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Artificial waterways are characterized by dams and locks that slow water flow. Such conditions can influence the environment of freshwater organisms, including the zooplankton community. Our research aimed to assess the impact of environmental and hydrological conditions on the zooplankton of sites upstream and downstream of canal locks. The study was carried out in 2021 and 2022. Water samples were collected monthly from two canals during the growing season. We evaluated how water flow velocity and selected environmental parameters (i.e., water temperature, Secchi disk visibility, conductivity, oxygen concentration, saturation, pH and chl-a concentrations) influence the zooplankton diversity (T) density (N) and biomass (B). Our study showed that the zooplankton of the canals was highly diverse. Rotifers dominated over crustaceans in diversity and density at all sites of canals. The statistical analysis revealed differences in environmental and biological conditions between habitats located upstream and downstream of locks. Rotifers density and biomass changed approximately proportionally to changes in chlorophyll at sites upstream of locks. It supports the hypothesis that rotifer communities are defined by the bottom-up effect linked to food supply (phytoplankton). The growth of crustaceans (density and biomass), as well as total zooplankton biomass, was affected by water temperature at sites downstream of the lock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous aspects of performance assessment of bifacial PV have been undertaken over the years, however, an area where knowledge lacks, is concerning the negative impact of soiling on individual side of a bifacial module. An in-depth study has been presented where the soiling losses and rates for individual sides of a bifacial module have been quantified through experiments. A soiling rate of 0.328 %/day was observed for bifacial module, while the rear side soiling rate was measured to be equal to 0.031 %/day, which was significantly lower than the front of the module. The impact of wind speed and relative humidity was investigated on the soiling losses for the module, along with a detailed assessment of effect of wind direction on the soiling on individual sides of the module. A common metric to analyse bifacial modules against monofacial is bifacial gain which was observed to be greater for soiled module (13.98 %) compared to clean module (12.92 %) due to significant variation in available irradiance to the front side of the module. Finally, a comparative assessment of the impact of orientation on the soiling losses was conducted and the results showed that significantly lower soiling losses (∼2 %) and soiling rate (bifacial∼0.063 %/day and bifacial rear∼0.047 %/day) was observed for a vertically installed bifacial module. The results are significant as they direct towards the applicability of bifacial modules in regions with prevailing dust and will assist in deciding which type of mitigation strategies can be explored for individual sides of a bifacial module. • A soiling rate of 0.328 %/day was observed for bifacial module. • The rear side soiling rate was measured to be equal to 0.031 %/day. • Bifacial gain which for soiled module (13.98 %) compared to clean module (12.92 %). • Vertical installation of bifacial module resulted in lower soiling losses (∼2 %). • Wind direction plays a crucial role in determining soiling rate of individual side. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A test rig of the DX-SAHP system using R134a as refrigerant has been built. • The mathematical model of the DX-SAHP has been conducted and validated. • The optimum operation parameters and control strategy have been calibrated. • The system performance with control strategy calibration has been investigated. As known, the performance of a direct-expansion solar-assisted heat pump (DX-SAHP) is affected by environmental and operational parameters significantly, and the variable capacity system has distinct advantages. The calibration of the control strategy will be very useful for the thermal performance improvement of DX-SAHP systems. Based on the test rig which is used to supply domestic hot water, the original variable capacity control strategy has been calibrated with the quasi-dynamic mathematical model under different conditions. The calibration results show that the optimum range of the degree of superheat is 7–12 °C. For winter and spring/autumn conditions, the optimum range of operation duration are 360–420 min and 300–360 min, and the corresponding optimum range of average compressor speed are 3750–4500 r·min−1 and 2750–3750 r·min−1, respectively. Experiments prove that the actual operation parameters can be maintained at the optimum range well and the average coefficient of performance (COP m) during the whole heating process has been improved further. For winter and spring/autumn, the average operation duration and compressor speed are 395 min and 3970 r·min−1, 345 min and 3066 r·min−1, respectively. Moreover, the values of COP m could reach 3.44 and 4.67, respectively. Even at solar radiation intensity of 577.6 W·m−2 with ambient temperature of −9.1 °C, the COP m could reach 2.38. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Factors affecting NH 3 concentration in swine building are not fully understood. • Monitoring and quantifying NH 3 are crucial for maintaining barn environment. • Three machine learning algorithms were utilized to predict NH 3 concentration. • SVR had a better performance accuracy compared to other tested models. • Pigs' body mass and feed intake mostly influenced the NH 3 concentration. Ammonia (NH 3) concentration in livestock barns is a crucial environmental parameter affecting the well-being of animals and workers' health. Effective management and prediction of NH 3 levels are essential for maintaining an efficient and enduring swine production system. This study investigated the application of machine learning algorithms, namely support vector regression (SVR), random forest regression (RFR), and multiple linear regression (MLR), to predict NH 3 concentrations in pig barns and examined the impact of individual input variables on prediction accuracy. In this study, three datasets, each comprising five key biophysical variables, i.e., feed intake (FI), mass of pig (MP), carbon dioxide (CO 2) levels, temperature (T), and relative humidity (RH), were utilized for training and testing these algorithms. The data were collected from three barns during the growing-finishing stage of pigs in 2022 and 2023. The study results revealed a strong positive relationship between FI and MP with NH 3 concentrations. Among the three machine learning models, the SVR outperformed the MLR and RFR in predicting NH 3 concentration. The result exhibited that the SVR obtained the maximum performance in both training (R2 >0.95) and testing (R2 >0.85), with R2 improvements of up to 5.43 % and 14.02 % and RMSE decreases of up to 15.97 % and 28.98 %, in comparison to the RFR and MLR across the three input datasets in NH 3 prediction. The study also emphasized the importance of dataset size, with the large dataset containing all five input indicators achieving the highest accuracy compared to smaller datasets. In addition, the MLR demonstrated maximum stability, followed by the SVR, whereas the RFR exhibited minimum stability. Sensitivity analysis revealed that FI was the most influential input variable for NH 3 concentration prediction. The study ranked the impact of individual input variables as FI > MP > CO 2 > T > RH. The combination of FI, MP, CO 2 , and T as input indicators achieved the highest model performance, accounting for a substantial portion of the variance between observed and predicted data. This study demonstrated the potential of machine learning models, particularly SVR, for predicting NH 3 concentrations using relevant input variables in pig barns. These findings significantly enhance understanding of NH 3 concentration dynamics in pig barns, providing crucial insights into swine production and environmental management with data-driven modeling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics (MPs), as a new type of environmental pollutant, have attracted extensive attention in recent years. However, there has been relatively little research specifically focusing on MPs in the Yellow River Basin, China, particularly regarding MP migration patterns. Based on surface water and sediment samples from 19 sampling sites in the Wuding River (WDR), the abundances and characteristic distributions of MPs were analyzed, and the environmental factors affecting their distribution and potential ecological risks were evaluated. The results showed that the MP abundances in surface water and sediments of the WDR were significantly different (P < 0.05), with mean values of 2.98 ± 0.69 items/L and 419.47 ± 75.61 items/kg, respectively. In terms of MP characteristics, the most common size class was 0.1–0.5 mm in surface water. Polyethylene (PE, 32.50%) and polypropylene (PP, 27.50%) were the main polymer types of MPs in surface water. Although similar MP characteristics were observed in sediments, there were significantly more particles in the <0.1 mm particle size (P < 0.05), which was 15.0% higher than in surface water. Also, more high-density MP fragments were observed in sediment samples. The retention of MPs in sediments was influenced by the MP characteristics (density, shape, particle size) and sediment particle size. In contrast, the MP abundance in surface water was more closely related to the presence of other environmental pollutants, such as total phosphorus (WTP) and ammonia nitrogen (WAN). Temperature (T), agricultural land (AGR), and residential land (RES) only had significant effects on the distribution of MPs in surface water (P < 0.05). Potential ecological risk assessments revealed that MP pollution in sediments was more serious than in surface water, especially in the middle and lower reaches. The results of this study are important for understanding MP transport in a sandy river and for eliminating potential sources of MPs. [Display omitted] • MPs in the surface water and sediment of the Wuding River were investigated. • The "MP community" was significantly different between the surface water and sediment. • Weaker response of MPs to environmental factors in sediments compared to surface water. • Medium ecological risk of MPs in sediments, with PVC as the main contaminant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The detection of pathogenic microorganisms poses an increasingly serious challenge to food safety. This paper proposes an intelligent fiber optic fluorescence sensing system for detection of pathogenic microorganisms. The system integrates light-emitting diodes and fiber optic sensing arrays. Compact and multi-channel detection is achieved by this kind of design. Environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, and