Search Results (4,626)

The extensive use of conventional pesticides has been a fundamental strategy in modern agriculture for controlling pests and increasing crop productivity; however, their improper application poses significant risks to human health and environmental sustainability. This review compiles scientific evidence linking pesticide exposure to oxidative stress and genotoxic damage, particularly affecting rural populations and commonly consumed foods, even at levels exceeding the maximum permissible limits in fruits, vegetables, and animal products. Additionally, excessive pesticide use has been shown to alter soil microbiota, negatively compromising long-term agricultural fertility. In response to these challenges, recent advances in nanotechnology offer promising alternatives. This review highlights the development of nanopesticides designed for controlled release, improved stability, and targeted delivery of active ingredients, thereby reducing environmental contamination and increasing efficacy. Moreover, emerging nanobiosensor technologies, such as e-nose and e-tongue systems, have shown potential for real-time monitoring of pesticide residues and soil health. Although pesticides are still necessary, it is crucial to implement stricter laws and promote sustainable solutions that ensure safe and responsible agricultural practices. The need for evidence-based public policy is emphasized to regulate pesticide use and protect both human health and agricultural resources. Full article

The countries and regions along the Belt and Road are rich in wetland carbon sink resources, crucial for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and achieving global emission reduction. This paper uses policy analysis and desk research to analyze the overview of wetland carbon sinks in these countries. It explores the necessity of legal system construction for their carbon sink trading. This study finds that smooth trading requires clear property rights definition rules, efficient market trading entities, definite carbon sink trading price rules, financial support aligned with the Equator Principles, and support from biodiversity-compatible environmental regulatory principles. Currently, there are still obstacles in wetland carbon sink trading in the Belt and Road, such as property rights confirmation, an accounting system, an imperfect market trading mechanism, and the coexistence of multiple trading risks. Therefore, this paper first proposes to clarify the goal of the legal guarantee mechanism. Efforts should focus on promoting a consensus on wetland carbon sink ownership and establishing a unified accounting standard system; simultaneously, the relevant departments should conduct field investigations and monitoring, standardize the market order, and strengthen government financial support and funding guarantees. Full article

Cell-free biosensors harness the selectivity of cellular machinery without living cells’ constraints, offering advantages in environmental monitoring, medical diagnostics, and biotechnological applications. This review examines recent advances in cell-free biosensor development, highlighting their ability to detect diverse analytes including heavy metals, organic pollutants, pathogens, and clinical biomarkers with high sensitivity and specificity. We analyze technological innovations in cell-free protein synthesis optimization, preservation strategies, and field deployment methods that have enhanced sensitivity, and practical applicability. The integration of synthetic biology approaches has enabled complex signal processing, multiplexed detection, and novel sensor designs including riboswitches, split reporter systems, and metabolic sensing modules. Emerging materials such as supported lipid bilayers, hydrogels, and artificial cells are expanding biosensor capabilities through microcompartmentalization and electronic integration. Despite significant progress, challenges remain in standardization, sample interference mitigation, and cost reduction. Future opportunities include smartphone integration, enhanced preservation methods, and hybrid sensing platforms. Cell-free biosensors hold particular promise for point-of-care diagnostics in resource-limited settings, environmental monitoring applications, and food safety testing, representing essential tools for addressing global challenges in healthcare, environmental protection, and biosecurity. Full article

