Environmental Conditions Research Articles

Advancing Roadway Safety through Intelligent Directional Indicators

This Roadway safety remains a critical concern worldwide, with millions of accidents occurring annually, leading to significant loss of life and economic damage. Conventional directional indicator systems, reliant on manual control or mechanical switches, often fall short in providing timely and accurate directional information to other road users, resulting in confusion and potential accidents. To address this challenge, the project "Advancing Roadway Safety through Intelligent Directional Vehicle Indicators" proposes a novel solution leveraging advanced technologies such as the ESP32 microcontroller and the ADXL345 accelerometer. This project aims to develop a robust system capable of accurately detecting and signaling left and right turns in real-time, thereby enhancing situational awareness and reducing the risk of accidents caused by signaling errors or ambiguity. The system integrates hardware components including the ESP32 controller, ADXL345 accelerometer, and OLED display, along with software components comprising firmware for the ESP32, algorithms for directional detection using accelerometer data, and display logic for the OLED display. Through a comprehensive methodology involving calibration of the accelerometer, data processing, and integration of hardware and software components, the system achieves enhanced safety, reliability, integration, and efficiency. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed system in providing accurate and timely directional indicators, with minimal false positives or negatives under various environmental conditions. The project contributes to advancing roadway safety and lays the foundation for the widespread adoption of intelligent transportation systems, offering significant potential for reducing accidents and improving the efficiency of transportation networks

Analysis of the development of friction and wear testing machine based on complex working conditions

Friction is one of the three main factors leading to the failure of metal materials. In order to improve the service life of machinery and reduce unnecessary losses in industrial production, it is necessary to study the friction and wear properties of industrial materials. Simultaneously in order to explore the impact of various environmental conditions on material properties, friction and wear testing machine war born as the times require. This paper mainly introduces the experimental principles and application scenarios of several universal friction and wear testing machines. At the same time, this paper also explores the situation of several special friction and wear testing machines that adapt to complex environments by organizing the industrial needs generated by the rapid development of technology. This paper collects and organizes literature on the current status and development of friction and wear testing machine in recent years. The paper has found that adding or improving special equipment to the special type of friction and wear testing machine on the basis of the universal model can better meet the needs of actual working conditions.

Konsep Peeragogy Untuk Pembelajaran PAI Yang Bermakna Di Sekolah Dasar

Peeragogy is a learning concept that is based on the thoughts that each person has. Students participate in study groups with their own way or understanding and knowledge so that the learning process occurs easier and better. The presence of learning partners in learning is equipped with different information regulations between students so that they can exchange information which broadens each student's understanding and relationships. Strategy is a set of interdependent parts to achieve desired goals and objectives. A learning strategy can also be interpreted as a model of learning activities which can be selected and used contextually according to the characteristics of the students, the conditions of the learning environment and the surrounding environment that support it, as well as the specific learning objectives that are formulated. Peeragogy is an educational strategy that introduces students to education to focus on learning to work and be creative. The aim of this research is to investigate and describe the application of peeragogy strategies for meaningful PAI learning

Development of the thermal hydraulic analysis code, TASS/SMR-S, under multi-dimensional motion for a reactor under inclination and rolling conditions

The development of a thermal hydraulic analysis code that considers ship motion is important because it would adjust for additional motion effects that are not present in a land-based system analysis code. The TASS/SMR-S code, a one-dimensional system analysis code, was modified to predict the thermal hydraulic behavior of a nuclear reactor under the conditions of an ocean environment. To validate the improved TASS/SMR-S code, the calculation results were compared with the analytical solutions for a conceptual problem involving swaying, rolling, and compounded motions; experimental data were collected under inclination and rolling conditions. The modified TASS/SMR-S code exhibited good agreement with analytical solutions for the conceptual problem and experimental results obtained under ship motion conditions. In conclusion, the modified code was able to simulate thermal hydraulic behavior under ship motion conditions.

