Environmental Effects Research Articles

Heritability of cerebellar subregion volumes in adolescent and young adult twins.

Twin studies have found gross cerebellar volume to be highly heritable. However, whether fine-grained regional volumes within the cerebellum are similarly heritable is still being determined. Anatomical MRI scans from two independent datasets (QTIM: Queensland Twin IMaging, N = 798, mean age 22.1 years; QTAB: Queensland Twin Adolescent Brain, N = 396, mean age 11.3 years) were combined with an optimised and automated cerebellum parcellation algorithm to segment and measure 28 cerebellar regions. We show that the heritability of regional volumetric measures varies widely across the cerebellum ( 47%-91%). Additionally, the good to excellent test-retest reliability for a subsample of QTIM participants suggests that non-genetic variance in cerebellar volumes is due primarily to unique environmental influences rather than measurement error. We also show a consistent pattern of strong associations between the volumes of homologous left and right hemisphere regions. Associations were predominantly driven by genetic effects shared between lobules, with only sparse contributions from environmental effects. These findings are consistent with similar studies of the cerebrum and provide a first approximation of the upper bound of heritability detectable by genome-wide association studies.

Eco-sustainable design of seawater sea-sand slag-based geopolymer mortars incorporating ternary solid waste

This study aimed to explore the feasibility of utilizing geopolymer as alternatives to Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) in marine engineering. Eco-friendly seawater sea-sand slag-based geopolymer mortars (SS-SGMs) were prepared by blending seawater, sea-sand, Basalt Fibres (BF), Polypropylene Fibres (PPF), and ternary solid waste. The effects of activator modulus, alkaline content, water-to-binder ratio, and the volume fractions of BF and PPF on the mechanical performance, environmental impact, and cost of SS-SGMs were researched using the L16(4)5 Taguchi orthogonal method. Three evaluation methods were used to assess the impact of the different factors. First, the influence of a single factor was analyzed using methods of range and variance analysis. Subsequently, three new evaluation metrics were proposed to consider the synergistic effects of mechanical performance, environment, and cost. Finally, a Gray-Technique of Ordering Preferences by Similarity to Ideal Solution (Gray-TOPSIS) model was established, and the influence weights of each factor were proposed, thereby determining the optimal solution in a multi-index evaluation system. The recommended optimal mix proportion for SS-SGMs was determined as follows: activator modulus of 1.0, alkaline content of 4%, water-to-binder ratio of 0.42, PPF volume fraction of 0.4%, and BF volume fraction of 0.3%. Compared to OPC with the same strength grade, SS-SGMs demonstrated similar costs, a reduction in carbon emissions by approximately 75–83%, a decrease in energy consumption by around 50–67%, and lower drying shrinkage than traditional geopolymer. Under the influence of seawater, the products of SS-SGMs were capable of forming chloride-ion adsorbing products like hydrotalcite and Brucite. Additionally, the formation of C4AH13 and ion clusters can enhance the matrix density, thereby improving the mechanical performance of SS-SGMs.

Laboratory sprayer for dsRNA application: design and bioassay validation

The shortage of commercially available and reliable laboratory spraying equipment for testing different preparations can be a major obstacle to achieve field-comparable results in the laboratory conditions.RNA interference is natural biological process which, when used for plant protection, can be designed method combining sustainability and minimal environmental side effects. Spraying of dsRNA is a field-relevant method that should ensure consistency and repeatability if conducted in laboratory.We built a portable spray device for laboratory use and tested its suitability for dsRNA application. For that, we carried out bioassay on three plant species with different leaf surface textures. DsRNA were detected in all samples 3 days post-treatment indicating its suitability for dsRNA delivery.We built a portable spray device for laboratory use and tested its suitability for dsRNA application. For that, we carried out:• bioassay on three plant species with different leaf surface textures.DsRNA were detected in all samples 3 days post-treatment indicating its suitability for dsRNA delivery.

