Search Results (20,900)

Sonchus tenerrimus L. is a wild leafy plant valued for its nutritional and functional properties. This study evaluated how different levels of electrical conductivity (EC) in nutrient solutions and lighting conditions affect the accumulation of bioactive compounds and growth performance in hydroponically cultivated S. tenerrimus. Plants were exposed to four EC treatments (1.2, 1.8, 2.4, and 3.0 dS m⁻¹), four lighting regimens of natural light, and four artificial-lighting spectra. Total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), vitamin C, and antioxidant activity (via DPPH and ABTS assays) were measured. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used to assess the relationships among treatments and biochemical responses. The 2.4 dS m⁻¹ EC level, particularly under natural light, led to the highest TPC, TFC, and antioxidant activity, indicating that moderate salinity enhances phytochemical production. Excessive EC (3.0 dS m⁻¹) reduced antioxidant levels and plant growth, likely due to stress. Light conditions also influenced results, with natural light generally supporting greater bioactive accumulation and biomass than artificial lighting. These findings suggest that optimizing EC and light exposure can improve both the nutritional value and growth of S. tenerrimus. Future studies should explore the long-term effects, genotype-specific responses, and interaction of these factors with other environmental variables. Full article

On-machine measurement is a highly effective approach for enhancing machining accuracy and efficiency. A critical factor influencing the accuracy of on-machine measurements is the straightness error of the linear guideway. However, this error is significantly affected by environmental factors such as temperature, vibration, and gravity deformation. To improve the measurement accuracy of machine tools, this study investigates the impacts of these factors on straightness errors and proposes an innovative separation and compensation model for linear guideway straightness. A thermo-mechanical coupling simulation is employed to establish a model that quantifies the influence of thermal errors on straightness. The results demonstrate that thermal gradients cause the straightness error to bend to varying degrees, depending on the temperature distribution. Furthermore, a vibration error model is developed, revealing that the vibration period is approximately twice the ball diameter. Notably, vibration errors can be effectively mitigated using a band-stop filter to eliminate the corresponding frequency components. The study also addresses the effect of gravity deformation, comparing the deformation under different support conditions, highlighting the significance of precise support positioning. Through experimental validation of the straightness error separation and compensation model, it is shown that the straightness error of a conventional linear guideway can be reduced by 95%, and the compensated straightness error is less than 0.2 μm. This novel approach not only improves the accuracy of on-machine measurement but also provides valuable insights for optimizing machine tool performance under dynamic operating conditions. Full article

The decarbonization of urban transport is critical for achieving sustainable development goals, and the electrification of ride-hailing services offers one promising pathway. However, the acceptance of electric ride-hailing services (ERHS) in less-developed cities lags behind that in developed regions, and existing research lacks a systematic analysis. This study fills the gap by conducting a survey in Zhangzhou, China, and employing ordered and binary logit models to analyze the factors influencing the acceptance of ERHS and the willingness to participate in this sustainable program by drivers and potential drivers. The findings indicate the following: (1) For drivers, environmental awareness is an important driving factor for accepting ERHS. Drivers who worry about the potential health effects of EV radiation are less willing to adopt ERHS. Part-time drivers and those who receive operational subsidies are more likely to adopt ERHS. (2) Among potential drivers, males, individuals aged 36 to 45, and those who are insensitive to fuel price fluctuations show a lower willingness to adopt ERHS. Conversely, the perceived fairness of the commission rates of the platform, driving range, and driving experience significantly promote the acceptance. (3) For potential drivers, the willingness to participate in ERHS is significantly affected by recycling subsidies, education level, and the currently driven vehicle type. The results could provide a policy blueprint for accelerating the green transformation of the ride-hailing industry, and could also provide policymakers with the empirical evidence needed for differentiated intervention measures to promote sustainable and low-carbon urban transportation. Full article

The sustainable development of our society faces significant challenges, including the need for environmentally friendly energy storage devices. Our work is concerned with the conversion of Mo-based recycled industrial waste into active nanocatalysts for energy storage applications. To reach this goal, we employed hydrothermal synthesis, a low-cost and temperature-scalable method. The proposed synthesis produces MoO₃ nanobelts (50–200 nm in width and 2–5 µm in length) with a high yield, about 74%. The synthesized nanostructures were characterized in 1 M KOH and 1 M NH₄OH, as alkaline environments are a promising choice for the development of eco-friendly devices. To investigate the material’s behaviour cyclic voltammetry (CV), galvanostatic charge–discharge (GCD), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements were carried out. From CV curves, it was possible to evaluate the specific capacitance values of 290 and 100 Fg⁻¹ at 5 mVs⁻¹ in 1 M KOH and 1 M NH₄OH, respectively. Also, GCD was employed to evaluate the specific capacitance of the material, resulting in 75 and 60 Fg⁻¹ in 1 M KOH and 1 M NH₄OH, respectively. CV and GCD analyses revealed that MoO₃ nanobelts act as two different types of energy storage devices: supercapacitors and pseudocapacitors. Additionally, EIS allowed us to distinguish between the resistive and capacitive behaviour contributions depending on the electrolyte. Furthermore, it provided a comprehensive electrochemical characterization in different alkaline electrolytes, with the intention of conjugating waste management and sustainable energy storage device production. Full article