location are intelligently analyzed together with sampled fluorescence signal, which successfully achieved a high accuracy detection result without affected or interfered by environmental parameters. A Radial Basis Function Neural Network (RBFNN) algorithm is utilized for intelligent analysis and prediction of pathogenic microorganisms' concentration with environmental parameters. Under different environmental parameters, the system has successfully detected African swine fever virus or salmonella in real-time with high accuracy and sensitivity. Since location of the sensing system can be determined by GPS module integrated in the system, the change of pathogenic microorganisms with different locations can be determined even during transportation. This innovative solution provides a convenient and accurate method for high accurate on-site real time sensing of pathogenic microorganisms. • Proposed smart optical fiber-based fluorescence sensor system for pathogenic microorganisms detection. • A fiber-optic fluorescence intelligent detection system with environmental parameters for on-site real time sensing of pathogenic microorganisms. • Real-time detection of African swine fever virus and Salmonella with high sensitivity and accuracy. • Portable, low-cost, and high-performance fluorescence sensing system for on-site pathogenic microorganisms detection. • RBFNN algorithm for intelligent analysis and prediction of pathogenic microorganisms' concentration with environmental parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The alien brown seaweed Sargassum muticum (Yendo) Fensholt is currently observed along the coasts of Morocco. The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of physicochemical parameters on the distribution of S. muticum at four sites on the Atlantic coast of Morocco harvested between 2019 and 2020. This study showed that the highest biomass, thalli length, and fertility values were recorded in sampling sites characterized by optimal physicochemical (temperature, pH, and salinity) and nutrient H₃PO₄ during summer. The highest biomass values were recorded in August for Sidi Bouzid and Moulay Abdellah sites, conversely, in Saada and Jorf Lasfar sites the highest values were observed in February and March respectively. The thallus length was slightly larger in Moulay Abdellah site with 77.30 ± 14.09 cm compared with the three other sites during the summer/spring periods. Minimum thalli length was recorded in September for all studied sites. The thalli of S. muticum were fertile earlier in Sidi Bouzid and Saada during spring and peaked during the summer season for all studied sites showing a positive correlation with increasing temperature. Finally, the collected data shows that indeed physicochemical parameters influence bioecological parameters. Thus, contributed to a better understanding of the temporal variation of S. muticum phenology on the Moroccan Atlantic coast, these data provide the necessary information for coastal marine management and biomonitoring program as well as sustainable utilization of this renewable marine resource. • The study examines Sargassum muticum in Morocco's Atlantic coast, focusing on its spread and impact. • It looks at how environmental factors affect S. muticum across four Moroccan coast sites from 2019 to 2020. • Ideal conditions like temperature, pH, salinity, and nutrients boost S. muticum growth in summer. • Biomass peaks in August at Sidi Bouzid and Moulay Abdellah, but in February and March at Saada and Jorf Lasfar, showing growth differences. • Moulay Abdellah has longer thalli in summer/spring, with a slight decrease in September everywhere. • Fertility starts earlier at Sidi Bouzid and Saada in spring, peaking in summer across all sites due to rising temperatures. • The study emphasizes how environmental factors affect S. muticum , urging better coastal management. • It enhances understanding of S. muticum 's cycle along Morocco's Atlantic coast, aiding marine management and resource use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mariculture wastewater typically contained high salinity and various pollutants, posing challenges for bioremediation technologies. Constructed wetlands (CWs) had been successfully used to treat a variety of wastewaters, being environmentally friendly and cost-effective. After nearly 20 years of development, they have provided a potential alternative technology for treating wastewater from mariculture. This review elucidated the state-of-the-art knowledge regarding the use of CWs for mariculture wastewater treatment, systematically summarizing and evaluating the research progress in the optimization of design strategies, operational strategies, and environmental parameters, as well as proposing corresponding improvement measures and insights. It was recommended that the efficiency of CWs in treating mariculture wastewater could be increased through the enhancement of design strategies (e.g., plants, microorganisms, and substrates), the improvement of operational patterns (e.g., water flow regime and mode, hydraulic retention time, hydraulic loading rate, and water table depth), and the adjustment of environmental parameters (e.g., pH, temperature, humidity, salinity, and nutrient levels). Furthermore, future research should focus on the removal of different types of target pollutants from mariculture wastewater. Strategies to enhance purification processes should be developed to overcome the scale-up challenges and promote the commercialization of this technology, enabling large-scale implementation under practical conditions. This review provided theoretical guidance and practical support for the future scientific construction of CW purification systems and their application in the treatment of saline wastewaters such as those from mariculture. [Display omitted] • A systematic review of mariculture wastewater treated by CWs • The technology of CWs showed promising potential in treating mariculture wastewater. • The performance of CWs depends on design, operational and environmental parameters. • Proposed improvement measures for CWs in the treatment of mariculture wastewater • Novel insights and future directions to up-scale CWs technologies are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macrobrachium lamarrei (H. Milne-Edwards, 1837) is a well-known freshwater prawn species of Bangladesh. The aim of the research is to explore various reproductive aspects (size at sexual maturity, reproductive period and fecundity) of M. lamarrei in the Ganges River, Bangladesh through October 2012 to September 2013. We also study the environmental parameters and their impact on reproduction of M. lamarrei. A total 391 (ovigerous = 141, non-ovigerous = 250) female specimens were collected using Drag net. The TL 50 (the TL at which 50% of individuals become mature) was calculated by a logistic equation as 5.20 cm. Based on the availability of ovigerous females the spawning season was February-November with the peak June-July. Further, 50% and 90% ovigerous females were observed when Fulton's condition factor (K F) was 0.85 and 1.03, respectively. The total fecundity (F T) was ranged from 65 to 370 where TL was 4.20–6.40 cm and BW was 0.84–2.50 g. Fecundity was found to be highly correlated with TL (r2 ≥ 0.96, r s = 0.96, p < 0.0001) and BW (r2 ≥ 0.88, r s = 0.93, p < 0.0001). Temperature (r p = 0.82, p = 0.009), dissolved oxygen (DO) (r p = −0.83, p = 0.0007), pH (r p = 0.80, p = 0.0014) and total alkalinity (r p = −0.87, p = 0.0002), were highly correlated with ovigerous females. The average temperature on peak spawning season was 32 °C. Also, the spawning period connected with the peak rainfall and showed a notable relation between rainfall and ovigerous females. In addition, exploration of long data series pointed that yearly average air temperature is rising by 0.029 °C yr−1, whereas yearly average rainfall is falling by 2.96 mm yr−1. Therefore, the result will be helpful for the sustainable management and conservation of M. lamarrei through fixed permissible mesh size and establishment of a ban period in the Ganges River, Bangladesh and adjoining ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The water quality of Lake Kuriftu is deteriorating, and monitoring programs are almost nonexistent in Ethiopia. Phytoplanktons are good indicators of environmental changes due to their fast response to a wide range of stressors. The phytoplankton functional groups (FGs) can be used as water quality indicators. This study aimed to assess the dynamics of phytoplankton functional groups (FGs) in relation to some physicochemical water quality parameters measured at three sites in Lake Kuriftu. Samples for the analysis of biological and physicochemical parameters were collected monthly, from December 2020 to April 2021. The results of the physicochemical parameters revealed that Lake Kuriftu is turbid (21.37 to 59.86 NTU), has a thin euphotic depth (Z SD 0.304 to 0.548 m), and is eutrophic. Ninety-seven (97) phytoplankton taxa were identified and classified into 16 Reynolds Functional Groups (RFGs), of which six (J , MP , X 1 , Lo , S 1 , and F) were represented by more than six species. FGs S 1 , SN , Lo , and Lm , which often form Harmful Algal Blooms, contributed together about 33.54 mg L −1 , or 87.84 % , of the total biomass recorded for Lake Kuriftu, demonstrating the water quality of the lake is deteriorating. Among the FGs, the most dominant (in terms of biomass) was S 1 , followed by J at all sites and in all sampling months. The results of redundancy analysis (RDA) revealed that the main driving factors of phytoplankton FG biomass and composition were TP, Z SD , TN, Salinity, and ammonia. Among these, TP and salinity impacted the FGs negatively, while TN and ammonia influenced them positively. Thus, the physicochemical parameters have a significant impact on the distribution of phytoplankton FGs, suggesting that the use of FGs for water quality monitoring programs is useful. To promote wise use and conservation of the lake ecosystem, more intensive study should be carried out on the biological and physicochemical aspects of the lake, as it is part of a tourist attraction area and a source of income for local inhabitants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present study dealt with the relative influence of environmental factors on phytoplankton assemblage pattern and diversity in Indian Sundarbans. Analysis revealed, five parameters (temperature, DO, salinity, PO 4 −P and transparency) varied significantly between seasons (p ≤0.05). Out of 84 species (62 genera), diatoms dominated across the seasons with maximum contribution from pennales (22 genera). Coscinodiscophyceae exhibited prominence in terms of abundance (2.501 × 103±1.04 × 103 org.L−1) and Bacillariophyceae in diversity (29 species). ANOVA (post-hoc test) showed the significant spatio-temporal heterogeneity (p ≤0.05) of phytoplankton distribution in the system. Seasonal abundance revealed maximum in monsoon (3.347 × 103±1.948 × 103 org.L−1). Cluster analysis showed three clusters among the stations with maximum similarity between Jharkhali and Nischintapur. NMDS portrayed overall 40% similarity among all the stations. Furthermore, the resemblance of community compositions was observed between Pathar Pratima and Frazerganj, which might be due to geographical proximity between the stations and similar magnitude of salinity throughout the study period. Water parameters viz., temperature, total alkalinity, salinity, PO 4 −P, SiO 4 −Si and SO 4 2− were the deterministic parameters influencing the distribution of phytoplankton, which was evident from BIO-ENV and Marginal test. Furthermore, the distance based linear model (DistLM) model explained two variables viz., PO 4 −P and total alkalinity were the controlling variables that could explain the phytoplankton community compositions in Sundarbans. Shannon diversity index indicated moderately rich phytoplankton diversity in the system with a calculated value >2.78. Index of multivariate dispersion (IMD) value also depicted increase in the community variability with the dispersion value of – 0.431. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a novel small-decentralized desalination device is presented for increasing the temperature difference between brackish water and glass cover, so as to enhance the solar still's freshwater productivity. This novel solar still device is based on installing a lens in front of the single slope solar still, and two lenses on still's both sides, and a reflector over the back side of the solar still. The main objective of such novel still is to concentrate sunrays at the still's bottom basin, through the refraction function of Fresnel lens. Furthermore, this novel still makes the reflector transferring its reflected sunrays to the solar still's basin. Experiments are conducted under the climate conditions in Hangzhou city, China, for testing the novel still's operational performance, and internal heat and mass transfer characteristics. Assessment of the novel still's feasibility is performed based on energy, exergy, exergoeconomic, and enviroeconomic methodologies, as well as energy payback time. Results show that the productivity of novel still is 32% higher than that of conventional still, and novel solar still enhances the average hourly energy efficiency by 97.73%, compared to conventional solar still. While, the corresponding value of hourly exergy efficiency is also enhanced by 43.713%. Due to the higher energy and exergy outputs of novel still throughout its lifetime, the novel solar still proposed in this study mitigates more CO 2 compared to the conventional still. Overall, incorporation three lenses and one reflector with the still is found promising in terms of freshwater yield, cost, and energy payback time compared to conventional one. Exergoeconomic and environmental parameters of the novel solar still are found more effective compared to the conventional one. • A novel solar still with lenses and reflector is developed and evaluated. • Using lenses and reflector increases still's productivity by about 32%. • Novel solar still enhances the average hourly energy efficiency by 97.73%. • Novel still mitigates more CO 2 compared to conventional one based on energy & exergy. • Novel solar still's enviroeconomic and exergoenvironmental are 324.317 $ and 22.148 $. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spatial and temporal patterns are determined by a variety of biotic and abiotic conditions, among all in shallow, Mediterranean, heavily modified water bodies. Lake Karla's, a multi-service reservoir, re-establishment begun 60 years after the natural lake was dried. This research is aimed at linking a series of environmental drivers with the phytoplankton functional groups during a dry year after the lake's refilling period, to investigate seasonal and spatial dynamics, and to get an insight into lake's ecology for both monitoring and management purposes. In situ physical and chemical measurements, along with water and plankton sampling took place monthly from May 2014 till March 2015. A combination of direct ordination, multivariate statistical analyses and distance-based approaches were used to examine spatial and temporal patterns and to test dissimilarities among and within the stations. Phytoplankton was assorted in Reynolds' functional groups. The lake's hydrology was also modelled. The research results presented Karla lake as a homogeneously degraded system. The major environmental parameters affecting phytoplankton community were ortho - phosphates and temperature in a lake with long retention time. The five functional groups that were dominant during the survey were comprised by representatives of cyanobacteria, followed by chlorophytes and diatoms, many of them indicative of warm, shallow, turbid, nutrient-rich waters. Phytoplankton revealed a seasonal trend with prolonged summer, low differentiation among seasons and uninterrupted winter succession. The relations and patterns found are useful for monitoring, as for management purposes to enhance the reservoir's capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, asphalt Solar Collector ASC was built outside the laboratory. Atmospheric air was used as a working fluid. The effect of the environmental conditions such as ambient temperature, wind speed, variation of solar day time, and ASC chimney height are considered. The construction of the ASC system consists of aluminum buried pipes under asphalt layers with the two ends open. In the present study for the construction of the used ASC and its thermal properties, experimental were carried to evaluate the effect of chimney height on the flow field. The results showed that the chimney height has a strong effect on the average air flow velocity through the ASC. Also, the ASC prototype performance for collecting the solar energy and transferring it to the flowing ambient air depends on the used chimney height, as well as the environmental/atmospheric conditions in terms of ambient air temperature, and wind speed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative potential (OP) of particles is an emerging indicator of health that reflects their ability to induce oxidative stress and cause adverse health effects. It offers us a useful tool to evaluate the health effects of particles released by different industrial processes. We measured the OPv (volume normalized OP characterizes overall oxidative burden) and OPm (mass normalized OP characterizes intrinsic toxicity) of PM 2.5 from a casting workshop, a machining workshop, a meeting room of a machining processing plant, and outdoors using dithiothreitol (DTT) assay. The observed variations were substantial and varied greatly, underscoring the diverse toxicological profiles of particulates from distinct sources. Overall, PM 2.5 mass concentration and OPv were highest in the casting workshop (PM 2.5 : 669.26 ± 402.62 μg/m3, OPv: 69.55 ± 128.35 nmol/(min·m3)), followed by the machining workshop (PM 2.5 = 85.51 ± 41.89 μg/m3, OPv = :5.38 ± 2.68 nmol/(min·m3)), outdoor (PM 2.5 : 30.77 ± 13.34 μg/m3, OPv: 1.83 ± 0.92 nmol/(min·m3)), and meeting room (PM 2.5 : 26.97 ± 12.03 μg/m3, OPv: 1.86 ± 1 nmol/(min·m3)). However, localized variances influenced by PM's intrinsic toxicity (OPm) reordered these rankings. For example, PM 2.5 mass concentration at the spheroidizing/pouring zone in the casting workshop was the highest, but the OPv was not due to the low intrinsic toxicity of the particles. Spearman's correlation analysis implied that the OPv was significantly correlated with the concentration of transition metals Mn (ρ = 0.47, P < 0.01), Fe (ρ = 0.503, P < 0.01), and Zn (ρ = 0.507, P < 0.01) in addition to PM 2.5 mass concentration (ρ = 0.879, P< 0.01), and the OPm was significantly correlated with the mass fraction of Zn (ρ = 0.34, P < 0.05) and Al (ρ = 0.333, P < 0.05). Besides, environmental factors (wind speed, temperature relative humidity, CO 2) did not contribute to the oxidation potential. Higher oxidation potential (OPv) means higher health risks, our findings underscore the imperative to consider both PM mass concentration and intrinsic toxicity for future air pollution control efforts. [Display omitted] • OP of PM 2.5 from a mechanical processing plant was studied using DTT assay. • OP was shown to vary greatly with different locations across industrial environments. • Intrinsic toxicity OPm of PM 2.5 was significantly associated with mass fractions of Zn and Al. • Both PM mass concentration and intrinsic toxicity should be considered in air pollution control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Different water and sediment parameters highlighted angiosperm cover and algal biodiversity. • Transparency and salinity drove the dominance of angiosperms and sensitive macroalgae. • High nutrient concentrations, Chl- a and TSS drove the dominance of eutrophic species. • Ulva australis dominated, replacing U. rigida in the less eutrophic areas. • The increase of non-indigenous macroalgae did not affect macrophyte biodiversity. The changes in macrophyte biodiversity and cover from the soft bottoms of 87 stations spread in the entire Venice Lagoon in 2011, 2014, 2018 and 2021 have been analyzed. Results showed a strong macrophyte resilience with an increase in the spread of sensitive macroalgae and aquatic angiosperms, especially Z. noltei and R. cirrhosa, which were not affected by the increase of non-indigenous species (NIS) introduction. The simultaneous analysis of macrophyte variables and the main water and sediment parameters carried out in 2021 highlighted the key role of water transparency and salinity to regulate the vegetation, especially the presence/absence of aquatic angiosperms and sensitive macroalgae. Vice versa, high chlorophyll- a , total suspended solids, nitrogen and silicate concentrations in the water column, and high moisture, low grain-size and phosphorus concentrations in surface sediments favored the presence of opportunistic species, especially Ulva rigida, Gracilariopsis longissima, Agardhiella subulata and Solieria filiformis. The distribution of the aquatic angiosperms and the 41 most widespread macroalgae in association with the main environmental parameters allowed us to highlight their different ecological value, their possible presence/absence and abundance; indeed, their spatial and temporal changes can be excellent tools to determine and predict the ecological status of transitional water systems (TWS). These results carried out in a polyhedric basin such as the Venice Lagoon, composed by a complex of very different microhabitats, can be considered representative of most environmental conditions present in the main TWS of the Italian coastline, and spatial and temporal macrophyte changes can be excellent tools to determine and predict their ecological status evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coastal ecosystems such as seagrass, mangroves