Sustainable Management Strategies Research Articles

Innovative Machine Learning, Isotopic, and Hydrogeochemical Techniques for Groundwater Analysis in Arid Landscapes in Egypt’s Eastern Desert

Abstract Groundwater serves as a lifeline in Egypt’s hyper-arid Eastern Desert, particularly for agricultural and domestic uses. However, a comprehensive understanding of groundwater origin, quality, and recharge dynamics in the region remains limited due to geological complexity, data scarcity, and the high cost of isotopic analysis. This study addresses these challenges by integrating stable isotopes (δ¹⁸O and δ²H), hydrogeochemical parameters, remote sensing, and explainable artificial intelligence (AI) to investigate groundwater dynamics and support sustainable water management strategies. A total of 34 groundwater samples were collected from three key aquifers: the Quaternary alluvium, Nubian Sandstone, and fractured Basement aquifers. Hydrochemical analyses and isotopic signatures distinguish meteoric water from paleowater sources, revealing significant mixing and recharge processes. The findings indicate that the Quaternary aquifer is increasingly influenced by upward leakage from the Nubian aquifer, facilitated by deep-seated faults. Between 2014 and 2021, water levels in the Quaternary aquifer declined by up to 14 m due to over-extraction, particularly in agricultural zones. To enhance predictive capabilities, a Support Vector Machine (SVM) model was developed to estimate δ¹⁸O values using multiple hydrochemical indicators, achieving strong performance (R² = 0.92, MSE = 2.89). SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) analysis identified Mg²⁺, HCO₃⁻, and SO₄²⁻ as dominant factors influencing isotope variation. This integrated approach represents a novel application of explainable machine learning in hydrogeology and offers a scalable, cost-effective tool for assessing groundwater systems in arid regions. The study contributes directly to national water security goals and supports the global Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) for clean water and sanitation.

Shadows of Uncertainty: Unraveling the Impact of Economic Policy Uncertainty on Tourism-Driven Energy Consumption in Macau

This research analyzes the influence of economic policy uncertainty (EPU) on energy consumption driven by tourism in Macau, employing a structural vector autoregression (SVAR) model with sign restrictions. The SVAR model facilitates the identification of EPU shocks by imposing sign restrictions on impulse responses, providing a nuanced understanding of the dynamic effects of uncertainty. Employing quarterly data from the first quarter of 2002 to the fourth quarter of 2024, the findings demonstrate that EPU shocks result in sustained reductions in GDP, hotel occupancy rates, and energy usage. Our analysis highlights the significant role of Mainland China’s policy uncertainty in influencing Macau’s economy, emphasizing the vulnerability of tourism-dependent economies to policy-induced variations. The novelty of this research lies in its integrated framework, exploring the interconnectedness of EPU, tourism, and energy consumption, thus filling a gap in the existing literature. Additionally, this study contributes to sustainability research by exploring how energy consumption in tourism-dependent economies is intricately linked to policy uncertainty and how sustainable energy management strategies can help mitigate the adverse impacts of these uncertainties. Our findings provide key insights for policymakers aiming to enhance economic resilience and sustainability, underscoring the importance of reducing uncertainty through transparent policies and economic diversification.

Assessing and addressing groundwater depletion in yemen’s Ibb sub-basins: an original study on challenges and sustainable management strategies

Assessing and addressing groundwater depletion in yemen’s Ibb sub-basins: an original study on challenges and sustainable management strategies

Preliminary effects and feasibility of online interactive Baduanjin exercise in adults with overweight and obesity: a pilot randomized controlled trial