Ocean energy is an abundant, eco-friendly, and renewable energy resource that is useful for powering sensor networks connected to the maritime Internet of Things (MIoT). These sensor networks can be used to measure different marine environmental parameters that affect ocean infrastructure integrity and harm marine ecosystems. This ocean energy can be harnessed through hybrid nanogenerators that combine triboelectric nanogenerators, electromagnetic generators, piezoelectric nanogenerators, and pyroelectric generators. These nanogenerators have advantages such as high-power density, robust design, easy operating principle, and cost-effective fabrication. However, the performance of these nanogenerators can be affected by the wear of their main components, reduction of wave frequency and amplitude, extreme corrosion, and sea storms. To address these challenges, future research on hybrid nanogenerators must improve their mechanical strength, including materials and packages with anti-corrosion coatings. Herein, we present recent advances in the performance of different hybrid nanogenerators to harvest ocean energy, including various transduction mechanisms. Furthermore, this review reports potential applications of hybrid nanogenerators to power devices in marine infrastructure or serve as self-powered MIoT monitoring sensor networks. This review discusses key challenges that must be addressed to achieve the commercial success of these nanogenerators, regarding design strategies with advanced simulation models or digital twins. Also, these strategies must incorporate new materials that improve the performance, reliability, and integration of future nanogenerator array systems. Thus, optimized hybrid nanogenerators can represent a promising technology for ocean energy harvesting with application in the maritime industry. Full article

Carassius auratus exhibits significant physiological and behavioral alterations under the combined stress of temperature and dissolved oxygen (DO) fluctuations, which are common challenges in aquaculture. In this investigation, we employed controlled thermal and DO gradients to characterize the multidimensional response profile of this species. The key findings revealed that thermal elevation profoundly influenced blood glucose and cortisol concentrations. Notably, exposure to hyperoxic conditions markedly attenuated stress responses relative to hypoxia at equivalent temperatures: cortisol levels were significantly suppressed (reductions of 60.11%, 118.06%, and 34.72%), while blood glucose levels exhibited concurrent increases (16.42%, 26.43%, and 26.34%). Distinctive behavioral patterns, including floating head behavior, surface swimming behavior, and rollover behavior, were identified as indicative behaviors of thermal–oxygen stress. Molecular analysis demonstrated the upregulated expression of stress-associated genes (HSP70, HSP90, HIF-1α, and Prdx3), which correlated temporally with elevated cortisol and glucose concentrations and the manifestation of stress behaviors. Furthermore, a muscle texture assessment indicated that increased DO availability mitigated the textural deterioration induced by heat stress. Collectively, this work establishes an authentic biomarker framework, providing crucial threshold parameters essential for the development of intelligent, real-time environmental monitoring and dynamic regulation systems to enhance climate-resilient aquaculture management. Full article

Oil spill simulation models are essential for predicting the oil spill behavior and movement in marine environments. In this study, we comprehensively reviewed a large and diverse body of peer-reviewed literature obtained from Scopus and Web of Science. Our initial analysis phase focused on examining trends in scientific publications, utilizing the complete dataset derived after systematic screening and database integration. In the second phase, we applied elements of a systematic review to identify and evaluate the most influential contributions in the scientific field of oil spill simulations. Our analysis revealed a steady and accelerating growth of research activity over the past five decades, with a particularly notable expansion in the last two. The field has also experienced a marked increase in collaborative practices, including a rise in international co-authorship and multi-authored contributions, reflecting a more global and interdisciplinary research landscape. We cataloged the key modeling frameworks that have shaped the field from established systems such as OSCAR, OIL-MAP/SIMAP, and GNOME to emerging hybrid and Lagrangian approaches. Hydrodynamic models were consistently central, often integrated with biogeochemical, wave, atmospheric, and oil-spill-specific modules. Environmental variables such as wind, ocean currents, and temperature were frequently used to drive model behavior. Geographically, research has concentrated on ecologically and economically sensitive coastal and marine regions. We conclude that future progress will rely on the real-time integration of high-resolution environmental data streams, the development of machine-learning-based surrogate models to accelerate computations, and the incorporation of advanced biodegradation and weathering mechanisms supported by experimental data. These advancements are expected to enhance the accuracy, responsiveness, and operational value of oil spill modeling tools, supporting environmental monitoring and emergency response. Full article

Exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) can cause detrimental health effects. The consumption of contaminated food is viewed as a major exposure pathway for humans, but the relationship between agriculture and PFASs has not been investigated thoroughly, and it is becoming a pressing issue since health advisories are continuously being reassessed. This semi-systematic literature review connects the release, environmental fate, and agriculture uptake of PFASs to enhance comprehension and identify knowledge gaps which limit accurate risk assessment. It focuses on the heavily agricultural state of Minnesota, USA, which is representative of the large Midwestern US Corn Belt in terms of agricultural activities, because PFASs have been monitored in Minnesota since the beginning of the 21st century. PFAS contamination is a complex issue due to the over 14,000 individual PFAS compounds which have unique chemical properties that interact differently with air, water, soil, and biological systems. Moreover, the lack of field studies and monitoring of agricultural sites makes accurate risk assessments challenging. Researchers, policymakers, and farmers must work closely together to reduce the risk of PFAS exposure as the understanding of their potential health effects increases and legacy PFASs are displaced with shorter fluorinated replacements. Full article

Demand Side Management (DSM) plays a crucial role in modern energy systems, enabling more efficient use of energy resources and contributing to the sustainability of the power grid. This study examines DSM strategies within a multi-environment context encompassing residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, with a focus on diverse appliance types that exhibit distinct operational characteristics and user preferences. Initially, a single-objective optimization approach using Genetic Algorithms (GAs) is employed to minimize the total energy cost under a real Time-of-Use (ToU) pricing scheme. This heuristic method allows for the effective scheduling of appliance operations while factoring in their unique characteristics such as power consumption, usage duration, and user-defined operational flexibility. This study extends the optimization problem to a multi-objective framework that incorporates the minimization of CO₂ emissions under a real annual energy mix while also accounting for user discomfort. The Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) is utilized for this purpose, providing a Pareto-optimal set of solutions that balances these competing objectives. The inclusion of multiple objectives ensures a comprehensive assessment of DSM strategies, aiming to reduce environmental impact and enhance user satisfaction. Additionally, this study monitors the Peak-to-Average Ratio (PAR) to evaluate the impact of DSM strategies on load balancing and grid stability. It also analyzes the impact of considering different periods of the year with the associated ToU hourly schedule and CO₂ emissions hourly profile. A key innovation of this research is the integration of detailed, category-specific metrics that enable the disaggregation of costs, emissions, and user discomfort across residential, commercial, and industrial appliances. This granularity enables stakeholders to implement tailored strategies that align with specific operational goals and regulatory compliance. Also, the emphasis on a user discomfort indicator allows us to explore the flexibility available in such DSM mechanisms. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed multi-objective optimization approach in achieving significant cost savings that may reach 20% for industrial applications, while the order of magnitude of the trade-offs involved in terms of emissions reduction, improvement in discomfort, and PAR reduction is quantified for different frameworks. The outcomes not only underscore the efficacy of applying advanced optimization frameworks to real-world problems but also point to pathways for future research in smart energy management. This comprehensive analysis highlights the potential of advanced DSM techniques to enhance the sustainability and resilience of energy systems while also offering valuable policy implications. Full article

Accurate micro gas flow measurement is critical for medical ventilator calibration, environmental gas monitoring, and semiconductor manufacturing. Laminar flowmeters are widely employed in micro gas flow measurement applications owing to their inherent advantages of high linearity, the absence of moving components, and a broad measurement range. Nevertheless, due to the low measurement accuracy under micro gas flow caused by nonlinear errors and a relatively complex structure, traditional laminar flow measurement devices exhibit limitations in micro gas flow measurement scenarios. This study proposes a novel micro gas flow measurement method based on a single capillary laminar flow element, which simplifies the structure and enhances applicability in the field of micro gas flow. Through structural optimization with precise control of the capillary length–diameter ratios and theoretical error correction based on computational analysis, nonlinear errors were effectively reduced while improving the measurement accuracy in the field of micro gas flow. The proposed methodology was systematically validated through computational fluid dynamics simulations (ANSYS Fluent 2021 R1) and experimental investigations using a dedicated test platform. The experimental results show that the relative error of the measurement system within the full measurement range is less than ±0.6% (1–10 cm³/min; cm³/min means cubic centimeter per minute), and its accuracy is superior to 1% of reading (1% Rd) or 1.5% of reading (1.5% Rd) of conventional laminar flowmeters. The fitting curve of the flow rate versus the pressure difference derived from the measurement results maintains an excellent linear correlation (R² > 0.99), thus confirming that this method has practical application value in the field of micro gas flow measurement. Full article