and saltmarshes sequester and store large quantities of carbon in the soil. Carbon sequestration potential of four seagrass species Halophila ovalis , Halodule pinifolia , Syringodium isoetifolium and Halodule uninervis in Pulicat Lake, Andhra Pradesh, India was assessed. The mean seagrass biomass within the seagrass beds in the lake ranged from 1.43 ± 0.06 to 2.01 ± 0.12 Mg/ ha and the total blue carbon storage in the seagrass meadows ranged from 0.49 ± 0.15 to 9.52 ± 0.15 Mg C ha−1 while stored carbon in the sediment ranged from 1.29 ± 0.04 to 11.94 ± 0.15 Mg C ha−1. Regression analysis showed a considerable correlation between seagrass carbon and sediment carbon. Among the environmental parameters analyzed, pH showed significant correlation with seagrass biomass and sediment carbon (P < 0.05). The present study demonstrates the carbon sequestration potential of seagrass ecosystem in the Pulicat Lake. • Halodule pinifolia sequestered a large amount of blue carbon. • Positive correlations among the seagrass blue carbon and sedimentary carbons. • Sediments have maximum carbon content than the seagrass. • The biomass of Halodule uninervis was strongly influenced with pH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chromium isotopes are promising for monitoring and quantifying the extent of microbial Cr(VI) reduction. However, the mechanisms and factors that influence Cr isotope fractionation are not well understood. In the present study, we investigated the effects of different metabolic pathways and various environmental parameters on Cr isotope fractionation during Cr(VI) reduction by the extremely thermophilic bacterium Caldicellulosiruptor saccharolyticus. The Cr isotopic compositions were measured on unreacted Cr(VI) in the remaining solution. The reaction product is isotopically lighter than the reactant. The Cr isotope composition for remaining Cr(VI) in the solution followed a Rayleigh fractionation trend and thus became increasingly isotopically heavier as the reduction of Cr(VI) proceeded. Cr(VI) reduction mainly occurs on the cell surface by Ni–Fe hydrogenase; however, in the presence of CuCl 2 , the activity of Ni–Fe hydrogenase was inhibited, and Cr(VI) was reduced inside the cells. We found that despite different Cr(VI) reduction locations, Cr isotope enrichment factors (ε = (α − 1) × 1000, where α is the fractionation factor) were identical within uncertainty for experiments with and without CuCl 2 (−2.72 ± 0.67‰ and −2.92 ± 0.14‰, respectively). When added to the cell cultures, neutral red (NR) functioned as an electron carrier that enabled bacteria to drive the electron transfer processes. The ε values were also similar for experiments with and without NR (−2.53 ± 0.40‰ and −2.92 ± 0.14‰, respectively). We compared these ε values to investigate the effects of different electron transport pathways and cellular Cr(VI) transfer processes, including Cr(VI) transport across the cell envelope and binding to reacting enzymes, on Cr isotope fractionation. Furthermore, the effects of various environmental parameters on Cr isotope fractionation were tested, including temperature (50 °C and 70 °C), hydrogen concentration, and different electron donors (glucose and hydrogen). The ε values were similar at both tested temperatures and stayed within the previously observed range for mesophiles; changes in hydrogen concentration also did not affect the ε values. However, the ε values were slightly higher with hydrogen as the electron donor (−3.64 ± 0.24‰) than those with glucose as the electron donor (−2.92 ± 0.14‰). In short, the Cr enrichment factors remained unchanged despite of changing microbial Cr (VI) reduction pathways and changing temperature conditions, but may be sensitive to the electron donor type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A catalyst of ZnO nanoparticles was used in the photocatalytic process of treatment for potential use towards catechol degradation in an aqueous solution. The investigation of the characterization was carried out using TEM, SEM, XRD, and FT-IR techniques, which indicated that the catalyst of ZnO nanoparticles possesses unique catalytical features related to the surface morphology, structure, and functional groups. The efficiency of degradation was put to the test in relation to the variation of several experimental parameters including: pH (3–11); dose nanoparticles (0.2–0.25 g/L); reaction time (15–120 min); initial concentration (10–200 mg/L), and intensity of UV radiation (8–40 W). These aforementioned parameters were optimized and examined for the influence that they exerted on the efficiency of degradation which involved the usage of the Box-Behnken design methodology. According to the ANOVA results that yielded a confidence level of 95%, a high regression along with fitting values were obtained between the results of the experimental degradation of catechol and the predicted quadratic model. The kinetic study revealed that the data on experimental degradation could be described by using the Langmuir-Hinshelwood expression, which showed high precision values of the coefficient of regression. The optimum efficiency of degradation of 69.8% was achieved at optimized experimental conditions of pH = 3, a dosage of ZnO nanoparticles equal to 0.24 g/L, a reaction time of 98 min, with an initial concentration of catechol of 74 mg/L, and with the intensity of UV radiation equal to 40 W. Thus, the present study indicated that a catalyst of ZnO nanoparticles has a high practical utility, and exhibits good performance as a catalyst for degradation of catechol in a photocatalytic process. • ZnO nanoparticles possess unique catalytic properties for the catechol degradation. • The experimental factors were optimized using the Box-Behnken methodology. • Degradation efficiency was greater than 69% under optimized conditions. • Kinetic degradation could be explained using the Langmuir-Hinshelwood model. • ZnO nanoparticles can be used as an effective catalyst in the photocatalytic process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The environmental control of reproductive processes is central to both fundamental and applied aspects of animal ecology. The present study experimentally assessed how environmental factors modulate gametogenesis and spawning and impact embryo development and survival in the holothuroid Cucumaria frondosa , a cold-water echinoderm with lecithotrophic development. Adults were exposed to three seawater temperatures, four photoperiod regimes, and two food concentrations during 120 days overlapping the natural gametogenic and spawning periods. Among all the treatments tested, exposure to ambient conditions of water temperature (−1 to 3 °C), photoperiod (8 to 13 h of light) and food concentration (3 × 103 ± 896 rotifers g−1 of sea cucumbers d−1) yielded the greatest reproductive output and embryo survival. At pre-spawning, males and females had the highest gonad index (~33%) and where filled with mature gametes. At spawning, females in ambient conditions released the highest number of oocytes (1.2 × 103 oocytes female−1) and yielded the highest embryo survival rates (21% at 20 days post fertilization). Individuals exposed to warmer water temperatures (6 and 12 °C) experienced delayed gametogenesis and did not spawn. Individuals under 24-h light, 24-h dark, and advanced (4 months) photoperiods showed delayed gametogenesis and low numbers of oocytes released; moreover, embryos died within 10 days post fertilization. Individuals fed with high food concentration (6 × 103 ± 982 rotifers g−1 of sea cucumbers d−1) showed similar results to ambient conditions, suggesting that increased food supply neither decreased nor enhanced reproductive output over the experimental period. This study sheds new light on the environmental drivers of reproductive success in C. frondosa , which is of value for developing conservation strategies and mariculture protocols in cold-water holothuroids with lecithotrophic development. • Reproduction and larval development were investigated under different temperatures, photoperiods, and food concentrations. • Ambient conditions (~0 °C, 8–13 h of light) optimized reproductive output, larval quality and survival. • 24-h light and dark, and advanced photoperiods yielded poor spawning and larval survival; temperature > 6 °C impeded spawning. • Increased food concentrations did not significantly enhance reproductive output. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Monitoring an aquatic environment in aquaculture is usually carried out by controlling its physicochemical and biological parameters. The global state of the process is evaluated though the individual conditions shown in each parameter. However, the correlation structure in the data, caused by interdependence between these parameters, provides relevant information which must be controlled. Thus, the complex structure of the data requires a multivariate control method to explore both the individual and interactive effects of the environmental parameters. To achieve this goal, this paper presents a statistical method based on a Multivariate Exponentially Moving Average (MEWMA) chart to monitor the multivariate structure of an aquatic environment in aquaculture, especially in a crop of tilapia in Mozambique. The results show that the adjusted MEWMA chart is more consistent when controlling the conformity and stability of environmental parameters. Therefore, it can be considered an efficient statistical method to monitor an aquatic environment in aquaculture. Highlights • This paper presents a multivariate methodology to monitor the aquatic environment in tilapia (oreochomis mossambicus) crop tanks. • It was consisted a real study in the company Aquapesca de Moçambique • The data were analyzed through a MEWMA model in order to exploit relevant information of the process concerning the state of the aquatic environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The archaeological site of Hierapolis (Denizli province, Turkey) is unique in terms of the conservation of marbles and travertines. Environmental factors (i.e. interaction with thermal waters, high thermal stress, CO 2 degassing) and geological aspects (presence of seismic faults, frequent earthquakes, formation of travertine) play a fundamental role in the durability and conservation state of the stone materials. This paper presents a multi-analytical approach aimed to identify the phenomena and causes of stone decay related to environmental conditions. The analyses of alteration and decay phenomena are discussed together with the monitoring of the main environmental parameters and with analyses of waters and gases present in the archaeological site. Finally, the need of a continuous monitoring of the environmental parameters affecting the archaeological site is stressed. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • A multi-analytical approach allows a huge data acquisition regarding the state of conservation of an archaeological site. • The phenomena and causes of stone decay related to environmental conditions were evaluated. • Monitoring of environmental parameters (T and RH) and analyses of water and gas chemical composition were performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Normalization of land surface temperature (LST) relative to environmental factors is of great importance in many scientific studies and applications. The purpose of this study was to develop physical models based on energy balance equations for normalization of satellite derived LST relative to environmental parameters. For this purpose, a set of remote sensing imagery, meteorological and climatic data recorded in synoptic stations, and soil temperatures measured by data loggers were used. For modeling and normalization of LST, a dual-source energy balance model (dual-EB), taking into account two fractions of vegetation and soil, and a triple -source energy balance model (triple-EB), taking into account three fractions of vegetation, soil and built-up land, were proposed with either regional or local optimization strategies. To evaluate and compare the accuracy of different modeling results, correlation coefficients and root mean square difference (RMSE) were computed between modeled LST and LST obtained from satellite imagery, as well as between modeled LST and soil temperature measured by data loggers. Further, the variance of normalized LST values was calculated and analyzed. The results suggested that the use of local optimization strategy increased the accuracy of the normalization of LST, compared to the regional optimization strategy. In addition, no matter the regional or local optimization strategy was employed, the triple-EB model out-performed consistently the dual-EB model for LST normalization. The results show the efficiency of the local triple-EB model to normalize LST relative to environmental parameters. The correlation coefficients were close to zero between all of the environmental parameters and the normalized LST. In other words, normalized LST was completely independent of the environmental parameters considered by this research. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Normalization of LST relative to environmental parameters is significant in climate. • Triple-EB model f\or modeling LST increased the accuracy over the Dual-EB model. • Local optimization was more efficient than regional optimization to normalize LST. • The developed protocol was applicable both to mountainous and urban areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this study we carried out an analysis of the relationship between the variation in environmental and oceanographic parameters and the changes in the abundance of blackspot sea bream (Pagellus bogaraveo) in the Strait of Gibraltar between 1983 and 2016. A discrete dynamic model was applied to simulate different scenarios of blackspot sea bream biomass on a monthly time scale. ARIMA models were applied to the simulated biomass time series in order to extract the effect of the fishing component and then correlate the residual series with each of the environmental and oceanic parameter sets. Regardless of the scenario analysed, the error terms provided by the ARIMA models indicated a strong auto-regression dependence on the series and that the fishing component accounted in the worst case scenario for 73% of the variation in sea bream biomass in the Strait of Gibraltar. Throughout the study period, part of the variation not explained by the fishing component was explained in certain years by environmental parameters. These correlations were particularly significant for the water temperature anomaly, salinity anomaly and the NAO index. Our analyses therefore suggest that the main factor responsible for the drastic decline in the abundance of sea bream in the Strait of Gibraltar is over-exploitation of the resource and that environmental conditions had a one-off effect which, depending on the year, favoured or harmed the recovery of the stock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this paper, internal solitary waves (ISWs) in the northern South China Sea (NSCS) are investigated with respect to their propagation and evolution processes in different months. To achieve that, environmental parameters associated with ISW are first calculated using climatological datasets derived from the Simple Ocean Data Assimilation 3.3.1 (SODA3.3.1) reanalysis. The environmental parameters are significantly distinct from month to month, especially the quadratic nonlinearity coefficient α. It is negative in the deep basin and turns positive on the shallow continental shelf. A clear dividing line that α equals to zero can be found along the shelf from northeast to southwest from January to February and from October to December. The dividing line is interrupted starting from March and is mostly constrained on the northeast shelf, and from May to September only limited areas can positive α be found. Further simulations based on the variable extended Korteweg-de Vires (veKdV) model indicate that the polarity conversion process of ISWs therefore exhibits significant seasonality. It can be concluded from the simulation results that near the 200-m isobath on the continental shelf the elevation waves are more likely to appear from November to March owing to the positive values of α. The large-scale background current exhibits little effect on the deformation and polarity conversion of ISW in the NSCS although it prominently affects the environmental parameters around the shelf currents from Luzon strait. Highlights • ISWs in the NSCS are investigated with respect to their propagation and evolution processes in different months. • A parametric study and simulation of ISW reveal that elevation waves are more likely to appear in November to March. • The polarity conversion depth of ISW in different months as well as its variation is determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen oxide emissions, also referred to as NOx including NO and NO 2 are hazardous to human life and have negative effects on the environment. Wet and dry treatments have both been explored as methods to significantly minimize these emissions. The wet process offers several benefits, the most notable of which are the flue gas adaptability, low operating temperatures, and the lack of poisoning and catalyst inactivation. In the research work, a NO X filter is being developed, with composite material for better transparency and non-reactive nature. Mechanical and electronic components have been employed to develop a stable and rigid experimental setup that effectively handles environmental challenges. Different tests are performed during performance analysis with known quantities of NO X through cylinders and varied the flow rate of ambient air. The concentration of NO X , H 2 O 2 , nitric acid, and other parameters were captured to get the optimum configuration that will provide maximum efficiency. The envisaged cost of implementing a solar tree-based air pollution monitoring and control system is estimated at $2796. This cost projection serves to exemplify the techno-economic analysis of the system, showcasing its potential to contribute to a cleaner environment and facilitate renewable energy utilization. The different financial model payback periods of the system are from 3.12 to 5.21 years. The developed system benefits people with respiratory health issues, elderly people, children, and infants, sports enthusiasts, traffic police persons, street hawkers or vendors, and people living in areas where the pollution level is high. • Development of solar tree based air pollution monitoring and control system. • Real time monitoring and control of different air pollutants (PM, NO 2 , CO etc.) • Techno economic analysis with different financial model of the system. • Payback periods of the system are 3.12–5.21 years under different schemes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ghost shrimps (Crustacea: Decapoda) demonstrate remarkable levels of niche selection and habitat diversity. Due to their cryptic life style, interactions between ghost shrimp assemblages and environmental parameters that potentially shape their local distribution are poorly understood. In the present study, ghost shrimp assemblages from the Persian Gulf (PG) and the Gulf of Oman (GO) were investigated to assess the main drivers determining their assemblage structure along a wide niche type and at a large geographic scale. During three large-scale oceanographic expeditions, sediments samples for biological and physicochemical analysis were collected by box corer (0.1 m2) from 62 stations. The spatial distribution of collected samples was evaluated based on sediment parameters obtained on grain size, total organic content (TOM) and carbonate, as well as water parameters including pH, temperature, depth, dissolved oxygen, chlorophyll α and salinity. Our results indicated a biodiversity hotspot for ghost shrimp in the north-western part of PG and the eastern part of GO. Aqaballianassa ehsani is the most frequent species in this research. DistLM analysis revealed that the abundance of ghost shrimps in the region is significantly corelated with TOM and Sand. Furthermore, a step-wise regression model highlighted that each ghost shrimp species is influenced by specific environmental factors. Our findings provide new insight in niche preferences of the two Michaelcallianassa congeners. While water and sediment parameters play a crucial role in determining the habitat preference of M. persica , only sediment parameters specify the favored niche of M. indica. • Aqaballianassa ehsani is the most frequent ghost shrimp species in the studied area. • As Water and sediment parameters well determine the habitat preference of Michaelcallianassa persica , while mainly sediment parameters specify the favourite niche of M. indica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The thermal comfort of personnel can be improved by optimizing the thermal environmental parameters. And local temperature regulation can enhance the body's comfort in hotter or colder environments. This study systematically investigates the changes in skin temperature, local thermal sensation, and thermal comfort in eight parts before and after heating stimulation under four ambient temperatures and six air velocities, and develops multi-node physiological models of human warming sensitivity and demand. The results indicate that post-stimulation ambient temperature and air velocity have weaker effects on thermal sensation vote and thermal comfort vote than pre-stimulation. The warming demand of the face shows poorer sensitivity to ambient temperature, which is 66.88% lower compared to the abdomen. The air velocity strongly influences the warming demand of the neck, which is 75.01% higher than the lower legs. In addition, the warming sensitivity of the trunk is more influenced by ambient temperature than by air velocity, whereas the extremities' sensitivity is more