Long-term renovation strategies (LTRSs) play a central role in achieving the European Union’s objective of a climate-neutral building stock by 2050. In Poland, the challenge is particularly acute: a majority of the building stock was constructed before 1990 and does not even meet basic thermal performance standards. In view of the state of the buildings in Poland and the assumptions made about obtaining the necessary energy parameters in the coming years, it is necessary to undertake thermal modernization measures. The purpose of the paper is to assess the economic efficiency of the variants of modernization of building stock in Poland, taking into account the constraints related to improving energy efficiency. Additionally, the article also points out the problem of discrepancies resulting from climate zones that may significantly affect the final primary energy results (on average, 5–15%). In order to achieve the objectives, the paper focuses on the analysis of energy sources. According to the overall score in the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method, the best solutions, with a global priority of 0.46, are renewable energy sources (RESs). The evaluation of selected fuel types in the 2055 perspective, using the technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) method, indicate favorable environmental performance by sources based on electricity, i.e., air-source heat pumps, ground-source heat pumps, and electric heating, which achieved the highest relative closeness to the ideal solution. Heat pump systems can reduce energy consumption by 26–41% depending on the building and heat pump type. The final analysis in the paper concerns different options for thermal modernization of a model single-family house, taking into account different energy sources and stages of thermal modernization work. The scenario involves the simultaneous implementation of all renovation measures at an early stage, resulting in the lowest investment burden over time and the most favorable economic performance. Full article

Chronic kidney disease of unknown origin (CKDu) is a public health concern, particularly in agricultural communities, with multiple environmental exposures hypothesized as potential contributors. This study employed a targeted exposure assessment using personal silicone wristbands to characterize chemical exposures among women living and working in CKDu-affected regions of Guatemala. Participants wore wristbands for seven days, passively sampling air and dermal exposures. Overall, 45 wristbands were collected from 37 female participants (19 sugarcane workers and 18 community members). Of the 1530 chemicals measured using a single semi-quantitative method, 103 were detected, with an average of 27 chemicals per wristband (range: 16–40). Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) levels were higher in community members’ wristbands, whereas workers exhibited higher exposure to pesticides (i.e., pendimethalin and fipronil). Workers had worse kidney function compared to community members, with almost half of the workers having an estimated glomerular filtration rate, eGFR, <90 mL/min/1.73 m². Correlations were observed between kidney function markers and specific chemicals, with the strongest correlation between albumin-to-creatinine ratio and pyrene levels (ρ = 0.57, p < 0.01) among workers. Women in agricultural regions of Guatemala experience widespread exposure to diverse environmental chemicals, some of which may contribute to kidney function decline. Full article

Growing concern over cetacean welfare has highlighted the need for rigorous, science-based assessment methods. Within this context, epidermal cortisol (ECC) and oxytocin (EOC) concentrations have emerged as potentially valuable physiological indicators. In this study, we first validated the analytical measurement of ECC and EOC in bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) using AlphaLISA assays. Subsequently, weekly ECC and EOC levels were measured over an extended period in five managed dolphins and analyzed alongside aggregated environmental and welfare-related variables, using various time lags to account for delays between physiological activity and hormone deposition in the epidermis. ECC was negatively associated with mild weight loss and diazepam administration, exhibiting seasonal variability. In contrast, EOC was negatively associated with negative welfare indicators and COVID-19 park closures but positively associated with diazepam administration and peak visitor seasons, also showing seasonal variability. However, the interpretation of EOC remains complex due to a limited understanding of the cetacean oxytocin system and its dual role in positive and negative affective states. Overall, ECC and EOC show promise as non-invasive biomarkers for monitoring long-term welfare changes in cetaceans, although further research is necessary to validate these biomarkers across broader populations and contexts and to clarify their temporal dynamics in the epidermis. Full article

