Search Results (20,417)

Microalgae grow rapidly, require minimal space, can proliferate in non-agricultural land, do not compete with human food sources, and can be cultivated in a variety of environments, including wastewater. They are considered an ecological source of bioactive compounds, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional industrial production methods, which are often resource-intensive. It is important to emphasize that both the species of microalgae and the specific culture conditions play a decisive role in the generation and storage of valuable bioactive compounds, which can act as biostimulants. Biostimulants are organic compounds or microorganisms capable of enhancing crop quality parameters by optimizing nutrient and water use efficiency, while also strengthening tolerance to abiotic stress. The aim of this article is to provide an updated understanding of biostimulants, their modes of action, and their role in regulating plant responses to abiotic stress. It further incorporates examples of successful trials that demonstrate the advantageous applications of microalgae-based biostimulants, while also addressing the barriers and limitations to their commercialization and integration into sustainable agricultural practices. Full article

This narrative review explores the role of artificial light at night (ALAN) as an emerging environmental determinant of liver and metabolic health, with particular emphasis on its contribution to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). The objective was to synthesize and critically evaluate experimental and epidemiological evidence linking nocturnal light exposure, circadian disruption, and hepatic metabolic alterations. Literature was retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases covering the period 1980–2025 using predefined search terms related to ALAN, circadian rhythm disturbance, melatonin suppression, sleep disruption, and MASLD. Relevant experimental studies in animal models and observational studies in humans were included. Evidence indicates that blue-enriched light (~460–480 nm) suppresses melatonin, desynchronizes central and hepatic circadian clocks, and disrupts glucose–lipid metabolism, leading to insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and hepatic steatosis. Chronic ALAN exposure also alters gut microbiota composition and increases intestinal permeability, suggesting a light–gut–liver axis in MASLD pathogenesis. Human epidemiological studies associate higher environmental ALAN exposure with obesity, metabolic syndrome, and poor sleep quality—recognized risk factors for MASLD. Recognizing ALAN as a modifiable environmental exposure highlights the need for public health strategies and clinical guidelines to mitigate its metabolic impact through improved lighting design and sleep hygiene. Full article

As global population ageing accelerates and urban governance increasingly prioritizes livability and age-friendly services, the 15-minute living circles concept has emerged as a key strategy to support daily walking exercise, social participation, and healthy ageing. In waterfront cities, blue spaces function as important everyday settings that contribute to environmental quality, recreational opportunities, and ecosystem services for older adults. This study extends the conventional 5D built environment framework by explicitly integrating blue space elements and characterizes older adults’ walking behaviour using four indicators across two dimensions (temporal and preference-based). We applied XGBoost regression and multiscale geographically weighted regression (MGWR) to identify threshold effects and spatial heterogeneity of blue space elements on older adults’ walking, and used K-means clustering to delineate blue space advantage zones within living circles. The results show that blue space accessibility, street scale, and water body density exhibit significant nonlinear relationships with older adults’ walking. Blue space elements shape walking behavior differentially and with pronounced spatial variation: in some living circles they encourage longer, recreational walks, while in others they stimulate high-frequency, short-distance walking. These effects produce destination preferences and time period preferences. The study highlights the pivotal role of blue spaces in age-friendly living circles and, based on spatial synergies among blue space advantage zones and their components, proposes renewal strategies including expanding the functional reach of blue spaces, constructing blue slow-walking corridors, and integrating blue–green symbiotic networks. Full article

This research focuses on vehicle Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), with particular emphasis on Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) systems which is designed to help drivers keep a vehicle centered within its lane and reduce the risk of unintentional lane departures. These kinds of systems detect lane boundaries using computer vision algorithms applied to video data captured by a forward-facing camera and interpret this visual information to provide corrective steering inputs or driver alerts. The research investigates the performance, reliability, sustainability, and limitations of LKA systems under adverse road and environmental conditions, such as wet pavement and in the presence of degraded, partially visible, or missing horizontal road markings. Improving the reliability of lane detection and keeping systems enhances road safety, reducing traffic accidents caused by lane departures, which directly supports social sustainability. For the theoretical test, a modified road model using MATLAB software was used to simulate poor road markings and to investigate possible test outcomes. A series of field tests were conducted on multiple passenger vehicles equipped with LKA technologies to evaluate their response in real-world scenarios. The results show that it is very important to ensure high quality horizontal road markings as specified in UNECE Regulation No. 130, as lane keeping aids are not uniformly effective. Furthermore, the study highlights the need to develop more robust line detection algorithms capable of adapting to diverse road and weather conditions, thereby enhancing overall driving safety and system reliability. LKA system research supports sustainable mobility strategies promoted by international organizations—aiming to transition to safer, smarter, and less polluting transportation systems. Full article