susceptible to air velocity. The effect of air velocity on warming demand is 2.01–5.91 times greater than the ambient temperature. This study also presents the optimum comfortable temperature and the corresponding equilibrium velocity, providing a certain design basis for pulsating air supply, task-ambient air conditioning, and other variable air supply parameters methods. • Multi-node physiological models of warming sensitivity and demand are developed. • Warming demand variation rate as temperature of face is 66.88% lower than abdomen. • Neck shows the most significant variation rate of warming demand with air velocity. • The warming sensitivity of the trunk is more influenced by ambient temperature. • The extremities' sensitivity is more susceptible to air velocity. • The effect on warming demand of air velocity is 3.01–6.91 times that of temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Characterization of seasonal, daily and hourly chestnut burr growth. • Burr showed higher growth rate in the last part of the season (September-October). • Daily burr development was characterized by night-swelling and daily-shrinkage. • Burr daily net growth was phenologically dependent on environmental parameters. • Atmosphere humidity was the main microclimate driver of burr daily growth. Chestnut crop is regaining its fame worldwide with powerful investment perspectives. Unluckily the climate change effects are posing high threat to its cultivation with less available resources and increased production cost both in traditional and specialized orchards. Additionally, the chestnut physiological knowledge is still limited, especially as concern the burr development (i.e., the economical production target) and its relationship with the environmental parameters. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the seasonal, daily, and hourly burr growth pattern associated to environmental parameters for improving physiological knowledge on this species. The study was carried out in a traditional rainfed sweet chestnut orchard located in the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines (Monterenzio, Italy). The chestnut burr growth was measured, along the entire season, both with a digital calliper and through the use of plant-based sensors (fruit-gauges) that permitted to measure, in real-time, the burr growth pattern. Environmental data were recorded by a weather station placed in the middle of the orchard. Results evidenced a higher burr growth rate, in the last part of the season (from middle-end of August to full fall) while the daily growing pattern was characterized by increased oscillation, along the season, of night-swelling and daily-shrinkage. The night-swelling was found to be influenced by high nocturnal air relative humidity while the daily-shrinkage was influenced by the higher wind speed, solar radiation and vapour pressure deficit. Thus, the burr daily net growth can be associated, depending on the phenological stages, to environmental parameters. Precipitation but especially the atmosphere humidity, in September and October, were the main external drivers of burr daily net growth. These results could be promising for the adoption of sustainable (e.g., late season grass mowing, sprinkler irrigation) and smart practices for improving chestnut management in both traditional and specialized orchards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shift towards salmon farming in more exposed locations has been an industry-wide trend for the last decade. Moving fish farms to locations with high water currents and waves can improve production by providing more stable temperatures and water quality, as well as reducing the negative environmental impacts of fish farming. This study investigates how waves affect the behavior of salmon from the same group, reared at different locations within a fish farm in standard circular sea cages. Using echosounders, DO (dissolved oxygen), temperature sensors and ADCP (Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler), we show that salmon avoid waves, swim below them and maintain their normal behavior. We also show that salmon behavior is related to the exposure of the cage, in the farm layout, to waves and currents. An integrated numerical model of fish and flexible sea cages is used to simulate the fish behavior under waves and currents and it able to reproduce the observed fish distributions in general. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanical recovery of oils using oil sorbents is one of the most important approaches to manage marine oil spills. However, the properties of the oils spilled into sea are influenced by external environmental conditions. In this study, we present a graphene-based (GB) sponge as a novel sorbent for crude oil removal and compare its performance with that of a commercial sorbent sheet under various environmental parameters. The GB sponge with excellent superhydrophobic and superoleophilic characteristics is demonstrated to be an efficient sorbent for crude oils, with high sorption capacity (up to 85–95 times its weight) and good reusability. The crude-oil-sorption capacity of our GB sponge is remarkably higher (about 4–5 times) than that of the commercial sheet and most other previously reported sponge sorbents. Moreover, several challenging environmental conditions were examined for their effects on the sorption performance, including the weathering time of oils, seawater temperature, and turbulence (wave effect). The results show that the viscosity of the oil increased with increasing weathering time or decreasing temperature; therefore, the sorption rate seemed to decrease with longer weathering times and lower temperatures. Turbulence can facilitate inner sorption and promote higher oil sorption. Our results indicate that the extent of the effects of weather and other environmental factors on crude oil should be considered in the assessment of the effective adsorption capacity and efficiency of sorbents. The present work also highlights the widespread potential applications of our GB sponge in marine spilled-oil cleanup and hydrophobic solvent removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Benthic macrofauna is one of the most widely used biological groups to assess the ecological status of marine systems. Lately, attention has been paid to similar use of benthic foraminifera. In this study, distribution patterns of benthic foraminiferal and macrofaunal species were investigated simultaneously in 11 fjords in southeastern Norway in order to assess correlations and responses to environmental conditions. Selected fjords allowed to investigate contrasted environmental conditions from low total organic carbon (TOC) content (sediment TOC < 2.7%) in normoxia (bottom-water [O 2 ] > 2 mL O 2 .L −1 ) up to high TOC content (> 3.4%) in severe hypoxia (< 0.5 mL O 2 .L −1 ). Environmental parameters comprised bottom-water dissolved oxygen, grain size, total organic carbon, total nitrogen (TN), pigments and depth below threshold (DBT). Foraminiferal and macrofaunal community data were significantly correlated (Procrustes analysis m 2  = 0.66, p  = 0.001). Hence, benthic foraminiferal distribution patterns mirror those of benthic macrofauna. However, as opposed to the foraminifera, macrofauna was not recorded at the most oxygen-depleted stations and, hence, was more sensitive to severe oxygen depletion. With regard to assigning species to ecological groups for ecological quality status assessment, the results suggest that species, e.g . Spiroplectammina biformis (foraminifera), Scalibregma inflatum (macrofauna), may exhibit different ecological requirements depending on their habitat. Considering the observed congruent patterns of benthic foraminifera and macrofauna, palaeo-communities of benthic foraminifera could be used as indicators of reference conditions for benthic macrofaunal community structure. This would however need further developments of algorithms to perform such a translation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a joint distribution of all relevant environmental parameters used in design of offshore structures including directional components is presented, along with a novel procedure for dependency modelling between wind and wind sea. Probabilistic directional models are rarely used for response calculation and reliability assessments of stationary offshore structures. However, very few locations have the same environment from all compass directions in combination with a rotationally symmetric structure. The scope of this work is to present a general environmental joint distribution with directional descriptions for long term design of stationary offshore structures such as offshore wind turbines. Wind, wind sea and swell parameters will be investigated for a chosen location in the central North Sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spontaneous revegetation on abandoned peat extraction areas is a slow and sporadic process. We conducted an open field experiment to clarify how to promote the revegetation of abandoned extracted peatlands. Two extracted peatlands in East Estonia with three treatments and control were analysed two, three and five years later. Our aim was to elucidate if fertilising with alkaline oil-shale ash promotes revegetation of bare peat fields; whether it speeds up establishment of plant species characteristic of natural mires; and whether the closeness to vegetated areas near the peatland edge has an effect on the formation of plant species composition. Our results showed that application of oil-shale ash and straw mulch, as well mulch alone promote clearly revegetation in studied extracted peatlands (mean plant cover 57% and 40% on fifth year, correspondingly), but at the same time quadrats with oil-shale ash alone were sparsely vegetated (4%) and similar to plots without any treatment (2%). Oil-shale ash alone did not speed up the establishment of plant species, but oil-shale ash combined with straw mulch facilitated the establishment of some species typical of natural mires. Closeness to the peatland edge increased the number of species and their cover because of the location and proximity to naturally vegetated areas. Consequently, oil-shale ash combined with straw mulch or straw mulch alone facilitated plant growth on extracted peatlands, while the effect of oil-shale ash alone was unimportant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

