جستجوی مقالات مرتبط با کلیدواژه "1" در نشریات گروه "محیط زیست"

Climate change (CC) is a real challenge for the world. Iran lies in an arid part of the world and CC is adversely affecting its water resources and agriculture. Iran has taken various initiatives, enacting related laws and establishing policy measures, to respond to water scarcity and food security in the agricultural sector. This study was conducted to understand and explore Iran’s initiatives, especially through legislation and policy responses, to address water scarcity and food security under CC conditions. More specifically, it reviews and analyzes the laws and rules relevant to agricultural water management and food security for their capacity for adaptation to CC in Iran. It was found that most of the relevant laws and policy documents were established to improve water consumption patterns. However, the study identified that there are a limited number of laws and policy documents with respect to climate adaptation and mitigation for the agriculture sector. There is a need to establish special laws towards climate change adaptation and mitigation for the agriculture sector and to revisit and revise the existing laws and policy documents in this regard. Proper implementation of adaptation measures is another issue that is not fully or effectively addressed and supported by the national legislation.

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is recognized as a critical driver of economic development in the modern era, significantly enhancing the productivity of production factors. However, the widespread adoption of ICT, particularly in countries reliant on fossil fuels, may contribute to increased greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide (CO2). So, this study investigates the interconnections among ICT, CO2, renewable energy, and Total Factor Productivity (TFP) in Iran. This descriptive-analytical and applied study used time series data from the World Bank and Iran Statistics Center from 2000 to 2023. This study, the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model to evaluate the long-term and short-term dynamic, unit root tests and diagnostic tests CUSUM and CUSUMQ and Canonical Co-Integrating Regression (CCR) Dynamic least squares (DOLS), and fully modified least squares (FMOLS) have been used to validate the results of ADRL estimates.The results of the ARDL estimation method showed that in the long run, TFP and economic growth on carbon dioxide had a coefficient of 0.07 and 0.14, respectively. Renewable energy consumption with a coefficient of -0.0808 had a significant negative role in reducing carbon dioxide. The coefficient of -0.286 obtained for the ICT variable at 95% indicates a reduction in carbon dioxide in parallel with the development of ICT. CUSUM and CUSUMQ confirmed the stability of the parameters, and CCR, DOLS, and FMOLS regressions confirmed the results of the ADRL model. The study recommends adopting green technologies and effective energy policies to balance productivity gains with environmental protection.

Shortage of safe drinking water is a major problem in Bangladesh, especially during the dry season from November to March. Due to high population growth, the crisis of healthy drinking water is increasing day by day. Rainwater is a major source of pure drinking water. Rainwater harvesting has proven to be the most economical and environmentally friendly method. So, it can hold great potential to deal with the current problem of acute arsenic poisoning and pure water scarcity in Bangladesh. To overcome this problem a model rainwater harvesting (RWH) system has been demonstrated in Faridpur, Bangladesh. The research showed that by utilizing 1037 buildings as catchment areas and installing storage tanks in 20 unused spaces of government offices, it is possible to address the entire drinking water scarcity issue in Faridpur Municipality. The study also investigates the quality of local pipe-well water and the quality of the stored rainwater. The findings of present study showed the quality of harvested water is much better than the pipe-wells water. The runoff reduction through Rainwater Harvesting was 14.82% which can significantly reduce the water logging and water pollution problem of Faridpur city. The findings of this work provide a potential blueprint for expanding water access throughout Bangladesh and other countries facing similar challenges.

Billboards are one of the types of structures that wind load can be the dominant lateral load on this type of structures. Since billboards are usually placed in public places, destroying these structures under wind can cause irreparable damage. In this research, using wind tunnel testing and numerical modeling based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD), the effect of wind on single-plate, two-plate, and triangle billboards has been investigated. The models used in the wind tunnel are made using wood at a scale of 0.01. To find the critical loading pattern of wind load, the structure in the wind tunnel is rotated every 5 degrees concerning the wind direction, and the wind pressure values are recorded. The maximum displacement in single-plate, two-plate, and triangular billboards with tubular column sections is obtained at θ= 45°, θ= 45° and θ= 15°, respectively. Due to the nature of the wind flow, rectangular columns are unsuitable for billboards because the stiffness of the column also changes with the change of the wind angle relative to the billboard.

