Tool For Recovery Research Articles

Synthesis and characterization of Novel Igepal Co-520 surfactant coated Fe3O4 Nanoparticles: An evaluation of Vanadium enrichment in spice samples

In this study, novel Fe3O4 nanoparticles coated with surfactant Igepal Co-520 (polyoxyethylene (5) nonylphenylether) as adsorbent were synthesized, and total vanadium recovery was performed by magnetic solid phase extraction (MSPE) method. Fe3O4 nanoparticles coated with Igepal Co-520 were employed in the investigation of vanadium enrichment. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM), Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis (EDX), X-Ray Diffraction Analysis (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), and total vanadium concentration was determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). The corresponding values for the pH, adsorbent amount, and contact time were 3, 5 mg, and 120 min. Total vanadium was recovered from an aqueous solution under the optimum conditions. Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherms, pseudo-first and pseudo-second order adsorption kinetics, foreign ion studies, desorption, and analytical value studies were performed. In isotherm studies, the effect on adsorption was examined by varying the vanadium concentration between 1 mg/L and 100 mg/L. The Langmuir model (R2>0.99) seems to be more compatible with vanadium adsorption than the Freundlich model (R2<0.87). Pseudo−first-order and pseudo-second-order equations were used to evaluate adsorption kinetic models. It has been observed that the pseudo-quadratic equation (R2>0.89) was more suitable for modeling than the pseudo-first-order equation (R2<0.56). The analytical performance parameters of the method were calculated as enrichment factor (EF) 114, the limit of detection (LOD) 8.3 µg/L, the limit of quantification (LOQ) 28.3 µg/L, and relative standard deviation (RSD) 1.20 %. At various molarities, the effects of acidic (HCl) and basic (NaOH) agents on the desorption of total vanadium ions adsorbed on the magnetic Fe3O4 surface were examined and compared. It was observed that the maximum recovery (100 %) was obtained using HCl as the desorption agent. The total vanadium concentration in spice samples was measured in an actual sample analysis. All the results demonstrate that the Fe3O4@Igepal Co-520 was successfully synthesized and has the potential to be a useful tool for heavy metal recovery.

Establishing freshwater sediment sample pretreatment methods for monitoring microplastics and its challenges

Microplastics (MPs) have been detected in various environmental matrices, drinking water, and food, and their presence is an ecological and human health concern. Most research on MPs has focused solely on their detection and analysis. However, sample pretreatment methods are critical for accurate MP analysis and must be properly established. In particular, freshwater sediment contains more impurities than other environment samples, thus requiring more elaborate sample pretreatment. Therefore, research on this media and corresponding pretreatment needs to be performed. Herein, we present a sample pretreatment method for analyzing MPs in freshwater sediments. Detailed factors in arriving at this pretreatment process were evaluated and discussed. Using this established pretreatment method, a total average recovery of six types of standard MPs (HDPE, LDPE, PS, PP, PET, and PVC) for sizes of ≥ 100 µm, 20–100 µm, and 1–20 µm was 94.0%, 90.2%, and 82.5%, respectively. After recovery validation, a modular pretreatment device was developed and combined with the established pretreatment method. The developed device performs density separation and organic matter removal, resulting in about 80% recovery of standard MPs. In addition, natural freshwater sediment samples were prepared using an established pretreatment method, and MPs in streams were analyzed using FTIR, TED-GC–MS, and Pyr-GC–MS. The device affords a low-cost, simple, efficient tool for sample pretreatment steps and easy MP recovery. Thus, it has great potential to simplify sample pretreatment steps for easy MP monitoring, especially for freshwater sediment samples.

Development of a Novel Robotic Rehabilitation System Using Electrical Stimulation for Upper Limb Motor Recovery

To improve the quality of life for people with neurological disorders or accidents, it is important to create therapy tools for upper limb movement recovery that work and are easy for everyone to use. This study suggests a new artificial therapy device that uses electrical stimulation to help people recover their upper limb movement skills. The technology uses both artificial help and electrical treatment at the same time to help the brain change and learn new skills. The robotic therapy system is made up of a suit that moves with the upper limbs and supports them mechanically. It has sensors that can figure out what the user wants and change the amount of help based on that. In addition, the system has electrical activation probes that are put to target specific muscles or groups of muscles that help move the upper limbs. A closed-loop control system makes the system work. The user's moves are constantly tracked, and the robotic help and electrical stimulation are changed in real time. This flexible method lets recovery plans be made just for each person, based on their wants and results. A pilot study with people who have trouble moving their upper limbs was used to test how well the planned method would work. When the method was used for six weeks, the data showed big gains in motor function, muscle strength, and range of motion. Participants were also very happy with how easy the method was to use and how well it helped them improve their movement skills.

