Search Results (15,420)

Rhabditis (Rhabditella) axei is a predominantly free-living nematode commonly found in sewage systems and decomposing organic matter. While primarily saprophytic, it has been documented as an opportunistic pathogen in human urinary and gastrointestinal tracts. The Chinese red panda (Ailurus styani), a rare and protected species in China, has not previously been reported as a host for Rhabditis (Rhabditella) spp. infections. This study reports the first documented occurrence of R. axei in red panda feces, unambiguously confirmed through integrative taxonomic approaches combining morphological and molecular analyses. The nematodes exhibited key morphological features consistent with R. axei, including a cylindrical rhabditiform esophagus, sexually dimorphic tail structures, and diagnostic spicule morphology. Molecular analysis based on 18S-ITS-28S rDNA sequencing confirmed their identity, showing >99% sequence similarity to R. axei reference strains (GenBank: PP135624.1, PP135622.1). Phylogenetic reconstruction using 18S rDNA and ITS rDNA sequences placed the isolate within a well-supported R. axei clade, clearly distinguishing it from related species such as R. blumi and R. brassicae. The findings demonstrate the ecological plasticity of R. axei as a facultative parasite capable of infecting non-traditional hosts and further highlight potential zoonotic risks associated with environmental exposure in captive wildlife populations. Our results emphasize the indispensable role of molecular diagnostics in accurately distinguishing morphologically similar nematodes within the Rhabditidae family, while providing essential baseline data for health monitoring in both in situ and ex situ conservation programs for this endangered species. Full article

Coal serves as the primary energy source for China, with production anticipated to reach 4.76 billion tons in 2024. However, the mining process generates a significant amount of gangue, with approximately 800 million tons produced in 2023 alone. Currently, China faces substantial gangue stockpiles, characterized by a low comprehensive utilization rate that fails to meet the country’s ecological and environmental protection requirements. The environmental challenges posed by the treatment and disposal of gangue are becoming increasingly severe. This review employs bibliometric analysis and theoretical perspectives to examine the latest advancements in gangue utilization, specifically focusing on the application of computational chemistry to elucidate the structural features and interaction mechanisms of coal gangue, and to collate how these insights have been leveraged in the literature to inform its potential utilization routes. The aim is to promote the effective resource utilization of this material, and key topics discussed include evaluating the risks of spontaneous combustion associated with gangue, understanding the mechanisms governing heavy metal migration, and modifying coal byproducts to enhance both economic viability and environmental sustainability. The case studies presented in this article offer valuable insights into the gangue conversion process, contributing to the development of more efficient and eco-friendly methods. By proposing a theoretical framework, this review will support ongoing initiatives aimed at the sustainable management and utilization of coal gangue, emphasizing the critical need for continued research and development in this vital area. This review uniquely combines bibliometric analysis with computational chemistry to identify new trends and gaps in coal waste utilization, providing a roadmap for future research. Full article

Understanding the migratory strategies of plateau-endemic species is essential for informing effective conservation, especially under climate change. The Black-necked Crane (Grus nigricollis), a high-altitude specialist, has shown notable population growth in recent years. We analysed satellite tracking data from 16 individuals of a western subpopulation in the lake basin region of northern Tibet (2021–2024), focusing on migration patterns, stopover use, and habitat selection. This subpopulation exhibited short-distance (mean: 284.21 km), intra-Tibet migrations with low reliance on stopover sites. Autumn migration was shorter, more direct, higher in altitude, and slower in speed than spring migration. Juveniles used smaller, more fragmented habitats than subadults, and their spatial range expanded over time. Given these patterns, we infer that the short-distance migration strategy may reduce energetic demands and mortality risks while increasing route flexibility—characteristics that may benefit population growth. We refer to this as a low-energy, high-efficiency migration strategy, which we hypothesise could support faster population growth and enhance resilience to environmental change. We recommend prioritizing the conservation of short-distance migration corridors, such as the typical lake basin area in northern Tibet–Yarlung Tsangpo River system, which may help sustain plateau-endemic migratory populations under future climate scenarios. Full article