Evaluating the Impact of Environmental and Operational Conditions on the Characteristics of CFRP Epoxy Composites

The purpose of this study is to determine the material properties of CFRP composites in the form of a fabric for the construction of racing car bodywork. This work focused on the determination of the strength and tribological properties as well as investigating the effects of the operating environment on the developed material. Three material variants, differing in the number of layers used to produce the reinforcement, were used in this study. The tests were carried out on two-/three-/four-layer sheets produced by infusion. Due to the later use of the tested composites for the sheathing of a racing car, the results obtained were analysed in terms of the most favourable strength properties while keeping the weight as low as possible. In this study, the hardness, impact strength, and tensile and bending stresses of the developed composites were examined. In addition to the strength properties, the density, the effects of immersion in water, and the composite’s resistance to staining and friction in the presence of aggressive media were also checked. The structure and the breakthroughs resulting from the strength tests were observed using a stereoscopic microscope. The material’s resistance to sunlight and UVB was also tested.

Fatigue life prediction method for reinforced concrete deck slabs subjected to repeated moving wheel loads and failing in shear

AbstractAs bridge deck slabs experience the direct impact of repeated concentrated wheel loads, they are more susceptible to fatigue‐related damage than other bridge components. In this context, a fatigue life prediction method for reinforced concrete (RC) bridge decks has been developed based on failure mechanisms of RC slabs tested under moving wheel loads. Initially, the formulas encompassed shear strength and S–N equations, accommodating variations in environmental and support conditions, are proposed to facilitate the fatigue life prediction of slabs exposed to constant moving wheel load. Subsequently, a model for shear strength degradation formulated using experimental findings on beam‐like elements is utilized in predicting the fatigue life of slabs subjected to stepwise moving wheel loads. The validity of the proposed method was established by comparing its results with previous experimental data. Notably, compared with the existing prediction equation, the proposed method exhibited more accurate fatigue life prediction results.

The hydrological response of melting ephemeral snowpacks compared to winter rainfall events in a mid-mountainous Pyrenean catchment

AbstractThe hydrological role of ephemeral snowpacks and their differences in stormflow and sediment transport characteristics compared to events triggered by winter rainfall conditions have received limited attention. This study aims to analyze the hydrological and sediment transport responses to rain-on-snow (ROS), melt, mixed, and rainfall events in the Araguás Catchment, situated in a mid-mountain site of the Central Spanish Pyrenees, with a climate strongly influenced by Mediterranean conditions. This catchment represents the transition from a winter ephemeral snow environment to a fully rainfall-dominated site. Results indicate that snowmelt has a modest yet measurable impact on the annual water balance, averaging 10% and rising to 30% during winter (December to February). ROS and melt events consistently exhibited higher mean and maximum discharge and elevated stormflow coefficients compared to mixed and rainfall events. The lowest water infiltration into the soil was observed during melt events, attributed to the potential for frequent freezing soils, specific poor edaphic conditions, and the rapid snowmelt in the area. Consequently, melting events displayed the shortest flood hydrographs among the four analyzed events. The study also underscores precipitation’s almost negligible erodibility capacity in the solid phase and emphasizes the protective role of snow cover in preventing soil erosion. It is important to note that the presented results are significantly influenced by the physiographic, lithological, and edaphic characteristics of the Araguás Catchment. This highlights the importance of conducting more detailed analyses of ephemeral snowpacks in experimental sites under a broader range of environmental conditions for a comprehensive understanding.

Potential of Cold-Water Agriculture (ColdAg) in Mexico: Challenges and Opportunities for Sustainable Food Production

To guarantee sustainable development at a global level, humanity currently faces serious challenges related to a greater demand and better distribution of food to meet the needs of the growing population in environments affected by global climate change (GCC), and in limiting conditions with respect to natural, genetic, financial, and technological resources. Therefore, there is a dire need to implement technologies that can guarantee food security and sovereignty around the world, enabling sustainable development for all nations. Cold-Water Agriculture (ColdAg) is an available technology that offers an alternative to conventional food production in coastal areas and islands of the tropical and subtropical belts worldwide, making use of cold deep ocean water. Mexico has places with the optimal environmental conditions to adapt this technology, mainly in coastal areas and islands, which can contribute to ensuring access to food and drinking water. Initial tests have shown its viability, while production costs need to be adjusted to make this technology accessible to the poorest populations, so that it can contribute to their sustainable development and wealth. In this review article, we aimed to critically analyze some of the most salient literature on the ColdAg technology and outline the feasibility of this technology to be implemented and exploited in Mexico to contribute to alternative food production in a sustainable manner.

