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Air pollution as a result of intensified anthropogenic activity leads to the elevated cases of respiratory diseases. One of them is occupational asthma, which is described in this study by ecological aetiology. The mechanism of action of pollutants (allergens) on the mast cells - structural elements of symbiotic adaptation between humanity, environment, and the Technosphere - is systematized. Human immunity is described symbiotically and homeostatically by the expression of Gibbs energy, which is the main energetic moment of this complex unit Noosphere-BiosphereTechnosphere. The pathophysiological mechanisms of asthma with the creation of the complexes “mast+IgE” are also described by the quantitative expression of Gibbs free energy. Regarding this expression, decisions can be made for the combating of high levels of pollutants in the atmosphere as well as regarding prophylactic and therapeutic measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding long-term anthropogenic impact on the Earth's surface system is crucial for establishing reference conditions and potentially allowing future trajectories to be more rigorous and tightly constrained. In this study, the evolution of catchment erosion, chemical weathering and bottom-water hypoxia during the late Holocene are investigated using multi-proxy records from an accurately-dated sediment core from Lake Qilu in central Yunnan, southwest China. Through the comparison of our results with other paleoenvironmental records from the study region, we are able to see that the increase in anthropogenic impact on the catchment of Lake Qilu began in 780 CE, which is associated with the large scale expansion of agriculture in China. In the early stages of vegetation disturbance and agricultural land use, soil erosion and chemical weathering within in the catchment was significantly intensified, while the lake gradually changed to a state of anoxia until the period of accelerating eutrophication in 1945 CE. However, the extremely high rate of soil erosion and weak chemical weathering suggest the beginning of a new phase in terms of anthropogenic impact on the landscape. Furthermore, the late Holocene intensification of chemical weathering in monsoonal China can also be linked to increased anthropogenic activities rather than spatial differences in hydroclimate changes. This study highlights the fact that humans have been shaping the Earth's surface for millennia, which means that it is essential to place present environmental concerns into a long-term context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terminal lakes (without outflow) retain elements and compounds that reach them through fluvial, point source or atmospheric deposition. If the lake sediment is exposed, some of these chemicals could become toxic dust particulates. The Great Salt Lake (GSL) in Utah is a terminal lake that experienced record-low lake elevation in 2021-22, exposing vast areas of playa. Here, we used inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry to analyze the environmental chemistry of GSL shallow sediment during historic lows in spring, summer, and fall of 2021. Contaminants at the subsurface interface are most able to influence diffusion into the water column and uptake by benthic biota. We focused our analysis on copper, thallium, arsenic, mercury, lead, and zinc, which have been historically deposited in this region and are toxic when at high concentrations. We compared records of regional mining activity to understand the current contamination and assess relevant spatial and temporal gradients. We also used two different extraction methods (EPA 3050b and NH4AcO at pH=7) that can distinguish "environmentally available" vs. tightly associated and less available fractions. We observed consistent concentration of copper across sites indicating a larger relative impact of atmospheric deposition, with some evidence indicating further impacts of point sources. Arsenic, on the other hand, is maintained at high levels in submerged sediments and is likely geologically-and fluvially- derived. Thallium and mercury fluctuate seasonally and correlate with lake elevation. Lead and zinc levels are relatively low in GSL sites compared with freshwater input sites, indicating the deep brine layer may sequester these heavy metals, preventing their release into the water column. Overall, the concentrations of most metals in GSL sediments have declined from historic highs. However, each contaminant has distinct sources, seasonality, mobility and transmission. Complete recovery (if possible) may require many more decades and individual remediation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyrethroid resistance and mechanisms for resistance for Anopheles gambiae sensus lato (s.l.) (Diptera: Culicidae) Giles, were assessed in three urban areas (vegetable farming, industrial and residential) of Abidjan. Susceptibility to pyrethroids (deltamethrin, permethrin and alphacypermethrin), with and without piperonyl butoxide (PBO) pre‐exposure was evaluated. Anopheles gambiae complex members were identified using Short Interspersed Nuclear Elements PCR (SINE PCR), and resistance mechanisms (kdr‐west, kdr‐east and ace‐1) and metabolic gene expression (CYP6P5, CYP6M2, CYP6P3, CYP6P4) were determined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). High resistance to deltamethrin, permethrin and alphacypermethrin was observed in Port‐Bouet (vegetable farming) and Treichville (industrial site), whereas moderate resistance to deltamethrin and high resistance to alphacypermethrin and permethrin were found in Abobo (residential site). Pre‐exposure to PBO with pyrethroid increased mortalities in all sites. In Treichville, pre‐exposure to PBO restored susceptibility to deltamethrin, but not in Port‐Bouet or Abobo. In Treichville, An. gambiae Giles sensu stricto (s.s.) was predominant (92.9%), whereas in Abobo and Port‐Bouet, An. coluzzii Giles was predominant (73.6% and 66.4%, respectively). The highest kdr‐west mutation frequency was in An. gambiae s.s. (42.8%) from Abobo, followed by An. gambiae s.s. (40%) from Port‐Bouet and An. gambiae s.s. (35.6%) from Treichville. In An. coluzzii, the highest kdr‐west mutation frequency was in Port‐Bouet (48.2%), followed by Abobo (28.00%) and Treichville (21.4%). Mutation frequencies of kdr‐east were lower in An. gambiae s.s. from Treichville (4.1%) and Port‐Bouet (2.1%) and absent in An. gambiae from Abobo. In industrial and vegetable farming areas, CYP6P3 and CYP6M2 were overexpressed compared with Kisumu. The study suggests An. gambiae s.l. distribution and pyrethroid resistance are influenced by human activities. Treichville's industrial area favoured An. gambiae s.s., whereas Abobo's residential and Port‐Bouet's vegetable farming areas were dominated by An. coluzzii. Resistance in Treichville and Port‐Bouet was associated with kdr (west and east) genes and metabolic genes, whereas in residential areas, only kdr‐west genes were observed. These data suggest that PBO + deltamethrin impregnated nets could aid malaria control, benefiting industrial areas of Côte d'Ivoire and other African cities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil microbial diversity is a vital factor for the progression of vegetation and biogeochemical cycles in an ecosystem. It is affected by the chemical composition, soil microenvironment and anthropogenic activities. The present study investigated the effect of environmental conditions and anthropogenic activities on the bacterial diversity of three distantly related soils in India. The multiple soil samples were collected from Hospital waste sites (BTC2) with extensive anthropogenic activity, Himalayan forest soil (RM1) with low anthropogenic activity and Tso Kar Lake sediment soil samples with negligible anthropogenic activity with environmental factors such as soil pH, temperature and altitude on the bacterial diversity. The soil samples were analyzed for physico-chemical properties that suggest