To address the shortcomings of poor convergence and the ease of falling into local optima when using the traditional gold rush optimization (GRO) algorithm to solve the complex scheduling problem of a combined cooling, heating, and power (CCHP) microgrid system, an optimal scheduling model for a microgrid based on the improved gold rush optimization (IGRO) algorithm is proposed. First, the Halton sequence is introduced to initialize the population, ensuring a uniform and diverse distribution of prospectors, which enhances the algorithm’s global exploration capability. Then, a dynamically adaptive weighting factor is applied during the gold mining phase, enabling the algorithm to adjust its strategy across different search stages by balancing global exploration and local exploitation, thereby improving the convergence efficiency of the algorithm. In addition, a weighted global optimal solution update strategy is employed during the cooperation phase, enhancing the algorithm’s global search capability while reducing the risk of falling into local optima by adjusting the balance of influence between the global best solution and local agents. Finally, a t-distribution mutation strategy is introduced to improve the algorithm’s local search capability and convergence speed. The IGRO algorithm is then applied to solve the microgrid scheduling problem, with the objective function incorporating power purchase and sale cost, fuel cost, maintenance cost, and environmental cost. The example results show that, compared with the GRO algorithm, the IGRO algorithm reduces the average total operating cost of the microgrid by 3.29%, and it achieves varying degrees of cost reduction compared to four other algorithms, thereby enhancing the system’s economic benefits. Full article

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of irreversible vision loss among the elderly, and is influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental risk factors. While genetic associations in AMD are well-established, the molecular mechanisms underlying disease onset and progression remain poorly understood. A growing body of evidence suggests that epigenetic modifications may serve as a potential missing link regulating gene–environment interactions. This review incorporates recent findings on DNA methylation, including both hypermethylation and hypomethylation patterns affecting genes such as silent mating type information regulation 2 homolog 1 (SIRT1), glutathione S-transferase isoform (GSTM), and SKI proto-oncogene (SKI), which may influence key pathophysiological drivers of AMD. We also examine histone modification patterns, chromatin accessibility, the status of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in AMD pathogenesis and in regulating pathways pertinent to the pathophysiology of the disease. While the field of ocular epigenetics remains in its infancy, accumulating evidence to date points to a burgeoning role for epigenetic regulation in AMD, pre-clinical studies have yielded promising findings for the prospect of epigenetics as a future therapeutic avenue. Full article

Plastic pollution in marine environments poses a new global threat. Microplastics (MPs) can bioaccumulate in marine organisms, leading to oxidative stress (OS). This study investigates MP accumulation and associated OS responses in six invertebrate species (Bivalvia, Gastropoda, and Malacostraca) and three key fish species of the Bulgarian Black Sea ecosystems. The target hydrobionts were collected from nine representative coastal habitats of the northern and southern aquatory. MPs were quantified microscopically, and OS biomarkers (lipid peroxidation, glutathione, and antioxidant enzymes) were analyzed spectrometrically in fish liver and gills and invertebrate soft tissues (STs). The specific OS (SOS) index was calculated as a composite indicator of the ecological impact, incl. MP effects. The results revealed species-specific MP bioaccumulation, with the highest concentrations in Palaemon adspersus, Rathke (1837) (0.99 ± 1.09 particles/g ST) and the least abundance in Bittium reticulatum (da Costa, 1778) (0.0033 ± 0.0025 particles/g ST). In Sprattus sprattus (Linnaeus, 1758), the highest accumulation of MPs was present (2.01 ± 2.56 particles/g muscle). The correlation analyses demonstrated a significant association between MP counts and catalase activity in all examined species. The SOS index varied among species, reflecting different stress responses, and this indicated that OS levels were linked to ecological conditions of the habitat and the species-specific antioxidant defense potential to overcome multiple stressors. These findings confirmed the importance of environmental conditions, including MP pollution and the evolutionarily developed capacity of marine organisms to tolerate and adapt to environmental stress. This study emphasizes the need for novel approaches in monitoring MPs and OS to better assess potential ecological risks. Full article

