Environmental Effects Research Articles

Exploring the Local Environment Effect on Properties of all-Trans-Retinal by Two-Dimensional Correlation Resonance Raman Spectroscopy

Exploring the Local Environment Effect on Properties of all-Trans-Retinal by Two-Dimensional Correlation Resonance Raman Spectroscopy

Spatio-temporal differentiation characteristics of coal mine safety levels in China based on spatial spillover effects

In order to solve the problem of "potpourri" of safety risk prevention and control measures, which is caused by the unclear mechanism of the spatial effect of coal mine safety level heterogeneity and its influencing factors. This paper discriminates the dominant factors of spatio-temporal heterogeneity of coal mine safety production level in China and their spatial effect types by means of GeoDetector and the Spatial Dubin Model (SDM), specifies the categories and degrees of acts on local and surrounding areas by changes in indicators, and provides further visualization of the detection outcomes with the assistance of the Neo4j graph database, and the findings indicate that:(1) All 15 indicators selected in the study have a certain influence on the generation of spatial heterogeneity in China's coal mine safety production level, and all of them show an enhancement relationship after the interaction of indicators. Especially, the combination of excavated environment and other indicators basically has a non-linear enhancement relationship. (2) In terms of spatial effects, the influence of the 5 effects on the spatio-temporal heterogeneity of coal mine safety level is, in descending order, industrial development effect > capital allocation effect > production environment effect > government supervision effect > enterprise management effect, which indicates that macroeconomic and market conditions have a much stronger influence on the generation of spatio-temporal heterogeneity in coal mine production safety status. (3) From the single indicator perspective, the average annual temperature, average annual wind speed, coal consumption and monitoring efficiency primarily affect the dependent variable through direct effects; GDP per capita, average labor compensation as well as railroad operating mileage have positive spatial spillover on the changes of coal mine safety production level in surrounding areas; the evaluation of the spatial effect for average labor compensation exhibits a positive indirect effect with low influence; for the two indicators of production efficiency and ex-factory price, not only do they have negative effects on the local coal mine safety level, but also have significant spillover effects on surrounding areas.

Structural Rearrangement of the AT1 Receptor Modulated by Membrane Thickness and Tension.

Membrane-embedded mechanosensitive (MS) proteins, including ion channels and G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), are essential for the transduction of external mechanical stimuli into biological signals. The angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptor plays many important roles in cardiovascular regulation and is associated with diseases such as hypertension and congestive heart failure. The membrane-mediated activation of the AT1 receptor is not well understood, despite this being one of the most widely studied GPCRs within the context of biased agonism. Here, we use extensive molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to characterize the effect of the local membrane environment on the activation of the AT1 receptor. We show that membrane thickness plays an important role in the stability of active and inactive states of the receptor, as well as the dynamic interchange between states. Furthermore, our simulation results show that membrane tension is effective in driving large-scale structural changes in the inactive state such as the outward movement of transmembrane helix 6 to stabilize intermediate active-like conformations. We conclude by comparing our simulation observations with AlphaFold 2 predictions, as a proxy to experimental structures, to provide a framework for how membrane mediated stimuli can facilitate activation of the AT1 receptor through the β-arrestin signaling pathway.

Transcriptome analysis of the effects of high temperature on zygotic genome activation in porcine embryos

Damage to the development of porcine gametes and embryos caused by high temperatures (HT) is one of the main reasons for the decline in the economic benefits of the livestock industry. Zygotic genome activation (ZGA) marks the beginning of gene expression programs in mammalian pre-implantation embryos. In pigs, ZGA occurs at the 4-cell (4 C) stage, indicating that correct gene expression at this stage plays an important regulatory role in embryonic development. However, the effect of the HT environment on early porcine embryonic development and the RNA expression profile of ZGA remain unclear. In this study, we compared the RNA transcription patterns of porcine 4 C embryos under normal and HT conditions using RNA-seq and identified 326 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). These changes were mainly related to DNA polymerase activity, DNA replication, and nucleotidyltransferase activity. In addition, entries for reverse transcription and endonuclease activity were enriched, indicating that ZGA interfered under HT conditions. Further comparison of the experimental results with the porcine ZGA gene revealed 39 ZGA genes among the DEGs. KEGG and GSEA analysis showed that the oxidative phosphorylation pathway was significantly enriched and signaling pathways related to energy metabolism were significantly downregulated. We also found that NDUFA6 and CDKN1A were located at the center of the protein-protein interaction network diagram of the DEGs. In summary, HT conditions affect mitochondrial function and oxidative phosphorylation levels, and lead to changes in the expression pattern of ZGA in early porcine embryos, with its hub genes NDUFA6 and CDKN1A.