“Solar photovoltaic (PV) energy in GCC”- the term seems convincing to many solar PV industries due to high solar exposure in GCC region. However, long-term effects such as dust accumulation and seasonal variation are major drawbacks for solar PV energy. This research aims to investigate PV performance for two years in the harsh environment of Qatar. For data collection, a wireless system has been developed to record critical parameters such as solar irradiance, relative humidity, ambient temperature, PV module temperature, dust, wind speed, and output PV power. Results show that due to panel dusting for eight months, the PV output power decreased by 50%. Also, owing to lower ambient temperatures, clearer sky and cleaner panels due to occasional rainfall, the PV panels show higher output power in Winter than in Summer season. Besides, within one-month, a cloudy condition in Winter causes 20% drop in average output power. Therefore, a strategic plan is needed to build and manage efficiently a PV solar plant in harsh environments such as of Qatar. Energy management requires prediction of energy yield. To this end, using machine-learning, a mathematical model has been established which can predict the output power from PV panels under different environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the impact of changing environmental conditions on MMI ES in seagrasses and mangroves. We used data from satellite and biodiversity platforms combined with field data to explore the links between ecosystem pressures (habitat conversion, overexploitation, climate change), conditions (environmental quality, ecosystem attributes), and MMI ES (provisioning, regulation, cultural). Both seagrass and mangrove extents increased significantly since 2016. While sea surface temperature showed no significant annual variation, sea surface partial pressure CO2, height above sea level and pH presented significant changes. Among the environmental quality variables only silicate, PO4 and phytoplankton showed significant annual varying trends. The MMI food provisioning increased significantly, indicating overexploitation that needs urgent attention. MMI regulation and cultural ES did not show significant trends overtime. Our results show that MMI ES are affected by multiple factors and their interactions can be complex and non-linear. We identified key research gaps and suggested future directions for research. We also provided relevant data that can support future ES assessments. [Display omitted] • Overfishing and climate change show potential effects on MMI ES. • MMI regulating ES can be quantified using species richness and functional traits. • Digital platforms are valuable tools to retrieve data but have limitations. • Baseline data and information on environmental changes and MMI ES is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distribution of tintinnid species and their associations with environmental variables were evaluated in the eutrophic Golden Horn estuary ecosystem. The samples were collected from two stations monthly between October 2009 and September 2010. The study determined 17 tintinnid species belonging to five families and nine genera. In the study, the results of environmental variables such as temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, pH, Secchi disk, chlorophyll- a , and nutrients were recorded synchronously with tintinnid samples. Also, the Shannon-Weaver diversity index, canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) and the two-way indicator species analysis (TWINSPAN) were applied to the data. According to this statistical analysis, the diversity was high in spring and summer, and it was determined that temperature was the main factor affecting tintinnid composition. Also, Tintinnopsis beroidea could be used as a potential indicator species in ascertaining the NH 4 –N, and Codonellopsis schabi and Tintinnopsis acuminata were detected to be winter and spring seasons indicators. • Tintinnid diversity was high in spring and summer in the Golden Horn Estuary. • The temperature was the main factor affecting tintinnid composition. • Tintinnopsis beroidea could be used as a potential indicator species in ascertaining NH 4 –N. • Codonellopsis schabi , and T. acuminata were detected to be indicators of the winter and spring seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on thermal sensation of subjects with radiant cooling workstation and desktop fan in hot-humid environment. Twenty-four human subjects participated in the experiments and reported their thermal sensation of the whole body, head, trunk, upper limb and lower limb in hot-humid environment at 26℃, 28℃ and 30℃ in an environmental chamber, respectively. The obtained results show that radiant cooling workstation and desktop fan significantly improved the thermal sensation of subjects in hot-humid environments, but the effect was not obvious at 26℃. The average vote of thermal sensation at 28℃ was between -0.2 and 0, and subjects still had neutral thermal sensation condition although indoor environment was as high as 30℃ while the relative humidity was 80%. Therefore, radiant cooling workstation and desktop fan can extend comfortable temperature range in summer. This study provides a new way for both maintaining comfort in non-neutral environment and saving energy in buildings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Banning organotins as antifouling biocides in 2003 was the starting point for many researchers to search for novel economic and environmentally-friendly anti-fouling biocides. In our present contribution, we have successfully functionalized a natural biopolymer, chitosan (CS), isolated from marine wastes with polyelectrolyte brushes akin to ionic liquids. These antifouling biopolymers anchoring polyelectrolyte brushes were in vitro assessed for their ability to eradicate or inhibit the Staphylococcal / Escherichia biofilms. Moreover, these anti-fouling candidates were incorporated into the matrix of commercial paint to formulate antifouling coatings which were subjected to a field static immersion test in the Mediterranean Sea in comparison to a standard antifoulant, Diuron ® . The obtained results revealed the prevention of biofilms along with a promising anti-fouling performance. So the new polyelectrolyte chitosan architectures may offer promising anti-foulants additives for biofouling coating applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the sources, occurrence and sinks of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in the urban water cycle is important to protect and utilize local water resources. Concentrations of 22 target PFASs and general water quality parameters were determined monthly for a year in filtered water samples from five tributaries and three sampling stations of an urban water body. Of the 22 target PFASs, 17 PFASs were detected with a frequency >93% including PFCAs: C4-C12 perfluoroalkyl carboxylates, C4, C6, C8, and C10 perfluoroalkane sulfonates, perfluorooctane sulfonamides and perfluorooctane sulfonamide substances (FOSAMs), C10 perfluoroalkyl phosphonic acid (C10 PFPA), 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonic acid (6:2 FTSA) and C8/C8 perfluoroalkyl phosphinic acid (C8/C8-PFPIA). The most abundant PFASs in water were PFBS (1.4–55 ng/L), PFBA (1.0–23 ng/L), PFOS (1.5–24 ng/L) and PFOA (2.0–21 ng/L). In the tributaries, PFNA concentrations ranged from 1.2 to 87.1 ng/L except in the May 2013 samples of two tributaries, which reached 520 and 260 ng/L. Total PFAS concentrations in the sediment samples ranged from 1.6 to 15 ng/g d.w. with EtFOSAA, PFDoA, PFOS and PFDA being the dominant species. Based on water and sediment data, two types of sources were inferred: one-time or intermittent point sources and continuous non-point sources. FOSAMs and PFOS released continually from non-point sources, C8/C8 PFPIA, PFDoA and PFUnA was released from point sources. The highly water soluble short-chain PFASs including PFBA, PFPeA and PFBS remained predominantly in the water column. The factors governing solution phase concentrations appear to be compound hydrophobicity and sorption to suspended particles. Correlation of the dissolved phase concentrations with precipitation data suggested stormwater was a significant source of PFBA, PFBS, PFUnA and PFDoA. Negative correlations with precipitation indicated sources feeding FOSAA and FOSA directly into the tributaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessment of outdoor thermal comfort requirements is of primary importance in the development of sustainable outdoor environments, including urban precincts. The full understanding of thermally comfortable outdoor conditions requires investigating other factors that are beyond the thermophysiological aspect of thermal comfort, including those contextual factors that are contextually impacting people's thermal judgment. Using a socio-ecological system model (SESM) as the research framework, this study aimed to investigate the role of physical environmental factors (i.e. weather conditions, including solar radiation intensity and design descriptors, such as sky view factor and aspect ratio, length of residence, and time of exposure) and psychological environmental factors (i.e. users' overall comfort and thermal preference, purpose and frequency of visit, seasonal change, thermal history, consideration of weather forecasts, character and features of place, and naturalness). The data used in this study were collected during three rounds of field surveys consisting of on-site measurements and questionnaire surveys. The field surveys were conducted in three case study sites, which are on the premises of an educational precinct in Melbourne, Australia, from November 2014 to May 2015. The analytical results demonstrated a medium and low influence of physical and psychological factors on outdoor thermal sensations, respectively. The research outcome has shed light on those aspects of thermal comfort that are yet to be fully understood in outdoor spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Being a resourceful ecosystem, mangrove estuaries have always been subjected to trace elements (TEs) contamination, and therefore, the biomonitoring approach holds immense potential for surveilling the aquatic environment. To investigate the potentiality of mangrove macroalgae as biomonitors, estuarine water, intertidal-sediment, and macroalgal samples were collected from the Pasur River estuary of Sundarbans mangrove ecosystem, Bangladesh, and afterward studied through Atomic Absorption Spectrometer to quantify the levels of six concerned TEs (Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Pb, and Cd). This study utilized the geo-environmental and ecological indices and sediment characterization approaches (sediment quality guidelines-SQGs) for assessing the contamination scenario of the adjacent environment to macroalgae whereas the performance of studied algal groups was evaluated using Bio-contamination factor, Comprehensive bio-concentration index, and Metal accumulation index. Metal occurrence scheme in the water followed the order of Fe > Zn > Mn > Pb > Cd while Fe > Mn > Zn > Cu > Pb > Cd for both sediment and macroalgae. Both Pb and Cd exceeded the guideline limit in estuarine water and the indices approach manifested low to moderate contamination with enrichment from anthropogenic origin of Mn, Zn, and Cu in sediment. Moreover, the SQGs revealed rare biological effects of Cu on an aquatic community. Within algal samples, Chlorophyta contributed the