Exploiting Time–Frequency Sparsity for Dual-Sensor Blind Source Separation

This paper explores the important role of blind source separation (BSS) techniques in separating M mixtures including N sources using a dual-sensor array, i.e., M=2, and proposes an efficient two-stage underdetermined BSS (UBSS) algorithm to estimate the mixing matrix and achieve source recovery by exploiting time–frequency (TF) sparsity. First, we design a mixing matrix estimation method by precisely identifying high clustering property single-source TF points (HCP-SSPs) with a spatial vector dictionary based on the principle of matching pursuit (MP). Second, the problem of source recovery in the TF domain is reformulated as an equivalent sparse recovery model with a relaxed sparse condition, i.e., enabling the number of active sources at each auto-source TF point (ASP) to be larger than M. This sparse recovery model relies on the sparsity of an ASP matrix formed by stacking a set of predefined spatial TF vectors; current sparse recovery tools could be utilized to reconstruct N&gt;2 sources. Experimental results are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed UBSS algorithm with an easily configured two-sensor array.

Differentiation of physical means of recovery and increase of workability of 16- 17-year-old biathlists in the preparatory period

The article represents the definition of the method of differentiated application of physical means of recovery to optimize the training process of young biathletes. It is emphasized that modern requirements for competition and training results of training biathletes require wide use of various means of recovery. Equally important is the use of a complex of recovery tools during the training of young biathletes to optimize the training process and enhance the health-improving effect of classes. In connection with the fact that recently there has been a growing demand for training loads, which are characterized by a decrease in the reserve capabilities of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, the muscular system, according to many authors, is one of the most important factors in the prevention and timely physical recovery of functional body systems. Along with this, the problem of using various means during the training of young biathletes is quite relevant in connection with the training Olympic reserve. The methodological basis of the research is a complex of approaches (task, activity, results), principles (scientific, connection between theory and practice, activity), methods (general scientific research methods are applied, in particular analysis and synthesis; content analysis). The goal is to increase the effectiveness of the training process based on the introduction of innovative technology of differentiated use of means of recovery and improvement of working capacity. Conclusions. Reasonable means of recovery and performance improvement, which correspond to the structure of weekly microcycles of various types and are based on the identified dynamics of fatigue and recovery processes, are highly effective, which is confirmed by the higher level of studied indicators during all days of the training microcycle and forms the basis of innovative technology. The effectiveness of the use of restorative complexes in the structure of the basic mesocycle is confirmed by a significantly higher rate of change in the athletes of the experimental group.

Under the Gun: Percussive Massage Therapy and Physical and Perceptual Recovery in Active Adults.

Handheld percussive massage devices (ie, massage guns) are a relatively new and under-researched recovery tool. These tools are intended to increase range of motion and reduce muscle soreness by delivering targeted vibration to soft tissues. Empirical knowledge about the potential influence of these devices on perceptual recovery and the recovery of performance characteristics after exercise is scarce. To investigate the effect of a 5-minute massage gun application, using a commercially available device, on physical and perceptual recovery after a strenuous bout of lower body exercise. Controlled laboratory study. Physiology laboratory. A total of 65 active young adults (age = 21.3 ± 1.4 years; age range = 18-30 years; 34 women: height = 165.8 ± 6.1 cm, mass = 66.0 ± 7.4 kg; 31 men: height = 181.1 ± 6.0 cm, mass = 81.5 ± 11.8 kg). Participants applied a massage gun on the calf muscles of 1 leg after strenuous exercise (massage gun recovery group) for 5 minutes and used no recovery intervention on the other leg (control group). Ankle range of motion, calf circumference, isometric strength, calf endurance, and perceived muscle soreness measures were collected at baseline and at various points after lower body exercise. No significant group × time interactions were recorded for any of the performance or perceptual measures (P values > .05). Effect sizes were mostly unclear, except for a small increase in perceived muscle soreness in the massage gun recovery group compared with the control group immediately (d = -0.35) and 4 hours (d = -0.48) postrecovery. Massage guns appeared to have little effect on physical measures when applied for 5 minutes immediately after strenuous calf exercise. Given the small increase in muscle soreness up to 4 hours after their use, caution is recommended when using massage guns immediately after strenuous lower body exercise.