Evaluating the Environmental Impact of Reusing Baghouse Dust in Asphalt Concrete: A Sustainable Approach

The purpose of this study is to assess the environmental impact of reusing baghouse dust in asphalt concrete production. Baghouse dust, a byproduct of asphalt creation, presents natural removal challenges; nonetheless, its true capacity reuse in asphalt concrete could give an economical solution. This study aims to survey and align the environmental and ecological implications of utilizing varying extents of baghouse dust in asphalt mix combinations. This research review starts by describing the physical and chemical properties of baghouse dust. In this way, substantial samples were ready and prepared with various percentage rates of baghouse residue to examine the effect on the mechanical properties of the mix. The discoveries demonstrate that consolidating baghouse dust into asphalt cement mostly decreases peak stress and strength qualities characteristics. As far as the environmental and ecological effect, the investigation analysis shows that utilizing baghouse residue can decrease in general energy utilization and discharge emissions. The energy utilization rate diminished from 500 MJ/ton for ordinary conventional asphalt to 400 MJ/ton for asphalt with 20% baghouse residue, and CO2 emanations decreased from 120 kg/ton to 80 kg/ton for a similar correlation. Also, the squander and waste decrease was huge, with 200 tons/year saved at 10% baghouse dust and 400 tons/year at 20%. Asset resources proficiency likewise improved, with raw unrefined material savings investment funds of 150 tons/year at 10% baghouse dust and 300 tons/year at 20%. Notwithstanding this decrease, the mechanical properties stay within ranges for specific applications, proposing that baghouse dust residue can be effectively and successfully utilized in non-basic underlying structural layers of asphalts.

Competences for socio-ecological stewardship: a qualitative assessment of the transformative potential of farmers’ learning processes in Eastern Uganda

ABSTRACT Purpose: This paper identifies socio-ecological stewardship competences that smallholder farmers in the Manafwa watershed in Eastern Uganda, developed by participating in a project founded on the Participatory Integrated Planning approach. Methodology: A case study approach was applied. Data were collected by interviewing smallholder farmers and PIP trainers; observing farm practices and PIP training sessions; and conducting focus group discussions. Data were analysed thematically, inspired by the environmental competence model of Roczen, to identify socio-ecological stewardship competences. Findings: The study identified socio-ecological stewardship competences comprising different sustainability-related dimensions including: ‘environmental knowledge’ as environmental systems, action-related, effectiveness, social, and ethical knowledge; ‘connection with nature’ as establishing an identity with nature, appreciating the value of nature, social, and ethical attitudes; and ‘ecological behaviour’ as conservation and restoration, social, and ethical actions. Practical implications: Competence dimensions are interconnected thus requiring learning environments that develop them simultaneously. Additionally, social and ethical competences are relevant for supporting stewardship action. Theoretical implications: This study expands Roczen’s environmental competence model by including social, ethical, and conservation and restoration action competences. Originality/value: This study is the first to identify socio-ecological stewardship competences and the learning processes that can foster these competences.

Harnessing the Power of Renewable Energy: A Study of Sustainable Sources and Technologies

This research investigates the capacity of renewable energy technologies to fulfill global energy requirements while mitigating environmental effects, concentrating on primary sources like sun, wind, hydropower, biomass, and geothermal energy. It evaluates the efficacy of various technologies for energy production, efficiency, economic viability, and reduction of carbon emissions. The findings underscore notable progress in solar and wind energy, demonstrating considerable efficiency enhancements (5% for solar PV, 10% for wind turbines) and cost reductions (67% and 64%, respectively) during the last decade. Hydropower is the most efficient energy source, converting 90% of available energy, albeit it is geographically constrained. The research highlights the environmental advantages, noting that renewable technologies substantially decrease CO₂ emissions—hydropower and wind energy prevent 250,000 and 120,000 metric tons of CO₂ annually, respectively. Nonetheless, obstacles such as the variability of solar and wind energy, elevated expenses associated with biomass and geothermal energy, and regional variations in implementation persist as substantial impediments. The research highlights the need for further developments in energy storage, grid modernization, and legislative assistance to expedite the worldwide shift towards renewable energy. This study synthesizes current statistics and trends, emphasizing the vital role of renewable energy in attaining a sustainable, low-carbon future, while also tackling ongoing economic and infrastructural problems.

