Environmental Impact Research Articles

Geophysics elucidate long-term socio-ecological dynamics of foraging, pastoralism, and mixed subsistence strategies on SW Madagascar

The environmental impacts of human societies are generally assumed to correlate with factors such as population size, whether they are industrialized, and the intensity of their landscape modifications (e.g., agriculture, urban development). As a result, small-scale communities with subsistence economies are often not the focus of long-term studies of environmental impact. However, comparing human-environment dynamics and their lasting ecological legacies across societies of different scales and forms of organization and production is important for understanding landscape change at regional to global scales. On Madagascar, ecological and cultural diversity, coupled with climatic variability, provide an important case study to examine the role of smaller-scale socioeconomic practices (e.g., fishing, foraging, and herding) on long-term ecological stability. Here, we use multispectral satellite imagery to compare long-term ecological impacts of different human livelihood strategies in SW Madagascar. Our results indicate that the nature of human-environmental dynamics between different socioeconomic communities are similar. Although some activities leave more subtle traces than others, geophysics highlight similar signatures across a landscape inhabited by communities practicing a range of subsistence strategies. Our results further demonstrate how Indigenous land stewardship is integrated into the very fabric of ecological systems in SW Madagascar with implications for conservation and sustainability.

Integration of Waste Management in Textile Industries of India

The foundation of India's economic growth, the textile sector, has experienced unheard-of growth in recent decades, along with a rise in environmental issues brought on by significant waste generation. This comprehensive study sets out to look into and analyze how waste management techniques are incorporated into the rich history of the Indian textile sector. The study offers a thorough review of current waste management techniques, environmental impact evaluations, and creative solutions influencing the path toward sustainability, bridging the gap between qualitative and quantitative analysis. The introduction sets the context by outlining the mutually beneficial relationship between the expansion of the textile industry and its subsequent environmental load. The clothing industry has gained prominence due to the increase in demand for its products, however, a paradigm shift is required due to the waste generated by this industry. The study aims to perform a thorough analysis of waste management processes, conduct a quantitative assessment of the environmental implications, and investigate comprehensive strategies for sustainable waste management. The chapter on qualitative analysis explores the complex aspects of waste management in the textile industries of India. This section explains the nuances of waste generation at different phases of textile production by carefully examining existing methods, case studies, and industry dynamics. A thorough grasp of the qualitative landscape is revealed, encompassing everything from yarn and fabric waste to the difficulties presented by chemical residues and the disposal of end-of-life textiles. The importance of awareness and corporate responsibility in influencing waste management methods is also highlighted in this section. Case studies of top textile producers present creative approaches and offer insights into the possibilities of technological developments, cooperative efforts, and models of the circular economy. Nonetheless, difficulties ranging from technology constraints to cultural obstacles highlight how difficult it is to smoothly integrate sustainable practices throughout the sector. The chapter on integration strategies looks at potential directions that could change the way waste is managed in the textile industry in India. Models of the circular economy take center stage because they provide a comprehensive approach to production and disposal. Case studies from real-world applications highlight the revolutionary potential of upcycling and sophisticated recycling technology, offering insights into how these strategies could lessen the industry's environmental impact. Co-processing in cement kilns is a two-pronged method that solves waste disposal issues and produces useful resources. The potential for improved trash sorting and identification is demonstrated by the combination of artificial intelligence and data analytics, opening the door to increased process efficiency in waste management. The study's conclusion emphasizes that although the study has been helpful, the search for India's sustainable textile waste management is still an ongoing project. The industry is at a turning point in its evolution, and the factors pushing it in that direction will be sustained research and innovation leading the way toward a time when environmental stewardship and economic prosperity coexist together. Every thread woven into the fabric of the Indian textile industry offers a story of sustainability, adaptability, and responsible International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management (IJSREM) Volume: 08 Issue: 07 | July - 2024 SJIF Rating: 8.448 ISSN: 2582-3930 © 2024, IJSREM | www.ijsrem.com DOI: 10.55041/IJSREM36458 | Page 2 growth; therefore, the success of this journey will depend on the collective duty of industry stakeholders, policymakers, and consumers. Essentially, the goal of this extensive study is to serve as a compass for the Indian textile sector, offering a path forward to a time when environmental conservation and economic growth coexist peacefully.