Quality of Recovery After Unplanned and Planned Cesarean Deliveries: A Prospective Observational Study Using the Obstetric Quality of Recovery-10 Tool.

There is a paucity of literature examining the differences between patient-reported outcome measures after planned and unplanned cesarean delivery using a validated quality of recovery tool. The Obstetric Quality of Recovery-10 (ObsQoR-10) scoring tool has been validated to quantify functional recovery after cesarean delivery. We aimed to use the ObsQoR-10 to compare the postoperative recovery characteristics of patients undergoing planned and unplanned cesarean deliveries. We conducted a prospective single-center observational study. Patients undergoing planned and unplanned cesarean deliveries under neuraxial anesthesia were asked to complete the ObsQoR-10 questionnaire 24 hours, 48 hours, and 1 week postpartum. We collected information on total in-hospital postoperative opioid consumption and patients´ perception of readiness for discharge at 24 and 48 hours postpartum. Additionally, patient characteristics were collected to assess their correlation with our findings. We included 112 patients (56 in each group). No statistical differences in ObsQoR-10 scores at 24 hours, 48 hours, and 1 week postpartum were observed between the planned and unplanned cesarean deliveries. Additionally, there was no difference between the groups in patients' perception of readiness for hospital discharge at 24 and 48 hours and opioid consumption in the first 2 days after surgery. Most patients in both groups did not think they would be ready for discharge at 24 hours postpartum. Analysis of the individual components of ObsQoR-10 at 24 hours showed a difference in the responses assessing the severity of shivering (higher in unplanned cesarean deliveries) and the ability to look after personal hygiene (lower in unplanned cesarean deliveries). As assessed by the ObsQoR-10, no significant difference in the quality of recovery was observed between patients undergoing planned and unplanned cesarean delivery.

Survival and behavior of Mojave desert tortoises head‐started with and without outdoor rearing

AbstractMojave desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) populations in some regions have declined by &gt;50% since 2004, prompting the need for more research on ways to recover populations. One possible recovery tool is head‐starting (i.e., the act of protecting and raising juvenile tortoises to sizes that increase survival upon release); however, head‐starting can have high start‐up and maintenance costs that can limit its feasibility. Strategies that reduce cost and rearing duration may foster broader and more effective use. We released and radio‐tracked 60 juvenile tortoises in the Mojave National Preserve in California, USA, that had been reared under 2 treatments: those reared 1 year indoors after hatching, then 1 year outdoors (combo) and those reared just 1 year indoors (indoor‐only). We tested whether indoor‐only rearing alone could be a more efficient means of producing robust head‐started tortoises. We examined the behavior, movement, and survival of tortoises after release into the wild from 2020 to 2021 to determine whether these outcomes differed between husbandry treatments. Combo tortoises tended to perform settling behaviors (mean ± 1 SE days to building first burrow = 6.7 ± 0.8, entering dormancy = 23.3 ± 2.1, and emerging from dormancy = 189.6 ± 4.4) earlier than indoor‐only tortoises (7.4 ± 0.9, 31.5 ± 2.6, and 193.9 ± 5.9, respectively), but this difference was not significant, suggesting the rearing method did not greatly alter settling behavior. Indoor‐only tortoises dispersed at least twice as far from their release site (156.2 ± 26.3 m compared with 77.3 ± 20.6 m for combo tortoises), had larger mean use areas (3.7 ± 0.1 ha compared with 2.8 ± 0.3 ha for combo tortoises for 95% Brownian bridge movement model estimates), and greater variability in their movements than combo tortoises (daily average step length post‐emergence: 4.3 ± 0.2 m compared with 2.8 ± 0.1 m for combo tortoises). Despite differences in their movements, indoor‐only and combo tortoises had similar survival rates over the study, 51% versus 42%, respectively, during a period of extreme drought in 2021. The similarity in survival between groups gives head‐starting practitioners freedom in their rearing methods. The indoor‐only group had lower site fidelity, which should be considered when this is an undesirable trait for released tortoises.

