Search Results (285)

Assessing the risks associated with waste disposal is essential for environmental protection and sustainable development, especially given concerns about the impact of industrial activities on the environment. This study analyses soil contamination in the Defor Petrila tailings-dump area caused by the deposition of waste material resulting from coal exploitation. To characterise the heavy-metal contamination in detail, we applied a comprehensive methodology that includes the calculation of the geo-accumulation index (I_geo), contamination factor (Cf), and potential ecological risk index (PERI), along with an analysis of the heavy-metal concentration isolines and a statistical analysis using the Pearson correlation coefficient. The results reveal varying levels of heavy-metal concentrations, as indicated by the calculated indices. The findings underscore the need for remediation and ongoing monitoring to mitigate the environmental impacts. This study provides a scientific basis for decision making in environmental management and highlights the importance of assessing mining-waste disposal near human settlements using various contamination-assessment methods. Full article

This study investigates rural settlement patterns and land suitability in Rwanda’s Western Highlands, a mountainous region highly vulnerable to geohazards like landslides and flooding. Its primary aim is to inform sustainable, climate-resilient development planning in this fragile landscape. We employed high-resolution satellite imagery, a Digital Elevation Model (DEM), and comprehensive geospatial datasets to analyze settlement distribution, using Thiessen polygons for influence zones and Kernel Density Estimation (KDE) for spatial clustering. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) was integrated with the GeoDetector model to objectively weight criteria and analyze settlement pattern drivers, using population density as a proxy for human pressure. The analysis revealed significant spatial heterogeneity in settlement distribution, with both clustered and dispersed forms exhibiting distinct exposure levels to environmental hazards. Natural factors, particularly slope gradient and proximity to rivers, emerged as dominant determinants. Furthermore, significant synergistic interactions were observed between environmental attributes and infrastructure accessibility (roads and urban centers), collectively shaping settlement resilience. This integrative geospatial approach enhances understanding of complex rural settlement dynamics in ecologically sensitive mountainous regions. The empirically grounded insights offer a robust decision-support framework for climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction, contributing to more resilient rural planning strategies in Rwanda and similar Central African highland regions. Full article

Ancient temple complexes in China’s mountainous landscapes exemplify a profound synthesis of environmental adaptation and cultural expression. This research investigates the spatial logic underlying the Wudang Mountain temple complex—a UNESCO World Heritage site—through integrated geospatial analysis of environmental factors. Using GIS-based modeling, GeoDetector, and regression analysis, we systematically assess how terrain, hydrology, climate, vegetation, and soil conditions collectively influenced site selection. The results reveal a clear hierarchical clustering pattern, with dense temple cores in the southwestern highlands, ridge-aligned belts, and a dominant southwest–northeast orientation that reflects intentional alignment with mountain ridgelines. Temples consistently occupy zones with moderate thermal, hydrological, and vegetative stability while avoiding geotechnical extremes such as lowland humidity or unstable slopes. Regression analysis confirms that site preferences vary across temple types, with soil pH, porosity, and bulk density emerging as significant influencing factors, particularly for cliffside temples. These findings suggest that ancient temple planning was not merely a passive response to sacred geography but a deliberate process that actively considered terrain, climate, soil, and other environmental factors. While environmental constraints strongly shaped spatial decisions, cultural and symbolic considerations also played an important role. This research deepens our understanding of how environmental factors influenced the formation of historical landscapes and offers theoretical insights and ecologically informed guidance for the conservation of mountain cultural heritage sites. Full article