Composition and distribution of nutrients and environmental capacity in Dapeng Bay, northern South China Sea

Seawater physicochemical parameters and environmental capacity are important ecological indicators and typical features of the marine environment. It has great significance in the marine material cycle and ecological health. In September 2021 (wet season) and March 2022 (dry season), two voyage investigations were conducted at 12 stations (D1-D12) on Dapeng Bay (DPB), northern South China Sea. The distribution of nutrient, water-quality status, environmental capacity, and impact of ecological environment were discussed. Results showed that NH4-N was the main form of dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) during the wet season, with concentrations ranging from 0.008 mg/L to 0.109 mg/L, accounting for ~53 % of DIN. Conversely, NO3-N was the main form of DIN during the dry season, with concentrations ranging from 0.005 mg/L to 0.117 mg/L, accounting for ~50 % of DIN. The DIP concentration ranged from 0.002 mg/L to 0.019 mg/L, accounting for ~51 % and 31 % of the total dissolved phosphorus in the wet and dry seasons, respectively. The distributions of NH4-N, NO3-N, NO2-N, and DIP were relatively similar, decreasing from the inner bay to the outer bay. The eutrophication indices of 12 stations <1, indicating a poor eutrophication state. Single-factor indices including chemical oxygen demand (COD), DIN, and dissolved inorganic phosphorus (DIP) were less than the class I seawater-quality standard. However, except for station D1, the overall water quality was good. Dissolved oxygen with DIP had a significantly negative correlation during the dry season, indicating that DIP was primarily dominated by marine biological activity and organic-matter decomposition. The remaining environmental capacities of COD, DIN, and DIP in DPB were calculated to be 13,742, 1418, and 141 tons, respectively. Based on the functional-zone division of the sea area, the remaining environmental capacities of COD, DIN, and DIP were exceeded 75 % of the total environmental capacity. This study provided a scientific basis for the protection of marine ecological environment and the sustainable development of DPB.

Comparison of the impact of school environment on body mass index, physical fitness, and mental health among Chinese adolescents: Correlations, risk factors, intermediary effects

Schools offer prospects to enhance adolescent health by encouraging physical activity. This study contributes to the understanding of adolescent health research, drawing on data from physical fitness and mental health surveys conducted in 2015. The participants included 8,967 seventh-grade students across 45 junior high schools in Dalian, China. By employing multilevel analytical models, this research explores the effects of both the school environment and school neighbourhood environment on adolescents’ body mass index (BMI), physical fitness (PF), and mental health (MH). Additionally, we delve into how physical activities (PA) affect these relationships through stepwise regression analysis. The findings indicate that the school setting significantly affects adolescents’ health outcomes. Specifically, BMI is positively correlated with distance to the nearest amusement park. Conversely, it negatively relates to the extent of school green space and playground, the diversity of land use, and sidewalk density. In terms of PF, positive associations were observed with land use mix and the normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI). However, PF demonstrates negative associations with distance to the nearest parks and beaches. Concerning MH, there is a positive relationship with the proportion of playground, land use mix, sidewalk density, NDVI, and the green view index (GVI). On the contrary, MH is negatively correlated with the distance to park, amusement park, and beach. PA, as an intermediary factor, moderates the relationship between the school environment and both adolescent PF and MH, with mediation effects of 3.713% and 25.193%, respectively. These insights offer valuable theoretical guidance for designing health-promoting schools and urban planning strategies.