The effects of foam rolling vs massage as recovery tools among UiTM Perlis FC footballers

A new idea of recovery has been discovered called self-myofascial release. Foam rolling is one of the self-myofascial approaches that can help to speed up the recovery process. It works by relaxing contracted muscles, improving blood and lymphatic circulation, and stimulating the stretch reflex in muscles. However, there is no previous research that studies the comparison of recovery modalities between foam rolling (FR), massage (M) and passive recovery (PAS) as tools of the recovery process on youth footballers. The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of FR (20 minutes of FR exercises on quadriceps, hamstrings, adductors, gluteus, and gastrocnemius), M (20 minutes of M on quadriceps, hamstrings, adductors, gluteus and gastrocnemius) and passive recovery (20 minutes sit on a bench) interventions performed immediately after a training session on Total Quality Recovery (TQR), perceived muscle soreness (VAS), jump performance, agility, sprint, and flexibility 24 hours after the training. During the two experimental sessions, 30 UiTM FC football players participated in a randomized controlled trial design. The first session was designed to collect the pretest values of each variable. After baseline measurements, the players performed a standardized football training. At the end of the training unit, all the players were randomly assigned to the FR, M and PAS recovery groups. A second experimental session was conducted to obtain the posttest values. As results, CMJ, agility (Arrowhead) and TQR showed positive effects in the FR group in comparison with the M and PAS groups at 24 hours after training. Thus, it is recommended that football coaches and physical trainers working with football players use a structured recovery session lasting approximately 20 minutes based on FR exercises that could be implemented at the end of a training session to enhance recovery between training loads.

Article: Equity Crowdfunding and Mini-Bonds: A Tool for the Economic Recovery of SMEs: Ratio, Dangers and Prospective in the UK and Italian Jurisdictions

The following paper, after briefly outlining what mini-bonds and equity crowdfunding platforms consist, will deal with the regulations in the UK and in Italy to regulate the placement of mini-bonds through crowdfunding platforms in a second chapter, outlining the similarities and divergences of methods and purposes with which they were conceived in the two countries. In a third chapter the advantages and disadvantages with regard not only to the placement of mini-bonds through crowdfunding platforms for SMEs that issue mini-bonds, but also for consumers will be analysed. Finally, in the last chapter the author will try to clarify and justify the ban by the FCA to retail investors for purchase of “speculative illiquid securities” also due to the numerous scandals that occurred in the UK, but at the same time, proposals will be put forward aimed at better regulating the phenomenon and encouraging the use of this alternative financial instrument. Mini-bonds, crowdfunding, alternative finance, fintech, financial technologies, comparative law, SMEs, economic policies, Italian jurisdiction, UK jurisdiction.

Safe Fall Recovery Education for Older Adults.

High fall rates among older adults in combination with prolonged time on the floor after a fall have created an urgent need to preventatively address fall recovery strategies. The purpose of this study is to describe the outcomes of a novel safe fall recovery (SFR) educational module provided by physical therapists to older adults in their homes. A pre- and post-test descriptive study used a convenience sample to recruit 30 adults (≥65 years). A baseline assessment and SFR in-home education were provided. Pre- and post-education measures included the Steps for Safe Fall Recovery (Steps for SFR) tool, the Activity Specific Balance Confidence (ABC) scale, and a fall confidence survey. The Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test determined significance (P < .05). Participants were age 77.2 (6.8) years and 20 females. Eight reported a fall during the prior year. Statistically significant improvements were identified in the Steps to SFR tool (P = .001), the ABC scale (P = .004), and the fall recovery confidence survey (P = .001). Integration of an SFR educational intervention delivered to an older adult population in their home demonstrated improved safety and confidence to recover from a fall.