significant variations in pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), temperature and altitude. The SEM-EDS (Scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy) analysis revealed the elemental composition of the soil samples. The bacterial diversity of three different soil samples was studied using 16S rRNA sequencing-based metagenomic analysis. The results suggested that the bacterial diversity in Hospital waste site soil samples was higher than in the other two soil samples based on chao1 (richness and evenness) analysis. The Phyla Firmicutes were more abundant in Hospital waste site soil, and Himalayan forest soil showed a higher abundance of phylum Proteobacteria (28.86%) and Actinobacteria (26.70%). Tso Kar Lake sediment soil samples showed the most abundant phylum as Proteobacteria (46.28%). The study suggests that increased anthropogenic activity increases soil bacterial diversity. It may eventually help to develop new approaches for sustainable land-use management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pedoarchaeological study of the remains of a building on the territory of the Old Slavic site (the settlement of Mikhailovsky Cordon — the Slavic Borshevo Culture of the late 1st mil. AD) in the Voronezh region were carried out in order to obtain new data on the layout of the settlement, the type of housing building, life sustainability, economy, and residential use. The main purpose of soil research was the identification of the nature of the use of the building and the reconstruction of the economic activities in the adjacent territory. The determination of organic and mineral forms of phosphates, urease activity, and the quantity of microorganisms of various trophic groups in the ‘natopt’ (trampled soil) at the bottom of the pit and in the soil outside of the building was carried out. It has been established that the most pronounced traces of economic activity have been preserved in the soils to the west of the building where the summer stove was located. In this area, the content of phosphates reached 2 mg P2O5/g soil. The soil to the northeast of the construction pit is characterized by the accumulation of organic matter, which is confirmed not only by a high content of organic phosphorus, but also by rather high quantity of saprotrophic bacteria, indicating organic contamination of the soil, which suggests the ingress of organic substrates into the soil (manure, feces, household waste). The values of many indicators of anthropogenic activity inside the building turned out to be unexpectedly low. As such, the low content of phosphates, saprotrophic bacteria and keratinophilic fungi in the analysed ‘natopt’ in the building at the bottom of the pit indicate a low intensity, or periodic use of the premises.

One of the primary challenges in the spread of infectious diseases is the consumption of poorly or untreated water, which is increasingly being used due to the growth of different human activities and the effect of urbanization on freshwater sources,which are often used for consumption purposes. The determination of pathogenic bacteria in freshwater rivers influenced by anthropogenic activities allows for the assessment of the impact these factors have on water quality. Thus, the purpose of this study was to identify the diversity of pathogenic bacteria and virulence genes in the UraimRiver in the northern region of Brazil. For this purpose, surface water was collected from five points with varying degrees of anthropogenic impact along the Uraim River. In situ measurements of physicochemical components were conducted, and metagenomic analysis was used for the identification of pathogenic bacteria and virulence genes. Regarding the physicochemical parameters, variabilitywas observed among the different analysis points, as well as diversity among bacteria and virulence genes. Notably, enterobacteria and the ESKAPE group were highlighted among the bacteria, with significant negative associations found between dissolved oxygen and the diversity of virulence genes and between deforestation and population density withthepresenceofESKAPEgroupbacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Areas that have been considered as cultural environments since ancient times have been under the influence of anthropogenic activities. That's why vegetation; It has been destroyed as a result of field clearing, grazing, fire, cutting and recently increasing mining activities. Studies carried out to reduce the impact of destruction may cause the vegetation to diversify or the presence of alien species in the field. Studies conducted in these areas, especially pollen analyses, reveal the vegetation transformation that the areas have undergone. In order to reveal the causes, results and interaction of these transformations, the results of the study were shared as a result of the research in the sample of the Gökyurt (Kilistra) ancient settlement area and its surroundings, located within the borders of Meram district of Konya province. In order to achieve the aim of the study, studies on the vegetation characteristics of the field were evaluated and the vegetation map of the field was prepared and the evaluations in the conclusion were reached. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seasonal wetlands harbour a mosaic of habitats that support a variety of niches for bird species. When seasonal change and anthropogenic activities are coupled with the landscape, the species richness and species composition are presumably influenced by such factors. This study aimed to evaluate avifauna diversity, to investigate feeding guilds, and to determine the impact of seasonality and tourism pressure as anthropogenic disturbance on the avian community of a wetland. Comprehensive surveys were conducted to gather all necessary data, followed by the application of analytical methods to assess the hypotheses formulated in the current research. A total of 61 bird species belonging to 14 orders have been recorded during this year-round study, where Passeriformes was the most dominant order with 27 bird species. The species richness was highest in winter, and five feeding guilds were identified. This study revealed a significant role of seasonality, and tourism pressure on avian species richness of Bortir Bil. The outcomes of the present study could serve as an important baseline to adopt sustainable and bird-friendly management plan for this seasonal wetland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Frequent climate change and intense anthropogenic activity increase the risk of vegetation destruction. Remote sensing technology, known for its timely observations and wide coverage, is a crucial tool for monitoring vegetation growth. However, accurately detecting vegetation destruction events remains challenging due to their spectral diversity, particularly in complex environments. Existing spectral indices (VIs) have limitations in effectively capturing vegetation dynamics as they are only sensitive to specific physiological parameters of vegetation, such as foliage, canopy, or water content, and are prone to background interference. To address this issue, we proposed the Slope Vegetation Index (SVI) based on Sentinel-2 imagery and PROSAIL model simulation data. Five representative VIs were selected for comprehensive comparison. The results showed that, compared with other VIs, SVI had the highest sensitivity to vegetation physiological parameters, with a correlation coefficient (R2) greater than 0.98. SVI performed best across all vegetation change scenes, with producer accuracy (PA), user accuracy (UA), and F1 score all exceeding 0.90. SVI proved effective in detecting various vegetation destruction events, including logging, insect infestation, landslides, and wildfires. Moreover, SVI was suitable for Landsat-8/9 imagery, achieving an F1 score of over 0.89. Overall, SVI is an effective and robust vegetation monitoring index, offering valuable insights for vegetation resource management and post-disaster ecological restoration.