Microbial consortia-driven bioweathering provides new potential for sustainable recovery of rare earth elements (REE) in fly ash: From metagenome exploration to performance verification

This study presents a novel approach to extracting rare earth elements (REE) from fly ash (FA) using environmentally adapted microbial consortia, highlighting a sustainable alternative to traditional extraction methods. Through comprehensive geochemical characterization of FA obtained from a power plant in China, a complex matrix rich in REE was identified. Microbial consortia isolated from both sludge and FA demonstrated distinct and interactive communities with specialized adaptations for REE bioweathering, as revealed by metagenomic analysis and molecular ecological network assessments. These communities exhibited diverse metabolic profiles, emphasizing ion transport, energy production, and carbohydrate and lipid metabolism tailored to their specific environmental contexts. Enzymatic profiling further elucidated the critical roles of siderophore production and redox reactions in the bioweathering process. Ex-situ bioweathering experiments showcased the consortia's capability to efficiently mobilize specific REE. Notably, under optimized conditions (10 % inoculum of Sludge_LB at 30 °C), significant extraction efficiencies were observed, such as 0.119 mg/g for Sc and 0.068 mg/g for Y; similarly, 10 % inoculum of FA_M9 at 30 °C showed an extraction efficiency of 0.036 mg/g for La. Recovery rates for various REE ranged from 29 % to 83 %, were obtained in a short time (48 hours) demonstrates the effectiveness of this method. These results demonstrate the sustainability of microbial consortia for REE extraction, offering reduced environmental impact compared to conventional methods. This research not only provides a viable method for REE recovery from industrial waste but also contributes to broader goals of sustainable resource utilization and environmental protection.

Optimization of Four Different Rosemary Extraction Techniques Using Plackett–Burman Design and Comparison of Their Antioxidant Compounds

Rosemary has many medicinal and therapeutic properties and therefore it is important to study how to maximize the recovery of its bioactive compounds. In the present study, four different extraction techniques were used, namely stirring extraction (STE), pulsed electric field-assisted extraction (PEF), ultrasound probe-assisted extraction (UPAE), and ultrasound bath-assisted extraction (UBAE). First, some primary experiments were carried out in order to optimize each technique individually through the Plackett–Burman design. Then, each technique was applied under optimal conditions and the results were compared with each other. The optimal total polyphenol content (TPC) of STE is ~19 mg gallic acid equivalents per gram of dry weight (dw), while the antioxidant activity of the extract is 162 μmol ascorbic acid equivalents (AAEs) per gram of dw via FRAP and ~110 μmol AAE per gram of dw via DPPH. As for PEF, the optimal TPC is ~12 mg GAE/g dw, and the FRAP and DPPH values are ~102 and ~70 μmol AAE per gram of dw, respectively. When it comes to UPAE, the optimal TPC is ~16 mg GAE/g dw and the antioxidant capacity of the extract is ~128 μmol AAE/g dw through FRAP and ~98 μmol AAE/g dw through DPPH. UBAE optimal extract yielded ~17 mg GAE/g dw TPC, ~146 μmol AAE/g dw for FRAP, and ~143 μmol AAE/g dw for DPPH. The highest flavonoid content (~6.5 mg rutin equivalent/g dw) and DPPH (~143 μmol ascorbic acid equivalent/g dw) is obtained through UBAE. UPAE has been shown to be more efficient in recovering ascorbic acid (~20 mg/g dw). Additionally, the chlorophyll-to-carotenoid ratios of UPAE and UBAE were 2.98 and 2.96, respectively, indicating that the extracts had a generally positive impact on health. Considering the environmental impact of each extraction technique but also which antioxidant factor needs to be maximized, the most suitable extraction technique will be chosen.

Wind Farms’ Location and Geographical Proximity as a Key Factor in Sustainable City Development: Evidence from Poland

In this study, the potential impact of wind farm locations on the sustainable development of cities in Poland was evaluated, considering the availability of wind-generated electricity. We analyzed 37 cities in Poland with populations over 100,000. Research indicates that wind farms located 30–80 km from large cities perform best in terms of generating capacity, while greater distances increase transmission costs and energy losses. In Poland, wind farms are primarily situated in the northwestern regions, posing challenges for energy transmission to the southern cities, which are the main centers of energy consumption. The findings show that wind farms with the highest generating capacity are generally about 50 km from major cities. Key factors influencing wind farm locations include technical criteria, economic feasibility, environmental impact, public opinion, and the availability of transmission networks. Sustainable development of wind farms requires strategic cooperation between urban and rural municipalities, joint spatial planning, coordinated land acquisition, and the exchange of know-how.