Evaluation of Operating Room Staff Awareness of Environmental Sustainability and Medical Waste Management.

This study aims to identify the obstacles to recycling and environmental sustainability habits in a university hospital's operating room (OR) environment in Turkey and lay the groundwork for potential solutions. A questionnaire was used to measure current views among the 140 OR staff members aged 20-54 years. The survey assessed awareness and behaviors of recycling at home and in the OR, as well as awareness of environmentally safe anaesthesia practices. Half of the participants believed that ORs significantly affected their carbon footprint, and most agreed that these environmental effects could be reduced. The primary barriers to recycling were inadequate knowledge, negative staff attitudes and insufficient services. Notably, 76% of participants paid attention to segregating OR waste, yet many lacked formal education about the environmental impact of their practices. Approximately 89% agreed that the environmental effects of ORs could be further reduced, with education being a critical need. The healthcare sector's contribution to carbon emissions and waste production is significant, especially in ORs. The lack of education regarding ecological implications is concerning. Implementing standardized training programs and enhancing recycling services can substantially reduce the environmental impact of ORs, highlighting the need for a more sustainable healthcare system.

Constitutive innate immune defenses in relation to urbanization and population density in an urban bird, the feral pigeon Columba livia domestica.

Urbanization processes modulate the immunological challenges faced by animals. Urban habitat transformations reshape pathogen diversity and abundance, while high population density-common in urban exploiter species-promotes disease transmission. Responses to urbanization may include adaptive adjustments of constitutive innate immune defenses (e.g. complement system and natural antibodies [NAbs]), which serve as first-line protection against infections. Here, we investigated associations of habitat urbanization and host population density with complement and NAbs in an urban bird, the feral pigeon Columba livia domestica. To do so, we employed the hemolysis-hemagglutination assay to analyze nearly 200 plasma samples collected across urbanization and pigeon population density gradients in five major cities in Poland. We found a negative association between urbanization score and hemagglutination (i.e. NAbs activity), but not hemolysis (i.e. complement activity), indicating either immunosuppression or adaptive downregulation of this immune defense in highly transformed urban landscape. Population density was not significantly related to either immune parameter, providing no evidence for density-dependent modulation of immune defenses. At the same time, there was a negative association of hemolysis with condition (scaled mass index), suggesting resource allocation trade-offs or contrasting effects of the urban environment on immune defenses and body condition. The results demonstrate that habitat structure can be an important factor shaping the immune defenses of the feral pigeon, although these associations were not mediated by variation in population density. Our study highlights the complexity of the links between immune defenses in wildlife and urbanization and reinforces the need for comprehensive ecoimmunological studies on urban animals.

The behaviour of charged particles (ions) during new particle formation events in urban Leipzig, Germany

Abstract. Air ions are electrically charged particles in air. They are ubiquitous in the natural environment and affect the Earth's radiation budget by accelerating the formation and growth of new aerosol particles. Despite this, few datasets exist exploring these effects in the urban environment. A neutral cluster and air ion spectrometer was deployed in Leipzig, Germany, to measure the number size distribution of charged particles from 0.8 to 42 nm, between 27 July and 25 August 2022. Following previous analyses, charged particles were classified into small (0.8–1.6 nm), intermediate (1.6–7.5 nm), and large (7.5–22 nm) fractions by mass diameter, and their mean concentrations (sum of positive and negative polarities) during the campaign were 405, 71.6, and 415 cm−3, respectively. The largest peaks in intermediate and large ions were explained by new particle formation (NPF), with intermediate ions correlating well with sulfuric acid dimer. Smaller morning and evening peaks were coincident with black carbon concentrations and attributed to primary emissions. NPF events, observed on 30 % of days, coincided with intense solar radiation and elevated sulfuric acid dimer. Small charged particles were primarily associated with radioactive decay and highest during the early hours, and they are unrelated to primary emissions or NPF. The apparent contributions of charged particles to 3 and 7.5 nm particle formation rates were 5.7 % and 12.7 %, respectively, with mean growth rates of 4.0 nm h−1 between 3–7.5 nm and 5.2 nm h−1 between 7.5 and 22 nm. The ratio of charged to total particle formation rates at 3 nm suggests a minor role for charged particles in NPF. We conclude that NPF is a primary source of > 3 nm ions in our data, with primary emissions being the major source in the absence of NPF.