Ultrafine particles, as raw materials for various industries such as construction and environmental protection, are currently obtained through repeated ball milling and multiple classifications, but classification efficiency remains at a low level. Based on the principle of hydrocyclone classification, this paper designs a hydrocyclone with a triple-vortex finder structure that can achieve finer particle size distributions without altering the main structure of the hydrocyclone. The classification performance of the triple-vortex finder hydrocyclone is investigated through numerical analysis and experimental methods, with numerical comparisons made to single-vortex finder and double-vortex finder structures. The results indicate that with an increase in the number of vortex finders, the static pressure and tangential velocity gradually decrease, reducing the likelihood of tangential vortex formation while meeting classification requirements. The axial velocity in the triple-vortex finder structure is significantly reduced, which extends the residence time within the hydrocyclone and facilitates sufficient particle classification. As the number of vortex finders increases, the zero-velocity envelope surface (LZVV) gradually migrates inward, enlarging the external swirling classification space. Through numerical and experimental analyses, it is found that the triple-vortex finder hydrocyclone exhibits the highest classification efficiency, the strongest cutting ability, and the best classification accuracy. Compared to the single-vortex finder structure, the cutting particle size of the triple-vortex finder hydrocyclone decreases by 2.5 µm, and the content of fine particles in the underflow is reduced by 4.36 percentage points, effectively decreasing the fine particle content in the underflow. The quality efficiency improves by 18.85 percentage points compared to the single-vortex finder, while the quantity efficiency shows no significant decline. The obtained data provide a theoretical foundation and data support for the structural design of the new hydrocyclone. Full article

Water-extractable carbon is thought to originate from labile organic carbon pools and has been used as an active carbon indicator for soil evaluation in numerous studies. This study aims to explore the regional variation patterns of water-extractable organic carbon (WEOC) and the environmental impact factors associated with it. It examines the variability of WEOC under different climatic conditions and land use types, including grasslands and woodlands, thereby enhancing our understanding of WEOC. We measured the WEOC in the surface soil layers (0–10 cm) of woodlands and grasslands in arid and semi-arid regions. Additionally, we analyzed the effects of varying climatic conditions and land use types on WEOC based on data from literature research. WEOC distribution patterns diverged spatially from soil organic carbon (SOC). WEOC fractions decreased with increasing precipitation, and surface soil WEOC accumulation was observed in arid regions. This accumulation was more pronounced in forest-land, resulting in a more marked divergence in WEOC concentrations between woodlands and grasslands in arid regions. We inferred that the inconsistent correlation between WEOC and SOC across regions arises from their distinct distribution patterns along environmental humidity gradients. Owing to the climate sensitivity of WEOC, its surface soil accumulation in arid areas may increase the vulnerability of soil ecosystems, rendering them more susceptible to environmental disturbances. Such susceptibility could drive organic carbon loss and soil quality degradation. These findings hold promise for improving our understanding of WEOC dynamic, and will also give insight into refining soil carbon balance models and soil management strategies to address environmental changes. Full article

Because of their exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and low weight, materials such as titanium, aluminum, and others are becoming increasingly popular. The application scope of additive manufacturing (AM) in the aerospace sector continues to expand. Because of its high performance and low coefficient of thermal expansion, AlSi10Mg processed by laser-based powder bed fusion (LPBF) is becoming increasingly popular in lightweight aerospace component design. Nonetheless, the AM technique has a number of benefits; poor surface quality is the only drawback, necessitating post-processing. This study aims to focus on the machinability of AlSi10Mg under three distinct environmental conditions (dry, minimum quantity lubrication (MQL), and SL-MQL). The experimental investigations were centered on chip morphology, flank wear (Vb), surface roughness (Ra), and cutting temperature (Tc). SL-MQL reduced the roughness by 53–57% over dry machining and 23–29% over MQL condition, and in a similar way lessened the flank wear by 36–40% over dry machining and 12–15% over MQL condition. In addition, to check the predictive accuracy and optimize machining parameters, four machine learning models were used: Gaussian Process Regression (GPR), Bagging, Multilayer Perceptron (MLP), and Random Forest (RF). In both the training and testing stages, MLP consistently demonstrated superior performance across all parameters in comparison to other algorithms, achieving high levels of accuracy and low error rates. Full article