highest biomass production, followed by Phaeophyta and Rhodophyta. Statistical relationship disclosed the influence of environmental variables on TE's accumulation in Chlorophyta. By contrast, hydrochemical's association showed prevalence over the TEs accumulation process for Phaeophyta and Rhodophyta. Bioaccumulation performance analysis revealed that the ability to accumulate TEs in macroalgal groups varied with seasons. Therefore, biomonitoring with macroalgae for the region of interest might require further temporal considerations. [Display omitted] • Mangrove macroalgae were assessed as biomonitors for trace elements contamination. • Iron was abundant in estuarine water and sediment as well as in macroalgae. • Trace elements level was higher in algal taxa compared to water and sediment. • Seasonality was prevailing on the biomonitoring ability of algal taxa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seaweed strandings on Luc-sur-Mer beach (Bay of Seine, English Channel, France) were monitored from March 2017 to October 2018 once or twice a week to investigate the wrack deposit dynamics linked to biotic and environmental parameters. The extent of stranded seaweed, algal biomass and composition of algal wrack were monitored through 99 field surveys. Forty-seven macroalgae taxa (14 Phaeophyta, 28 Rhodophyta, and 5 Chlorophyta) were identified in strandings. Almost 83% of the 35 taxa (8 Phaeophyta, 23 Rhodophyta, and 4 Chlorophyta) inventoried on the nearby intertidal rocky shore during the same period were also identified in the wrack deposits, suggesting their local origin. Analysis of wrack composition revealed the dominance of sheet-like species and annual algae mainly represented by Ulva in spring and summer, and by perennial and brown seaweeds in winter. The same stranding dynamics was observed in the two years with largest deposits in spring and summer but strandings occurred earlier in 2017, due to contrasted environmental parameters in the two years. Large wrack deposits (> 4.5 Ha) were mainly observed in spring when the wind speed was greater than 2.6 m.s−1 and the predicted tide height greater than 6.8 m. Most deposits were associated with WSW winds (38%) and SSW winds (26%) winds. These data will help develop a tool to assess the risk of algal bloom in sandy beach ecosystem. The knowledge acquired about the availability and composition of the macroalgae strandings will also help promote the use of this bio-resource which is under-exploited in Normandy. • High frequency monitoring of heterospecific seaweed strandings over a 2-year period. • Seasonal variations in the extent of stranded seaweed, biomass and species composition. • Local origin of stranded algae suggested by comparing diversity on nearby rocky shore. • Large wrack deposits with wind speed > 2.6 m s−1 and predicted tide height > 6.8 m. • Most large wrack deposits associated with westerly winds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• High diversity of dinoflagellate cysts. • P. dalei and P. conicoides the most abundant and frequent species. • Toxin producers A. catenella , A. ostenfeldii and P. reticulatum were recorded. • P. reticulatum and G. spinifera cysts were very abundant in Inutil Bay. Several dinoflagellate species form benthic resting cysts in their life cycle. In order to study the composition, abundance and distribution of cyst assemblages, with a focus on harmful species, thirty-one surface sediment samples from the Magellan fjords and channels system were analysed. In situ (temperature, salinity, inorganic nutrients, dissolved oxygen, organic matter, and chlorophyll- a) and five-year (salinity, temperature, dissolved oxygen, and chlorophyll- a) measurement data were analysed to obtain an overview on environmental scenario. A total of 56 cyst morphotypes were recorded, some of which were identified for the first time for the Chilean coast (Dactylodinium cf. arachnoides , Impagidinium cf. velorum , Archaeperidinium sp., Protoperidinium haizhouense , Protoperidinium sinuosum , Protoperidinium tricingulatum , and Dubridinium cf. ulsterum). In vitro germination of cysts allowed the vegetative form of the species of the order Suessiales to be determined. Total cyst concentrations were highly variable, ranging from 145 to 5453 cysts mL−1 of wet sediment (mean 1246 ± 1061 cysts mL−1), with the lowest cyst values in the area adjacent to the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. Pentapharsodinium dalei and Protoperidinium conicoides generally dominated (%) the cyst assemblages. The harmful species Alexandrium catenella and Alexandrium ostenfeldii were not abundant and sparsely distributed, while Protoceratium reticulatum was widespread and highly abundant with Gonyaulax spinifera in Inutil Bay (Magellan Strait). Cluster and nMDS analyses performed with cyst concentrations of the 56 taxa in the 31 stations formed seven cyst assemblage clusters, reflecting high environmental variability. Canonical correspondence analyses performed with cyst concentrations and in situ and long-term environmental data showed different ecological signals, demonstrating that in situ parameters must be used carefully when studying cysts in surface sediments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spatial and temporal variations of mesozooplankton in relation to environmental parameters were investigated in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. For this purpose, the physicochemical parameters were measured using a CTD probe and mesozooplankton were sampled vertically using a closing net aboard the RV Persian Gulf Explorer during two expeditions. Results showed a relationship between mesozooplankton assemblages and water mass distributions. Four mesozooplankton cluster station groups divided the sampled stations into masses, which was also confirmed by the PERMANOVA test. Overall, ninety taxa were identified that were dominated by copepods and characterized by small cyclopoids. Based on the results the mesozooplankton communities of the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman are mostly shaped by the combined effect of temperature, salinity, and dissolved oxygen that significantly influences mesozooplankton occurrence during summer and spring. • The effects of water masses on the mesozooplankton communities in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman were investigated. • Environmental parameters revealed four main water masses in the study area: (1) Western Persian Gulf Waters (WPGW), (2) Middle Persian Gulf Water (MPGW), (3) Eastern Persian Gulf Water (EPGW), and (4) the Gulf of Oman Waters (GOW). • Overall, ninety taxa were identified that were dominated by copepods at all stations and characterized by small cyclopoids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil CO 2 flux and 222 Rn activity measurements may positively contribute to the geochemical monitoring of active volcanoes. The influence of several environmental parameters on the gas signals has been substantially demonstrated. Therefore, the implementation of tools capable of removing (or minimising) the contribution of the atmospheric effects from the acquired time series is a challenge in volcano surveillance. Here, we present 4 years-long continuous monitoring (from April 2007 to September 2011) of radon activity and soil CO 2 flux collected on the NE flank of Stromboli volcano. Both gases record higher emissions during fall–winter (up to 2700 Bq * m − 3 for radon and 750 g m − 2 day − 1 for CO 2 ) than during spring–summer seasons. Short-time variations on 222 Rn activity are modulated by changes in soil humidity (rainfall), and changes in soil CO 2 flux that may be ascribed to variations in wind speed and direction. The spectral analyses reveal diurnal and semi-diurnal cycles on both gases, outlining that atmospheric variations are capable to modify the gas release rate from the soil. The long-term soil CO 2 flux shows a slow decreasing trend, not visible in 222 Rn activity, suggesting a possible difference in the source depth of the of the gases, CO 2 being deeper and likely related to degassing at depth of the magma batch involved in the February–April 2007 effusive eruption. To minimise the effect of the environmental parameters on the 222 Rn concentrations and soil CO 2 fluxes, two different statistical treatments were applied: the Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) and the Principal Component Regression (PCR). These approaches allow to quantify the weight of each environmental factor on the two gas species and show a strong influence of some parameters on the gas transfer processes through soils. The residual values of radon and CO 2 flux, i.e. the values obtained after correction for the environmental influence, were then compared with the eruptive episodes that occurred at Stromboli during the analysed time span (2007–2011) but no clear correlations emerge between soil gas release and volcanic activity. This is probably due to i ) the distal location of the monitoring stations with respect to the active craters and to ii ) the fact that during the investigated period no major eruptive phenomena (paroxysmal explosion, flank eruption) occurred. Comparison of MLR and PCR methods in time-series analysis indicates that MLR can be more easily applied to real time data processing in monitoring of open conduit active volcanoes (like Stromboli) where the transition to an eruptive phase may occur in relatively short times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alternaria arborescens has been reported as a common fungal species invading tomatoes and is capable of producing several mycotoxins in infected plants, fruits and in agricultural commodities. Alternariol (AOH), alternariol monomethyl ether (AME), and tenuazonic acid (TeA) are some of the main Alternaria mycotoxins that can be found as contaminants of food. This species can produce these toxic metabolites together with AAL toxins ( Alternaria alternata f. sp. lycopersicum toxins), which can act as inhibitors of sphingolipid biosynthesis. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of water activity (a w , 0.995, 0.975, 0.950) and temperature (6, 15, 20, 25 and 30 °C) on mycotoxin production by A. arborescens on a synthetic tomato medium. The optimum production of AOH and AME occurred at 0.975 a w after 40 days of incubation at 30 °C. The maximum TeA accumulation was observed at 0.975 a w and 25 °C and at 0.950 a w and 30 °C. AAL TA was produced in higher quantities at 0.995 a w and 30 °C. At 6 °C no quantifiable levels of AOH or AME were detected, but significant amounts of TeA were produced at 0.975 a w . In general, high a w levels and high temperatures were favorable for mycotoxin production. The greatest accumulation of all four toxins occurred at 0.975 a w and 30 °C. The results obtained here could be extrapolated to evaluate the risk of tomato fruits and tomato products contamination caused by these toxins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]