BackgroundOverweight and obesity are chronic conditions with severe health implications, demanding effective and sustainable management strategies. The escalated Baduanjin, an adapted form of traditional Baduanjin, is proposed as a targeted intervention for individuals with overweight and obesity, offering a potentially effective and accessible approach to weight management and overall health improvement.ObjectivesThis pilot study aimed to assess the preliminary effects and feasibility of the online interactive escalated Baduanjin exercise program, with a focus on participant engagement and acceptance.MethodsA 12-week pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted in Guangzhou, China, from June 30 to November 15, 2023, involving 50 participants with overweight and obesity. Participants were randomly allocated to the intervention group (n=26) or the control group (n=24). The intervention group received three 60-minute online interactive escalated Baduanjin exercises per week for 12 weeks, in addition to health education. The control group received only health education, delivered in three sessions over the 12-week period. The primary outcome was the change in body mass index (BMI) from baseline to week 12. Secondary outcomes included changes in waist circumference, body weight, blood glucose, lipid levels, blood pressure, quality of life, and dampness scale scores. Feasibility was assessed by participant adherence to the required intervention, and adverse events were recorded throughout the study period.ResultsCompared to the control group, the intervention group exhibited a reduction in BMI (mean ± SD: -0.54 ± 1.67 vs. -0.13 ± 0.81), body weight, diastolic blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, and triglyceride levels over the 12 weeks, though this difference was not statistically significant. However, the intervention group demonstrated significant improvements in several health parameters, including waist circumference, fatigue scale-14 (FS-14), general anxiety disorder (GAD-7), patient health questionnaire-9 items (PHQ-9), Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI), and dampness scale scores. Adherence to the intervention was high, with 82% (41/50) of participants completing the trial, and no serious adverse events were reported.ConclusionThe preliminary effects and feasibility of the online interactive escalated Baduanjin for adults with overweight and obesity have been demonstrated, highlighting its potential multifaceted health benefits and high adherence.Clinical Trial Registrationhttps://www.chictr.org.cn, identifier ChiCTR2300072981.

Multiresponsive Zein Nanospheres for Avermectin B2 Delivery: Enhancing Root-Knot Nematode Control and Safety to Nontarget Organisms.

Root-knot nematodes are globally prevalent plant-parasitic pests, distinguished by their widespread distribution, extensive host range, and challenging control measures. Avermectin B2, one of the few effective nematicides available, faces limitations in efficacy and poses environmental concerns due to its eco-unfriendly composition and poor utilization in traditional emulsifiable concentrate (EC) formulations. In this study, we developed core-shell structured Ave B2-BS@Zein@SC nanospheres, incorporating zein as the carrier, sodium caseinate as the stabilizer, and butyl stearate as the temperature "switch". These nanospheres demonstrated multiresponsive characteristics to temperature, pH, and enzymatic conditions, facilitating rapid pesticide release under elevated temperatures, mildly acidic or alkaline conditions, and in the presence of protease. These controlled-release properties effectively responded to both environmental factors during nematode outbreaks and the intestinal conditions of the nematodes, enhancing pesticide targeting and utilization efficiency. The engineered nanospheres improved the mobility and stability of avermectin B2 in soil, enabling more comprehensive control of nematodes across broader and deeper soil layers. Additionally, the penetration capability of Ave B2-BS@Zein@SC into plant roots effectively eliminated nematodes that had already invaded the root system, thereby strengthening crop protection. Crucially, Ave B2-BS@Zein@SC demonstrated enhanced safety for nontarget organisms. This environmentally conscious, and multiresponsive pesticide nanodelivery system presents a promising strategy for sustainable subterranean pest management.

Antifungal and phytotoxicity of wood vinegar from biomass waste against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense TR4 infecting banana plants

Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense Tropical Race 4 (Foc TR4) infection poses a serious threat to banana cultivation, leading to significant economic losses due to the lack of effective and sustainable disease management strategies. Wood vinegar, derived from biomass waste, offers a potential eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides for disease control. This study evaluated the antifungal activity of wood vinegar from coconut shells and Acacia wood residues at different concentrations (1, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10% v/v) against Foc TR4 in vitro using the poisoned food technique and assessed its phytotoxicity on banana plants. Our results showed that wood vinegar from both sources completely inhibited the growth of Foc TR4 in vitro at all concentrations tested. The phytotoxicity effects of the different types of wood vinegar on the banana plants were also evaluated using the same concentrations via foliar spray and soil-drenching techniques. Growth parameters, including plant height, stem diameter and leaf number, were recorded at 24, 31, and 39 days after transplanting (DAT). Treatments with lower concentrations (2% v/v) promoted the growth of the banana plants, while at higher concentrations, severe phytotoxicity symptoms such as leaf necrosis and yellowing were observed. These findings provide valuable insights into the potential use of biomass waste-based wood vinegar for controlling Fusarium wilt in bananas.

Septoria lamiicola Causing Leaf Spot on Lamium purpureum in Korea.