Biosphere Reserves (BRs), designated by UNESCO, are uniquely positioned to serve as model territories for sustainable development, as they aim to harmonize biodiversity conservation with the socio-economic vitality and cultural identity of local communities. This work examines the commitment of the Spanish Network of Biosphere Reserves to the United Nations 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Using a survey-based research design, this study assesses the extent to which the reserves have integrated the SDGs into their strategic frameworks and operational practices. It also identifies and analyses successful initiatives and best practices implemented across Spain that exemplify this integration. The findings highlight the need for enhanced awareness and understanding of the 2030 Agenda among stakeholders, alongside stronger mechanisms for participation, cooperation, and governance. The conclusion emphasises the importance of equipping all reserves with strategic planning tools and robust systems for monitoring, evaluation, and accountability. Moreover, the analysis of exemplary cases reveals the transformative potential of sustainability-oriented projects—not only in advancing environmental goals but also in revitalizing local economies and reinforcing cultural heritage. These insights contribute to a broader understanding of how BRs can act as dynamic laboratories for sustainable development and heritage preservation. Full article

This paper presents an annual, real-world evaluation of the performance and economics of a residential photovoltaic (PV) system coupled with a battery energy storage system (BESS) in southern Poland. The system, monitored with 5 min resolution, operated under time-of-use (TOU) electricity tariffs. Seasonal variation was significant; self-sufficiency exceeded 90% in summer, while winter conditions increased grid dependency. The hybrid system reduced electricity costs by over EUR 1400 annually, with battery operation optimized for high-tariff periods. Comparative analysis of three configurations—grid-only, PV-only, and PV + BESS—demonstrated the economic advantage of the integrated solution, with the shortest payback period (9.0 years) achieved with financial support. However, grid voltage instability during high PV production led to inverter shutdowns, highlighting limitations in the infrastructure. This study emphasizes the importance of tariff strategies, environmental conditions, and voltage control when designing residential PV-BESS systems. Full article

Plastic pollution is a growing environmental and social concern, particularly in Southeast Asia, where urban rivers serve as key pathways for transporting waste to marine environments. This scoping review examines 110 peer-reviewed studies to understand how plastic pollution in waterways is being researched, addressed, and reconceptualized. Drawing from the literature across environmental science, technology, and social studies, we identify four interconnected areas of focus: urban pollution pathways, innovations in monitoring and methods, community-based interventions, and interdisciplinary perspectives. Our analysis combines qualitative synthesis with visual mapping techniques, including keyword co-occurrence networks, to explore how real-time tools, such as IoT sensors, multi-sensor systems, and geospatial technologies, are transforming the ways plastic waste is tracked and analyzed. The review also considers the growing use of novel theoretical frameworks, such as post-phenomenology and ecological materialism, to better understand the role of plastics as both pollutants and ecological agents. Despite progress, the literature reveals persistent gaps in longitudinal studies, regional representation, and policy translation, particularly across the Global South. We emphasize the value of participatory models and community-led research in bridging these gaps and advancing more inclusive and responsive solutions. These insights inform the development of plastic tracker technologies currently being piloted in Vietnam and contribute to broader sustainability goals, including SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 14 (Life Below Water). Full article

Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis has emerged as a transformative tool in environmental monitoring, enabling non-invasive detection of species and microbial communities across diverse ecosystems. This study systematically reviews the role of bioinformation technology in eDNA analysis, focusing on methodologies and applications across air, soil, groundwater, sediment, and aquatic environments. Advances in molecular biology, high-throughput sequencing, bioinformatics tools, and field-deployable detection systems have significantly improved eDNA detection sensitivity, allowing for early identification of invasive species, monitoring ecosystem health, and tracking pollutant degradation processes. Airborne eDNA monitoring has demonstrated potential for assessing microbial shifts due to air pollution and tracking pathogen transmission. In terrestrial environments, eDNA facilitates soil and groundwater pollution assessments and enhances understanding of biodegradation processes. In aquatic ecosystems, eDNA serves as a powerful tool for biodiversity assessment, invasive species monitoring, and wastewater-based epidemiology. Despite its growing applicability, challenges remain, including DNA degradation, contamination risks, and standardization of sampling protocols. Future research should focus on integrating eDNA data with remote sensing, machine learning, and ecological modeling to enhance predictive environmental monitoring frameworks. As technological advancements continue, eDNA-based approaches are poised to revolutionize environmental assessment, conservation strategies, and public health surveillance. Full article

Non-polio enteroviruses continue to cause numerous epidemics world-wide that range from mild to severe disease, including acute flaccid paralysis, meningitis, severe respiratory infections and encephalitis. Using publicly available data we present a comprehensive global and regional temporal distribution of non-polio enteroviruses, with a focus on highly prevalent genotypes. We found that regional distribution did vary compared to global prevalence where the top prevalent genotypes included CVA6 and EV-A71 in Asia, EV-D68 in North America and CVA13 in Africa, while E-30 was prevalent in Europe, South America and Oceania. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic did interrupt non-polio enterovirus detections globally, and cases rebounded in subsequent years, albeit at lower prevalence and with decreased genotype diversity. Environmental surveillance for non-polio enteroviruses does occur and has been used in some regions as an early-warning system; however, further development is needed to effectively supplement potential gaps in clinical surveillance data. Overall, monitoring for non-polio enteroviruses is critical to identify true incidence, improve understanding of genotype circulation, provide an early warning system for emerging/re-emerging genotypes and allow for better outbreak control. Full article

Increased food production demands, labor shortages, and environmental concerns are driving the need for innovative agricultural technologies. However, effective adoption depends critically on aligning robot innovations with the needs of farmers. This paper examines the alignment between the needs of farmers and the robotic systems used in row crop farming. We review current commercial agricultural robots and research, and map these to the needs of farmers, as expressed in the literature, to identify the key issues holding back large-scale adoption. From initial pool of 184 research articles, 19 survey articles, and 82 commercial robotic solutions, we selected 38 peer-reviewed academic studies, 12 survey articles, and 18 commercially available robots for in-depth review and analysis for this study. We identify the key challenges faced by farmers and map them directly to the current and emerging capabilities of agricultural robots. We supplement the data gathered from the literature review of surveys and case studies with in-depth interviews with nine farmers to obtain deeper insights into the needs and day-to-day operations. Farmers reported mixed reactions to current technologies, acknowledging efficiency improvements but highlighting barriers such as capital costs, technical complexity, and inadequate support systems. There is a notable demand for technologies for improved plant health monitoring, soil condition assessment, and enhanced climate resilience. We then review state-of-the-art robotic solutions for row crop farming and map these technological capabilities to the farmers’ needs. Only technologies with field validation or operational deployment are included, to ensure practical relevance. These mappings generate insights that underscore the need for lightweight and modular robot technologies that can be adapted to diverse farming practices, as well as the need for farmers’ education and simpler interfaces to robotic operations and data analysis that are actionable for farmers. We conclude with recommendations for future research, emphasizing the importance of co-creation with the farming community to ensure the adoption and sustained use of agricultural robotic solutions. Full article