This study aimed to provide a clean energy-based growth model emphasizing public policy. The study's statistical population in the quantitative section in the first stage was the members of the fuzzy Delphi panel, consisting of 15 people from the most suitable group of experts regarding deep knowledge, breadth of view, and sufficient experience to achieve valid and accurate results. In the next step, the statistical population included all managers and experts of the Ministry of Energy in 2023-2024, totaling 327 people, using the Cochran formula through simple random sampling. The findings from the qualitative stage were analyzed using MAXQDA software. In the quantitative section, fuzzy Delphi tests, structural equation techniques, and the best-worst method were used with the help of SPSS, SmartPLS, Lingo, and Excel software. From the analysis of 15 interviews, 213 primary codes were extracted, 67 basic themes, and after categorization, ten organizing themes. The quantitative section's findings demonstrated that all correlations were acknowledged and that there was a meaningful route between all variables. Also, in prioritizing the indicators of the clean energy-based growth model with an emphasis on public policy, it was determined that the indicators of strategies for using clean energy were the priority, policies for using clean energy in the second priority, culturalization in society for using clean energy in the third priority, and the consequences of clean energy development in the fourth priority.

The weak convection mechanism in photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) systems leads to numerous studies dealing with this problem. This study analyzes a new, affordable method to improve convection in PV/Ts and increase their thermal/electrical efficiency. The use of metallic porous materials with high thermal conductivity is a robust approach to increase the efficiency of PV/Ts by accelerating the cooling rate of PVs. In this study, the robust method is experimentally investigated, and the effectiveness of using porous materials to improve the efficiency of PV/Ts is evaluated. For this purpose, an experimental setup was fabricated, and two scenarios were investigated: a non-porous PV/T and a porous one in which steel wool was used as a porous material. The acquired results revealed that using steel wool reduces the PV temperature by 9.9 oC and increases the outlet temperature by 4.41 oC at the air flow rate of 0.17 kg/s. Lowering the PV temperature increases the electrical power generated while the electrical efficiency improves by nearly 11.18%. The higher outlet temperature causes a higher thermal efficiency; hence, using porous materials increases the thermal efficiency by 50.7%. In conclusion, using porous materials is a robust, affordable approach to improve the thermal/electrical efficiency of PV/Ts.

In this work, a natural ventilation system as an energy-efficient strategy is simulated to assess its performance in providing thermal comfort and indoor air quality in an office space. A three dimensional CFD model is implemented to predict temperature and velocity distribution in the space. Due to the presence of the openings and elevated air speed, a naturally ventilated space is considered as a non-uniform thermal environment. In such environments, the whole body thermal sensation is affected by local thermal sensation of different body parts. So, the CFD model is coupled with the standard thermal comfort model and the PMV and PPD indices are assessed at different heights according to ISO standard to evaluate the local thermal sensation of individual body parts. Afterward, the effects of outdoor air temperature as well as location and dimension of the openings are evaluated. The results show that in the outdoor temperature of 24 ℃ and 26 ℃, the PMV index is nearly between -0.7 and +0.7 and the PPD is less than 15%, which are the recommended range considering the category C of ISO 7730. In addition, the best thermal comfort conditions are achieved by considering the openings with 10% of the wall area.