From Salinity to Nutrient-Rich Vegetables: Strategies for Quality Enhancement in Protected Cultivation

Salinity, a significant abiotic stressor, imperils vegetable growth, yield, and quality. Moreover, elevated salinity levels, driven by climate change, jeopardize vegetable nutritional quality. In particular, protected cultivation systems, responsible for 60% of the global vegetable industry’s economic value, encounter notable challenges in managing salinity due to water runoff and drainage mechanism limitations. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the intricate mechanisms that control salinity and use this knowledge to improve plant tolerance to these conditions. In this study, we explore strategies to effectively mitigate the detrimental impacts of salinity on vegetable crops cultivated within protected environments. Additionally, we investigate the benefits of controlled moderate salinity adjustments in protected cultivation to enhance their nutritional content. Moderate salinity or nutrient solution increases typically raise total soluble solids, sugar, vitamin C, phenols, lycopene, and antioxidants in most fruit vegetables. Though generally applicable to leafy vegetables, exceptions like lettuce and wild rocket may show inconsistencies, potentially reducing some quality traits. Interdisciplinary approaches are essential to developing sustainable solutions for managing salinity in protected cultivation systems, thereby ensuring the resilience of vegetable production in the face of changing environmental conditions. Given the impracticality of desalinating all areas, future research should also investigate synergies between moderate salinity stress, cultivars used, and environmental factors from physiological and molecular perspectives to enhance vegetable nutritional quality.

Management of toxic waste released by incorrectly discarded batteries in Brazil

Abstract The main difference between a dry cell battery and an alkaline one is the composition of the electrolyte. In zinc–carbon batteries, dry cell, the electrolyte is a paste formed by mixing ammonium chloride and zinc chloride, whereas in alkaline batteries, the electrolyte is a concentrated aqueous solution of potassium hydroxide containing a certain amount of zinc oxide, hence the name alkaline for this battery. Therefore, the improper disposal of these materials has numerous consequences for the environment, since the potentially toxic metals present in them can be leached, infiltrating, and contaminating the soil layers, the groundwater, as well as the fauna and flora of the regions nearby. Thus, the objective is to perform studies that aim to simulate and analyze the release of potentially toxic metals present in batteries found in normal environmental conditions, through leaching tests from regular batteries (Zn–C) on fertilized soil, simulating a landfill, in addition to tests on sandy soil in order to aid the identification of possible waste release.

Scanning Probe Microscopies for Characterizations of 2D Materials.

2D materials are intriguing due to their remarkably thin and flat structure. This unique configuration allows the majority of their constituent atoms to be accessible on the surface, facilitating easier electron tunneling while generating weak surface forces. To decipher the subtle signals inherent in these materials, the application of techniques that offer atomic resolution (horizontal) and sub-Angstrom (z-height vertical) sensitivity is crucial. Scanning probe microscopy (SPM) emerges as the quintessential tool in this regard, owing to its atomic-level spatial precision, ability to detect unitary charges, responsiveness to pico-newton-scale forces, and capability to discern pico-ampere currents. Furthermore, the versatility of SPM to operate under varying environmental conditions, such as different temperatures and in the presence of various gases or liquids, opens up the possibility of studying the stability and reactivity of 2D materials in situ. The characteristic flatness, surface accessibility, ultra-thinness, and weak signal strengths of 2D materials align perfectly with the capabilities of SPM technologies, enabling researchers to uncover the nuanced behaviors and properties of these advanced materials at the nanoscale and even the atomic scale.