Ginkgo biloba leaf polysaccharide-stabled selenium nanozyme as an efficient glutathione peroxidase mimic for the preservation of bananas and cherry tomatoes

To develop functional, sustainable and eco-friendly active packaging materials as alternatives to plastic films, we successfully prepared Ginkgo biloba leaf polysaccharide-stabilized selenium nanomaterials (Se-GBLP). Se-GBLP with glutathione peroxidase-like activity could efficiently remove harmful reactive oxygen species. As a functional additive, Se-GBLP was incorporated into degradable chitosan (CS) to fabricate CS/Se-GBLP films. The addition of Se-GBLP improved the mechanical properties, UV–visible light barrier performance, water vapor permeability, and antioxidant activity of the films. Preservation experiments demonstrated CS/Se-GBLP film could maintain quality and prolong the storage time of bananas and cherry tomatoes. It was the first time to use selenium-based nanozyme for fruit preservation. This work offered a cost-effective solution to reduce post-harvest losses, increasing sustainability and profitability. Future research should focus on more factors affecting freshness such as variety, maturity, harvest and storage conditions to improve preservation, as well as on the material's safety concern and environmental impact.

Toward the Manufacturing of a Non-Toxic High-Performance Biobased Epoxy–Hemp Fibre Composite

This study describes the production of a new biobased epoxy thermoset and its use with long hemp fibres to produce high-performance composites that are totally biobased. The synthesis of BioIgenox, an epoxy resin derived from a lignin biorefinery, and its curing process have been optimised to decrease their environmental impact. The main objective of this study is to characterise the rheology and kinetics of the epoxy system with a view to optimising the composite manufacturing process. Thus, the epoxy resin/hardener system was chosen considering the constraints imposed by the implementation of composites reinforced with plant fibres. The viscosity of the chosen mixture shows the compatibility of the formulation with the traditional implementation processes of the composites. In addition, unlike BPA—a precursor of diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) epoxy resin—BioIgenox and its precursor do not have endocrine disrupting activities. The neat polymer and its unidirectional hemp fibre composite are characterised using three-point bending tests. Results measured for the fully biobased epoxy polymer show a bending modulus, a bending strength, a maximum strain at failure and a Tg of, respectively, 3.1 GPa, 55 MPa, 1.82% and 120 °C. These values are slightly weaker than those of the DGEBA-based epoxy material. It was also observed that the incorporation of fibres into the fully biobased epoxy system induces a decrease in the damping peak and a shift towards higher temperatures. These results point out the effective stress transfers between the hemp fibres and the fully biobased epoxy system. The high mechanical properties and softening temperature measured in this work with a fully biobased epoxy system make this type of composite a very promising sustainable material for transport and lightweight engineering applications.

Ultrasmall copper-metal organic framework (Cu-MOF) quantum dots decorated on waste derived biochar for enhanced removal of emerging contaminants: Synergistic effect and mechanistic insight