Lamium purpureum L. (purple dead-nettle), an annual herbaceous plant in the family Lamiaceae, is native to Europe and western Asia. It has become invasive in eastern Asia, including Korea and North America. Due to its rapid growth and tolerance of disturbed soils, it invades croplands and natural ecosystems, reducing crop yields (Mock et al. 2009). It also serves as an overwintering host for cucumber mosaic virus (Tomlinson et al. 1970). Leaf spots on purple dead-nettle were first observed in April 2022 in Gimje (35°43'10"N, 127°00'42"E) and in April 2023 in Jangsu (35°36'16"N, 127°22'43"E), Korea, with a disease incidence of 20-30% among surveyed plants. Symptoms were distinct, angular, pale brown to brown, and bordered by leaf veins. Numerous blackish conidiomata with cirriform conidial horns were visible on the spots. Conidiomata were numerous, scattered, pycnidial, amphigenous but abundantly epigenous, scattered, dark brown to rusty brown, globose, embedded in host tissue or partly erumpent, 60 to 110 µm in diameter, with ostioles measuring 28 to 56 µm in diameter. Conidiogenous cells lining the inner wall layer were hyaline and ampulliform. Conidia were filiform, straight or slightly curved, 32 to 48 × 2 to 3 µm, hyaline, 2 to 5-septate, but often 3-septate. Morphological descriptions were consistent with Septoria lamiicola Sacc. (Verkley et al. 2013). For monoconidial isolation, a conidial horn was collected, placed in a 1.5 ml tube containing sterile water, and streaked onto the surface of 2% water agar (WA). After four days, a hyphal tip was transferred to fresh potato dextrose agar (PDA). Colonies incubated for two weeks at 25°C on PDA were measured 10 to 15 mm in diameter, with a white to greyish at the center and a dark grey to black at the margin. Voucher specimens were deposited at the Korea University Herbarium (KUS-F32758 and F33612), and a representative culture was deposited at the Korea Agricultural Culture Collection (Acc. No. KACC 410468). Nucleotide sequences of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS), 28S rDNA (LSU), β-tubulin (TUB2), translation elongation factor 1-α (EF), actin (ACT), and RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (RPB2) genes were determined (Verkley et al. 2013) and deposited in GenBank (Accession Nos: PQ061283, PQ106849, PQ120989, PQ120981, PQ120994, and PQ120985). BLASTn search of the sequences showed 100% identity with the reference sequences of Septoria lamiicola CBS 102328 for ITS (KF251441.1), LSU (KF251945.1), ACT (KF253745.1), and RPB2 (KF252438.1). The TUB2 sequences showed 99.7% similarity (1/311 nucleotides different) with KF252913.1, and the EF sequences showed 96.0% similarity (13/368 different) with KF253389.1. In a phylogenetic tree reconstructed using the multi-loci sequences, the Korean isolate formed a well-supported group with reference isolates of S. lamiicola (Verkley et al. 2013). Pathogenicity was tested twice by spraying a conidial suspension (1×104 conidia/mL) harvested from a four-week-old culture (KACC 410468) onto twenty leaves of three-potted plants (two months old). Three control plants were sprayed with sterile distilled water. Plants were placed in a dew chamber at 26°C for 24 h before being transferred to a greenhouse. After ten days, typical symptoms appeared on the inoculated leaves, while no symptoms were observed on the controls. S. lamiicola was re-isolated from the symptomatic lesion and confirmed by microscopy, fulfilling Koch's postulates. Although S. lamiicola has been recorded on L. purpureum in Bulgaria, Poland, and Portugal (Farr and Rossman 2024), there is no previous record of this fungus in Korea. To our knowledge, this is the first report of leaf spot caused by S. lamiicola on L. purpureum in Korea. Septoria lamiicola could be utilized as a biological control agent against this invasive weed, thereby supporting sustainable management strategies for croplands and natural ecosystems.