Background/Objectives: Despite its well-established health benefits, adherence to the Mediterranean lifestyle (MedLife) has declined globally, including in its region of origin, alongside a significant shift toward ultra-processed food consumption. Understanding the factors associated with MedLife adherence is essential for developing targeted interventions and tailored policy recommendations. As part of the MEDIET4ALL PRIMA project, this cross-sectional study aimed to comprehensively examine geo-demographic, socio-economic, psychological, behavioral, and barrier-related factors associated with and potentially contributing to MedLife adherence. Methods: Data were collected from 4010 participants aged 18 years and above across ten Mediterranean and neighboring countries using the multinational MEDIET4ALL e-survey, which included the validated MedLife index, along with various other questionnaires. Results: Results indicate that only 22% of respondents demonstrated high adherence to the Mediterranean lifestyle (MedLife), with significant variability observed across countries, age groups, education levels, and health statuses. Spain had the highest proportion of participants with high adherence (38%). Factors associated with significantly higher adherence rates include older age, living in the Mediterranean region, higher education levels, a greater awareness of MedLife principles, lower perceived barriers, normal BMI, better health status, and stable economic and marital conditions (p-values ranging from 0.04 to <0.001). Additionally, individuals with high MedLife adherence exhibited more socially and physically active lifestyles and experienced less psychological strain (p < 0.001). Regression analyses identified MedLife awareness as the strongest positive predictor of adherence (β = 0.206), followed by social participation (β = 0.194) and physical activity (β = 0.096). Additional positive contributors include life satisfaction, sleep quality, living in the Mediterranean region, age, and education (β ranging from 0.049 to 0.093). Conversely, factors that are negatively associated with adherence include sedentary behavior, living environment, and barriers such as low motivation, taste dislike, price unaffordability, limited availability, and the time-consuming nature of preparing Mediterranean food (MedFood; β ranging from −0.036 to −0.067). Conclusions: These findings indicate that fewer than one in four adults across Mediterranean and neighboring countries demonstrate high adherence to MedLife, supporting prior evidence of suboptimal adherence even within Mediterranean regions. This study identified a range of behavioral, socio-demographic, and environmental factors—both positive and negative predictors—that can help guide the design of targeted, culturally adapted interventions to promote MedLife behavior. Future research should incorporate objective measurements and longitudinal monitoring to better understand underlying mechanisms, establish causality, and develop sustainable strategies for enhancing MedLife adherence in diverse populations. Full article

The present study investigates the extent and spatial distribution of metal concentration in stream sediments that flow into Keban Dam Lake, Turkey. Sediment samples were analysed for trace and potentially toxic elements (PTEs), including V, Cr, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Pb, Tl, Th, and U. Enrichment Factor (EF), Contamination Factor (CF), Geo-accumulation Index (Igeo), and Pollution Load Index (PLI) were employed to assess contamination levels. Results reveal that Cr exhibited very high enrichment (EF = 15.95) in downstream urban samples, while Cu and Zn showed high enrichment in samples collected from the middle to lower reaches of the stream, probably indicating anthropogenic contributions. Most other elements, such as Pb, Tl, Th, and U, were within natural background levels. Sediment Quality Guidelines (SQGs) indicate that Cr, Ni, and Cu may pose potential ecological risks, especially in samples from urban-influenced and downstream areas where concentrations exceed the Probable Effect Levels (PEL; Cr: 160 mg/kg, Ni: 42.8 mg/kg, Cu: 108 mg/kg). Multivariate statistical analyses, including Pearson correlation and hierarchical clustering, reveal three distinct geochemical groupings. Among these, the most contaminated cluster—corresponding to midstream and downstream regions—is characterized by elevated Cu and Zn concentrations. Strong correlations among Cu–Zn, Ni–Cu, and Th–U suggest there is a combination of anthropogenic and lithogenic sources for most metals. While most sites showed low to moderate pollution, urban downstream locations exhibited significant metal accumulation, necessitating the region’s continued environmental monitoring and management strategies. Full article