This study proposes a novel one-pot hydrothermal impregnation strategy for surface decoration of waste derived pisum sativum biochar with zero‒dimensional Cu‒MOF Quantum dots (PBC‒HK), with an average particle size of 5.67 nm, for synergistic removal of an emerging sulfur containing drug pantoprazole (PTZ) and Basic Blue 26 (VB) dye within 80 min and 50 min of visible-light exposure, respectively. The designed Integrated Photocatalytic Adsorbent (IPA) presented an enhanced PTZ removal efficiency of 95.23% with a catalyst loading of 0.24 g/L and initial PTZ conc. 30 mg/L at pH 7, within 80 min via synergistic adsorption and photodegradation under visible-light exposure. While, on the other hand, 96.31% VB removal efficiency was obtained in 50 min with a catalyst dosage of 0.20 g/L, initial VB conc. 60 mg/L at pH 7 under similar irradiation conditions. An in-depth analysis of the synergistic adsorption and photocatalysis mechanism resulting in the shortened time for the removal of contaminants in the synergistic integrated model has been performed by outlining the various advantageous attributes of this strategy. The first-order degradation rate constant for PTZ was found to be 0.04846 min−1 and 0.04370 min−1 for PTZ and VB, respectively. Adsorption of contaminant molecules on the biochar (PS‒BC) surface can facilitate photodegradation by accelerating the kinetics, and photodegradation promotes regeneration of adsorption sites, contributing to an overall reduction in operation time for removal of contaminants. Besides enhancing the adsorption of targeted pollutants, the carbon matrix of IPAs serves as a surface for adsorption of intermediates of degradation, thereby minimizing the risk of secondary pollution. The photogenerated holes present in the VB is responsible for the generation of •OH radicals. While, the photogenerated electrons present in the CB are captured by Cu2+ of the MOF metal center, reducing it to Cu+, which is subsequently oxidized to produce additional •OH species in the aqueous medium. This process leads to effective charge separation of the photogenerated charge carriers and minimizes the probability of charge recombination as evident from photoluminescence (PL) analysis. Meanwhile, PL studies, EPR and radical trapping experiments indicate the predominant role of •OH radicals in the removal mechanism of PTZ and VB. The investigation of the degradation reaction intermediates was confirmed by HR‒LCMS, on the basis of which the plausible degradation pathway was elucidated in detail. Moreover, effects of pH, inorganic salts, other organic compounds and humic acid concentration have been investigated in detail. The environmental impact of the proposed method was comprehensively evaluated by ICP-OES analysis and TOC and COD removal studies. Furthermore, the economic feasibility and the cost-effectiveness of the catalyst was assessed to address the potential for large scale commercialization. Notably, this research not only demonstrates a rational design strategy for the utilization of solid waste into treasure via the fabrication of IPAs based on MOF Quantum dots (QDs) and waste-derived biochar, but also provides a practical solution for real wastewater treatment systems for broader industrial applications.

A Rapid and Reliable Spectrofluorimetric Method to Measure the Urinary Lactulose/Mannitol Ratio for Dysbiosis Assessment

Gut microbiota plays a crucial role in human health homeostasis, and the result of its alteration, known as dysbiosis, leads to several pathologies (e.g., inflammatory bowel disease, metabolic syndrome, and Crohn’s disease). Traditional methods used to assess dysbiosis include the dual sugar absorption test and the urinary lactulose/mannitol ratio (LMR) measurement using mass spectrometry. Despite its precision, this approach is costly and requires specialized equipment. Hence, we developed a rapid and reliable spectrofluorimetric method for measuring LMR in urine, offering a more accessible alternative. This spectrofluorimetric assay quantifies the fluorescence of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) produced during the enzymatic oxidation of mannitol and lactulose, respectively. The assay requires 100 µL of urine samples and detects LMR values lower (eubiosis) and higher (dysbiosis) than 0.05, ultimately being amenable to high-throughput screening and automatization, making it practical for clinical and research settings. A validation of the method demonstrated its high precision, accuracy, and robustness. Additionally, this study confirmed analyte stability under various storage conditions, ensuring reliable results even with delayed analysis. Overall, this spectrofluorimetric technique reduces costs, time, and the environmental impact associated with traditional mass spectrometry methods, making it a viable option for widespread use in the assessment of dysbiosis.

Analytical quality by design approach to develop an eco-friendly RP-HPLC method for estimation of irbesartan in chitosan polymeric nanoparticles: forced degradation studies and assessment of in vitro release mathematical modelling.