The Burden of Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy in the Pediatric Age: A Systematic Review of Costs and Challenges

Background. Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA) is a prevalent pediatric food allergy affecting 2–5% of infants globally. CMPA presents significant clinical and economic challenges, requiring specialized diagnostic procedures, dietary management with hypoallergenic formulas, and multidisciplinary care. The financial burden on families and healthcare systems includes direct costs (e.g., diagnostic tests, medical consultations, and formula expenses), indirect costs (e.g., caregiver absenteeism and productivity loss), and intangible costs (e.g., psychological distress and impaired quality of life). Economic disparities further exacerbate these challenges, particularly in low-resource settings where access to specialized care is limited. Methods. A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines using PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and Cochrane databases to identify studies on the economic and psychosocial burden of CMPA. Studies published between 2010 and 2024 were analyzed. From an initial search of 11,565 articles, 802 duplicates were removed, leaving 10,763 articles for title and abstract screening. Twenty full-text articles meeting the inclusion criteria were included in the final analysis. Thematic categories focused on direct, indirect, and intangible costs, with findings synthesized to highlight global disparities and policy gaps. Results. CMPA management imposes substantial economic burdens, with hypoallergenic formulas alone accounting for up to 15% of household income in some regions. Indirect costs, including lost workdays and additional childcare expenses, further strain families. Intangible costs, such as heightened caregiver anxiety and reduced social participation, are significant yet frequently overlooked. Healthcare system disparities, particularly regarding insurance coverage for diagnostic tests and therapeutic formulas, contribute to financial inequities. The use of extensively hydrolyzed casein formulas with probiotics has demonstrated cost-effectiveness in promoting immune tolerance while reducing healthcare utilization. Conclusions. Addressing the economic impact of CMPA would benefit from standardized cost assessment frameworks and equitable access to cost-effective therapeutic options. Further analysis of reimbursement policies across diverse healthcare systems may provide insights into optimizing support for essential treatments. Integrating clinical and economic strategies can alleviate the burden on affected families and optimize healthcare resource allocation. Future research should prioritize longitudinal analyses and cross-regional comparisons to guide sustainable and equitable management strategies.

4-Ethylacetophenone from Potato Plants Repels Phthorimaea operculella and Inhibits Oviposition: A Sustainable Management Strategy

The potato tuber moth, Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller), is an important pest of potato crops capable of boring into and consuming the potato tubers. Although chemical insecticides are employed to control P. operculella populations, their efficacy is frequently limited, raising environmental concerns. Host plant volatiles are important allelochemicals that can be exploited for the management of pests. In our previous studies, we identified five volatile organic compounds (3-ethylacetophenone, 4-ethylacetophenone, geranylacetone, ethylbenzene, and 4-hydroxy-4-methyl-2-pentanone) as allelochemicals potentially influencing the oviposition behavior of P. operculella. Using electroantennography (EAG) and behavioral assays, we found that 4-ethylacetophenone significantly repelled P. operculella at all tested concentrations (1 μg, 10 μg, and 100 μg; p < 0.05), while 3-ethylacetophenone showed no significant effects (p > 0.05). Finally, the effect of 4-ethylacetophenone on preventing P. operculella from laying eggs was determined by an oviposition selection experiment. Our findings indicate that 4-ethylacetophenone derived from potato plants not only repels P. operculella and prevents egg-laying but also has the potential to reduce the number of eggs, making it a promising green alternative for controlling this pest.

Vegetation Cover as a Driver of Sedimentary Organic Matter in Small Water Reservoirs

Understanding the impact of vegetation on organic matter content in sediments is essential for sustainable reservoir management and water quality protection. This study examined the relationship between land cover, erosion processes, and organic matter accumulation in the sediments of four small water reservoirs in the Republic of Serbia. Organic matter content was quantified and analyzed in relation to basin characteristics, including land-use composition, absolute and mean flow gradients, and sediment grain size distribution. Field sampling was conducted across the catchments of four small water reservoirs—Duboki potok, Resnik, Ljukovo, and Sot—with sediment samples collected from main tributaries and accumulation basins. A multi-method approach was employed, combining remote sensing for vegetation-cover assessment, granulometric analysis, organic matter evaluation via loss-on-ignition at 350 °C, and statistical correlation analysis to assess the influence of land use and hydrological gradients on sediment composition. The results revealed a strong correlation (R = 0.892) between forest cover and sedimentary organic matter content, confirming the significant role of vegetation in stabilizing sediments and promoting organic matter deposition. Reservoirs with higher forest and shrub cover (e.g., Sot and Duboki potok) exhibited greater organic matter accumulation (5.79–5.98%), while the agriculture-dominated Ljukovo catchment (76.85% agricultural land) recorded the lowest organic matter content (3.89%) due to increased sediment displacement and reduced erosion resistance. These findings underscore the critical role of vegetation in regulating sediment dynamics and enhancing organic matter retention in small water reservoirs. To mitigate excessive organic matter deposition and improve water quality, sustainable watershed management strategies—such as vegetation buffer strips, afforestation, and erosion control measures—are recommended.