Abstract TP42: Single Stem Cell Modification With Biomaterials and Oligopeptide for Stroke Targeting and Recovery

Stem cell transplantation enhances stroke recovery. A primary mechanism is the release of trophic factors, such as VEGF, BDNF, and CNTF, which are thought to stimulate brain plasticity and recovery mechanisms. While promising, the treatment efficacy of stem cell transplantation is restricted by inadequate stem cell survival and insufficient trophic factor release at the stroke site. To address this, we have developed a single stem cell encapsulation method (SingleStem) using the naturally occurring glycolysis process and click chemistry strategy to modify individual neural progenitor cells (NPCs) with polymeric materials and the stroke targeting oligopeptide (E-selectin binding oligopeptide (Esbp)). Our data demonstrate that the polymeric biomaterial coating provided uniform cell protection and control of individual NPC, which increased transplanted NPC survival and enabled trophic factor release modulation (such as VEGFA and VEGFB). Additionally, the stroke targeting oligopeptide Esbp is able to bind to components on activated endothelial cells to facilitated NPC homing to the stroke region and improve stroke recovery efficacy. These advantages enable SingleStem to be an effective stroke recovery tool to improve stem cell efficacy and understand stroke recovery mechanisms.

UV-C pretreatment of wastewater-grown algal biomass for recover of biofuel precursors

In the present study, ultraviolet radiation C (UV-C) was used as a pretreatment tool for the optimal recovery of biofuel precursors from algae Chlorella vulgaris. The pretreatment efficiency of UV-C with fixed light intensity (1.173 mWcm−2) on 1.5 gL-1 algal biomass was observed at 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, and 20 h of irradiation by measuring the released sugar content and soluble chemical oxygen demand (sCOD). The UV-C pretreated algal cells were also analyzed through impedance spectroscopy, fluorescence microscope, and digital images to assess the degree of cell wall disintegration. The released sugar content reached a maximum of 73.61 mg L-1 at 10 h of exposure, whereas the maximum sCOD of 190 mg L-1 was achieved at 20 h exposure. Image analysis indicated that the chlorophyll content declined exponentially from 7.21 to 0.14 µgmL-1 with UV-C exposure. An increase in UV-C exposure time resulted in decreased impedance and increased conductance. The SYTOX green fluorescence also increased with 10 h of exposure, followed by a decline. Therefore, the cell wall stability gets compromised and the permeability increases with increment in UV-C exposure. This triggers extensive release in cell wall sugar content with exposure. Further exposure destabilizes the cell wall leading to discreet breakage. This breakage disperses internal content to bulk liquid, causing elevated sCOD with reduced sugar content. The present study showed that UV-C to be a potential pretreatment strategy to release precursors to derive biofuels such as biohydrogen, bioethanol and others.

Divalent Metal Ion Depletion from Wastewater by RVC Cathodes: A Critical Review.

In this paper, a critical review of results obtained using a reticulated vitreous carbon (RVC) three-dimensional cathode for the electrochemical depletion of various divalent ions, such as Cu+2, Cd+2, Pb+2, Zn+2, Ni+2, and Co+2, often present in wastewater, has been carried out. By analyzing the kinetics and fluid dynamics of the process found in literature, a general dimensionless equation, Sh = f(Re), has been determined, describing a general trend for all the analyzed systems regardless of the geometry, dimensions, and starting conditions. Thus, a map in the log(Sh) vs. log(Re) plane has been reported by characterizing the whole ion electrochemical depletion process and highlighting the existence of a good correlation among all the results. Moreover, because in recent years, the interest in using this three-dimensional cathode material seems to have slowed, the intent is to revive it as a useful tool for metal recovery, recycling processes, and water treatments.

Process design methodology for rankine cycle based on heat matching

The Rankine cycle serves as a crucial technical tool for waste-heat recovery. Matching heat sources and working fluids presents a challenging problem among the extensive research on the process design and selection of working fluids for the Rankine cycle. This study introduces a process design methodology for the Rankine cycle based on heat matching. It can optimize the performance between heat sources and working fluids without the need to preset the configuration for the cycle. The objective is to ultimately derive the most efficient configuration and operating conditions for the Rankine cycle. This method relies on establishing a matching relationship between temperature and heat diagram curves of both heat sources and working fluids. The relationship can be described by a simple linear programming problem, serving as the fundamental model for the proposed method. Demonstration of the feasibility and accuracy of this method involved computing the performance of a subcritical Rankine cycle for waste heat recovery in an ammonia-diesel dual-fuel engine. Three different working fluids were considered: ammonia, R123, and R245fa. Ammonia exhibited superior performance with an overall system efficiency improvement of 5.18 %, surpassing R123 (5.01 %) and R245fa (5.00 %). The competitiveness of the ammonia Rankine cycle has been established, resulting in a nearly zero-carbon-emission power system potentially achieving an overall efficiency of 53.23 %. The process design method based on heat matching notably reduces the modeling efforts required for the Rankine cycle. This reduction provides substantial support for engineering design and facilitates wider applications of the Rankine cycle.