БАЛЫҚ ДЕРНӘСІЛДЕРІН ӨСІРУ ҮШІН ОҢТАЙЛЫ ҚОРЕК РЕСУРСЫ РЕТІНДЕ АРТЕМИЯЛАРДЫ ӨНДІРУ

In aquaculture, the use of Artemia as an optimal nutrient resource for fish fry is an object of growing interest. The advantages of using Artemia include the possibility of mass cultivation under controlled conditions, the possibility of long-term storage in frozen form and resistance to external environmental conditions. Artemia, belonging to crustaceans, is a rich source of protein, fat, vitamins and minerals necessary for the healthy development of fish larvae. Due to the high content of unsaturated fatty acids, omega-3 and omega-6, fry contribute to the development of a healthy immune system, which reduces the risk of many diseases. Their small size and mobility make them available for cultivation, which ensures a high level of quality and reduces feed consumption. The results of the study show that the use of crustaceans as the main food source for fish farming contributes to improving the life, growth and health of fry. This makes them a successful type of feed in aquaculture and an optimal resource for fish farming. Further research in this area can lead to increased efficiency of fish farming, development of practices and improvement of the overall potential of the aquaculture industry. This article discusses the advantages of using Artemia, its biological value, ease of cultivation and versatility in the nutrition of various fish larvae. Various methods and technologies of growing Artemisia are analyzed, as well as their application in breeding species of fish larvae. Special attention is paid to optimizing the maximum growth of fish larvae and feeding conditions.

Sulfur‐Rich Polymers Coatings

AbstractAdvancements in the synthesis of sulfur‐rich materials are driving progress across diverse fields owing to the rich and tunable functionalities of those materials. These materials are typically valued for their electrochemical behaviors, high refractive indices, heavy metal affinity, and ability to form dynamic covalent bonding. As a result, their applications span various industries including electronics, catalysis, lithium‐sulfur batteries, water reclamation, and optoelectronics. Moreover, elemental sulfur, a byproduct of the petroleum industry, is produced abundantly, necessitating the exploration of novel valorization routes for polymers made from this feedstock. The unique combination of properties of sulfur‐rich polymers also makes them an ideal platform for the development of high‐performance functional coatings, offering durability and tailored functionalities for protective coatings, thus enhancing materials lifespan and performances in a variety of environmental conditions. The presence of dynamic covalent bonds in many sulfur‐rich polymers enables the creation of self‐healing coatings, while sulfur itself or the comonomers can contribute to antimicrobial, antifouling, and corrosion‐resistant properties. Furthermore, sulfur‐rich polymers have the potential to be used in the design of icephobic and superhydrophobic coatings. This underscores the versatility of sulfur‐rich polymers as a platform for the creation of advanced coatings with superior properties.

Prevalence of STEC virulence markers and Salmonella as a function of abiotic factors in agricultural water in the southeastern United States

Fresh produce can be contaminated by enteric pathogens throughout crop production, including through contact with contaminated agricultural water. The most common outbreaks and recalls in fresh produce are due to contamination by Salmonella enterica and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC). Thus, the objectives of this study were to investigate the prevalence of markers for STEC (wzy, hly, fliC, eaeA, rfbE, stx-I, stx-II) and Salmonella (invA) in surface water sources (n = 8) from produce farms in Southwest Georgia and to determine correlations among the prevalence of virulence markers for STEC, water nutrient profile, and environmental factors. Water samples (500 mL) from eight irrigation ponds were collected from February to December 2021 (n = 88). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to screen for Salmonella and STEC genes, and Salmonella samples were confirmed by culture-based methods. Positive samples for Salmonella were further serotyped. Particularly, Salmonella was detected in 6/88 (6.81%) water samples from all ponds, and the following 4 serotypes were detected: Saintpaul 3/6 (50%), Montevideo 1/6 (16.66%), Mississippi 1/6 (16.66%), and Bareilly 1/6 (16.66%). Salmonella isolates were only found in the summer months (May-Aug.). The most prevalent STEC genes were hly 77/88 (87.50%) and stx-I 75/88 (85.22%), followed by fliC 54/88 (61.63%), stx-II 41/88 (46.59%), rfbE 31/88 (35.22%), and eaeA 28/88 (31.81%). The wzy gene was not detected in any of the samples. Based on a logistic regression analysis, the odds of codetection for STEC virulence markers (stx-I, stx-II, and eaeA) were negatively correlated with calcium and relative humidity (p < 0.05). A conditional forest analysis was performed to assess predictive performance (AUC = 0.921), and the top predictors included humidity, nitrate, calcium, and solar radiation. Overall, information from this research adds to a growing body of knowledge regarding the risk that surface water sources pose to produce grown in subtropical environmental conditions and emphasizes the importance of understanding the use of abiotic factors as a holistic approach to understanding the microbial quality of water.