A Study on One-Time Inspection for Aging Management of Operating Nuclear Power Plants

One-time inspection is used to confirm the effectiveness of nuclear power plant aging management programs such as water chemistry, fuel oil chemistry, and selective leaching program that is designed to prevent or minimize aging degradation during the plant operation. This paper represents one-time inspection experience of selected components and susceptible locations within the scope of water chemistry and fuel oil chemistry aging management programs. Prior to performing one-time inspection, sample sizes of components to be inspected were determined based on combination of materials, environment and aging effect. Examination techniques and relevant operating experience were analysed to obtain technical basis for further implementation of one-time inspection aging management programs. Existing correlation curves between sample size and total population number were reviewed to prepare further inspections for entire operating plants and ensure safety level of components subject to one-time inspection program.

Impact of adding waste polyethylene (PE) and silica fume (SF) on the engineering properties of cement mortar

Impact of adding waste polyethylene (PE) and silica fume (SF) on the engineering properties of cement mortar

Local recycling and reuse of concrete and soil: The societal impact of double-loop learning from circular urban transformation projects

The article presents certain findings from a large European research and development project aiming to generate societal impact through multi-stakeholder collaboration based on circular economy principles in the built environment. In the project, eight apartment buildings were demolished, and recycled aggregate concrete was used to cast the foundation for a new city hall being constructed nearby. Additionally, excavated soil from the construction of the city hall was transported to the urban development site where apartment buildings had been demolished, and the excavated soil was used in the terrain for the new urban development in the area. The local reuse of excavated soil significantly reduced transport volumes as the soil would otherwise have been transported long distances out of the city. The primary impact of the project was the direct environmental effects associated with the local concrete and soil recycling. The secondary impacts were linked to improved coordination and management of circular construction projects in the municipality through knowledge and competences being developed during the project (single-loop learning). Finally, the project also created awareness in the municipal organisation about strategic and organisational changes needed to facilitate future circular construction projects (double-loop learning).

Compact Pollution Control and Sound Indicator Device

Abstract: The increasing urbanisation of cities globally has intensified worries about car pollution, leading to substantial environmental damage and public health risks. Current Pollution Under Control (PUC) systems, which primarily focus on reducing exhaust emissions, often encounter usability problems and neglect the issue of noise pollution. This study presents a new and innovative approach called the Compact Pollution Control and Sound Indicator Device (CPCSID), which aims to overcome these limitations. The project includes state-of-the-art sensors capable of discriminating and measuring several exhaust gases generated by cars, including nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), and carbon dioxide (CO2). Additionally, it contains an integrated microphone to assess engine-generated noise levels. The LCD panel presents real-time data of pollution and noise, providing consumers with practical insights into the environmental effects of their car. In addition, our invention is integrated with a GSM module, which allows it to send SMS notifications to car owners. These warnings aim to promote environmentally aware behaviour and enable quick responses to reduce pollution. The small size and easy-to-use design make it suited for both individual car owners and fleet managers, providing a complete solution for reducing automobile pollution in urban areas.

Transgenerational effects of the maternal gestational environment on the post-natal performance of beef cattle: A reaction norm approach.