Artisanal small-scale gold mining (ASGM) is the largest source of global mercury (Hg) emissions. This study investigated Hg contamination in water, soil, sediment, fish, and cassava plants around ASGM sites in Gunung Pongkor, West Java, Indonesia. Hg concentration ranged from 0.06 to 4.49 µg/L in water; 0.420 to 144 mg/kg dw in soil; 0.920 to 150 mg/kg dw in sediment; 0.259 to 1.23 mg/kg dw in fish; 0.097 to 5.09 mg/kg dw in cassava root; and 0.350 to 8.84 mg/kg dw in cassava leaf. Geo-accumulation index (Igeo) analysis revealed moderate to heavy soil contamination upstream, likely due to direct ASGM input. In contrast, sediment Igeo values indicated heavy contamination downstream, suggesting Hg transport and sedimentation. Bioconcentration factors (BCFs) in fish were predominantly high in downstream and midstream areas, indicating enhanced Hg bioavailability. Bioaccumulation factors (BAFs) in cassava were higher in upstream areas. Health risk assessment, based on the Hazard Quotient (HQ) and Hazard Index (HI), identified ingestion as the primary exposure route, with children exhibiting significantly higher risks than adults. These findings highlight the significant Hg contamination associated with ASGM in Gunung Pongkor and emphasize the need for targeted mitigation strategies to protect human and environmental health. Full article

Carbonaceous–siliceous–argillaceous rock-type uranium deposits, a major uranium resource in China, pose significant environmental risks due to heavy metal contamination. Geochemical investigations in the former Zoige uranium mine revealed elevated As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, U, and Zn concentrations in soils and sediments, particularly at river confluences and downstream regions, attributed to leachate migration from ore bodies and tailings ponds. Surface samples exhibited high Cd bioavailability. The integrated BCR and mineral analysis reveals that Acid-soluble and reducible fractions of Ni, Cu, Zn, As, and Pb are governed by carbonate dissolution and Fe-Mn oxide dynamics via silicate weathering, while residual and oxidizable fractions show weak mineral-phase dependencies. Positive Matrix Factorization identified natural lithogenic, anthropogenic–natural composite, mining-related sources. Pollution assessments using geo-accumulation index and contamination factor demonstrated severe contamination disparities: soils showed extreme Cd pollution, moderate U, As, Zn contamination, and no Cr, Pb pollution (overall moderate risk); sediments exhibited extreme Cd pollution, moderate Ni, Zn, U levels, and negligible Cr, Pb impacts (overall extreme risk). USEPA health risk models indicated notable non-carcinogenic (higher in adults) and carcinogenic risks (higher in children) for both age groups. Ecological risk assessments categorized As, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn as low risk, contrasting with Cd (extremely high risk) and sediment-bound U (high risk). These findings underscore mining legacy as a critical environmental stressor and highlight the necessity for multi-source pollution mitigation strategies. Full article

Heavy metal pollution of lake sediments is one of the prominent ecological and environmental problems worldwide, and it is of great significance to conduct research on heavy metal pollution in lake sediments to protect the ecological environment, safeguard human health, and promote sustainable development. As an integral part of Dongting Lake, Datong Lake holds a crucial ecological position. More than 10 years ago, due to a series of factors, including excessive fertilizer application and fishing, the water quality of Datong Lake declined, resulting in varying degrees of contamination by Cd, Mn, and other heavy metals in the sediments. After 2017, Datong Lake began to establish a mechanism for protecting and managing the lake, and its ecological and environmental problems have been significantly improved. To clarify the current situation of heavy metal contamination in the sediments of Datong Lake, 15 sediment samples were collected from the lake, and the contents of soil heavy metals Cd, As, Pb, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, and Zn were determined. A Monte Carlo simulation was introduced to carry out the ecological and human health risk evaluation of the sediments in the study area to overcome the problem of low reliability of the results of ecological and human health risk evaluation due to the randomness and incompleteness of the environmental data as well as the differences in the human body parameters. The results and conclusions show that (1) the average values of Cd, Pb, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, and Zn contents in the sediments of Datong Lake are higher than the background values of soil elements in the sediments of Dongting Lake, and the average values of As contents of heavy metals are lower than the background values of the soil, and the heavy metal contamination in the sediments in the study area is dominated by slight contamination, and the possibility of point-source contamination is slight. (2) The results of both the Geo-accumulation index and Enrichment factor evaluation showed that the degree of heavy metal contamination of sediments was Ni > Cu > Cr > Mn > Cd > Pb > Zn > As. (3) The average value of the single ecological risk index of heavy metal elements, in descending order, was as follows: Cd > As > Pb > Cu > Ni > Cr > Zn > Mn; all the heavy metal elements were at the level of light pollution, and the average value of the comprehensive ecological risk index was 32.83, which is a slight ecological risk level. (4) Both non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks for all populations in the study area remain low following heavy metal exposure via ingestion and dermal pathways. Ecological and health risk assessments identified As and Cd as exhibiting significantly higher sensitivity than other heavy metals. Consequently, continuous monitoring and source-tracking of these elements are recommended to safeguard long-term ecological integrity and public health in the region. Full article