This study investigates the enhancement of thermal performance in Evacuated Tube Solar Collectors (ETCs) by integrating graphene nanoparticles into the heat transfer fluid. Improvement the efficiency of ETCs is crucial for maximizing solar energy utilization, particularly in regions with diverse climatic conditions. To achieve this, we conducted experiments comparing the thermal performance of the ETC under two conditions: with and without graphene nanoparticles, and at varying flow rates of condenser water (5, 10, 15, and 20 L/h) in an open space in Babol, northern Iran, over two periods in August 2022. Measurements included ambient temperature, input and output water temperatures, heat pipe temperature, and water flow rate. Key performance indicators, such as the average Nusselt number, useful heat output, and convection heat transfer, were calculated. The results indicate that the Nusselt number increased by 10.64% and overall thermal performance improved when utilizing the acetone-graphene nanofluid at a flow rate of 20 L/h under vacuum conditions (-0.6 bar) with a volume fraction of 0.08% nanoparticles. This work demonstrates a significant enhancement in thermal energy storage capabilities of ETCs, showcasing the potential of nanofluids in solar thermal applications, thereby contributing novel insights into the engineering optimization of solar collectors.

In this study, the thermodynamic and thermoeconomic analysis of a multigeneration system which produces power, cooling, domestic heating, hydrogen and freshwater has been carried out. The main source of energy for this system is a solar parabolic trough collector (PTC). The working fluid applied for this solar collector is Al2O3-Therminol VP1 nanofluid. The subsystems of this multigeneration system are a steam Rankine cycle for power production, an organic Rankine cycle for power production, a double-effect absorption refrigeration system for cooling production, a domestic water heater for hot water production, a PEM electrolyzer for hydrogen production and a RO desalination unit for freshwater production. In the ORC cycle a TEG unit is applied instead of the condenser for extra power production. The system is analyzed by using the EES software. The effects of different parameters as well as the effects of nanoparticles on the performance of the proposed system were investigated. According to the results, the energy and exergy efficiency of the system are 33.81 % and 23.59 %, respectively. Among the studied working fluids in the ORC cycle, n-pentane shows the best performance. The energy and exergy efficiency of the system increases by the nanoparticle volume concentration and the solar radiation increase. Moreover, the collector inlet temperature has a negative effect on the hydrogen and freshwater production rates. Finally, it is proved that the PTC collector has the highest amount of exergy destruction rate in the studied system.

The black cutworm, Agrotis ipsilon is a highly destructive and invasive agricultural pest that has developed resistance to a variety of insecticide classes. In this study, the susceptibility of three field populations of A. ipsilon, collected in 2023 from three Egyptian Governorates (Sharqia, SHA; Kafr El-Shaikh, KAF; Damietta, DAM), to methomyl, profenophos, lambda-cyhalothrin, chlorantraniliprole, spinosad, indoxacarb, emamectin benzoate, and methoxyfenozide were monitored and compared. At the same time, the detoxification enzymes activity of A. ipsilon in tested populations was determined. The results showed that the susceptibility of the A. ipsilon population in DAM was significantly higher than that of populations from SHA and KAF. Among them, the A. ipsilon population in DAM had developed low levels of resistance to indoxacarb (RR = 19.80-fold), emamectin benzoate (RR = 16.78-fold), chlorantraniliprole (RR = 14.04-fold), and spinosad (RR = 12.75-fold), and had developed very low-level resistance to methoxyfenozide (RR = 10.01-fold). While the populations of A. ipsilon from SHA, KAF, and DAM had developed very high-level resistance to three insecticides (methomyl, profenophos, and lambda-cyhalothrin). Activity measurements of the main detoxification enzymes show that cytochrome P450 (P450), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and the general esterases (ESTs) of the SHA, KAF, and DAM populations of A. ipsilon were significantly higher than those of the susceptible strain (AG-Sus). The findings, along with other strategies, are expected to help with the resistance management of A. ipsilon in different habitats.

Nanotechnology has emerged as a transformative tool in various scientific fields, including biotechnology and biodiversity conservation. This paper explores the significant potential of nanotechnology in advancing these areas within the context of Nigeria. The study highlights how nanotechnology can enhance agricultural biotechnology through the development of nano-fertilizers and nano-pesticides, which improve nutrient efficiency and pest management, leading to increased crop yields and reduced environmental impact.