In tropical beef cattle production systems, animals are commonly raised on pastures, exposing them to potential stressors. The end of gestation typically overlaps with a dry period characterized by limited food availability. Late gestation is pivotal for fetal development, making it an ideal scenario for inter- and transgenerational effects of the maternal gestational environment. Intergenerational effects occur due to exposure during gestation, impacting the development of the embryo and its future germline. Transgenerational effects, however, extend beyond direct exposure to the subsequent generations. The objective of the present study was to verify these effects on the post-natal performance of zebu beef cattle. We extended the use of a reaction norm model to identify genetic variation in the animals' responses to transgenerational effects. The inter- and transgenerational effects were predominantly positive (-0.09% to 19.74%) for growth and reproductive traits, indicating improved animal performance on the phenotypic scale in more favourable maternal gestational environments. Additionally, these effects were more pronounced in the reproductive performance of females. On average, the ratio of direct additive genetic variances of the slope and intercept of the reaction norm ranged from 1.23% to 3.60% for direct and from 10.17% to 11.42% for maternal effects. Despite its relatively modest magnitude, this variation proved sufficient to prompt modifications in parameter estimates. The average percentage variation of direct heritability estimates ranged from 19.3% for scrotal circumference to 33.2% for yearling weight across the environmental descriptors evaluated. Genetic correlations between distant environments for the studied traits were generally high for direct effects and far from unity for maternal effects. Changes in EBV rankings of sires across different gestational environments were also observed. Due to the multifaceted nature of inter- and transgenerational effects of the maternal gestational environment on various traits of beef cattle raised under tropical pasture conditions, they should not be overlooked by producers and breeders. There were differences in the specific response of beef cattle to variations in the quality of the maternal gestational environment, which can be partially explained by transgenerational epigenetic inheritance. Adopting a reaction norm model to capture a portion of the additive variance induced by inter- or transgenerational effects could be an alternative for future research and animal genetic evaluations.

Relationship between skeletal mitochondrial function and digital markers of free-living physical activity in older adults.

This study examined the association between in vivo skeletal mitochondrial function and digital free-living physical activity patterns-a measure that summarizes biological, phenotypic, functional, and environmental effects on mobility. Among 459 participants (mean age 68years; 55% women) in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging, mitochondrial function was quantified as skeletal muscle oxidative capacity via post-exercise phosphocreatine recovery rate (τPCr) in the vastus lateralis muscle of the left thigh, using 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Accelerometry was collected using a 7-day, 24-h wrist-worn protocol and summarized into activity amount, intensity, endurance, and accumulation patterning metrics. Linear regression, two-part linear and logistic (bout analyses), and linear mixed effects models (time-of-day analyses) were used to estimate associations between τPCr and each physical activity metric. Interactions by age, sex, and gait speed were tested. After covariate adjustment, higher τPCr (or poorer mitochondrial function) was associated with lower activity counts/day (β = - 6593.7, SE = 2406.0; p = 0.006) and activity intensity (- 81.5 counts, SE = 12.9; p < 0.001). For activity intensity, the magnitude of association was greater for men and those with slower gait speed (interaction p < 0.02 for both). Conversely, τPCr was not associated with daily active minutes/day (p = 0.15), activity fragmentation (p = 0.13), or endurance at any bout length (p > 0.05 for all). Time-of-day analyses show participants with high τPCr were less active from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. than those with low τPCr. Results indicate that poorer skeletal mitochondrial function is primarily associated with lower engagement in high intensity activities. Our findings help define the connection between laboratory-measured mitochondrial function and real-world physical activity behavior.

Unveiling the traits of antibiotic resistance and virulence in Escherichia coli obtained from poultry waste.

Antibiotic resistance and virulence factors in avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) have become significant concerns, contributing to adverse environmental effects. The extensive use of antibiotics in poultry farming has resulted in the emergence of antibiotic-resistant APEC strains. This study prioritizes the molecular screening of APEC to uncover their antibiotic resistance and virulence attributes, with specific attention to their environmental impact. To address the imperative of understanding APEC pathogenesis, our study analyzed 50 poultry waste samples including 10 poultry litter, 15 fecal matter, 15 wastewater, and 10 anatomical waste samples. For the presence of virulence genes, 35 Escherichia coli isolates were subjected to molecular characterization. Amongst these, 27 were APEC strains demonstrating the presence of at least four virulence genes each. Notably, virulence genes such as fimH, ompA, ybjX, waaL, cvaC, hlyF, iss, ompT, and iroN were observed among all the E. coli isolates. Furthermore, eleven of the APEC strains exhibited resistance to tetracycline, ampicillin, sulphonamides, and fluoroquinolones.These findings highlight the role of APEC as a potential source of environmental pollution serving as a reservoir for virulence and resistance genes. Understanding the dynamics of antibiotic resistance and virulence in APEC is essential due to its potential threat to broiler chickens and the broader population through the food chain, intensifying concerns related to environmental pollution. Recognizing the ecological impact of APEC is essential for developing effective strategies to mitigate environmental pollution and safeguard the health of ecosystems and human populations.