Raising awareness and understanding of climate change among younger generations is crucial for building a sustainable future. The Laboratory of Atmospheric Physics (LAP) within the School of Physics of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh) supports this goal by developing innovative educational activities centered on atmospheric processes and climate science. Drawing on its expertise in atmospheric monitoring and remote sensing, LAP makes complex scientific concepts accessible to school students through interactive workshops, hands-on experiments, and data-driven projects using real-time environmental measurements. By integrating research-grade tools and open-access satellite data from ESA, NASA, and EUMETSAT, LAP bridges academic research and public understanding. These activities foster critical thinking, environmental responsibility, and student engagement with real-world climate monitoring practices. Moreover, LAP contributes to the ACTRIS network, offering high-quality data and expertise at both national and European levels. Through these efforts, LAP serves as a hub for climate education, turning awareness into action and inspiring future climate-conscious citizens. Full article

This study investigated the potential use of fluorine-containing semiconductor industrial sludge as a mineralizer in Portland cement clinker production. Raw mixes were prepared by partially replacing raw materials with 6%, 9%, and 12% sludge and sintered between 1300 and 1500 °C. The clinker burnability, phase composition, and chemical integrity were evaluated through FreeCaO measurements, X-ray diffraction (XRD) with Rietveld refinement, and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyses. The results showed that sludge addition reduced the sintering temperature by up to 150 °C, enabling near-complete clinker formation at 1300 °C for blends containing 9% and 12% sludge (FreeCaO ≤ 0.6 wt.% compared to 62 wt.% in the reference sample). Fluorine incorporation stabilized the re-active β–C₂S polymorph and shifted the alite (C₃S) phase distribution from stable M1 to metastable M3 and T3 phases. Additionally, the C₃A phase content decreased, and a unique fluorine-containing phase, Al₇Ca₆O₁₆F, formed, promoting clinker formation. Lowering the sintering temperature led to energy savings of 15–22.5% and reduced CO₂ emissions by 0.10–0.20 tons per ton of clinker, positively impacting the environment. This study demonstrates that recycling industrial sludge can enhance cement production efficiency and support environmental sustainability. Full article

This study investigates the relationship between land use and soil organic carbon (SOC) storage in tropical Andean ecosystems, introducing a socio-ecological perspective to assess how community conservation perceptions influence SOC storage and contribute to climate change mitigation strategies. Background and Objectives: Land-use change reduces carbon stocks in tropical ecosystems. Focusing on the Las Piedras River basin (Popayan, Colombia), we evaluated SOC storage under four plant cover types—riparian forests (RFs), ecological restoration (ER), natural regeneration (NR), and livestock pastures (LSs)—and examined its association with local conservation perceptions. Materials and Methods: SOC storage at 30 cm depth, carbon inputs and outputs, and soil physicochemical properties were measured across land-use types. Conservation perceptions were assessed through 65 community surveys. Data analyses included ANOVA, principal component analysis, and multinomial logistic regression. Results: SOC storage was highest in RFs (148.68 Mg ha⁻¹), followed by ER and LSs, and lowest in NR (97.30 Mg ha⁻¹). A positive relationship was observed between high conservation perception and greater SOC content. Conclusions: SOC storage is strongly influenced by land use and community conservation values. Active restoration efforts, coupled with environmental education, are essential for enhancing the socio-ecological resilience of these ecosystems. Full article

The combined effects of soil properties, zinc (Zn), and chloride ion (Cl⁻) concentrations on Zn distribution across soil fractions are poorly understood, even though zinc chloride (ZnCl₂) contamination in industrial soils is a major source of mobile Zn and poses significant environmental risks. This study aimed to (1) assess how the soil type, physicochemical properties, and Zn concentration affect Zn distribution in Community Bureau of Reference (BCR)-extracted fractions; (2) evaluate the impact of Cl⁻ on Zn mobility; and (3) develop predictive models for mobile and stable Zn fractions based on soil characteristics. Zn mobility was analyzed in 18 soils differing in Zn and Cl⁻, pH, specific surface area (SSA), organic matter (OM), and texture (sand, silt, clay (CLY)), using a modified BCR method. Zn fractions were measured by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Analysis of Covariance was used to assess Zn distribution across soil types, while Zn fractions were modeled using non-linear regression (NLR). The results showed that mobile Zn increased with the total Zn, and that the soil type and Zn levels influenced Zn distribution in soils contaminated with ZnCl₂ (Zn 304–2136 mg·kg⁻¹ d.m.; Cl⁻ 567–2552 mg·kg⁻¹; pH 3.5–7.5; CLY 11–22%; SSA 96–196 m²·g⁻¹; OM 0–4.8%). Although Cl⁻ enhanced Zn mobility, its effect was weaker than that of Zn. Predictive models based on the total Zn, SSA, and CLY accurately estimated Zn in mobile and stable fractions (R > 0.92), whereas the effects of the pH and OM, although noticeable, were not statistically significant. Full article