Irbesartan is an angiotensin converting enzyme blocker, primarily utilized for the management of hypertension and the mitigation of diabetic nephropathy progression. The present study introduces rapid, robust and environmentally sustainable reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) validated under the analytical quality by design (AQbD) framework according to ICH guidelines. Utilizing a central composite design, the method's systemic optimization was achieved, ensuring reproducibility and accuracy. Chromatographic separation was accomplished utilizing an ethanol and sodium acetate buffer (60 : 40 v/v) isocratic mobile phase system on a zorbax sb C18 column, with a flow rate of at 0.6 mL min-1. Studies on forced degradation outlined stability of irbesartan and its degradation processes, enhancing our understanding of its chemical robustness under varied conditions. Complementing the green chemistry paradigm, the method's environmental impact was critically assessed, affirming its alignment with sustainability objectives. The validated method proved pivotal in determining the percent entrapment and loading efficiency of the formulated nanoparticles and holds potential for application in biological matrices. Furthermore, the encapsulation of IRB within chitosan nanoparticles was explored to assess release kinetics and enhance bioavailability. This study not only advances the analytical sciences by merging eco-friendly practices with method development but also broadens the applicative landscape of HPLC methodologies in drug delivery research.

Editorial: Space and neural cell: the impact of space environment on neurological function and their molecular mechanistic insights

Editorial: Space and neural cell: the impact of space environment on neurological function and their molecular mechanistic insights

Impacts of seasonal activities and traffic conditions on the contamination and accumulation of gully pot sediments: Metal(loid)s and organic substances

Gully pots (GPs) are an integral urban drainage component, transferring surface runoff into piped systems and reducing sediment and contaminant load on downstream sewers and receiving waters. Sediment build-up in GPs impairs their hydraulic performance, necessitating maintenance for hydraulic function recovery. The variations in sediment accumulation rates between GPs suggested by earlier studies challenge the effectiveness of adopting a generalised maintenance frequency. This study addresses the knowledge gap regarding how various factors influence sediment contamination in GPs. The impacts of seasonal activities and traffic conditions on the contamination of sediments in 27 GPs in areas with varying traffic intensities and street features (roundabouts, intersections, and straight roads) were examined. Over one year, GPs were emptied twice, with sediments collected for winter-spring and summer-autumn accumulation periods. These sediments were analysed for 84 substances, including metal(loid)s, hydrocarbons, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), alkylphenols, phthalates, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and organotins. Significant temporal changes were identified in key parameters such as electrical conductivity, total organic carbons, tungsten (W), heavy-molecular-weight PAHs (PAH-H) and diisodecyl phthalate (DIDP) in GP sediments, influenced by winter road safety measures and autumn leaf abscissions. Significantly higher concentrations of 4-tert-octylphenol, DIDP, diisononyl phthalate, antimony and W were identified in GP sediments from roundabouts compared to those at the other two street features, exclusively during the winter-spring period. This is attributed to the synergistic effect of winter road safety measures and stop-and-go traffic patterns at roundabouts. No consistent spatial and temporal patterns were identified for substance concentration and mass accumulation rates. Results underscore the potential to develop a prioritisation-based maintenance strategy as an opportunity to enhance the efficiency of GP maintenance operations, ensuring better resource allocation and reduced environmental impact.

Environmental impact assessment for evaluation of chemical, ecological, and economical consequences of using NNPS for sea water desalination

Environmental impact assessment for evaluation of chemical, ecological, and economical consequences of using NNPS for sea water desalination

Новітні технології в екологічно безпечних полімерних покриттях: дослідження, технології, перспективи

The scientific work is aimed at the study of environmentally friendly polymer coatings in the automotive industry, which constantly attracts the attention of scientists and practitioners. The article analyzes the current state of technology in this area, reviews the latest research and technological developments, and discusses their prospects for implementation in production. Starting with a review of the latest research on paints and coatings, the paper goes on to discuss self-healing materials and microcapsules that have the potential to create resistant and durable coatings.The paper also discusses anti-corrosion coatings, which are an important part of protecting automotive structures from the effects of negative environmental factors. Particular attention is paid to the development of environmentally friendly polymer coatings that meet the requirements of sustainable development and reduce the environmental impact of the industry on the environment.In addition, the latest trends in the industry are analyzed, which allows us to predict further directions of technology development and implementation of innovative solutions. The work has important practical application in the automotive industry, contributing to improving the quality of automotive coatings protection against corrosion and extending their service life in various operating conditions. The work is aimed at highlighting relevant aspects of research in the field of environmentally friendly polymer coatings and provides a valuable contribution to the development of this important industry. The results will improve the quality and duration of corrosion protection of paintwork, metal structures and other products.The use of the latest materials and technologies in the manufacture of coatings is driven by the need for their environmental friendliness, efficiency and durability. However, the introduction of some new technologies faces limitations, in particular, related to their economic feasibility and scalability. In this regard, further research is needed to optimize technologies and materials to achieve greater efficiency in road transport.