Explainable, Deep Reinforcement Learning–Based Decision Making for Operations and Maintenance

This paper presents research that integrates condition monitoring and prognostics with decision making for nuclear power plant operations and maintenance aimed at reducing lifetime maintenance and repair costs. Additionally, a focal point of this research is to make the decisions explainable to operators, improving the trustworthiness of the decisions from what can be considered a black box model. In this work, we develop and evaluate an explainable, online asset management methodology to help reduce lifetime maintenance and repair costs. Using the latest advancements in condition monitoring, inventory management, deep reinforcement learning, and explainable artificial intelligence methods, we create a predictive maintenance methodology that can optimize the maintenance and spare part management of a repairable nuclear power plant system. To demonstrate these methods, preliminary studies were conducted on a representative maintenance system undergoing a stochastic degradation process that requires repairs or replacement to continue operation. Using deep reinforcement learning, we were able to reduce maintenance spending by approximately 50% compared to optimized, time-based maintenance strategies for the chosen system. A key component of our methodology is the integration of Shapley values to quantify the contribution of various factors to the decision-making process. This addition enhances the explainability and trustworthiness of our decisions, providing operators with transparent and understandable insights into the rationale behind maintenance strategies. The robustness and resiliency of our decision policy against observation noise were also thoroughly evaluated, demonstrating its effectiveness in uncertain operational environments.

Interacting phenotypic plasticities: Do male and female responses to the sociosexual environment interact to determine fitness?

Socially induced plasticity in reproductive effort is a widely documented phenomenon. However, few empirical studies have examined how male and female plastic responses to the social environment might interact in determining fitness outcomes. In field crickets, Teleogryllus oceanicus, males respond to rival song by increasing expenditure on seminal fluid proteins that enhance competitive fertilization success at the cost of reduced embryo survival. It remains unknown whether plastic responses in females could moderate the effects of male competitiveness on offspring performance. Here we used a fully factorial design to explore the interacting effects on fitness of male and female plasticity to the sociosexual environment. We found that female crickets exposed to male song increased the number of eggs produced during early life reproduction, which came at a cost of reduced offspring size. There was evidence, albeit weak, that interacting effects of male and female sociosexual environment contributed to variation in the hatching success of eggs laid by females. Lifetime offspring production was unaffected by the sociosexual environments to which upstream male and female plastic responses were made. Our data offer a rare test of the theoretical expectation that male and female plasticities should interact in their effects on female fitness.

Microstructural investigation and performance of LC3 cementitious materials

Limestone calcined clay cement (LC3) is identified as an auspicious solution to the exhaustion of natural resources intended for use as construction materials. This is seen as a means of reducing both the carbon dioxide emissions and the environmental effects of energy-intensive cement manufacture. Three novel types of LC3 cements and mortar varieties were synthesized, characterized, and their potential use was assessed. Microstructural investigations were performed using experimental techniques such as XRD, XRF, FTIR, SEM, setting time, and thermal analysis. Physical and mechanical properties were also evaluated at 2, 7, and 28 d. The results showed that hydrated phases alongside the original ones were encountered. SEM micrographs exhibited some features belonging to the already detected phases. The mechanical strength of the manufactured LC3 samples (up to 35 MPa) was quite promising compared to that of commercial cements. From the above, it could be stated that the used materials might be a good substitute for clinker in the manufacture of LC3 cements. LC3-50 and LC3-52 may both be used in favor of CPJ35 and CPJ45, respectively.

