Search Results (95)

In addition to being influenced by global drivers, forest herb-layer communities are also shaped by various local factors, such as topography, stand characteristics and soil properties. The responses of ground vegetation were studied in the ravine forests of a Natura 2000 site in eastern Slovenia. A high species richness of 218 plant species was observed in the herb layer, including some woody species. On average, 52.8 different plant species were recorded per plot. Species richness was significantly associated with topographic and forest stand factors, rather than soil characteristics. It was positively associated with altitude and the amount of deadwood and negatively associated with tree height. However, the main predictors for the species composition of the ground vegetation were tree layer cover and soil pH. Among the studied ravine forests, Tilia-dominated stands are characterised by the highest species diversity and the lowest herb-layer cover, indicating a composition of less competitive, site-specific species inhabiting sites with high resource heterogeneity and diverse microhabitats. To preserve the high level of biodiversity of heterogeneous ravine forests and to maintain their favourable conservation status, it is crucial to sustain the natural state of forest soils and stands by implementing appropriate management measures. Such measures may include close-to-nature forest management, which is already being implemented in the studied ravine forests. Full article

Realistic atomistic modeling of mineral and soil systems requires chemically meaningful representations of organic matter (OM). Bulk ¹³C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) data have been proposed as compositional inputs for stochastic generation of OM structures, and prior studies using nonnegative multivariate curve resolution (MCR) suggested that bulk ¹³C NMR spectra of OM may be represented as mixtures of only a few components. However, these studies typically relied on single-block decompositions and did not explicitly assess decomposition uniqueness. The objective of this work was to examine whether a quantitative and chemically interpretable nonnegative MCR decomposition of OM can be obtained while explicitly evaluating (1) residual rotational ambiguity controlling the uniqueness of components, and (2) the variance captured by the decomposition. Using a dataset of International Humic Substances Society (IHSS) humic acids, fulvic acids, and aquatic OM, we applied single- and multi-block nonnegative MCR–alternating least squares (ALS) analyses integrating ¹³C NMR spectra, elemental composition (C, H, O, N, S), and titratable carboxylic and phenolic group contents. The multi-block approach effectively narrowed the feasible solution space and enriched the chemical characterization of the resulting MCR components. Across all analytical blocks, two chemically distinct components, an aromatic-rich and an aliphatic-rich motifs, consistently emerged, together explaining ~97–98% of the total variance and exhibiting near-zero residual rotational ambiguity. These findings support that diverse OM types can be represented quantitatively as mixtures of a small set of unique recurring compositional motifs. These motifs serve as ensemble-level averages whose underlying molecular diversity may vary substantially across materials. They provide quantitative, chemically justified inputs for molecular modeling of mineral–OM systems, which could contribute to chemical interpretability of modeling and provide better mechanistic insights into OM variation across diverse sample series. Full article

We use the hedonic price model to measure the effect of school quality on apartment rent prices in Porto Alegre, Brazil. A spatial autoregressive regression (SAR) was employed due to the spatial nature of the data. We estimated the effect of school quality on apartment prices for public and private schools separately. The results shed light on the relation between school quality and apartment prices in a Global South context. We showed that both public and private school quality is valued in Porto Alegre house markets, although the effect is quite different for each type of school. For public schools, the major effect comes from the distance of the nearest schools. An increase in test scores by one standard deviation raises apartment rent prices by 2.7% for the whole city. However, this effect is bigger for some submarkets, reaching 11.6% for the distant suburbs. For private schools, the same effect occurs but for a larger distance radius. The same increase in average test score out to a 2 km distance from private schools raised the apartment price by 1.0%. Nevertheless, this effect reaches 6.6% in one specific submarket. Full article

Cassava plants’ response to waterlogging must be monitored in an accurate and timely manner to mitigate the adverse effects of waterlogging stress. Under waterlogging conditions, root hypoxia reduces water uptake and stomatal closure limits transpiration, which often results in increased leaf temperature due to reduced evaporative cooling. However, how this relationship changes in cassava leaves under waterlogged conditions remains poorly understood. This study hypothesized that more negative ΔT values reflect enhanced transpirational cooling, which is a key determinant of superior physiological performance under waterlogging stress among cassava genotypes. Two cassava cultivars were subjected to twelve days of waterlogging. Results revealed a significant decrease in photosynthetic rate (p < 0.001), stomatal conductance (p < 0.001), and transpiration rate (p < 0.001), as well as an increase in leaf temperature (p < 0.001) and ΔT (p < 0.001), reflecting impaired stomatal regulation and reduced evaporative cooling. Strong negative correlations between ΔT and photosynthetic parameters (Pn (p < 0.001, r = −0.91), gs (p < 0.001, r = −0.91), and E (p < 0.001, r = −0.87)) were observed, presenting ΔT as a reliable, nondestructive indicator of cassava’s physiological responses under hypoxic conditions. Findings indicate that maintaining cooler canopies may contribute to waterlogging-tolerant cassava genotypes, and that ΔT can act as a screening parameter for waterlogging-tolerant genotypes. However, further studies with contrasting genotypes and additional parameters are recommended for validation. Full article