Terminal lakes (without outflow) retain elements and compounds that reach them through fluvial, point source or atmospheric deposition. If the lake sediment is exposed, some of these chemicals could become toxic dust particulates. The Great Salt Lake (GSL) in Utah is a terminal lake that experienced record-low lake elevation in 2021-22, exposing vast areas of playa. Here, we used inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry to analyze the environmental chemistry of GSL shallow sediment during historic lows in spring, summer, and fall of 2021. Contaminants at the subsurface interface are most able to influence diffusion into the water column and uptake by benthic biota. We focused our analysis on copper, thallium, arsenic, mercury, lead, and zinc, which have been historically deposited in this region and are toxic when at high concentrations. We compared records of regional mining activity to understand the current contamination and assess relevant spatial and temporal gradients. We also used two different extraction methods (EPA 3050b and NH4AcO at pH=7) that can distinguish “environmentally available” vs. tightly associated and less available fractions. We observed consistent concentration of copper across sites indicating a larger relative impact of atmospheric deposition, with some evidence indicating further impacts of point sources. Arsenic, on the other hand, is maintained at high levels in submerged sediments and is likely geologically- and fluvially- derived. Thallium and mercury fluctuate seasonally and correlate with lake elevation. Lead and zinc levels are relatively low in GSL sites compared with freshwater input sites, indicating the deep brine layer may sequester these heavy metals, preventing their release into the water column. Overall, the concentrations of most metals in GSL sediments have declined from historic highs. However, each contaminant has distinct sources, seasonality, mobility and transmission. Complete recovery (if possible) may require many more decades and individual remediation strategies.

Abstract Previous studies showed that there is a discrepancy between total subsidence (measured on the ground surface) and shallow compression (measured within several hundred meters beneath the ground surface) in Taiwan. This difference is referred to as deep displacement in this study. The variations of deep displacement are opposite to those of ground surface displacement and groundwater level within the depth of several hundred meters. The mechanism is unknown and requires further investigation. This study adopts two kinds of geodetic observation data and separates land subsidence into shallow compression and deep displacement to investigate the mechanism of deep displacement. A tectonically active coastal area in Taiwan is selected as the study area. The assessment results show that the associated variations are likely due to cyclic hydraulic loading and unloading. The variations of deep displacement are opposite to those of ground surface displacement. This study proposes that these variations are due to hydraulic expansion and contraction. The mechanism is demonstrated using a hydromechanical model. The results of a cross-correlation analysis show that hydraulic expansion and contraction occur at certain depths. The study results provide important information on the mechanism of deep displacement that can be used in tectonophysical and land subsidence investigations. Graphical Abstract

Previous studies showed that there is a discrepancy between total subsidence (measured on the ground surface) and shallow compression (measured within several hundred meters beneath the ground surface) in Taiwan. This difference is referred to as deep displacement in this study. The variations of deep displacement are opposite to those of ground surface displacement and groundwater level within the depth of several hundred meters. The mechanism is unknown and requires further investigation. This study adopts two kinds of geodetic observation data and separates land subsidence into shallow compression and deep displacement to investigate the mechanism of deep displacement. A tectonically active coastal area in Taiwan is selected as the study area. The assessment results show that the associated variations are likely due to cyclic hydraulic loading and unloading. The variations of deep displacement are opposite to those of ground surface displacement. This study proposes that these variations are due to hydraulic expansion and contraction. The mechanism is demonstrated using a hydromechanical model. The results of a cross-correlation analysis show that hydraulic expansion and contraction occur at certain depths. The study results provide important information on the mechanism of deep displacement that can be used in tectonophysical and land subsidence investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dispersal influences many key aspects of plant ecology at both fine- and broad scales. However, dispersal events are challenging to quantify as they are difficult to observe and measure accurately, despite the importance of understanding species' dispersal capacity. In this study, we quantified dispersal estimates for the dominant vascular flora of sub-Antarctic Marion Island, using a mechanistic model to estimate dispersal potential via anemochory and standardized experiments that simulate dispersal events via zoochory, human activity, and thalassochory, to test if dispersal capacity correlates to contemporary range expansion of the island's native and alien species. Our results demonstrate the broad range of dispersal potential in the island's flora and represent the first quantification of the dispersal potential (via multiple vectors) of the dominant vascular flora in the sub-Antarctic. Dispersal potential was not related to range expansion rates of native or alien species, suggesting that other mechanisms are responsible for the variation observed in species range expansion rates. Although this finding contradicts expectations and evidence from some other studies, it is consistent with research conducted in alpine regions (which may be climatically and physiognomically similar to this sub-Antarctic study site) where factors such as demography and competition are more important predictors of species range expansion than their dispersal ability, dispersal syndromes, or dispersal-related traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental factors and anthropogenic activity are key factors that shape the distribution of bacteria and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in natural environments. However, few studies have focused on the occurrence of bacteria and ARGs in remote and pristine environments. In this study, the distribution of bacteria and ARGs in two typical rivers of the western Qinghai Lake basin was investigated. Results showed that cold-resistant Planomicrobium sp. was the predominant genus due to the low temperature, followed by unclassified_f_Planococcaceae. High nitrogen nutrients increased the abundance and diversity of the bacteria community and denitrification was the dominant means of bacterial nitrate reduction. Tetracycline resistance genes including tetA, tetB, and tetC were the dominant ARGs in the western Qinghai Lake basin, ranging from 2.30 x 10³ to 1.91 x 108 copies/L, while the low abundances of intI1, and ARGs such as sul1 indicated low anthropogenic activity in the western Qinghai Lake basin. Finally, the strong positive correlation between ARGs and intI1 highlights the potential transmission risk of ARGs through cross- or co-selection by horizontal gene transfer. Our study emphasized the adaptation of bacteria to the environment and the facilitation of anthropogenic activity in the propagation of ARGs in natural environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Spinal deformities, including kyphoscoliosis, have been consistently documented in cetaceans. However, the majority of reported cases of kyphoscoliosis in cetaceans pertain to bottlenose dolphins, with limited information on its occurrence in narrow‐ridged finless porpoise (NFP) (Neophocaena asiaeorientalis). Materials and methods: In November 2021, two deceased NFPs were discovered stranded on the shores of the Republic of Korea. As part of the pioneer stranded cetacean imaging programme in the Republic of Korea, both carcasses underwent post‐mortem computed tomography (PMCT), revealing congenital and degenerative traumatic kyphoscoliosis, respectively. Results: Although kyphoscoliosis may not have directly caused the demise of these individuals, it is hypothesized that the reduced spinal range of motion and mobility associated with kyphoscoliosis may have contributed to their deaths. Conclusion: This case report presents the first documented cases of kyphoscoliosis in two NFPs stranded in Korean waters, utilizing PMCT as an efficient methodology for assessing skeletal abnormalities in cetaceans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics (MPs) are of increasing concern due to their role as reservoirs for antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and pathogens. To date, few studies have explored the influence of anthropogenic activities on ARGs and mobile genetic elements (MGEs) within various riverine MPs, in comparison to their natural counterparts. Here an in-situ incubation was conducted along heavily anthropogenically-impacted Houxi River to characterize the geographical pattern of antibiotic resistome, mobilome and pathogens inhabiting MPs- and leaf-biofilms. The metagenomics result showed a clear urbanization-driven profile in the distribution of ARGs, MGEs and pathogens, with their abundances sharply increasing 4.77 to 19.90 times from sparsely to densely populated regions. The significant correlation between human fecal marker crAssphage and ARG (R2 = 0.67, P=0.003) indicated the influence of anthropogenic activity on ARG proliferation in plastisphere and natural leaf surfaces. And mantel tests and random forest analysis revealed the impact of 17 socio-environmental factors, e.g., population density, antibiotic concentrations, and pore volume of materials, on the dissemination of ARGs. Partial least squares-path modeling further unveiled that intensifying human activities not only directly boosted ARGs abundance but also exerted a comparable indirect impact on ARGs propagation. Furthermore, the polyvinylchloride plastisphere created a pathogen-friendly habitat, harboring higher abundances of ARGs and MGEs, while polylactic acid are not likely to serve as vectors for pathogens in river, with a lower resistome risk score than that in leaf-biofilms. This study highlights the diverse ecological risks associated with the dissemination of ARGs and pathogens in varied MPs, offering insights for the policymaking of usage and control of plastics within urbanization.

One of the primary challenges in the spread of infectious diseases is the consumption of poorly or untreated water, which is increasingly being used due to the growth of different human activities and the effect of urbanization on freshwater sources, which are often used for consumption purposes. The determination of pathogenic bacteria in freshwater rivers influenced by anthropogenic activities allows for the assessment of the impact these factors have on water quality. Thus, the purpose of this study was to identify the diversity of pathogenic bacteria and virulence genes in the Uraim River in the northern region of Brazil. For this purpose, surface water was collected from five points with varying degrees of anthropogenic impact along the Uraim River. In situ measurements of physicochemical components were conducted, and metagenomic analysis was used for the identification of pathogenic bacteria and virulence genes. Regarding the physicochemical parameters, variability was observed among the different analysis points, as well as diversity among bacteria and virulence genes. Notably, enterobacteria and the ESKAPE group were highlighted among the bacteria, with significant negative associations found between dissolved oxygen and the diversity of virulence genes and between deforestation and population density with the presence of ESKAPE group bacteria.