Historical Study of Land and Forest Degradation using GIS Technologies in Jaguay Negro – Lancones

The research entitled "HISTORICAL STUDY OF LAND AND FOREST DEGRADATION USING GIS TECHNOLOGIES IN JAGUAY NEGRO – LANCONES" assessed historical changes in forest cover and land degradation in this region. It used historical data, satellite imagery, and aerial photographs taken with drones, along with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), to analyze historical and current patterns of land use and vegetation cover. This methodology generated thematic maps and detailed spatial analyses. The results revealed a progressive decrease in vegetation between 2020 and 2024, with a notable increase in bare soils and sparse vegetation due to deforestation, water stress and unsustainable resource management. Critical areas with limited natural regeneration and greater loss of vegetation were identified. The study underscores the urgency of implementing reforestation, sustainable soil management and conservation strategies in priority areas. It also confirms the relevance of GIS and remote sensing as key tools for monitoring and managing resources in vulnerable rural contexts. In addition, this process strengthened forestry engineering students' skills in geospatial technologies, critical analysis of environmental data, and interpretation of results, preparing them to face complex challenges in the environmental field.

Future flood susceptibility mapping under climate and land use change

Floods are a significant natural hazard, causing severe damage. Understanding how climate change and land use and land cover (LULC) changes influence flood patterns is crucial for developing sustainable management strategies. This research aims to develop flood susceptibility maps considering the impacts of climate change and land use changes, providing insights into risks from urbanization and climate shifts. Three machine learning models—XGBoost, Random Forest (RF), and Support Vector Machine (SVM)—optimized with Particle Swarm Optimization, were applied to the flood-prone Kashkan watershed in Iran. Results showed that distance from the river, digital elevation model, precipitation, and LULC were the most influential factors. The RF model outperformed others in mapping flood-prone areas, with high-risk zones covering 20% (1908 km2) of the region, primarily in built-up areas. Land use projections for 2050, using the CA-MARKOV model, estimate built-up areas will expand to 859.3 km2. Future precipitation patterns were examined using 8 selected general circulation models under the SSP126 and SSP585 scenarios. Analysis under the SSP585 scenario indicates a 1.9 km2 rise in moderate flood areas, a 36.26 km2 increase in high-risk zones, and a 21.94 km2 decline in very low-risk areas, highlighting expansion of high and moderate flood risk areas.

Sucking Insect Pests and Their Natural Enemies in Black Gram (Vigna mungo L.) under the Climatic Conditions of the Gird Region

The present study was conducted during the Kharif seasons of 2023 and 2024 at the Research Farm, College of Agriculture, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, to investigate the seasonal incidence of major insect pests and their natural enemies on black gram (Vigna mungo L.) variety PU-31. Weekly observations were recorded on the population dynamics of Aphis craccivora, Empoasca kerri, Bemisia tabaci, and their natural predator, ladybird beetles. The influence of abiotic and biotic factors on pest populations was analyzed using correlation and regression analysis to support sustainable pest management strategies. The initial infestation of whiteflies, aphids, and leafhoppers was observed in the 33rd standard meteorological week (SMW), with their activity continuing until the 41st SMW. Peak population densities of whiteflies and leafhoppers occurred in the 35th SMW, whereas aphids reached their highest population in the 38th SMW. The abundance of ladybird beetles peaked in the 39th SMW. Correlation analysis revealed non significant association between sucking pest incidence and temperature, relative humidity, rainfall and evaporation. However, a positively significant correlation was found between aphid populations and ladybird beetle abundance, highlighting the role of biotic interactions in pest regulation. These findings emphasize the importance of systematic pest monitoring and integrated pest management strategies for sustainable black gram production.