Laboratory Demonstration of Grating Embedded Mirrors for Single-Shot Heliostat Optical Metrology

Abstract Concentrated solar power (CSP) plants need to monitor the surface slope error of thousands of heliostats with sub-milliradian accuracy. Large numbers of heliostats installed in harsh environments mean that measurement speed and durability are key design considerations for metrology systems. We present a compact, accurate, and high-speed heliostat slope error metrology system that is robust to the harsh environmental conditions at CSP plants. The system is composed of (1) grating embedded mirrors (GEMs), which have multiple different phase diffraction gratings written within a glass mirror substrate, and (2) a compact optical system, the diffractive auto-stigmatic Hartmann camera (DASHCam). Using focused ultrafast laser pulses, we write phase gratings within second-surface float glass mirror without damaging the reflective coating on the backside. The gratings direct a small fraction of incident light to non-specular directions, which the DASHCam senses from a virtual center of curvature to measure the mirror slopes at each grating patch. In a CSP plant, each heliostat mirror would be a GEM, and the DASHCam would rapidly measure slope and canting errors during heliostat manufacturing, installation, or operation. We fabricated 0.1 meter-diameter GEMs with 24 grating patches, built a prototype DASHCam system, and tested the system repeatability and accuracy by comparing against a Fizeau interferometer. Our results show, in a laboratory environment, 24μrad root mean square (RMS) measurement repeatability and 47μrad RMS accuracy, with single-shot image capture. The combination of GEMs and DASHCam is a promising metrology approach that could lead to improved optical accuracy of heliostats throughout their life cycle. This work serves as a proof of principle for this system.

An Evaluation of Long-Term Contaminated Soil from a Manufactured Gas Plant for in Situ Biodegradation Potential and as a Source of Ferrocyanide-Degrading Bacteria

Despite the high abundance and potential toxicity of ferrocyanide in the environment, data on the bioremediation of these complexes in contaminated soils are missing. In this study we isolated forty bacterial species presented in soil highly contaminated with ferrocyanide complexes, originating from a Manufactured Gas Plant (MGP). All bacterial strains were resistant to ferrocyanide (500 mg L−1). Six isolates showed better growth in the presence of ferrocyanide and were able to use it as a sole nitrogen source. One of them was able to assimilate ferrocyanide‐derived nitrogen and carbon. The strains varied in their tolerance to the ferrocyanide. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) values determined in the rich medium ranged from 1400 mg L−1 to 2000 mg L−1 and in all cases were greater than those set on the minimal medium. Molecular analysis revealed that the investigated isolates had the highest similarity to the Bacillus and Rummeliibacillus lineages. Rummeliibacillus was recognized for the first time for its ferrocyanide-degrading potential. Soil samples collected from MGP sites indicated that the overall indigenous population of microorganisms was low. Total cyanide content ranged from 220 mg kg−1 to 346 mg kg−1. Additionally, elevated Pb concentrations and an imbalanced C:N:P ratio were observed. Our study provides new information about the presence of a well-acclimated bacterial community associated with long-term ferrocyanide-contaminated soil. This bacterial community could play an important role in MGP site bioremediation processes and has the potential for application for other bioremediation purposes; however, it is likely limited due to unfavorable environmental conditions.