Pimelea is one of the highly toxic plants in Australia, particularly affecting cattle. It contains simplexin, a potent toxin that can cause Pimelea poisoning (St. George Disease) in livestock. A survey was conducted to assess the current impact of Pimelea on livestock production, pasture systems, and financial losses among agricultural producers. In addition, information was also sought about the environmental conditions that facilitate its growth and the effectiveness of existing management strategies. The survey responses were obtained from producers affected by Pimelea across nine different Local Government Areas, through three States, viz., Queensland, New South Wales, and South Australia. Pimelea was reported to significantly affect animal production, with 97% of producers surveyed acknowledging its detrimental effects. Among livestock, cattle were the most severely affected (94%), when compared to sheep (13%), goats (3%), and horses (3%). The presence of Pimelea was mostly observed in spring (65%) and winter (48%), although 29% of respondents indicated that it could be present all year-round under favorable rainfall conditions. Germination was associated with light to moderate rainfall (52%), while only 24% linked it to heavy rainfall. Pimelea simplex F. Muell. was the most frequently encountered species (71%), followed by Pimelea trichostachya Lindl. (26%). Infestations were reported to occur annually by 47% of producers, with 41% noting occurrences every 2 to 5 years. Financially, producers estimated average annual losses of AUD 67,000, with 50% reporting an average of 26 cattle deaths per year, reaching up to 105 deaths in severe years. Some producers were spending up to AUD 2100 per annum to manage Pimelea. While chemical and physical controls were commonly employed, integrating competitive pastures and alternative livestock, such as sheep and goats, was considered as a potential management strategy. This study reiterates the need for further research on sustainable pasture management practices to reduce Pimelea-related risks to livestock and agricultural production systems. Full article

The frequency of specific variants associated with the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases has been extensively studied through genome-wide association studies (GWASs). Differences between populations may be caused by the interaction of several factors, such as environmental and genetic backgrounds. Here, we studied 19 SNPs involved in atherosclerosis (AT) and venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk in the Azorean and mainland Portuguese populations and compared their frequencies with other European, Asian, and African populations. Results revealed that, although there was no difference between Azorean and mainland populations, eight SNPs in ADAMTS7, PCSK9, APOE, and LDLR genes showed significant statistical differences (χ², p < 0.05) when compared with the European population. The multilocus genetic profile (MGP) analysis demonstrated that 7.4% of mainlanders and 11.2% of Azoreans have a high-risk of developing atherosclerosis. The opposite tendency was observed for venous thromboembolism risk, where the mainland population presented a higher risk (6.5%) than the Azorean population (4.1%). Significant differences in VTE-MGP distribution were found among the Azorean geographic groups (p < 0.05), with the Eastern group showing the highest VTE risk. Conversely, for the risk AT-MGP, the Central group shows the highest risk (12.9%). Taken together, the data suggest a risk of developing a cardiovascular disease consistent with the European population. However, the Azorean-specific genetic background and socio-cultural habits (dietary and sedentary) may explain the differences observed, validating the need to assess the allelic and genotypic frequencies between different populations, especially in small geographical locations, such as the Azores archipelago. In conclusion, these findings can improve the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of high-risk individuals, and contribute to reducing the lifelong burden of cardiovascular diseases in the Azorean population. Full article

Due to small population size, Population Viability Analysis (PVA) of endangered species often pools all individuals into a single matrix to decrease variation in estimation of transition rates. These pooled populations may mask significant environmental variation among populations, affecting estimates. Using 10 years of population data (2000–2010) on the endangered plant Jacquemontia reclinata in Southeastern Florida, USA, I parameterized a stage-structured matrix model and calculated annual growth rates (lambdas)and elasticity for each year using stochastic matrix models. The metapopulation model incorporating actual dynamics of the two largest populations showed a lower occupancy rate and higher risk of extinction at an earlier time compared to a model that used the average of all natural populations. Analyses were consistent that incorporating population variation versus average dynamics in modeling J. reclinata demography results in more variation and greater extinction risk. Local variation may be due to both weather (including minimum winter temperature and total annual precipitation) and local disturbance dynamics in these urban preserves. Full article