In this systematic review, a comprehensive literature search was conducted for this review using several databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The search focused on articles published in English between January 2000 and December 2023. A total of 83 articles relevant to nanotechnology and biodiversity conservation were selected. Out of these, 37 articles were identified using a targeted selection approach for their specific focus on nanotechnology, biodiversity conservation, and biotechnology within the Nigerian context. The data were organized thematically to address the role of nanotechnology in enhancing biotechnology and biodiversity conservation efforts. Key discussions, conclusions, and recommendations from the reviewed studies were consolidated into a comprehensive summary.

In medical biotechnology, nanomedicine provides advanced solutions for targeted drug delivery, offering significant improvements in treating prevalent diseases like malaria and tuberculosis. Furthermore, the paper discusses the application of nanotechnology in biodiversity conservation, particularly through environmental monitoring and pollution control. Nanosensors and nanofilters are pivotal in detecting pollutants and protecting ecosystems, thus supporting conservation efforts.

The integration of nanotechnology in Nigeria's biotechnology sector and biodiversity conservation initiatives promises to address local challenges such as disease outbreaks, food security, and environmental degradation. By leveraging global advancements, developing countries can harness nanotechnology to achieve sustainable development and improve the quality of life for its population.

This study investigates the potential of utilizing coconut shells (Cocos nucifera) as a low-cost, effective adsorbent for dye pollutants in wastewater. Specifically, cellulose was extracted from coconut shells and evaluated for its efficiency in adsorbing methylene blue dye under various conditions. The study employed mechanical pre-treatment of coconut shells followed by chemical extraction of cellulose, which yielded a 13.17% cellulose content. Adsorption tests were conducted at varying pH levels, contact times, adsorbent dosages, dye concentrations, and temperatures to optimize the adsorption process. The results showed that isolated cellulose exhibited maximum adsorption efficiency at pH 12, with an optimal contact time of 30 minutes, while raw coconut shell biomass was most effective at pH 6 with a contact time of 40 minutes. The study further revealed that higher dye concentrations enhanced adsorption capacity, while increased temperatures reduced it, indicating that lower temperatures favor dye removal. The findings highlight the significance of optimizing adsorption conditions and suggest that both isolated cellulose and raw coconut shell biomass are promising adsorbents for sustainable water pollution control. This study contributes to develop practical and eco-friendly solutions for managing dye pollutants, benefiting environmental protection and public health.

Schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease caused by Schistosoma, affects millions of people. S. haematobium is one of the prevalent schistosome species in sub-Saharan Africa and its predicament is linked to its mode of transmission, egg-induced morbidity and control. In endemic areas where people are ignorant of such a water borne disease, exposure is via constant and prolonged contact with lotic fresh water harbouring Schistosoma-infected snails. Thus, this study was aimed at surveying the prevalence of schistosomiasis haematobia among the inhabitants of Gadda-Lasheke in Yorro Local Government Area (L.G.A) of Taraba State, Nigeria and some socio-demographic parameters and risks factors that influence its transmission. Urinary schistosomiasis, is obviously a prevailing health burden in this community because out of sixty-one terminal urine samples examined for Schistosoma eggs, 3.3% was positive for Schistosoma. The prevalence in males (4.8%) was higher than in females (2.3%) though no significant link between schistosomiasis and gender existed (p>0.05). The ages and marital status of the sampled population did not significantly affect the prevalence of infection (p>0.05). There was no distinct infection distribution pattern at both extremes of educational levels. The occupation of the people did not also significantly influence the prevalence of infection even though the farmers were the only people with schistosomiasis. However, there was a significant correlation between individuals who accessed, and came in contact with rivers as their only source of water compared to those using pipe borne water. To tackle this nuisance, comprehensive diagnostics that assess schistosome transmission and disease reduction must be put in place in Gadda-Lasheke with renewed emphasis on education, hygiene improvement and provision of affordable and accessible healthcare interventions.