Oil spills on the water surface pose a significant environmental hazard, underscoring the critical need for developing Artificial Intelligence (AI) detection methods. Utilizing Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) can significantly improve the efficiency of oil spill detection at early stages, reducing environmental damage; however, there is a lack of training datasets in the domain. In this paper, LADOS is introduced, an aeriaL imAgery Dataset for Oil Spill detection, classification, and localization by incorporating both liquid and solid classes of low-altitude images. LADOS comprises 3388 images annotated at the pixel level across six distinct classes, including the background. In addition to including a general oil class describing various oil spill appearances, LADOS provides a detailed categorization by including emulsions and sheens. Detailed examination of both instance and semantic segmentation approaches is illustrated to validate the dataset’s performance and significance to the domain. The results on the test set demonstrate an overall performance exceeding 66% mean Intersection over Union (mIoU), with specific classes such as oil and emulsion to surpass 74% of IoU part of the experiments. Full article

The effective management of ships’ ballast water is critical for preventing the spread of invasive species. Despite advancements in UV-based ballast water treatment systems (BWTSs), achieving a uniform flow distribution within UV reactors (UVRs) remains challenging due to the spatial constraints of ships. This study employs computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to analyze turbulent seawater flow in a real-case BWTS installed on a self-discharging bulk carrier. The flow uniformity at UVR inlets and the volume flow rate (Q) distribution between parallel reactors are evaluated at nominal flow rates of 1000, 1900, and 2000 ${\mathrm{m}}^3/\mathrm{h}$. The results indicate significant disparities at maximum capacity (2000 ${\mathrm{m}}^3/\mathrm{h}$), with the starboard configuration exceeding the recommended Q per UVR by 4.95%, thus requiring operational adjustments. Six geometric modifications are assessed, revealing that optimized pipeline bends and T-junction designs (e.g., ST_3 and ST_4) improve velocity uniformity and maintain the relative Q distribution errors below 8.5%. This study identifies vortical structures generated by sharp geometrical transitions as primary contributors to flow instability. By bridging CFD insights with practical engineering constraints, this work provides feasible recommendations for retrofitting existing BWTSs and designing future systems, ultimately enhancing treatment efficacy, reducing UV lamp wear, and supporting compliance with International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards. Full article

This study explores the potential of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to enhance cement mechanical properties, aiming to develop more sustainable materials and reduce the industry’s carbon footprint. Using molecular dynamics (MDs) simulations, the effect of pristine and carboxyl-functionalized single-walled CNT incorporation on the mechanical properties of 11 Å tobermorite, a model for calcium–silicate–hydrate (CSH), was analyzed. The results demonstrated a significant increase in the elastic modulus (E) of the composite, with CNT content directly influencing this enhancement. Specifically, E increased from 77.05 GPa to 81.93 GPa upon the incorporation of pristine CNTs and further increased to 97.87 GPa with the introduction of carboxyl-functionalized CNTs. Composites containing functionalized CNTs exhibited a more pronounced increase in E, as the carboxyl groups formed hydrogen bonds with the tobermorite structure, thereby reinforcing interactions and improving mechanical properties. Thus, increasing functionalization allows for lower reinforcement content, reducing costs and CNT aggregation, as observed in experimental studies. These findings underscore the potential of functionalized CNTs to strengthen cementitious materials, offering an alternative to traditional additives. This approach could contribute to reducing the carbon emissions associated with cement production, thereby supporting the development of more sustainable and environmentally friendly cement alternatives. Full article