Despite severe particulate matter (PM) pollution in Central Asia, limited air composition and health impact data are hindering sustainable air quality management and resilient urban planning. This study provides the first comprehensive assessment of PM_2.5 and PM_2.5–10 in the urban environment of Astana, Kazakhstan, a rapidly expanding city with intense winter heating demands. We characterized PM and atmospheric precipitation and assessed health risks using bioaccessible fractions of PM-bound potentially toxic elements (PTEs). Among 388 samples, PM_2.5 and PM_2.5–10 concentrations peaked at 534 and 1564 μg·m⁻³, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) identified soot and coal fly ash, indicating fossil fuel combustion as a major source. Precipitation characterization also showed elevated SO₄²⁻ (17.8 μg⋅L⁻¹), V (108 μg⋅L⁻¹), Ni (84.0 μg⋅L⁻¹), and Mn (63.2 μg⋅L⁻¹). Bioaccessibility tests showed high solubility for Fe (16,229 mg·kg⁻¹) followed by V: key indicators of combustion emissions. Non-carcinogenic risk for Ni and V exceeded acceptable limits for adults and children (e.g., HQ: 6.07 for V for adults). Carcinogenic risk exceeded the threshold 10⁻⁶ for Cd (adults), Co, Cr, and Ni. These findings may help advance urban air quality management via integrating bioaccessibility-based health risk assessment and source apportionment, supporting evidence-driven policies for environmentally responsible development in rapidly urbanizing cold-climate regions. Full article

This study investigates how external insulation materials used for energy efficiency affect indoor radon accumulation, using a scale model room built with ignimbrite, a highly radon-emitting volcanic rock. Two insulation materials—mineral wool (open-cell, 98% porosity) and extruded polystyrene (XPS, closed-cell, >95%)—were applied to the outer walls of the model room. Their effects were tested in combination with three internal radon barriers (silane-terminated membrane, silicone sealant, bitumen membrane) and under varying ventilation rates (0.11 h⁻¹ and 0.44 h⁻¹). Radon concentrations were measured using calibrated detectors over five experimental phases. Without ventilation, XPS increased indoor radon by up to +351%, while mineral wool showed a milder effect (+26%). The silicone sealant reduced radon by up to 90%, outperforming other barriers. Ventilation significantly lowered radon levels, simulating the “flushing” effect of wind. The combination of impermeable insulation and lack of air exchange led to the highest radon accumulation. High-performance insulation can compromise indoor air quality by trapping radon, especially in buildings with high geogenic radon potential. Effective mitigation requires pairing insulation with high-performing radon barriers and adequate ventilation. These findings highlight the need to balance energy efficiency with indoor environmental safety. Full article

This study evaluated regional and seasonal variations in cobalt (Co), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) concentrations in the serum and milk of she-camels and their calves across five regions of Saudi Arabia to evaluate their potential as bioindicators of environmental contamination. A total of 450 biological and environmental samples (serum, milk, soil, water, and feed) were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP–OES). Regional, seasonal, and physiological effects were assessed by analysis of variance and Pearson correlation. Serum Co varied significantly (p < 0.05) by region and season, with the highest values in the Eastern region during spring. She-camel cadmium showed significant regional differences, particularly higher concentrations in the Southern region, while Pb displayed pronounced seasonal variation, peaking in spring serum and milk of she-camel. In she-camel milk, Co, Cd, and Pb were significantly influenced by region and season interactions (p < 0.05). Correlation analysis revealed strong positive associations between Cd and Pb (r = 0.85, p < 0.001) and between Co and Pb (r = 0.70, p < 0.01), indicating shared exposure pathways. In conclusions, although all metal concentrations remained below FAO/WHO permissible limits, the observed variability highlights the camel’s value as a bioindicator of environmental contamination. Continued monitoring is recommended to safeguard food safety and support Saudi Vision 2030 sustainability goals. Full article

Shellfish aquaculture is considered a major pillar of the seafood industry for its high market value, which increases the value for global food security and sustainability, often constrained in terms of conventional, labor-intensive practices. This review outlines the importance of automation and its advances in the shellfish value chain, starting from the hatchery operations to harvesting, processing, traceability, and logistics. Emerging technologies such as imaging, computer vision, artificial intelligence, robotics, IoT, blockchain, and RFID provide a major impact in transforming the shellfish sector by improving the efficiency, reducing the labor costs and environmental impacts, enhancing the food safety, and providing transparency throughout the supply chain. The studies involving the bivalves and crustaceans on their automated feeding, harvesting, grading, depuration, non-destructive quality assessments, and smart monitoring in transportation are highlighted in this review to address concerns involved with conventional practices. The review puts forth the need for integrating automated technologies into farm management and post-harvest operations to scale shellfish aquaculture sustainably, meeting the rising global demand while aligning with the Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs). Full article