Intensified human activities and changes in land-use patterns have led to numerous eco-environmental challenges. A comprehensive understanding of the eco-environmental effects of land-use transitions and their driving mechanisms is essential for developing scientifically sound and sustainable environmental management strategies. However, existing studies often lack a comprehensive analysis of these mechanisms due to methodological limitations. This study investigates the eco-environmental effects of land-use transitions in the Poyang Lake Region over the past 30 years from the perspective of the production-living-ecological space (PLES) framework. Additionally, a geographically explainable artificial intelligence (GeoXAI) framework is introduced to further explore the mechanisms underlying these eco-environmental effects. The GeoXAI framework effectively addresses the challenges of integrating nonlinear relationships and spatial effects, which are often not adequately captured by traditional models. The results indicate that (1) the conversion of agricultural space to forest and lake spaces is the primary factor contributing to eco-environmental improvement. Conversely, the occupation of forest and lake spaces by agricultural and residential uses constitutes the main driver of eco-environmental degradation. (2) The GeoXAI demonstrated excellent performance by incorporating geographic variables to address the absence of spatial causality in traditional machine learning. (3) High-altitude and protected water areas are more sensitive to human activities. In contrast, geographic factors have a greater impact on densely populated urban areas. The results and methodology presented here can serve as a reference for eco-environmental assessment and decision-making in other areas facing similar land-use transformation challenges. Full article

Background: The relationship between medicinal efficacy and the geographical environment in Thesium chinense Turcz. (T. chinense Turcz.), a traditional Chinese herb, remains systematically unexplored. This study integrates metabolomics, machine learning, and ecological factor analysis to elucidate the geographical variation patterns and regulatory mechanisms of secondary metabolites in T. chinense Turcz. from Anhui, Henan, and Shanxi Provinces. Methods: Metabolomic profiling was conducted on T. chinense Turcz. samples collected from three geographical origins across Anhui, Henan, and Shanxi Provinces. Machine learning algorithms (Random Forest, LASSO regression) identified region-specific biomarkers through intersection analysis. Metabolic pathway enrichment employed MetaboAnalyst 5.0 with target prediction. Antioxidant activity (DPPH/hydroxyl radical scavenging) was quantified spectrophotometrically. Environmental correlation analysis incorporated 19 WorldClim variables using redundancy analysis, Mantel tests, and Pearson correlations. Results: We identified 43 geographical marker compounds (primarily flavonoids and alkaloids). Random forest and LASSO regression algorithms determined core markers for each production area: Anhui (4 markers), Henan (6 markers), and Shanxi (3 markers). Metabolic pathway enrichment analysis revealed these markers exert pharmacological effects through neuroactive ligand–receptor interaction and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways. Redundancy analysis demonstrated Anhui samples exhibited significantly higher antioxidant activity (DPPH and hydroxyl radical scavenging rates) than other regions, strongly correlating with stable low-temperature environments (annual mean temperature) and precipitation patterns. Conclusions: This study established the first geo-specific molecular marker system for T. chinense Turcz., demonstrating that the geographical environment critically influences metabolic profiles and bioactivity. Findings provide a scientific basis for quality control standards of geo-authentic herbs and offer insights into plant–environment interactions for sustainable cultivation practices. Full article