Polylactic acid (PLA) and poly(ethylene adipate) (PEA) are biodegradable, biobased polymers renowned for their versatility and environmental advantages. This study explores the potential of PLA-PEA blends as green binders in the metal injection molding (MIM) process, a crucial manufacturing technique for producing complex metal components. Substituting conventional, environmentally harmful binders with these blends offers a sustainable strategy to reduce the environmental footprint of MIM. Achieving compatibility between binder components is essential to ensure optimal molding performance in this application. To evaluate this compatibility, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were employed to analyze the interaction and miscibility of both polymers. Simulations across various blend compositions and temperatures consistently yielded negative Flory–Huggins interaction parameters, demonstrating strong miscibility between PLA and PEA. Notably, blends with lower PEA content exhibited the most favorable compatibility. Radial distribution function analyses further confirmed these results, revealing enhanced miscibility with lower-molecular-weight PEA. This study underscores the potential of PLA-PEA blends as sustainable alternative binders in MIM, advancing the use of biobased materials in energy-efficient and eco-friendly industrial processes. By integrating PLA into MIM, this research contributes to the development of greener engineering practices and highlights the viability of sustainable material solutions for industrial applications. Full article

The application of non-Saccharomyces yeast in mixed fermentations with Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a useful tool to enhance wine quality. In this study, Metschnikowia fructicola Mf278 and Pichia kluyveri Pk1 were used in sequential fermentations with S. cerevisiae XG3 to ferment grape musts from Albariño and Lado. The development of fermentations was monitored by daily measurements of density and temperature, and sampling at the beginning, tumultuous, and final stages for microbiological control. The basic chemical parameters of wine were determined using the OIV official methodology, whereas the fermentative aroma compounds were quantified by GC–MS. M. fructicola Mf278 and P. kluyveri Pk1 were the predominant yeasts at the initial stages of sequential fermentations but, after the addition of S. cerevisiae XG3, they rapidly declined. A codominance of different S. cerevisiae strains was observed at the middle and final stages of fermentation. At the chemical level, Mf278 lowered the volatile acidity and increased the glycerol content of wines. Moreover, M. Mf278 and Pk1 increased the content of fermentative esters and fatty acids of wines. These compounds contribute fruity and floral notes to the wines that stood out over wines made only with S. cerevisiae, and were better valued at the sensory level. Full article

This study investigates the interaction between copper (Cu) and silver (Ag) clusters and graphene-based materials using molecular dynamics simulations. It focuses on how graphene oxidation and aminated polyethylene glycol (PEG-NH₂) functionalization influence interaction strength and cluster dynamics. The analysis includes pristine graphene (PG), low-oxidized graphene oxide (GOL), and PEGylated graphene oxide (GO-PEG-NH₂). The results reveal that clusters on PG exhibit high mobility, while GO-PEG-NH₂ significantly restricts mobility due to strong interactions, as evidenced by highly negative interaction energies. GO-PEG-NH₂ systems also display pronounced subdiffusive behavior (α < 1), indicating strong binding and constrained motion. These findings underscore the critical role of PEG-NH₂ functionalization in controlling cluster diffusion, paving the way for innovative designs in biomedical and catalytic nanocarrier applications. Full article

The efficacy of natamycin (Fruitgard Nat 20) and Proallium (an extract of allium including propyl thiosulfinate oxide (PTSO)) against sour rot and green mold in mandarins was evaluated under controlled and commercial conditions. The study involved artificial inoculation of Nova, Tango, Orri, Afourer, Murcott, and Nules Clementine mandarins with isolates of Penicillium digitatum resistant to imazalil and pyrimethanil and an isolate of Geotrichum citri-aurantii susceptible to propiconazole fungicides. Under laboratory conditions, natamycin applied at 1500 µg mL⁻¹ significantly reduced green mold by 61.2% in Orri and sour rot by 62.8% in Nova and 80% in Tango. Increasing the concentration to 2000 µg mL⁻¹ further improved control of sour rot in Nova to 92.8%. In commercial trials, natamycin at 1500 µg mL⁻¹ was ineffective on Afourer; however, 2000 µg mL⁻¹ reduced sour rot by 39% on Nules Clementine. Proallium (12–16 µg mL⁻¹ PTSO) applied under controlled conditions effectively reduced green mold by 33% in Nova and 31% in Nules Clementine, and sour rot by 19%, 41%, and 36% in Nules Clementine, Nova, and Afourer, respectively. Under commercial conditions, using the same dose of Proallium, there was a 51.5% reduction in the incidence of imazalil and pyrimethanil-resistant P. digitatum strains and a 36.5% reduction in sour rot. Both natamycin and PTSO showed promising results for managing green mold caused by fungicide-resistant strains, but further research is needed to optimize control of sour rot in mandarins. Full article