Brine Valorisation Using Mechanical Vapor Compression Desalination: Approaches to Consider.

Water scarcity is one of the biggest challenges we are facing due to climate change: lack of rainfall and polluted water sources are an increasing reality worldwide. Sustainable Development Goals reinforce the urgency of dealing with this issue, targeting scientific community’s efforts towards solutions for this trending topic, where desalination of seawater is one of the main proposals. However, concerns regarding to the environmental effects of residual brines, generated in the desalination process, are emerging on the spots where this technology has been applied.To contribute to the implementation of desalination technologies, the valorisation of these residual brines brings the opportunity not only to reduce the volume of wastewater generated, but increasing its final concentrations and producing more freshwater from a residue. Nevertheless, it comes with the cost of higher energy demands than in the previous stage: the higher the concentration of the fluid, the higher its energy consumption. We can approach this challenge from two different perspectives, focusing on the final amount of concentrated residue or focusing on the energy demand of the installation.While focusing on reducing the volume of residue to its minimum expression is the most attractive option for concentrating the dissolved salts, it comes with the cost of excessive energy demands. On the other hand, focusing on reducing the power consumption of the installation allows the usage of variable renewables, in a more efficient way, allowing the carbon neutrality of emissions during its operation but obtaining a lower concentrated residue. By using a computational model of the installation, we can replicate its operation and compare results from both perspectives.In this paper we will use two scenarios with fixed conditions for a basic mechanical vapor compression (MVC) desalination plant modelled in TRNSYS, where we can observe the correlations between the final volume of residual brine and the energy consumption required for achieving those results. One of the scenarios will show the biggest final concentration, while the other one will consider the minimum operating conditions for the desalination plant. Apart from those results, there will be an analysis of environmental and economic advantages that can be achieved by the implementation of this technology, as well as an early approach towards the technical aspects involving the development of the model used for these calculations.

Evolution of The Surgical Net: Hemostasis to Gliding Surgery.

The Surgical Net technique, originally conceptualized to mitigate postoperative hematomas, has evolved into a versatile tool, transcending its initial purpose, and signaling a new era of surgical innovation. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Surgical Net's journey from a targeted solution to a multifaceted surgical asset and explores its burgeoning applications, challenges, and future trajectories. Despite early reluctance due to anatomical concerns and unfamiliarity with the novel technique, the Surgical Net's consistent success in various surgical contexts from facial surgeries to gynecological applications has catalyzed its widespread global adoption. The technique's integration of the progressive tension method and enhanced skin redraping capabilities underscores its contribution to optimal aesthetic outcomes and improved surgical control. Noteworthy is its role in the innovative concept of gliding surgery, marked by procedures like the gliding brow lift and Glidelift, demonstrating the Surgical Net's adaptability and effectiveness in diverse surgical environments. Contributions from international surgeons have expanded its applications to areas like axillary space obliteration post breast implant, postmastectomy closure, and the management of postpartum hemorrhage, showcasing the Surgical Net's global impact and universal commitment to optimizing surgical outcomes. The article delves into the anatomical considerations essential for adapting the Surgical Net technique to various surgical contexts, emphasizing the need for continuous research, clinical trials, and multidisciplinary collaboration to navigate emerging challenges and ensure its sustained efficacy and safety. In conclusion, the article highlights the Surgical Net technique's unwavering potential for further advancements, greater procedural efficiency, and the continued elevation of patient care standards. The consistent evolution of its applications, paired with a dedicated approach to addressing emergent challenges, reinforces the Surgical Net's enduring contribution to surgical innovation and global patient welfare.