Повышение термоэлектрической эффективности устройств преобразования энергии за счет использования наноструктурированных материалов

Background: Thermoelectric materials have received much interest because of their capacity to transform thermal energy into electrical power, providing a sustainable method for energy collecting. Despite substantial study, the actual use and effectiveness of these materials require more investigation as they move from laboratory to industrial settings. Objective: This study's objective is to provide a thorough analysis of the evolution of thermoelectric materials, from their fundamental theoretical underpinnings to their integration into devices, highlighting material science advances that improve their efficiency and applicability. Methods: We did a thorough review of current research that focused on new materials, improved synthesis procedures, and innovative design strategies to improve the thermoelectric figure of merit. Furthermore, we investigated the procedures of integrating these materials into devices, taking into account both performance measurements and scalability. Results: The findings show substantial advances in the fabrication of nanostructured thermoelectric materials, which significantly boost the Seebeck coefficient while preserving electrical conductivity. We also found essential solutions for optimising device architecture that simultaneously boost heat management and efficiency. Conclusion: Breakthroughs in material science and engineering are driving the fast integration of improved thermoelectric materials into practical systems. Future research should concentrate on the scalability of these technologies and their integration into a larger range of renewable energy systems, therefore improving their economic feasibility and environmental effect.

Инновационные магнитные наноматериалы для улучшения хранения энергии

Background: Finding effective energy storage technologies is crucial for transitioning to sustainable energy systems. Magnetic nanoparticles have emerged as options due to their distinctive magnetic characteristics, which can considerably improve the performance of energy storage systems. Objective: This research aims to investigate innovative magnetic nanoparticles and assess to increase the efficiency and capacity of energy storage systems. The emphasis is on developing materials with optimal magnetic characteristics and incorporating them into current energy storage methods. Methods: Co-precipitation and thermal breakdown were used to create a range of new magnetic nanomaterials. Vibrational sample magnetometry, X-ray diffraction, and cyclic voltammetry were used to determine these materials' magnetic characteristics, structural integrity, and electrochemical performance. Subsequent integration into supercapacitors and lithium-ion batteries was carried out to evaluate energy storage capacity. Results: The synthesized magnetic nanoparticles showed improved magnetic saturation and charge-discharge characteristics compared to standard materials. When used in supercapacitors, they increased capacitance by 20% and improved cycle stability by 25%. Similarly, these nanomaterials improved the energy density of lithium-ion batteries by 15% and increased their longevity by 30%. Conclusion: The unique magnetic nanoparticles created in this work significantly improve the performance of energy storage devices. The increased capacitance, energy density, and operational stability indicate that these materials for future energy storage applications. Further study is required to optimize these materials for commercial application and investigate their scalability and environmental effects.

Наноструктурные материалы для хранения энергии: инновации и применение

Background: As the world shifts towards renewable energy, there is a growing demand for efficient energy storage systems. Because of their unique features, nanostructured materials have emerged as key to improving the performance and efficiency of these storage systems. Objective: This research aims to assess the most recent discoveries and uses of nanostructured materials in energy storage technologies, emphasizing its disruption in the industry. Methods: A detailed assessment of recent advances was undertaken, focusing on diverse nanostructured materials utilized in batteries, supercapacitors, and other energy storage systems. Synthesis and characterization techniques for these materials and their incorporation into energy storage devices were investigated. Results: The nanostructured materials considerably increase energy density, charge/discharge speeds, and durability of energy storage devices. Graphene, carbon nanotubes, and metal-oxide nanostructures have significantly improved performance metrics across various applications. Conclusion: Nanostructured materials have to revolutionize energy storage systems. Continued research and development in this sector are critical for developing high-performance, long-term energy storage technologies capable of meeting the growing demands of contemporary technology and renewable energy systems. Further investigation into these materials' scalability and environmental effects is necessary to ensure their practicality and sustainability.

A novel sustainable AZ31 based Mg matrix composite reinforced with recycled IN718 powder for circular materials economy

The pursuit of sustainable practices in manufacturing has sparked an increased interest in recycling and reusing materials to reduce waste and environmental effect. One interesting technique is incorporating recycled materials to develop advanced composite materials. In this study, we focus on utilizing recycled Inconel IN718 powders as reinforcement particles in AZ31D. Powders of IN718 finer than 37 μm, developed from machining chips through high energy ball milling process, are infused into AZ31 through friction stir processing (FSP), enabling a circular economy practice in advanced material development. The resulting composite material is evaluated for its microstructure and mechanical performance. Microstructural study reveals a uniform distribution of reinforcement particle inside the matrix throughout the processed zone. Strong interfacial bonding between the matrix and reinforcement, and the addition of dispersion strengthening mechanisms helped reducing the tension/compression yield asymmetry problem. The study highlights the use of recycled materials in composites to achieve sustainability in manufacturing.