Braiding Indigenous oral histories and habitat mapping to understand urchin barrens in southern New South Wales

Context The sea urchin (Centrostephanus rodgersii) is linked to urchin barrens and potential kelp forest depletion along New South Wales (NSW) southern coast. Whereas previous studies employed scientific methods to evaluate barrens, Indigenous Traditional Knowledges offer valuable insights into urchin population dynamics. Aims This study aimed to ‘braid’ Traditional Knowledges with Western science to better understand urchin barrens in the region. Methods Yarning circles with Walbunja Traditional Owners were conducted alongside habitat mapping using image segmentation of remotely sensed imagery. Key results Traditional Knowledges highlighted long-term declines in culturally significant species, including snapper (Pagrus auratus), lobster (Jasus edwardsii), groper (Achoerodus viridis), abalone (Haliotis rubra) and cuttlefish (Sepia apama). Habitat mapping showed dynamic vegetation cover, although differentiating kelp from other vegetation posed challenges. Urchin barrens were present across all study sites as part of a habitat mosaic typical of NSW rocky reefs. Conclusions This research demonstrated the value of braiding Traditional Knowledges with Western methods to enhance understanding of kelp and urchin dynamics. Implications The results of the yarning circles suggest that utilising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives in future studies would improve ecological insights and inform sustainable marine management strategies. Further, the habitat mapping has highlighted the need for higher resolution aerial imagery.

Multi-Temporal Land Use and Land Cover Change Detection in Northern Nigeria's Frontline States: Geospatial Insights for Sustainable Development and Climate Adaptation

Land use and land cover (LULC) changes driven by anthropogenic activities are key contributors to local, regional, and global environmental transformations. Understanding and monitoring these changes have become essential for addressing environmental challenges. This study analyzed LULC dynamics from 1984 to 2022 in the frontline states of Northern Nigeria using remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Supervised classification algorithms were applied to satellite imagery, achieving an overall classification accuracy of 86.83%. The findings revealed significant trends: dense vegetation, water bodies, and bare land showed marked declines, while light vegetation and built-up areas exhibited substantial growth over the study period. The long-term annual rate of change for dense vegetation decreased from 0.77% ha⁻¹ to 6.25% ha⁻¹ (a reduction of 58% to 4.84%), and water bodies declined from 0.00% ha⁻¹ to 1.47% ha⁻¹. Conversely, light vegetation increased from 0.32% ha⁻¹ to 2.37% ha⁻¹, bare land from 7.8% ha⁻¹ to 6.12% ha⁻¹, and built-up areas from 0.93% ha⁻¹ to 3.36% ha⁻¹. A post-classification comparison using transition matrices revealed that approximately 53.36% of dense vegetation in 1984 transitioned to light vegetation by 2022. Additionally, 50.15% of bare land was converted to light vegetation, while 0.63% of light vegetation was transformed into built-up areas during the same period. These results offer reliable data on the extent and rate of LULC changes in Northern Nigeria, providing valuable insights for land management and policy formulation aimed at sustainable natural resource use. The study underscores the need for integrating these findings into regional planning and decision-making. Future research is recommended to explore the socio-economic and spatial drivers of LULC changes between 1984 and 2022 to better inform sustainable management strategies in Northern Nigeria and similar regions. The Nigerian government should develop and implement sustainable land-use plans that balance economic development with environmental conservation and also establish a robust environmental monitoring system to track land-use changes and enforce regulations.

Towards Sustainable Supply Chains: Evaluating the Role of Supply Chain Diversification in Enhancing Corporate ESG Performance

Supply chain diversification (SCD) is widely acknowledged as a crucial strategy for sustainable supply chain management. However, its influence on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance remains unclear. This study will explore the impact of SCD on ESG performance and uncover the underlying mechanisms drawing on the structure–conduct–performance (SCP) paradigm. To achieve this, we employ a multidimensional fixed effects model for empirical analysis utilizing panel data from China’s A-share listed companies from 2010 to 2023. The findings reveal that SCD enhances ESG performance. For large-scale enterprises or those engaged in highly competitive or high-pollution industries and labor-intensive or capital-intensive sectors, as well as those that are located in the eastern and central regions, the positive impact of SCD on ESG is relatively more pronounced. The mechanism analysis shows that green innovation and digital transformation act as mediators through which SCD drives ESG improvements. Furthermore, environmental uncertainty (EU) positively moderates the relationship between SCD and ESG performance. These insights provide a guiding framework, rich in theoretical depth and practical significance, for enterprises committed to developing sustainable supply chains and pursuing long-term outstanding performance within complex and dynamic market environments.

Development of a kaolin-based Bacillus velezensis BF01 composite for application in biocontrol of postharvest strawberry diseases.