Effect of Formulation Parameters and Physiological Environment on Amlodipine Release Kinetics Encapsulated in Biodegradable Polymers and Optimized by Design Methodology

Effect of Formulation Parameters and Physiological Environment on Amlodipine Release Kinetics Encapsulated in Biodegradable Polymers and Optimized by Design Methodology

Use of Metallic Mercury in Artisanal Gold Mining by Amalgamation: A Review of Temporal and Spatial Trends and Environmental Pollution

The introduction of mercury (Hg) into the environment by anthropogenic activities has resulted in negative implications for ecosystem functions and human health. Unlike the legacy of huge environmental pollution left by historic gold rushes in several developed countries, gold-rich nations in the developing world are currently witnessing what could qualify as a “new gold rush”, conducted primarily by small-scale mining operators and characterized by the use of metallic Hg (Hg0) in the amalgamation process to extract gold from crude ores. Once introduced into the environment, Hg0 can undergo biogeochemical transformations to produce Hg species such as methyl-Hg, with well-established adverse impacts on living organisms. This review summarizes published data on both historical and recent trends of the use of Hg0 in artisanal gold mining (AGM) on a global scale and emphasizes the impacts of AGM on the environment. To achieve this, we used citations from research conducted in North and South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and New Zealand, obtained from several search engines and databases. Our findings show that, in addition to the well-known environmental and human health adverse effects of gold mining with Hg0, gold extraction by the Hg amalgamation technique is boosting the economy in parts of Africa, South America, and Asia. Unfortunately, this appealing aspect of AGM may not be easily halted, pending the creation of alternative employment. Therefore, there is a clear need for the development of safe and affordable gold extraction and purification technologies. Ultimately, the growth of this specific economic sector should be regulated to help protect both the environment and human health. Information compiled in this review should help to (i) improve the mapping of AGM-impacted soil and aquatic systems on a global scale and (ii) stimulate discussions and research on how to take down current barriers to the development and implementation of safe AGM methods.

Synergizing breeding strategies via combining speed breeding, phenotypic selection, and marker-assisted backcrossing for the introgression of Glu-B1i in wheat

Wheat is a major food crop that plays a crucial role in the human diet. Various breeding technologies have been developed and refined to meet the increasing global wheat demand. Several studies have suggested breeding strategies that combine generation acceleration systems and molecular breeding methods to maximize breeding efficiency. However, real-world examples demonstrating the effective utilization of these strategies in breeding programs are lacking. In this study, we designed and demonstrated a synergized breeding strategy (SBS) that combines rapid and efficient breeding techniques, including speed breeding, speed vernalization, phenotypic selection, backcrossing, and marker-assisted selection. These breeding techniques were tailored to the specific characteristics of the breeding materials and objectives. Using the SBS approach, from artificial crossing to the initial observed yield trial under field conditions only took 3.5 years, resulting in a 53% reduction in the time required to develop a BC2 near-isogenic line (NIL) and achieving a higher recurrent genome recovery of 91.5% compared to traditional field conditions. We developed a new wheat NIL derived from cv. Jokyoung, a leading cultivar in Korea. Milyang56 exhibited improved protein content, sodium dodecyl sulfate-sedimentation value, and loaf volume compared to Jokyoung, which were attributed to introgression of the Glu-B1i allele from the donor parent, cv. Garnet. SBS represents a flexible breeding model that can be applied by breeders for developing breeding materials and mapping populations, as well as analyzing the environmental effects of specific genes or loci and for trait stacking.

Upscaling irradiation protocols of Aedes albopictus pupae within an SIT program in Reunion Island.