Enhancing Communication Reliability: Designing Microwave Links for Bahir Dar-Woretta Connectivity

This paper explores the need for establishing a microwave link between Bahir Dar and Woretta as an alternative communication solution to the existing optical fiber infrastructure. Microwave links offer an effective way to overcome challenges posed by rugged terrains and unfavorable environmental conditions that hinder the deployment of fiber optics. As Woretta emerges as a key economic and investment hub within the Amhara Region, demand for reliable and efficient communication is expected to grow significantly. The study encompasses various aspects of planning and designing the microwave link, including site surveys, consideration of fade margins, frequency planning, link budget calculations, and assessing the feasibility and reliability of the proposed link. The paper employs LINKPlanner 5.4.1 software to simulate and validate the results. Due to terrain constraints, a direct link between Bahir Dar and Woretta is not feasible. Instead, a two-hop link is proposed, involving transmission from Bahir Dar to Zege, and then from Zege to Woretta. This alternative configuration ensures optimal connectivity while addressing the terrain limitations. By presenting a comprehensive analysis and simulation of the microwave link, this paper provides valuable insights into the planning and implementation of a robust communication infrastructure. The proposed microwave link will offer a reliable and efficient alternative to the existing optical fiber network, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity to support the region’s growth and development.

Environmental Control and Management Continuation Through the Ruling of the State Administrative Court

Changes in environmental law provisions that have the potential to cause inconsistencies in these decisions must be harmonized with the legal system. Without consistency in decisions regarding environmental public administration disputes, it will be difficult for the government to make decisions and guideline for determining policies related to environmental protection and management. The aim of this research is to determine the consistency of environmental administration dispute decisions in state administrative courts. The writing method uses a normative juridical approach with statutory regulations, the legal sources used are primary and secondary legal sources relating to state administrative law and those relating to environmental regulations, apart from that the author uses a case study approach. The results of the research show that the implementation of regulations related to state administrative decisions in the environmental sector is still inconsistent, with the government placing more emphasis on remedial (retroactive) efforts in environmental problems which are manifested in the form of government intervention to restore environmental conditions after pollution and/or damage occurs. environment. Considering that the majority of environmental law enforcement is in the field of government administration, inconsistencies in environmental state administration decisions must be resolved immediately to realize good environmental protection and management. In fact, the decision of the state administrative court judge is not only intended to resolve a dispute but will also serve as a guideline for government agencies/officials in realizing sustainable environmental protection and management.

Analisis Pengendalian Kualitas Tahu Menggunakan Metode Seven Tools (Studi Kasus di Tahu Takoa Riski)

Quality control is an essential approach that should be implemented from the pre-production stage throughout the production process until the final product is produced. This study aims to identify the prevailing form of deficiency, investigate the underlying causes of the defect, and propose suggestions for enhancement. Takoa Riski Tahu is a micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) located in North Tidar, South Magelang, Magelang City. This particular enterprise specializes in the production of white tofu. Takoa Riski Tofu can manufacture 16390 units of tofu in one month. This study uses the seven tools technique to ascertain the prevailing categories of flaws and the underlying factors responsible for their occurrence. According to studies, it is established that there are three distinct categories of defects: appearance, size, and filth. Appearance faults have the highest prevalence, accounting for 39.7% of all defects. Size problems are the second most common, making up 33.5% of defects, while filth defects are the least prevalent, comprising 26.7%. The factors contributing to defects include human error, machinery malfunction, subpar materials, inefficient processes, and unfavourable environmental conditions.

Protective Properties of Calcareous Deposit Layer for Cathodically Polarized AH36 Steel in Natural Seawater

A calcareous deposit is a by-product of the cathodic polarization in seawater environments. This study presents the results of evaluating the anticorrosion and anti-macro-biofouling effectiveness of a calcareous deposit layer on the surface of the cathodically polarized AH36 structural steel in tropical seawater. The polarization is induced with initial current densities at which the calcareous deposit layer formed with both aragonite and brucite for 12 months continuously. The protective properties of the layer were compared with those of the passive layer from corrosion products under the same environmental conditions. The macro-biofouling in the tropical seawater is observed in the closed and open surfaces of the steel. The comparison of the anticorrosion property shows that, to some degree, the calcareous deposit layer contributes to surface passivation, as in the case of the corrosion product layer. In addition, the composition of the brucite and aragonite in the calcareous layer in the study plays a role as a macro-biofouling growth-limiting factor.