Urban expansion threatens sustainable development in densely populated countries like Bangladesh. This study aims to quantitatively identify and evaluate the key drivers influencing the spatial distribution of urban surfaces (SDUS) in Chattogram City, providing insights into urban growth patterns over 30 years. Using Landsat 5 and 9 imageries, the Normalized Difference Built-up Index (NDBI) was computed for 1993 and 2023 to map urban surface changes. A total of 16 geospatial variables representing potential drivers were analyzed. Four statistical and machine learning methods, including GeoDetector, Distributed Random Forest (DRF), global Geographically Weighted Random Forest (GWRF), and local GWRF, were employed to quantify individual and interactive influences on SDUS. The Geodetector analysis identified the central business district (CBD) as the most influential driver of urban surface distribution, with a q statistic of 0.22, followed by river proximity (q = 0.14) and administrative boundaries (q = 0.13). Across all models, CBD consistently ranked as a dominant factor. In the Distributed Random Forest (DRF) model, CBD showed the highest importance score (0.57), followed by coastlines (0.35) and rivers (0.35). The DRF model achieved the highest performance (R² = 0.612), outperforming the global GWRF (R² = 0.59) and local GWRF (R² = 0.529). Although variables like the proximity of administrative location and forests have low individual impacts, they show a stronger coupled influence. This industrial port-based economy expanded, facing challenges of uncontrolled urbanization, poor governance, and environmental issues. Promoting mixed land use planning, decentralizing urban governance, and improving coordination among implementing agencies may better resolve these issues. This work may help planners and policymakers in planning future cities and developing policies to promote sustainable urban growth. Full article

The Upper Yellow River Region plays an irreplaceable role in water conservation and ecological protection in China. Due to both natural and human-induced factors, this area has experienced significant grassland deterioration, land desertification, and salinization. Consequently, evaluating the region’s environmental status plays a vital role in promoting ecological conservation and sustainable growth in the Upper Yellow River Basin. This study constructed an ecological index based on remote-sensing data and examined its spatiotemporal changes from 1990 to 2020. Future ecological dynamics were predicted using the Hurst index, while key influencing factors were examined through an optimal-parameter-based GeoDetector and geographically weighted regression. The findings revealed the following: (1) RSEI values were generally lower in the north and increased progressively toward the south, indicating a notable spatial disparity. (2) Ecological conditions remained largely stable, with notable improvements observed in 65.47% of the study area. (3) It was anticipated that 52.76% of the region would continue to improve, whereas 24% is expected to experience further degradation. (4) Precipitation, temperature, elevation, and land cover were major factors contributing to ecological variation. Their impact on ecological quality varies across different geographic locations. These research findings provided references for the sustainable development and ecological civilization construction of the Upper Yellow River Region. Full article

Geoethics, which addresses the ethical, social, and cultural dimensions of geoscientific activities, is essential for fostering responsible human engagement with the Earth, particularly within frameworks such as UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGps). UGGps play a critical role in safeguarding geological heritage and advancing sustainable regional development. This study introduces the Geoethical Awareness Scale (GAS), a 32-item instrument developed across 16 thematic axes, designed to assess geoethical awareness. We analyzed responses from n = 798 residents across nine Hellenic UGGps using Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analyses, retaining items with factor loadings of ±0.30 or higher. Six factors emerged: (1) geological heritage conservation and sustainable georesource use, (2) community engagement and collaborative governance, (3) sustainability through geoenvironmental education, (4) environmental challenges and risk adaptation, (5) sustainable geotourism, and (6) climate awareness and ecosystem resilience. Collectively, these factors explained 60.12% of the variance, with Cronbach’s alpha values demonstrating acceptable to excellent reliability. Structural Equation Modeling confirmed the scale’s validity, with fit indices indicating acceptable model adequacy. Incremental indices suggested moderate alignment, while parsimony-adjusted metrics supported a balance between model complexity and fit. Overall, the GAS demonstrated generalizability and sufficient sample robustness. Correlation analyses highlighted the role of geoeducation, organizational involvement, and direct experience in fostering pro-geoconservation attitudes. While perceptions of sustainable development and ecosystem resilience varied geographically across UGGps, community engagement and governance remained consistent, likely reflecting standardized policy frameworks. GAS offers a valuable tool for assessing geoethical awareness and underscores the importance of targeted geoeducation and participatory governance in promoting ethical geoscientific practices within UGGps and similar socioecological systems. Full article