Impact of foam rolling with and without vibration on muscle oxidative metabolism and microvascular reactivity.

There is a growing interest in use vibration foam rolling as a warm up and recovery tool. However, whether vibration foam rolling offers additional benefits to traditional foam rolling is unclear. The current study aims to compare the effects of acute foam rolling, with and without vibration, on skeletal muscle metabolism and microvascular reactivity. Fifteen physically active young males were tested on two different days, with gastrocnemius muscle microvascular function assessed using near-infrared spectroscopy coupled with the post-occlusive reactive hyperemia technique, before and after foam rolling, performed with or without vibration. The slope of tissue saturation index (TSI) decrease during occlusion between 120 s to 150 s (TSI occlusion slope) was assessed for muscle metabolic rate. Three commonly used microvascular function indexes, including the first10s TSI slope after occlusion (TSI10), time for TSI to reach half of peak magnitude (TSI1/2), and TSI peak reactive hyperemia, were also assessed. None of the measured indexes showed significance for interaction or method (all p>0.05). However, there was a main effect for time for TSI occlusion slope, TSI1/2, and TSI peak reactive hyperemia (p=0.005, 0.034 and 0.046, respectively). No main effect for time for TSI10 was detected (p=0.963). The application of foam rolling can decrease muscle metabolism, and may improve some aspects of muscle microvascular function. However, vibration foam rolling does not seem to offer any additional benefits compared to traditional foam rolling alone.

Використання методики тілесно-орієнтованої терапії "м'ячики" у психологічному відновленні військовослужбовців

Background. In solving the psychological challenges of today, related to the consequences of hostilities, body-oriented methods are a number step in the direction of psychological recovery of Ukrainian military personnel. These psychotechniques not only help relieve emotional stress through physical activity, but also help restore harmony between body and soul. This deep and balanced approach supports mental resilience and adapts the military personnel to difficult situations. The article is aimed at presenting the author's method of body-oriented therapy "Balls" (V.G. Shevchenko) to the wider scientific community and its use in the psychological recovery of military personnel – participants in the russianUkrainian war. It is also important to substantiate the expediency of using this technique as one of the tools for comprehensive psychological recovery of combatants who have survived combat stress. Methods. The research used such theoretical methods as analysis, systematization and generalization of psychological data on the research problem. An analysis of scientific sources on psychological assistance to military personnel using body-oriented approaches was carried out, as well as a synthesis of this information for a better understanding of modern theoretical aspects of psychological recovery using the "Balls" technique. Results. Primarily effective – the five-level training technique "Balls" as a complex of thirteen basic exercises with constantly increasing tasks was decoded within the framework of pilot projects of medical and psychological rehabilitation of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine (2018) on the basis of the Military Medical Clinical Center of the Southern Region in the Odesa region and the base of winter sports "Tysovets" in the Lviv region, which covered about 700 of military personnel – participants in hostilities. Conclusions. A military personnel, after participating in training using the body-oriented "Balls" method, will experience positive changes in the perception and overcoming of stress, will gain new knowledge and skills in psychological self-regulation and will improve the quality of sleep, restore psychological balance, strengthen his internal resources and improve the general well-being It has been established that, in addition to the body-oriented effect, the "Balls" technique develops both simple and complex locomotion, promotes the development of psychomotor grace and contains both preventive and therapeutic effects in overcoming the effects of stress.

Microalgae: A Biological Tool for Removal and Recovery of Potentially Toxic Elements in Wastewater Treatment Photobioreactors.