The floodplain lakeshores have pronounced hydrological and topographical gradients, high habitat heterogeneity, and abundant food sources, providing suitable habitats for wintering and stopping waterbirds. However, certain areas are experiencing ecosystem changes along the lakeshore due to lake development. Huayanghe lakes are composed of several shallow lakes, located in the middle and lower Yangtze River floodplain, which are important wetlands for the waterbirds on the East Asian–Australasian Flyway. In recent decades, intensive reclamation and aquaculture have transformed the lakeshore into an ecosystem characterized by three distinct wetland types: lakes, fishponds, and paddy fields. Changes in habitats have considerable impacts on lakeshore biodiversity, with waterbirds exhibiting particularly high sensitivity to changes in wetlands. Therefore, to support waterbird community conservation, the consequences of anthropogenic activities on lakeshore waterbird diversity must be elucidated. Integrated studies of taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional diversity and dissimilarity can provide a multifaceted indication of the assemblage patterns and dynamics of lakeshore waterbird communities under anthropogenic disturbance. Accordingly, in the current study, we examined the diversity and dissimilarity of waterbirds in the lake, fishpond, and paddy field wetlands during wintering periods. The taxonomic and functional diversity of waterbird communities was significantly lower in fishponds and paddy fields than in lakes. Phylogenetic diversity was also significantly lower in paddy fields than in lakes; however no significant differences were observed between fishponds and lakes. The community's taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional dissimilarities were significantly lower in fishponds and paddy fields than in lakes, and lower in paddy fields than in fishponds. The temporal dynamics of the waterbird community diversity and dissimilarity varied significantly, with larger fluctuations in fishponds and lakes than in paddy fields. Specifically, lakes exhibited an initial increase and subsequent decrease, while fishponds and paddy fields showed a continuous, gradually declining trend. During the early wintering period, the dissimilarity of waterbird communities was higher in fishponds and paddy fields than in lakes. Additionally, the diversity and dissimilarity of waterbird communities increased in fishponds during the wintering period. In summary, artificial wetlands can provide temporary habitat for waterbirds; however, the reclamation of lakeshores into fishponds and paddy fields has reduced the wetland capacity to maintain waterbird diversity. These findings provide critical insights to inform the design of effective management strategies for waterbirds and wetland habitats on floodplain lakes.

The demand for trade has led to unsustainable harvesting of medicinal plants, causing a decline in their population in natural habitats. This presents a notable problem, however, there is a lack of information regarding the severity of the threat to these resources. To address this, a study was conducted to identify high-value medicinal plants in the Annapurna Conservation Area in Nepal and evaluate their potential endangerment by using the Rapid Vulnerability Assessment method (RVA). The study also calculated the distribution of these plants in different habitats and their population size. Results showed that there were 19 threatened, high-value medicinal plants in the region frequently used by local communities and with high trade values. Rhizome/roots were the most commonly used plant parts (58%), followed by whole plants (37%). The wild population of these plants was found to be low, with varying abundance among different habitats. Overexploitation driven by high trade demand, low population density, and critical life forms were identified as the main threats to these plants. The study placed Dactylorhiza hatagirea and Neopicrorhiza scrophulariiflora in the highest threat category. Effective conservation and management measures, both in-situ and ex-situ, were suggested based on the population and threat status of these high-value medicinal plants.

To improve analysis of the Eastern Pacific green sea turtle population's status, a spatial assessment is needed on their presence and abundance in their frequented habitats. This study aims to develop a framework from which a baseline study could be undertaken focused on Eastern Pacific green sea turtles surrounding the waters of Isla Espíritu Santo.Two years of data collected from Health Assessments in Sea Turtles from Baja California Sur (BCS) and a research survey focused on Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) from ecotourism guides operating out of La Paz, BCS, México were used. Following the Institutional Review Board's (IRB) Protocol and due to the small number of survey participants, data data may not be used to extrapolate to the population of ecotourism operators in La Paz. Although past studies have integrated LEK from fishers, this is the first study to introduce LEK from theecotourism sector to inform Eastern Pacific green sea turtle conservation efforts in México. The results from this project will contribute to a better understanding and further insight of how this species utilizes this area.

Gaining insights into the space–time variations in the long-range dependence of sea surface chlorophyll is crucial for the early detection of environmental issues in oceans. To this end, 12 locations were selected along the Yangtze River and Pearl River estuaries, varying in distances from the Chinese coastline. Daily satellite-observed sea surface chlorophyll concentration data at these 12 locations were collected from the Copernicus Marine Service website, spanning from December 1997 to November 2023. The main objective of the current study is to introduce a multi-fractional generalized Cauchy model for calculating the values of Hurst exponents and quantitatively assessing the long-range dependence strength of sea surface chlorophyll at different spatial locations and time instants during the study period. Furthermore, ANOVA was utilized to detect the differences of calculated Hurst exponent values among the locations during various months and seasons. From a spatial perspective, the findings reveal a significantly stronger long-range dependence of sea surface chlorophyll in offshore regions compared to nearshore areas, with Hurst exponent values > 0.5 versus <0.5. It is noteworthy that the values of Hurst exponents at each location exhibit significant differences during various seasons, from a temporal perspective. Specifically, the long-range dependence of sea surface chlorophyll in summer in the nearshore region is weaker than in other seasons, whereas that in the offshore region is stronger than in other seasons. The study concludes that long-range dependence is inversely related to the distance from the coastline, and anthropogenic activity plays a dominant role in shaping the long-range dependence of sea surface chlorophyll in the coastal regions of China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) population in Australia has been subjected to numerous threats leading to a significant decline in their numbers. The Port Macquarie region serves as a vital habitat for these iconic marsupials. Analysing records of 1227 koalas admitted to the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital (2014–2022), this study aimed to understand admission causes, temporal trends, and risk factors. Anthropogenic activities accounted for almost half (49.7%) of all admissions with 'dangerous area' and 'motor vehicle accident' (MVA) being common aetiologies. Young koalas were more susceptible to 'dangerous area', 'MVA', and 'dog attack' than other age groups. Koalas admitted for suspected chlamydia were also a significant contributing factor for admissions, and was most common in young koalas. Overall, the majority of koalas were candidates for rehabilitation or release (54.3%), but mature and aged koalas had the highest odds for mortality. This study highlights the ongoing impact of anthropogenic activities on koalas, emphasises the need for public education and reporting to mitigate risks, and underscores the importance of addressing diseases like chlamydia. These results contribute to our understanding of the factors influencing koala hospital admissions and can inform conservation and management strategies for this iconic Australian species. The iconic koala population in Australia faces alarming decline due to human-induced threats. This study analyses koala admissions to the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital, revealing that dangerous areas and motor vehicle accidents account for almost half of the cases. Additionally, diseases like chlamydia pose a significant risk, particularly for mature koalas. Urgent action is needed to address these anthropogenic impacts, emphasising public education, reporting, and disease management. These findings provide crucial insights to conserve and protect this beloved Australian species. Photograph from https://www.britannica.com/animal/koala. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Introduction Spinal deformities, including kyphoscoliosis, have been consistently documented in cetaceans. However, the majority of reported cases of kyphoscoliosis in cetaceans pertain to bottlenose dolphins, with limited information on its occurrence in narrow‐ridged finless porpoise (NFP) (Neophocaena asiaeorientalis). Materials and methods In November 2021, two deceased NFPs were discovered stranded on the shores of the Republic of Korea. As part of the pioneer stranded cetacean imaging programme in the Republic of Korea, both carcasses underwent post‐mortem computed tomography (PMCT), revealing congenital and degenerative traumatic kyphoscoliosis, respectively. Results Although kyphoscoliosis may not have directly caused the demise of these individuals, it is hypothesized that the reduced spinal range of motion and mobility associated with kyphoscoliosis may have contributed to their deaths. Conclusion This case report presents the first documented cases of kyphoscoliosis in two NFPs stranded in Korean waters, utilizing PMCT as an efficient methodology for assessing skeletal abnormalities in cetaceans.