Optimizing the Intermediates Adsorption by Manipulating the Second Coordination Shell of Ir Single Atoms for Efficient Water Oxidation

AbstractThe precise regulation of single‐atom catalysts (SACs) with the desired local chemical environment is vital to elucidate the relationship between the SACs structure and the catalytic performance. The debate on the effect of the local coordination environment is quite complicated even for the SACs with the same composition and chemical nature, calling for increased attention on the regulation of the second coordination shell. For oxide‐supported SACs, it remains a significant challenge to precisely manipulate the second coordination shell of single atoms supported on oxides due to the structural robustness of oxides. Here, Ir single atoms were anchored on NiO supports via different bonding strategies, resulting in the diverse Ir−O−Ni coordination numbers for Ir sites. Specifically, Ir1/NiO, Ir1−NiO, and Ir1@NiO SACs with increasing Ir−O−Ni coordination numbers of 3, 4, and 5 were synthesized, respectively. We found that the activity of the three samples towards oxygen evolution reaction (OER) exhibited a volcano‐shaped relationship with the Ir−O−Ni coordination number, with Ir1−NiO showing the lowest overpotential of 225 mV at 10 mA cm−2. Mechanism investigations indicate that the moderate coordination number of Ir−O−Ni in Ir1−NiO creates the higher occupied Ir dz2 orbital, weakening the adsorption strength for *OOH intermediates and thereby enhancing the OER activity.

A New Method Proposed for the Estimation of Exposure to Atmospheric Pollution through the Analysis of Black Pigments on the Lung Surface

Megacities can be considered excellent laboratories for studying the effects of the urban environment on human health. Typically, exposure to pollution is estimated according to daily or annual averages of pollutant concentrations, collected at monitoring stations, using satellite data for remote sensing of pollutant levels, considering proximity to major roads, or through personal exposure monitoring with portable sensors. However, these approaches fall short in identifying individual exposure values over a lifetime. It is well established that individuals living in large urban areas inhale atmospheric particles containing carbonaceous components, resulting in the deposition of black pigments in lung tissue, known as black carbon or anthracosis. This study aims to detail the procedures for assessing the deposition of such pigments, which serve as an estimate of an individual’s exposure to atmospheric pollution particles. Data collection involves administering detailed questionnaires and capturing lung images in the autopsy room. The analysis is based on macroscopic quantification of black pigments, supplemented by an evaluation of personal habits and the clinical histories of the individuals. This method of estimating lifetime exposure to inhaled particles provides a valuable tool for understanding the correlation between urban living and its potential health effects.

Optimizing the Intermediates Adsorption by Manipulating the Second Coordination Shell of Ir Single Atoms for Efficient Water Oxidation.

The precise regulation of single-atom catalysts (SACs) with the desired local chemical environment is vital to elucidate the relationship between the SACs structure and the catalytic performance. The debate on the effect of the local coordination environment is quite complicated even for the SACs with the same composition and chemical nature, calling for increased attention on the regulation of second coordination shell. For oxide-supported SACs, it remains a significant challenge to precisely manipulate the second coordination shell of single atoms supported on oxides due to the structural robustness of oxides. Here, Ir single atoms are anchored on NiO supports via different bonding strategies, resulting in the diverse Ir-O-Ni coordination numbers for Ir sites. Specifically, Ir1/NiO, Ir1-NiO, and Ir1@NiO SACs with increasing Ir-O-Ni coordination numbers of 3, 4, and 5 were synthesized, respectively. We found that the activity of the three samples towards oxygen evolution reaction (OER) exhibited a volcano-shaped relationship with the Ir-O-Ni coordination number, with Ir1-NiO showing the lowest overpotential of 225 mV at 10 mA cm-2. Mechanism investigations indicate that the moderate coordination number of Ir-O-Ni in Ir1-NiO creates the higher occupied Ir dz2 orbital, weakening the adsorption strength for *OOH intermediates and thereby enhancing the OER activity.