Potentially toxic elements (PTE) pollution in water bodies is an emerging problem in recent decades due to uncontrolled discharges from human activities. Copper, zinc, arsenic, cadmium, lead, mercury, and uranium are considered potentially toxic and carcinogenic elements that threaten human health. Microalgae-based technologies for the wastewater treatment have gained importance in recent years due to their biomass high growth rates and effectiveness. Also, these microalgae-bacteria systems are cost-effective and environmentally friendly, utilize sunlight and CO2, and simultaneously address multiple environmental challenges, such as carbon mitigation, bioremediation, and generation of valuable biomass useful for biofuel production. Additionally, microalgae possess a diverse array of extracellular and intracellular mechanisms that enable them to remove and mitigate the toxicity of PTE present in wastewater. Therefore, photobioreactors are promising candidates for practical applications in bioremediation of wastewater containing toxic elements. Despite the increasing amount of research in this field in recent years, most studies are conducted in laboratory scale and there is a scarcity of large-scale studies under real and variable environmental conditions. Besides, the limited understanding of the multiple mechanisms controlling PTE biosorption in wastewater containing high organic matter loads and potentially toxic elements requires further studies. This chapter provides a schematic representation of the mechanisms and factors involved in the remediation of potentially toxic elements by microalgae, as well as the main results obtained in recent years.

A digital and interoperable support for the risk assessment of existing bridges

The topic of environmental, economic, and social sustainability is increasingly recurring in the development strategies of governments and international organizations. The Recovery Fund, part of the Next Generation EU, follows this direction, establishing itself as a new European tool for recovery. With specific reference to the sustainability of infrastructure, Italy has recently presented the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR), which identifies the structural thematic areas of intervention through 6 missions. In particular, Mission 3, "Infrastructures for sustainable mobility," allocated approximately 32 billion euros, aims to introduce remote digital monitoring systems for the safety of road arteries and urgent works for the safety improvement of deteriorated roads, bridges, and viaducts. This mission is consistent with the Guidelines for the assignment of attention class and risk management, safety assessment, and monitoring of existing bridges, approved by the Superior Council of Public Works on May 6, 2020, and incorporated into Ministerial Decree no. 578 of December 17, 2020. The adoption of these guidelines by managers is also important in case of incidents to avoid potential legal issues. To ensure the development of this strategic approach and achieve the desired results within the established timeframe, it is necessary to equip oneself with suitable digital methods and tools, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and BIM-oriented software. Harpaceas, through a scientific research project with the Department of Civil and Industrial Engineering at the University of Pisa, has aimed to utilize standard software, included in the new solution "PontiSicuri" (Safe Bridges), in order to enable the digital management of the assignment of risk attention class and safety assessment of existing bridges in Italy in accordance with the new Guidelines. The Authors will describe this innovative approach in the present paper.

Credit as a key driver of sustainability and economic recovery of Ukraine

The study examines the current topic of bank lending in modern Ukrainian conditions. By analyzing the dynamics of credit activity and the financial condition of banks in Ukraine, the work reveals the main problems affecting this sector, such as a large share of non-performing loans, a decrease in the share of long-term loans, and a high lending rate. The conclusions of the work provide recommendations for improving the situation on the lending market in Ukraine. The modern economy of Ukraine is experiencing complex challenges related to the war in Ukraine, which was preceded by the COVID-19 pandemic and the global economic crisis. In this context, the article examines the role of credit as a key driver of economic stability and post-victory recovery. The study is based on the analysis of available data and literature sources, and also uses empirical methods to determine the impact of lending on economic recovery. The article highlights key aspects of lending, such as the role of banks, loan volumes, interest rates and overdue loans. The results of the study emphasize the importance of the development of the financial sector and the promotion of credit availability for enterprises and the population in the context of the economic recovery of Ukraine. The authors provide practical recommendations for the government and regulators to improve the credit environment and stimulate investment activity. This article is aimed at opening discussions and promoting further research into the role of lending in stimulating the economic recovery of Ukraine in the face of today's extremely complex challenges and may be useful for economists, theoreticians and practitioners. The scientific study analyzes how lending can affect the financial stability of Ukraine, in particular, how it can reduce financial risks and contribute to the stability of the economy. The impact of credit availability for various areas and sectors of the economy is considered. The article offers an important contribution to understanding and improving the effectiveness of lending as a tool for the economic recovery of Ukraine, emphasizing the need for a coordinated approach to this issue, taking into account the unique challenges and opportunities that exist at this stage of the country's development.