The implementation of the sterile insect technique against Aedes albopictus relies on many parameters, in particular on the success of the sterilization of males to be released into the target area in overflooding numbers to mate with wild females. Achieving consistent sterility levels requires efficient and standardized irradiation protocols. Here, we assessed the effects of exposure environment, density of pupae, irradiation dose, quantity of water and location in the canister on the induced sterility of male pupae. We found that the irradiation of 2000 pupae in 130ml of water and with a dose of 40Gy was the best combination of factors to reliably sterilize male pupae with the specific irradiator used in our control program, allowing the sterilization of 14000 pupae per exposure cycle. The location in the canister had no effect on induced sterility. The results reported here allowed the standardization and optimization of irradiation protocols for a Sterile Insect Techniqueprogram to control Ae. albopictus on Reunion Island, which required the production of more than 300,000 sterile males per week.

In Vitro Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Model Elucidating the Effect of Immune Environment on Disease Progression and Alleviation

In Vitro Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Model Elucidating the Effect of Immune Environment on Disease Progression and Alleviation

Review Article] How to Improve the Human Mindset

Modern societies are challenged by a range of problems; most, if not all, are aggravated by the way people behave. Our minds are shaped by the combined effect of genes and environment. Of these two, the only practical option for modifying behavior is to adjust the impact of the environment. All communities try to mold their members; thus, the question is not _whether_ we should attempt to form the brains of future generations, but _how_ to optimize the outcome. In this review, I discuss desirable features, brain plasticity, and strategies for enhancing society by tweaking the mindset, and thus the behavioral propensities, of the population.

The impact of peer effect of industrial robot application on enterprise carbon emission reduction.

The application of intelligent technology, such as industrial robots, is related to the environmental governance effectiveness of enterprises and the realization of the goal of "carbon peak and carbon neutrality". Due to their similar external environments, driven by economic rationality, peer enterprises will mimic the robotics applications of other enterprises, which in turn will affect the enterprises' carbon emissions. However, little literature has explored the impact of industrial robot application on enterprise carbon emissions from the perspective of peer effect. Based on the data of Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share manufacturing listed enterprises in China from 2011 to 2021, this paper explores the impact of industrial robot application on carbon emission reduction of manufacturing enterprises from the perspective of peer effect. It is found that the industry peer effect and regional peer effect brought by the application of industrial robots are conducive to promoting the carbon emission reduction of enterprises. Among them, the industry peer effect of industrial robot applications promotes carbon emission reduction by enhancing the green innovation ability of enterprises, while the regional peer effect promotes carbon emission reduction by improving the service level of enterprises. It is further found that the degree of industry competition and the level of environmental regulation have inverted U-shaped moderating effects on the industrial robot application industry peer effect, regional peer effect, and enterprises' carbon emission reduction, respectively. The results enrich the research on the impact of industrial robot application on carbon emission reduction of manufacturing enterprises and provide policy implications for improving the environmental performance of enterprises.

Conversion of tailings solvent recovery unit (TSRU) by‐products into activated carbon‐zeolite composites: Impact of fusion pre‐treatment on porosity and CO2 capture

AbstractCurrently, the oil sands industry is producing millions of tons of tailings by‐products from the tailings solvent recovery unit (TSRU) into the tailings ponds. TSRU tailings (TTs) consist of water, asphaltene, and minerals, including silica and alumina mixtures. The oil sands sector has expanded efforts to discover solutions to remove the tailings ponds due to growing public concern about the environmental effects of these ponds and stiffer government rules on their disposal. Therefore, this report studied the effect of the different methods for the conversion of the TTs into the activated carbon‐zeolite composite. The TTs were treated with activation followed by hydrothermal, either with or without fusion with NaOH at 800°C for 1 h as a pre‐treatment. Zeolite Na‐P, zeolite A, and zeolite X were identified during the different characterizations, depending on the pre‐treatment of the fusion. The result showed that the fusion with NaOH before the hydrothermal reaction was effective as it increased the porosity and adsorption of the composite. The CO2 capture capacity of the product before fusion was 0.19 mmol/g, and after fusion, it was improved to 0.486 mmol/g.