Strawberry, a profitable crop, adapts well to diverse environments. This study evaluated the stability of fruit quality in different strawberry varieties produced as green plants without chilling during the harvest season in northern Uruguay. The focus was on understanding the impact of harvest date versus agricultural practices (different orchards and growers) on key fruit quality variables such as color, firmness, sugars, and acidity. Results indicated that the INIA Yrupé variety showed greater stability in external coloration and sugar content across harvest dates, suggesting that standardizing fruit coloration is viable under challenging conditions. INIA Guapa consistently met minimum requirements for soluble solids and ratio, with stable acidity and red coloration. Firmness was positively correlated with ratio (r = 0.81) and negatively impacted by rainfall 2–3 days before harvest. The findings suggest that harvest date has a more significant impact on INIA Yrupé fruit quality than growing conditions or practices, with variability observed in firmness and ratio but minimal variation in fruit coloration. These insights highlight the importance of harvest timing for maintaining stable fruit quality traits, which is crucial for breeding programs and ensuring consistent sensory quality and crop profitability. Full article

Yeasts play an essential role in the aroma and sensory profiles of wines. Spontaneous fermentations were carried out at the newly built winery of Granxa D’Outeiro. Yeasts were isolated from must at different stages of fermentation. Colonies belonging to Saccharomyces cerevisiae were characterised at the strain level by mtDNA-RFLPs. General chemical parameters and aroma profiles of the wines were determined using official OIV methodology and GC-MS analysis, respectively. The diversity of S. cerevisiae per fermentation ranged from 5 to 13 different strains depending on the grapevine variety. Out of 24 strains, strain B was the dominant yeast in most fermentations at different proportions, but strains D, E, and H also reached up to 25% of the total population in some fermentations. The yeast diversity was higher in the Lado fermentation than in those containing Treixadura. The chemical compositions of the wines revealed differences among them, with Loureira and Albariño wines showing the highest content of volatile compounds. The evaluation of their technological properties revealed the oenological potential of some strains of S. cerevisiae. The strains showing the best scores were selected to be used in future vintages to enhance the typicality of wines in the Granxa D’Outeiro winery. Full article

Japanese encephalitis is a disease caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) and is a concern for U.S. military personnel stationed in the Republic of Korea (ROK). The recent literature reports a potential shift from GI to GV as the dominant genotype circulating in east Asia. In the ROK, GV has been reported in a few Culex spp., but not in the main JEV vector, Cx. tritaeniorhynchus. The goal of this surveillance was to shed light on the current knowledge of the epidemiology of JEV in the ROK by analyzing mosquito collection data from three consecutive years, 2021–2023, and molecularly detecting and genotyping JEV in all Culex spp. collected in several military locations across the ROK. In this study, we detected only JEV GI in Cx. tritaeniorhynchus in 2021 samples. In contrast, all 2022 and 2023 positive samples were GV and detected in Cx. bitaeniorhynchus, Cx. orientalis, and Cx. pipiens. Results support a shift in JEV genotype in the ROK and suggest that for GV, Culex spp. other than Cx. tritaeniorhynchus may be playing an important role. Full article

Nature-based solutions (NBS) are frequently implemented without taking the system’s perspective into account and with the main focus on technical and economic issues of implementation. This study was conducted to test the hypothesis on the potential synergistic effects between circularity and NBS to holistically tackle urban challenges. The main objective is to establish preliminary insights on the obstacles and perspectives of NBS integration and implementation, through a questionnaire set up by the network of experts gathered within the COST Action CA17133 Circular City. The following research questions arise: (i) what differences exist in the level of NBS application according to the variance of engaged countries; and (ii) what are the main obstacles and perspectives for the NBS implementation in order to holistically tackle urban challenges, enhancing the sustainable connection among urban environment, nature, and human well-being. To go beyond the current state-of-the-art and reflect on the research conducted within the Circular City Action, this study aims to open a multi-geographical academic dialogue across Europe and beyond and to move towards a holistic approach to circular cities. Accordingly, this study is: (1) multi-geographical and context-based, providing input for thirty-three EU countries and four non-EU countries to give an overview of the main obstacles and perspectives of NBS implementation, and (2) approach-directed, aiming to formulate a holistic approach to deal with societal challenges. This document intends to provide qualitative and quantitative insight into the potentials and obstacles of NBS implementation in Europe, as well as to motivate further discussion and research to achieve holistic and sustainable cities. Full article