Background: The skin, a complex organ vital for protecting the body against environmental challenges, undergoes a multifaceted wound healing process involving hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. The transcription factor FOSL1 has been implicated in various cellular processes crucial for wound healing, including cell cycle regulation, differentiation, and apoptosis. We hypothesize that FOSL1 is a key regulator of wound healing processes. Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the role of FOSL1 in cutaneous wound healing, identify the core signaling pathways involved, and assess FOSL1′s potential as a therapeutic target. Method: We utilized datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and applied the ‘limma’ package to discern differentially expressed genes (DEGs). We intersected these DEGs with transcription factor-associated genes from the TRRUST database. Subsequently, we constructed Protein–Protein Interaction (PPI) networks via the STRING database. Machine learning algorithms were instrumental in identifying pivotal genes, a finding corroborated through animal modeling and Western blot analysis of tissue samples. To elucidate biological pathway activities from gene expression data, we deployed the ‘PROGENy’ package, complemented by machine learning for precise pathway identification. Furthermore, Gene Set Variation Analysis (GSVA) was executed across Hallmark, biological process (BP), molecular function (MF), and cellular component (CC) categories to deepen our understanding of the wound healing process. Results: Our analysis revealed that FOSL1 is significantly upregulated in wounded skin. The Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) and Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) pathways were identified as significantly associated with FOSL1. GSVA identifies critical changes in wound healing processes like ‘apical junction’ and ‘epithelial–mesenchymal transition.’ The upregulation of ‘cytoplasm organization’ and ‘response to gravity’ suggests roles in cellular adaptation. Molecular function analysis indicates alterations in ‘cytokeratin filaments’ and ‘growth factor binding,’ which are key for tissue repair. Cellular component shifts in ‘postsynaptic cytosol’ and ‘endoplasmic reticulum’ suggest changes in communication and protein processing. Conclusions: Our study identifies FOSL1 as a potential regulator of cutaneous wound healing through its modulation of cellular signaling pathways, offering novel insights into the molecular control of tissue repair. These findings highlight FOSL1 as a promising therapeutic target to accelerate healing in chronic or impaired wounds. Full article

The Southwest Region (SWR) is one of Nigeria’s six geo-political zones and comprises six distinct states. It holds considerable significance due to its unique geographical features, economic vibrancy, pastoral heritage, and fragile natural ecosystems. These ecosystems are becoming increasingly susceptible to human activities and the adverse impacts of climate change. This study analyzed the temporal and spatial variations of the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) in relation to key influencing factors in the SWR from 2001 to 2020. The analytical methods included Sen’s slope estimator, the Mann–Kendall trend test, and the Geographical Detector Model (GDM). The analysis revealed significant spatial variability in vegetation cover, with dense vegetation concentrated in the eastern part of the region and low vegetation coverage overall, reflected by an average NDVI value of 0.45, indicating persistent vegetation stress. Human activities, particularly land use and land cover (LULC) changes, were identified as major drivers of vegetation loss in some states such as Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun, and Ondo. Conversely, Osun and Oyo exhibited signs of vegetation recovery, suggesting the potential for restoration. The study found that topographic factors, including slope and elevation, as well as climatic variables like precipitation, influenced vegetation patterns. However, the impact of these factors was secondary to LULC dynamics. The interaction detection analysis further highlighted the cumulative effect of combined anthropogenic and environmental factors on vegetation distribution, with the interaction between LULC and topography being particularly significant. These findings provide essential insights into the biological condition of the SWR and contribute to advancing the understanding of vegetation patterns with critical implications for the sustainable management and conservation of tropical forest ecosystems. Full article