Biological control agents are promising alternatives to conventional fungicides for managing postharvest diseases but their practical use is hindered by variable effectiveness and by application challenges. One promising yet underexplored approach involves utilizing bacteria that produce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) with antifungal properties. In this study, Bacillus velezensis BF01, a strain with significant antifungal activity, was identified and isolated. Volatile organic compounds produced by this strain inhibited the growth and conidial germination of Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium oxysporum, and Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry identified 90 VOCs, with ketones, esters, nitrogen compounds, aldehydes, and alcohols as the dominant components, many of which exhibited antifungal or plant resistance-inducing properties. To enhance practical application, B. velezensis BF01 was incorporated into a kaolin-based composite, which maintained long-term viability under refrigerated conditions and inhibited fungal growth through the controlled release of volatile organic compounds. This composite significantly extended the shelf life of strawberries by reducing postharvest decay. The development of a kaolin-based B. velezensis BF01 composite provides an effective and sustainable biocontrol strategy for postharvest disease management. By improving bacterial stability and facilitating the controlled release of antifungal volatile organic compounds, this approach offers a practical alternative to chemical fungicides, highlighting its potential in extending fruit shelf life and improving food safety. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.

Enhancing flood resilience through mixed forest cover: A case study of the Upper Sabarmati River Basin, Gujarat, India

The forest cover plays an important role in India as well as other countries. The decreasing forest cover in India is one of the major causes of floods in many low-lying areas. Hence, study investigates the novel approach of enhancing flood resilience through strategic augmentation of mixed forest cover in Upper Sabarmati River Basin, Gujarat, India. By leveraging SWAT(Soil & Water Assessment Tool) hydrological model, we explore various land cover change scenarios aimed at increasing mixed forest cover and optimizing plantation types within forested areas. Analyzing land cover data from 1985 to 2017, we introduce three scenarios augmenting mixed forest cover by 3%, 6%, and 9%. Our findings reveal a significant reduction in surface runoff by 4.5%, 7.8%, and 11.6% respectively, highlighting the innovative potential of mixed forest ecosystems in sustainable flood management strategies. This study elucidates the critical role of strategic forest management in mitigating flood risks within river basins, offering valuable insights for environmental policymakers and hydrologists.

Flow and Flux: Investigating Rainfall Patterns and Water Table Variability in the Hadejia-Nguru River Floodplains, Nigeria

This study investigated rainfall patterns and water table variability in the Hadejia-Nguru river floodplains in Northeastern Nigeria. The study utilizes a combination of quantitative and qualitative data from primary and secondary sources. The data for this study includes rainfall data collected from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and the Hadejia-Jama'are River Basin Development Authority from 2000 to 2015, published reports and studies. The study discovers that the region experiences two distinct peaks of rainfall throughout the year, resulting in a bimodal distribution. However, the rainfall pattern exhibits high variability between years, which can have implications for agricultural practices and food security. The study also emphasized the importance of understanding the geology, aquifers, and recharge mechanisms in managing water resources effectively. The dynamics between rainfall and the water table in the floodplains were highlighted as essential for sustainable resource management and adaptation strategies. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the relationship between rainfall and water availability in wetland ecosystems and have implications for wetland management, conservation, and sustainable resource utilization. The probabilistic modeling and forecasting framework employed in this research offer decision-makers a systematic approach to managing water resources, evaluating risks and uncertainties, and guiding planning activities amidst a changing climate and dynamic wetland ecosystem.

Improvement of Coastal Flood Protection with Mangroves: A Nature-Based Solution Integrating Sensors for Monitoring and Engineering Approaches

Floods pose a significant threat to coastal and lowlying areas, often causing damage to infrastructure, loss of life, and environmental degradation. This project presents an IoTbased flood control and monitoring system using mangrove trees as a natural barrier, combined with smart sensors for realtime flood detection and alerting. The system utilizes NodeMCU ESP8266 as the central controller, which collects data from a flex sensor to measure wave flow intensity and a moisture sensor to detect rising water levels. When the water reaches a critical level, an alert is triggered via a buzzer, and notifications are sent to users through the Blynk IoT app for timely action. By integrating IoT technology with ecological solutions like mangrove plantations, this system enhances early warning mechanisms and promotes sustainable flood management strategies