The research aimed to assess the impact of human economic activities on the Yesil River Basin based on the observational data contained in Kazhydromet’s (Republic State Enterprise, RSE) hydrometeorological periodicals of 1933-2019. The additional analysis of numerous sources – statistics digests, online data of the Bureau of National Statistics under the Agency for Strategic Planning and Reforms of the Republic of Kazakhstan (RK), monographs and scientific papers also allowed to reliably evaluate the overall water consumption in the country. The analysis of the available materials permitted identifying the indicators of irretrievable water consumption (IWC) by sectors of the national economy, including utilities, industry, and agriculture (irrigation). As the result, in terms of water use the IWC in the target watershed turned out to range between 3-29% of the total irretrievable water consumption (TIWC), with the corresponding highest value registered in 2007. It was also established that large reservoirs – Astaninskoye (Vyacheslavskoye) and Sergeyevskoye – have been exerting a regulating pressure on the long-term flow of the rivers comprising the basin. The review of the data obtained likewise indicates that, compared to the conditionally natural phase, their runoff reduction during the disturbed phase is caused not only by reservoir related but also agrotechnical and climate change impacts. The study findings can serve water management purposes, aid the design of hydraulic facilities, as well as expand regional theoretical and applied hydrological research.

A link between the abundance of species and their degree of ecological specialization has previously been suggested within the primate order. Many species of lemurs were only recently described and even basic ecological data are not yet available for them. We investigated the habitat use, abundance, and habitat characteristics of the critically endangered Microcebus gerpi and evaluated potential impacts of vegetation structure and human disturbances on variations in its abundance. We determined abundance by systematic nocturnal surveys along 13 transects that were also used for characterizing the vegetation structure in seven study sites that were widely distributed within its range. Although M. gerpi occurred in all studied lowland rainforest and littoral forest fragments in central eastern Madagascar and therefore has a higher ecological plasticity and wider distribution than previously thought, its actual Area of Occupancy is very small (339.78 km2) due to an extreme degree of habitat fragmentation throughout its range. M. gerpi occurred with a mean encounter rate of 3.04 individuals/km but abundance varied substantially between sites (0.75–4.5 individuals/km). Statistical modeling revealed that the cover of small‐ to medium‐sized trees had a positive impact on the abundance of M. gerpi, whereas a composite disturbance score (CDS), formed on the basis of information on the prominence of fires, cattle, charcoal production and wood extraction inside and around the forest, had a negative impact on abundance. These results suggest that M. gerpi is slightly less threatened than expected because of its larger geographic range, but also that it responds negatively to human disturbances. These findings raise strong conservation concerns and question the long‐term viability of the remaining small and isolated populations of this arboreal solitary forager. Research Highlights: The abundance of Microcebus gerpi varies and is positively impacted by the cover of small‐ to medium‐sized trees, but negatively impacted by a composite score of human activities raising serious conservation concerns.The geographic distribution of M. gerpi comprises the remaining lowland rainforests between the rivers Ivondro and Mangoro in eastern Madagascar.Habitat fragmentation is substantial throughout its range, resulting in a very small Area of Occupancy (339.78 km2) that is concordant with an IUCN categorization as Endangered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salt marshes are important carbon and nutrient sinks that are threatened by climate changes and human activities. In this study, the accumulation rates of sedimentary total organic carbon (TOC), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorus (TP) from two cores in the Andong salt marsh, Hangzhou Bay, were investigated to determine whether TOC, TN, and TP show increasing or decreasing trends toward the present. The TOC accumulation rates at the relatively lower marsh were lower during 1990–1996 (1.63–2.37 g/(cm2·a)) than 1997–2014 (1.15–4.30 g/(cm2·a)). The TN accumulation rates increased from 1990 (0.14 g/(cm2·a)) toward 2012 (0.40 g/(cm2·a)), then decreased toward 2014 (0.16 g/(cm2·a)). The TP accumulation rates were lower during 1990–1999 (0.10–0.21 mg/(cm2·a)), and decreased from 2000 (0.32 mg/(cm2·a)) toward 2014 (0.15 mg/(cm2·a)). The TOC accumulation rates along the relatively upper marsh during 1982–1992 (1.18–3.25 g/(cm2·a)) were lower than during 1998–2010 (2.30–4.20 g/(cm2·a)), and then decreased toward 2015 (2.15 g/(cm2·a)). TN increased from 1982 (0.18 g/(cm2·a)) to 2005 (0.41 g/(cm2·a)), then decreased toward 2015 (0.22 g/(cm2·a)). TP accumulation rates fluctuated within a narrow range during 1982–1997 (0.21–0.41 mg/(cm2·a)), increased from 1998 (0.50 mg/(cm2·a)) to 2004 (0.87 mg/(cm2·a)), then decreased to 2015 (0.38 mg/(cm2·a)). Thus, increases in accumulation rates of TOC, TN, and TP from the 1980s to 1990s indicates that the marsh likely served as carbon and nutrient sinks, then the rates decreased during 2000–2015 due probably to the reduced sediment inputs from rivers and intensified sea level rise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine spatial planning (MSP) is designed to divide the sea area into different types of functional zones, to implement corresponding development activities. However, the long-term impacts of anthropogenic activities associated with MSP practice on the marine microbial biosphere are still unclear. Yalu River Estuary, a coastal region in northeast of China, has been divided into fishery & agricultural (F&A) zone, shipping & port (S&P) zone and marine protected area (MPA) zone by a local MSP guideline that has been run for decades. To examine the effects of long-term executed MSP, benthic bacterial communities from different MSP zones were obtained and compared in this study. The results revealed significant differences in the bacterial community structure and predict functions among different zones. Bacterial genera enriched in different zones were identified, including SBR1031 in MPA, Woeseia and Sva0996 in S&P, and Halioglobus in F&A. In addition, correlations between some bacterial genera and sediment pollutants were uncovered. Furthermore, bacteria related to sulphide production were