The hidden cost of chronic pain: A narrative review of the environmental impact of outpatient spine and musculoskeletal care.

Health care is a major driver of greenhouse gas emissions and is closely intertwined with industrial processes responsible for air, water, and soil pollution. Chronic pain - particularly as it relates to spine and musculoskeletal diagnoses - comprises a significant portion of health care utilization and affects millions of people worldwide. Despite the prevalence of chronic spine and musculoskeletal pain, there has been limited discussion of the environmental impacts of outpatient clinics and interventional processes as they relate to these conditions. This narrative review explores the environmental impact related to diagnostics, pharmacologics, and common nonoperative interventional procedures utilized in the management of patients with chronic musculoskeletal and spine pain. Topics explored include energy utilization, production and disposal of pharmaceuticals, and waste production from interventional procedures. This study aims to educate providers involved in spine and musculoskeletal disease management regarding the possible environmental consequences of their practices. The article also focuses on modifying approaches to patient care to those that are more sustainable as well as highlighting areas in need of further investigation.

Evaluation of a mass trapping strategy to prevent mosquito nuisance in campsites of southern France.

Mosquito traps, historically used for surveillance and research, have gained prominence as a tool for mosquito control, amidst concern over the environmental impact and increased resistance to insecticide-based methods. In this study, we tested the effectiveness of a mass trapping barrier design with two types of traps, Mosquito Magnet (MM) traps and BG-Protector (BGP) traps. This experiment was conducted in three coastal camping areas in southern France between summer and autumn 2022, where the presence of floodwater mosquito species with anthropophilic preferences like Aedes caspius represents a year-long nuisance. MM traps were set around the campsite as a barrier to interfere with mosquitoes from entering the campsites, whereas BGP traps were set within the campsites, with the aim of diverting mosquitoes away from humans at peak activity hours. Over 210,000 mosquitoes of 11 species from 4 genera were collected by both trap types across treatment campsites, with no significant differences in mosquito community samplings between BGP and MM traps. Barrier traps effectively targeted Ae. caspius, reducing total mosquito abundance in two of the three study sites by 34% and 55%. This study provides valuable insights into the efficacy and feasibility of using mass trapping barriers as a complementary control strategy for mosquito species in wetlands.

Human performance in the rail freight yard

Human performance in the rail freight yard has been identified as a source of risk for rail freight operations. This is both within the yard itself, and also with train preparation issues leading to incidents on the network. The rail freight yard is an area that has received limited research attention. Over 30 hours of observations were conducted at five major freight yards in Great Britain, along with 30 interviews of rail freight ground staff. Task models, human performance factors and potential solutions that were further explored in a workshop with freight personnel. This analysis led to an understanding of freight yard activities, the impact of freight yard design and environment, and the role external pressures on freight yard performance including upstream planning. The implications are discussed for both current freight operations, and for future technology and process change within the rail freight sector.

Investigating the effect of different smells in the indoor built environment (office) on human emotions using a mixed-method approach

Despite numerous studies highlighting the impact of smells on humans, there has been a notable lack of attention to ambient smell within the discipline of architecture. To address the gaps, a systematic methodology was designed to investigate the impact of the indoor-built environment's smell on human emotions. In this experiment, 14 adults (7 women and 7 men) are exposed to the smell of jasmine and rotten orange peel in two identical rooms. The EEG analysis revealed increased theta band power in frontal regions and increased alpha power in frontal and occipital areas when participants were exposed to the jasmine scent. Gamma activity in the frontal regions increases with exposure to the smell of rotten orange peel. Participants reported that the smell of jasmine was pleasant, leading to pleasant emotions, interest, enjoyment and a sleepy state. However, the smell of rotten orange peel led to unpleasant emotions, discomfort and annoyance for participants.