooling electricity consumption using a real-time case study in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. The strategies explored include external wall upgrades, window replacements, and installation of shading devices. Each strategy was evaluated individually, considering the reduction in heat gains, cooling load, and payback period as key performance indicators. To further maximize energy efficiency, these strategies were also analyzed in combination using the genetic algorithm optimization method, yielding 224 possible facade configurations. The optimal solution included the use of an External Thermal Insulation Composite System (ETCIS) in walls, louvers in windows, and low-emissivity coating with Argon gas-filled glazing, achieving a cooling energy reduction of approximately 16% and a payback period of 14.8 years. This study provides several recommendations for improving the efficiency of retrofitting building façades in hot climatic conditions. Full article

This work presents the extrusion-based preparation of new biocomposites from two plant fibres (namely Cannabis sativa L. and Opuntia ficus-indica Mill.) that are added to two different polymers (an ethylene–octene elastomer and polylactic acid), which act as matrices. Structural and morphological characterization (using X-ray diffraction and field emission scanning electron microscopy) have been used to correlate the interactions between the biomass and the polymers employed with the efficiency of the proposed approach. It was found that Opuntia-based composites can be easily formed in a range of biomass/polymer ratios. However, the interaction between hemp and the matrix means that only specific ratios can form tightly bound composites. The present communication thus paves the way for more complex and comprehensive studies on the formulation of biocomposites containing these matrices. Full article