more abundant in the F&A zone, which was according to the accumulation of sulphides in this area. Moreover, bacteria associated with chemoheterotrophy and fermentation were more predominant in the S&P zone, consistent with high levels of organic matter and petroleum caused by shipping. Our findings indicated benthic bacterial communities could bring to light the anthropogenic activity footprints by different activities induced by long-term MSP practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wind erosion is recognized as one of the main environmental issues and seriously threatens ecosystem services in the Yarlung Zangbo River basin (YZRB), southern Tibetan Plateau. Exploring the spatiotemporal dynamics and drivers of wind erosion is crucial for improving regional ecosystem services and sustainable development. This study was conducted to examine the spatiotemporal patterns of soil wind erosion modulus (SWEM) in YZRB from 1990 to 2020 by using the revised wind erosion equation (RWEQ) and to identify the influence of climate change and anthropogenic activities on wind erosion dynamics. The results showed that temporally, the overall SWEM presented a significant downward trend (−0.912 t·hm−2·a−1) and a continuous downward trend in the key implementation areas of ecological engineering. Spatially, the severe area of wind erosion is mainly concentrated in the flat and broad river valley, where sand sources are widely distributed. Significant SWEM differences were found among various land use/cover (LULC) types. Exceeding 90% reduction rates in SWEM occurred in forests, grasslands, and cultivated land. Additionally, the influence analysis showed that climate change was the dominant factor driving the variations in wind erosion due to the reduction of wind speed. By contrast, the contribution of anthropogenic activities is relatively less, accounting for 43.50% of wind erosion change, which closely matches the transfer of LULC to grassland and forest land with the implementation area of ecological engineering projects. This study provides useful information on the driving mechanism of wind erosion, prevention service changes, and determining priority zones for desertification prevention in YZRB. We suggest that eco-restoration activities should be endorsed in the future, as well as the adaptive management that is required to control wind erosion and improve ecosystem services and human well-being for people in the YZRB region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change and anthropogenic activities have had a profound effect on the variation in grassland productivity in the Tibetan Plateau in recent decades. Quantifying the impacts of climatic and anthropogenic variables on grassland productivity is a necessary step in making the management policies of a sustainable grassland ecosystem. Net primary productivity (NPP) is an important part of the terrestrial carbon cycle and can be used to assess vegetation growth. Based on the Carnegie–Ames–Stanford Approach model and statistical analysis method, in this study we estimated the variations in grassland potential NPP (PNPP), actual NPP (ANPP) and human-induced NPP (HNPP) in the Northwest Sichuan Plateau (NWSP) of the Southeast Tibetan Plateau from 2001 to 2020. Also, we assessed the contribution of climatic change and anthropogenic activities to grassland ANPP. The results showed that the average values of grassland ANPP, PNPP and HNPP in the whole NWSP increased at the rates of 3.81, 9.14 and 7.18 g C m−2 a−1, respectively. Grassland ANPP increased in 91.7% of the total area. Climate-oriented impacts led grassland ANPP to increase in 82.6% of the area, and temperature increase was the dominant factor. Additionally, anthropogenic activity was the major reason for the grassland ANPP's decline (5.4% of the total area). Overall, our findings are beneficial for the formulation of practical countermeasures regarding climate change adaption and damaged grassland recovering in the plateau. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the dynamics of vegetation change is crucial for comprehending ecosystem functioning and its response to anthropogenic activities and climate change. This study investigates significant vegetation changes worldwide and aims to identify the dominant factors responsible for these changes. By analyzing long-term data on vegetation dynamics and climatic factors, this research identifies regions with significant global vegetation changes and determines the main factors leading to such changes at the grid scale. The results reveal important insights into the drivers of vegetation change. Firstly, the study finds that the area experiencing significant browning from April to July is larger than the area exhibiting significant greening. Secondly, on an annual scale, anthropogenic activity emerges as the main factor driving significant vegetation greening, while climate change becomes the primary factor causing vegetation browning from July to September. Thirdly, in regions dominated by climate change, temperature is identified as the primary climatic factor contributing to significant vegetation greening. Additionally, the study reveals that the primary climatic factors causing significant vegetation browning are temperature followed by soil moisture, with temperature being the main factor in most months. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the mechanisms driving global vegetation changes and have implications for sustainable development and climate action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studying the relationship between human activities and soil erosion on a regional scale is of great significance for macro-decision-making in soil erosion prevention and control. The entropy weight method and RUSLE model are used to analyze the spatiotemporal variation in human activity intensity (HAI) and soil erosion in the Weihe River Basin (WRB) from 2005 to 2020. Through geographic detectors and a four-quadrant model, the impact of various driving factors and the coupling degree of the human–land relationship are studied. The results showed: (1) During the past 15 years, the moderate, high, strong, and severe erosion areas in the WRB decreased by 9.88%, 35.89%, 45.17%, and 70.05%, respectively. The ratio of the historical sand transport modulus to the RUSLE model result is 0.83, indicating that the results obtained by the RUSLE model can be used for further analysis. (2) Slight and weak degrees account for 80% in the northwest region. The high and strong regions are mainly distributed in the Shaanxi section, accounting for 3% of the total basin. (3) The coupling between human activities and soil erosion is constantly strengthening, and the joint effect of pop and crop is the main reason for the slowdown and spatial differences in soil erosion. This indicates