To reduce carbon emissions in the shipping industry, the energy management problem of the ship-integrated energy system (S-IES) is analyzed in this paper. Firstly, a marine environmental risk field model is constructed to quantify the degree of hazard when designing the sailing route. Meanwhile, an energy management model that considers both economic and environmental benefits is developed to enhance the penetration rate of renewable resources. Subsequently, a distributed energy management algorithm based on finite-time consensus theory is proposed to ensure a rapid and accurate response to load demand. Moreover, a mathematical analysis is provided to demonstrate the algorithm’s effectiveness. Finally, the sea area between Singapore Port (Singapore) and Penang Port (Malaysia) is chosen as the simulation environment. The experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of energy management for the S-IES. Full article

Chemical fertilizers pose significant risks to both human health and the environment. To investigate the effect of substituting nitrogen fertilizer with vermicompost tea on wheat yield, shoot chemical constituents, and grain quality under clay-loam soil conditions, two field experiments were conducted at the Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Egypt, during the winter seasons of 2021–2022 and 2022–2023. A split-plot design in randomized complete blocks with three replications was employed. Vermicompost tea was assigned to the main plots, while wheat cultivars were assigned to the subplots. The cultivars were evaluated under four treatments involving partial substitution of mineral nitrogen (recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN%, 190 kg N ha⁻¹): a control (90% of RDN + 25 kg vermicompost tea), 80% of RDN + 37.5 kg vermicompost tea, and 70% of RDN + 50 kg vermicompost tea. Nitrogen fertilizer (RDN%) was applied at rates of 190 (control), 170 (90%), 150 (80%), and 130 (70%) kg N ha⁻¹. The results indicated that partially substituting mineral nitrogen with vermicompost tea significantly increased grain weight/Ha, chlorophyll A, chlorophyll B, carotenoids, nitrogen, phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) content in shoots, as well as ash, crude protein, crude fiber, total sugar, and N, P, and K content in wheat grains. The grain weight/Ha of the Sakha-95, Giza-171, and Sads-14 cultivars increased by 38.6%, 33.5%, and 39.3%, respectively, when treated with 70% RDN + 50 kg vermicompost tea. The combination of the Sads-14 cultivar and 70% RDN + 50 kg vermicompost tea resulted in the highest values for grain weight/ha (9.43 tons ha⁻¹), chlorophyll A (1.39 mg/g), chlorophyll B (1.04 mg/g), N (5.08%), P (1.63%), and P (2.43%) content in shoots. The same combination also improved ash (2.89%), crude fiber (2.84%), and K (6.05%) content in grains. In conclusion, the application of vermicompost tea in conjunction with chemical fertilizers offers a viable alternative to using chemical fertilizers alone, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and improving wheat production. It is recommended that mineral nitrogen fertilizer be partially replaced with vermicompost tea to enhance both the productivity and grain quality of wheat while minimizing environmental pollution. Full article

Analysis of changes in TVOC and VOCs chemical composition or odor characteristics of particleboard before and after decoration treatment with resin-impregnated paper (RIP), polypropylene (PP) film and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) film were studied. The effects of these three decoration treatments on masking or suppressing the release of VOCs and odorants from particleboard were explored. The substances that were covered or suppressed and newly introduced before and after processing were identified to provide a basis for reducing the odor emissions of PVC-, PP- and RIP-decorated particleboard. Taking undecorated particleboard and particleboard treated by three types of decorative materials as research subjects, the air permeability of the three decorative materials was tested using the Gurley Permeability Tester. TVOC emissions from the boards were evaluated using the 1 m³ environmental chamber method. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of the samples were conducted via thermal desorption–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (TD-GCMS). The contribution of odor substances was determined using odor activity value (OAV). The results indicated that the permeability from high to low was PVC film, PP film and RIP. Compared with undecorated particleboard, the TVOC emissions of PVC-decorated boards decreased by 93%, PP-decorated particleboard by 83% but the TVOC emissions of RIP-decorated particleboard increased by 67%. PP decoration treatment masked or suppressed the release of 20 odor substances but introduced xylene, which can increase potentially the health risks for PP-decorated particleboard. PVC decoration treatment masked or suppressed 19 odor substances, but it introduced 12 new compounds, resulting in an overall increase in TVOC emissions. RIP treatment did not introduce new odor substances. After PP film and RIP treatments, both the variety of VOCs released and the number of key odor-contributing compounds and modifying odorants decreased. In contrast, the number of modifying odorants and potential odorants increased after PVC treatment. VOC emissions were effectively masked or suppressed by three decoration treatments, same as the release of substances contributing to overall odor of particleboard was reduced. Among them, PP and RIP decorative materials demonstrate better effects. Full article