The environmental noise impact on sensitive buildings and residents, generated by urban rail transit systems, has attracted increasing attention from the public and various levels of management. Owing to the diversity of building types and the complexity of noise propagation paths, the accurate prediction of noise levels adjacent to structures through traditional experimental or empirical formula-based methods is challenging. In this paper, on-site multi-dimensional noise monitoring of the noise source affecting the sensitive buildings was first carried out, and a hybrid prediction method combining normative formulas, numerical simulations, and experimental research is proposed and validated. This approach effectively addresses the shortcomings of traditional prediction methods in terms of source strength determination, propagation path distribution, and accuracy of results. The results show that, while predicting or assessing the noise impact on sensitive buildings and interior residents, it is important to properly consider the impact of background noise (such as road traffic) as well as vibration radiation noise of bridge structures. The predicted results obtained by using this method closely match the measured results, with errors controlled within 3 dB(A). The noise prediction error in front of buildings is controlled within 2 dB(A), fully meeting the requirements for environmental noise assessment. Full article

Environmental factors affect plant physiological processes. Understanding these factors can increase productivity, especially in tropical mountain ecosystems, where they vary with altitude. This study aimed to analyze the physiological variations related to water vapor and gas exchange in Prunus persica L. Batsch according to the altitudinal gradient in North Santander. One plant was selected per altitude, and six leaves were selected per plant and per branch across three phenological stages. Conductance (gs), stomatal resistance (SR), and transpiration (E) were determined using a calibrated portable porometer over two cycles. Linear mixed-effects models with repeated measurements over time, phenological effects, altitude, and light conditions were used. At higher altitudes, gs and E decreased and SR increased, possibly due to higher ultraviolet radiation and lower temperatures with increasing altitude. Maximum values were reached at EF6. gs and E exhibited diurnal patterns, decreasing at the end of the day to minimize water loss during periods of lower solar radiation. The cultivar adjusted its stomatal and water regulation mechanisms according to altitude. These findings provide advanced insights into plant acclimatization strategies in mountain ecosystems and inform the sustainable management practices needed in the face of impending global climate variability. Full article

This study investigates the bidirectional relationship between biodiversity conservation, an increasingly important dimension of corporate social responsibility (CSR), and corporate financial performance (CFP). Specifically, it compares the manufacturing sector, which has substantial environmental impact and close ties to ecosystems, and the nonmanufacturing sector. The analysis draws on 1079 firm-year observations of Japanese companies from 2017 to 2022, employing the ratio of biodiversity-related expenditures to total environmental costs as the independent variable. CFP is measured by return on assets (ROA) and the price-to-book ratio (PBR). The results show that the effects on ROA significantly differ between manufacturing and nonmanufacturing sectors, with more positive impacts in manufacturing. In contrast, no clear sectoral differences are identified for the PBR. The reverse analysis suggests that, in the nonmanufacturing sector, firms with a higher PBR tend to allocate less to biodiversity conservation, whereas in manufacturing firms, both ROA and the PBR indicate positive effects, although statistical significance was not established. These findings indicate that biodiversity conservation in the manufacturing sector can be regarded as a strategic investment that contributes to profitability, and that its effects differ across industries. The study further suggests that investors and policymakers should consider industry-specific characteristics when evaluating corporate initiatives and designing institutional frameworks. Full article

Fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) and ozone (O₃) are the main pollutants affecting the air quality in China, yet their common influencing factors and spatial patterns remain unclear. Focusing on the year 2020, this study adopted the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator algorithm to construct land use regression models with 34 environmental variables for the O₃ concentration at the air quality monitoring stations in the Shenyang Metropolitan Area. For comparison, PM_2.5 models had been developed in our previous work using the same approach. Model performance was satisfactory (cross-validated R² = 0.49–0.81 for O₃; 0.56–0.65 for PM_2.5 in our previous study), confirming the robustness of the approach. The results showed that: (1) Tree cover and grassland exerted synergistic, co-directional mitigation on both pollutants, whereas built-up areas and permanent water bodies were positively associated with their concentrations; (2) Longitude, elevation, and population, as well as atmospheric components such as nitrous dioxide column density and aerosol optical depth, displayed opposite effects on both pollutants, indicating trade-offs; (3) Spatially, PM_2.5 played the dominant role in shaping the pattern of combined pollution, with higher PM_2.5 levels than O₃ in nearly half of the area (46.97%), while O₃-dominant regions were rare (4.27%) and mostly confined to localized zones. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the synergies and trade-offs driving PM_2.5 and O₃ pollution as well as providing a scientific basis for formulating policies on integrated control measures against combined pollution. Full article