that the ecological environment became stable. These findings contribute by acting as references for soil and water conservation and management in the WRB to promote a harmonious relationship between humans and the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research aimed to assess the impact of human economic activities on the Yesil River Basin based on the observational data contained in Kazhydromet's (Republic State Enterprise, RSE) hydrometeorological periodicals of 1933-2019. The additional analysis of numerous sources - statistics digests, online data of the Bureau of National Statistics under the Agency for Strategic Planning and Reforms of the Republic of Kazakhstan (RK), monographs and scientific papers also allowed to reliably evaluate the overall water consumption in the country. The analysis of the available materials permitted identifying the indicators of irretrievable water consumption (IWC) by sectors of the national economy, including utilities, industry, and agriculture (irrigation). As the result, in terms of water use the IWC in the target watershed turned out to range between 3-29% of the total irretrievable water consumption (TIWC), with the corresponding highest value registered in 2007. It was also established that large reservoirs - Astaninskoye (Vyacheslavskoye) and Sergeyevskoye - have been exerting a regulating pressure on the long-term flow of the rivers comprising the basin. The review of the data obtained likewise indicates that, compared to the conditionally natural phase, their runoff reduction during the disturbed phase is caused not only by reservoir related but also agrotechnical and climate change impacts. The study findings can serve water management purposes, aid the design of hydraulic facilities, as well as expand regional theoretical and applied hydrological research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Throughout a long historical period, the natural resources of the world have been managed by different human communities. Living within the boundaries of their own ecosystems forces people to develop a deep knowledge of managing their natural resources. Whether they and their children will survive directly depends on their behavior. People have given the land and natural resources a social and symbolic value that goes beyond their immediate use value. This symbolism is based on ecological principles and supports a system of ethical, social and economic rules that are adaptive. This means that these principles and rules help human communities prevent the overexploitation of natural resources, preserve their connections with the surrounding ecosystems, so that people can live within the limits imposed by the availability of resources and technology. Over the course of the last few generations, however, the world's diversity of cultures, along with their adaptations to local environmental conditions, has been rapidly disintegrating under the influence of a new, global culture characterized by extremely high levels of consumption. Economic growth based on fossil fuel energy led to the rapid development of industry and international trade, and improved lifestyles as well as advances in health care led to rapid growth in human population and consumption. As a consequence, the search for new ways of extracting resources, involving powerful machines and efficient technologies, which absorb the traditions of conservation of nature built by local human communities during their long historical experience of survival, is intensified. Mechanisms developed as adaptations to the environment over hundreds of years are rapidly breaking down as a result of globalization, thereby freeing humans from their traditional environmental constraints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The southern portion of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QTP) and the central Himalayan region are home to the Mt. Qomolangma (Everest) National Nature Reserve (QNNR), which is the world's highest nature reserve and is distinguished by delicate natural ecosystems and unique geographic features. Analyzing regional vegetation trends, as well as the impacts of natural and anthropogenic variables on vegetation coverage, is crucial for local environmental protection and sustainable development. In this study, the variation patterns of the MOD13Q1 Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) data were explored, and the responses of vegetation development to both natural and anthropogenic parameters were investigated by applying trend analysis and partial correlation analysis, as well as the partial least squares-structural equation model (PLS-SEM). To better comprehend the spatial characteristics and interrelationships between NDVI and various parameters under different vegetation types, the Uniform Manifold Approximation and Projection (UMAP) was employed for dimensionality reduction and visualization. The results illustrated that between 2000 and 2018, the reserve greened up at a rate of 0.00073/a (p < 0.05), with vegetation improvement areas accounting for 49.46%. The major climatic driver for the greening trend of vegetation was temperature. Topography (especially elevation) remains dominant in regulating vegetation development in the QNNR, despite a progressively growing impact of hydrothermal conditions on vegetation development. Additionally, the implementation of environmental initiatives has stifled the adverse impacts of human activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastic pollution has received growing interest due to its persistence and detrimental effects on humans and aquatic organisms. While microplastics in marine sediment have received a lot of attention, microplastics in riverine sediment, particularly in river basins, remain scarce. Therefore, sediment sample was collected from 25 sampling points along the Selangor River Basin and its urbanized tributaries. Microplastics were observed and identified using stereomicroscope and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy with attenuated total reflection (FTIR-ATR). The results indicated that microplastics were present in all sediment samples, with concentrations ranging from 10 to 55 particles/kg. Small microplastics (< 300 μm) dominated more than half of all microplastics observed, with black color and bead-shaped being the most common characteristic. Polypropylene, polyester, and polyethylene were the primary polymer compositions of the microplastics. The findings suggest that anthropogenic activities from residential, agricultural, and industrial sources may contribute to the ubiquity of microplastics in river. These results highlight the need for further monitoring assessment and proactive measures to mitigate microplastic pollution in riverine environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]