Every year, a billion tires are discarded worldwide, with only a small percentage being recycled. This leads to significant environmental hazards, such as fire risks and improper disposal. Silty sand also presents technical challenges due to its poor shear strength, susceptibility to erosion, and low permeability. This study explores the incorporation of crumb rubber derived from waste tires into silty sand to enhance its mechanical properties. Crumb rubber particles of varying sizes (3–6 mm, 5–10 mm, and 10–20 mm) were mixed with silty sand at 0%, 3%, 6%, and 9% percentages, respectively. Triaxial compression tests of unconsolidated and consolidated undrained tests with cell pressures of 100, 300, and 500 kPa were conducted. The deviatoric stress, shear stress, and stiffness modulus were investigated. The results revealed that the addition of crumb rubber significantly increased the deviatoric and shear stresses, especially at particle sizes of 5–10 mm, with contents of 3%, 6%, and 9%. Additionally, the stiffness modulus was notably reduced in the mixture containing 6% crumb rubber tire. These findings suggest that incorporating crumb rubber tires into silty sand not only improves silty sand performance but also offers an environmentally sustainable approach to tire waste recycling, making it a viable strategy for silty sand stabilization in construction and geotechnical engineering performance. Full article

The two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae, is one of the polyphagous pests of several crops and forestry, resistant to numerous conventional chemicals. Due to the negative side effects of harmful chemical pesticides, such as environmental pollution, and risks to human health, the introduction of effective and low-risk alternatives is essential. The promising pesticidal effects of essential oils (EOs) isolated from Artemisia annua have been documented in recent studies. In the present study, the acaricidal effects of an A. annua EO, along with its two dominant monoterpenoids, 1,8-cineole and camphor, were investigated against adults of T. urticae. Artemisia annua EO, 1,8-cineole, and camphor, with 24 h-LC₅₀ values of 0.289, 0.533, and 0.64 µL/L air, respectively, had significant toxicity by fumigation against T. urticae adults. Along with lethality, A. annua EO and monoterpenoids had significant inhibitory effects on the activity of detoxifying enzymes, including α- and β-esterases, glutathione S-transferases, and cytochrome P-450 monooxygenase. According to the findings of the present study, A. annua EO and its two dominant monoterpenoids, 1,8-cineole and camphor, with significant toxicity and inhibitory effects on detoxifying enzymes, can be introduced as available, effective, and eco-friendly acaricides in the management of T. urticae. Full article

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Although the aetiology of IBD remains largely unknown, several studies suggest that an individual’s genetic susceptibility, external environmental factors, intestinal microbial flora, and immune responses are all factors involved in and functionally linked to the pathogenesis of IBD. Beyond the gastrointestinal manifestations, IBD patients frequently suffer from psychiatric comorbidities, particularly depression and anxiety. It remains unclear whether these disorders arise solely from reduced quality of life or whether they share overlapping biological mechanisms with IBD. This review aims to explore the bidirectional relationship between IBD and depressive disorders (DDs), with a focus on four key shared mechanisms: immune dysregulation, genetic susceptibility, alterations in gut microbiota composition, and dysfunction of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. By examining recent literature, we highlight how these interconnected systems may contribute to both intestinal inflammation and mood disturbances. Furthermore, we discuss the reciprocal pharmacologic interactions between IBD and DDs: treatments for IBD, such as TNF-alpha and integrin inhibitors, have demonstrated effects on mood and anxiety symptoms, while certain antidepressants appear to exert independent anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing the risk or severity of IBD. Overall, this review underscores the need for a multidisciplinary approach to the care of IBD patients, integrating psychological and gastroenterological assessment. A better understanding of the shared pathophysiology may help refine therapeutic strategies and support the development of personalized, gut–brain-targeted interventions. Full article