This study presents a monitoring-calibrated, systems-level retrofit assessment for a 15-year-old Grade-A office building in Beijing, China (temperate monsoon climate). One year of continuous monitoring (2023–2024) was combined with calibrated multi-physics simulations (EnergyPlus/DesignBuilder, Radiance, representative CFD) to evaluate retrofit scenarios for lighting, envelope and HVAC systems. Baseline EUI = 108 kWh·m⁻²·yr⁻¹ (total site electricity ≈ 3,088,893 kWh·yr⁻¹). HVAC accounted for ≈48% of site electricity. Key findings: (1) LED lighting retrofit delivered measured lighting savings of ~26.7% (simulated potential up to ~32.7%) but may increase cooling loads in some operating regimes (simulated +8.3%) if not coordinated with HVAC and envelope measures; (2) glazing upgrades and airtightness improvements materially increase HVAC savings; (3) a prioritized, phased retrofit (lighting → envelope → HVAC) can capture ~80–85% of integrated carbon reductions while lowering immediate CAPEX and business disruption; (4) scheduling major HVAC upgrades before the cooling season and envelope works during transitional months improves operational and economic outcomes. Calibration and uncertainty metrics are reported (annual energy error < 5%). Full article

This research explores the effects of milling on fecal sludge (FS) biochar with an emphasis on milling time (5, 10, and 15 min) and ball-to-powder ratio (BPR) (4.533 g/g, 9.067 g/g, and 10.5 g/g). FS biochar was prepared through slow co-pyrolysis of a 50:50 mixture (by weight) of fecal sludge and rice husk powder at 550 °C. The resultant FS biochar with good qualities was subjected to methylene blue (MB) dye adsorption at varying FS biochar weights (0.05 g, 0.1 g, and 0.15 g) and adsorption durations. The BSA peaked at 50 m²/g for a BPR of 10.5 g/g and a milling duration of 10 min. Prolonged milling (15 min) led to structural degradation and reduced BET surface area (BSA). The pore volume peaked at a BPR of 9.067 g/g for shorter milling times and 10.5 g/g for extended milling. The SEM revealed that a milling time of 10 min at a BPR of 9.067 g/g provided the best balance between particle size reduction and uniform morphology, minimizing agglomeration. MB adsorption revealed that FS biochar milled for 10 min and 9.067 g/g BPR demonstrated the best properties. These findings highlight the potential of FS biochar for applications in environmental remediation and agricultural fields, contributing to resource recovery from FS. Full article

As climate change mitigation intensifies, retrofitting existing buildings has emerged as a critical and cost-effective strategy to improve energy performance, resilience, and sustainability. This systematic literature review (SLR) analysed 97 peer-reviewed articles published between 2015 and 2025, retrieved from the Scopus database using a title-based search strategy combining keywords related to building performance and retrofit actions. A five-stage screening process was employed to refine results based on publication type, discipline relevance, and research alignment. VOSviewer was used for scientometric mapping, complemented by descriptive and content analyses, to identify six thematic clusters: envelope optimisation, energy economics, environmental quality, system efficiency, passive retrofitting, and digital/data-driven planning. The review also applies a PESTEL framework to evaluate retrofit benefits across political, economic, social, technological, environmental, and legal dimensions. Finally, seven future research directions are proposed, including digital twin (DT) integration, artificial intelligence (AI) adoption, circular economy (CE) principles, stakeholder engagement, and climate-resilient design. By consolidating fragmented research, this study provides actionable insights for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers, establishing building retrofitting as a strategic pathway toward sustainable and climate-responsive urban development. Full article

This study evaluates the performance of seven large language models (LLMs) in generating context-aware recommendations. The system is built on a collection of PDF documents (brochures) describing local events and activities, which are embedded into an FAISS vector store to support semantic retrieval. Synthetic user profiles are defined to simulate diverse preferences, while static weather conditions are incorporated to enhance the contextual relevance of recommendations. To further improve output quality, a reranking step, utilizing Cohere’s API, is used to refine the top retrieved results before passing them to the LLMs for final response generation. This allows better semantic organization of relevant content in line with user context. The main aim of this research is to identify which models best integrate multimodal inputs, such as user intent, profile attributes, environmental context and how these insights can inform the development of adaptive, personalized recommendation systems. The main contribution of this study is a structured comparative analysis of 7 LLMs, applied to a tourism-specific RAG framework, providing practical insights into how effectively different models integrate contextual factors to produce personalized recommendations. The evaluation revealed notable differences in model performance, with Qwen and Phi emerging as the strongest performers, whereas LLaMA frequently produced irrelevant recommendations. Moreover, many models favored gastronomy-related venues over other types of attractions. These findings indicate that although the RAG framework provides a solid foundation, the selection of underlying models plays an important role in achieving high quality recommendations. Full article