The HIV transmission is disproportionately common among sex workers in sub-Saharan Africa, hence comprehensive screening and treatment programs are needed to prevent the epidemic. This review delves into the present approaches and obstacles related to HIV testing and treatment for sex workers in the area. The relationship of public health and human rights is where this issue really is important as ensuring that this vulnerable population has access to healthcare services can drastically lower HIV transmission rates and improve their quality of life. A variety of HIV testing methods are included in this article, such as self-testing techniques, facility-based testing, and community-based testing. It also looks at obstacles to efficient testing and treatment, including stigma, prejudice, restrictions imposed by the law, and problems with access to healthcare. The review demonstrates improved health outcomes and connection to care by highlighting the excellent outcomes of early detection and treatment. Current interventions are also mentioned, such as government and non-governmental organization initiatives and peer education programs. The review's conclusions imply that although there has been progress, there are still major problems that need creative solutions. Future directions to guarantee that sex workers receive comprehensive and continuous treatment include the use of technical innovations, policy reforms, and sustainable techniques. The health and well-being of sex workers in sub-Saharan Africa can be significantly improved by addressing these issues via coordinated efforts, which would ultimately help achieve the larger objective of ending the HIV epidemic.

Essential oil biosynthesis is affected by both biotic and abiotic factors. Thus, the quality and quantity of essential oils obtained across various growing origins have not been defined as similar specifications. Accordingly, this work aimed to characterize the physical and chemical profiles of essential oils obtained from C. citratus, C. flexuosus, and C. winterianus. Besides, the antioxidant activity of each species of essential oil was tested by DPPH assay method. Hydro distillation of lemongrass leaves yielded 0.71% (C. citratus) and 0.37% (C. flexuosus) of essential oil with majorly constituted as citral (75% and 80%), β- myrecene (10.79% and 13.95%), geranyl acetate (9.50% and 0.62%), and geraniol (2.71% and 3.01%), respectively. Cymbopogon winterianus had an essential oil yield of 0.88% and abundant in a compound of citronellal (50.63%), geraniol (21.35%), citronellol (13.02%), and α-elemol (11.72%). Specific gravity, refractive index (20 °C), and optical rotation were measured as 0.87, 1.486459, and 0° (C.citratus); 0.88, 1.48339, and 0° (C. flexuosus); 0.87, 1.472835, and -4.33° (C. winterianus), respectively. The DPPH assay test revealed that the essential oils and reference compound have a poor antioxidant potential with antioxidant activity index of 0.0002 (C. citratus and C. flexuosus), 0.0014 (C. winterianus), and 0.07 for the reference ascorbic acid. Overall, the presented profile of essential oils conformed to the monograph of different countries and ISO specifications. Therefore, Cymbopogon species of Ethiopian cultivars have a good quantity and quality of essential oils for commercial production.

Recent advancements in molecular biology and genomics have revolutionized our understanding of meningiomas, leading to novel diagnostic and treatment strategies. Meningiomas are common central nervous system tumors and their management has traditionally relied on histopathological classification. However, the integration of DNA methylation analysis has provided new understanding into the molecular activities of these tumors, providing potential biomarkers for personalized medicine. This review involved a comprehensive search of electronic databases (e.g., PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus) was conducted to identify relevant studies based on keywords related to DNA methylation inhibitors, meningioma, diagnosis, classification, and treatment. This study was aimed at assessing the recent discoveries regarding DNA methylation inhibitors and their potential clinical applications in diagnosing, classifying, and treating meningiomas. DNA methylation inhibitors are applied in modulating gene expression patterns in meningiomas and Nucleoside analogs demonstrated potential in inhibiting meningioma cell growth by inducing apoptosis through DNA hypomethylation. These inhibitors, when used in combination with conventional treatments, could enhance treatment efficacy, overcome drug resistance, and reduce tumor recurrence, as they can be specifically used to target specific molecular subtypes of meningiomas.

Wound infection can cause delayed wound healing, and due to the emergence of antibiotic resistance, treatment of wound infection has become less effective using conventional antibiotics. This has led to the search for an alternative treatment method, which ethnomedicine has proven to be promising. Thus, the antibacterial activity of Senna occidentalis leaf extract was evaluated against isolated bacteria from the wound of patients attending Kwararafa Hospital Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria. A total of three (3) wounds were randomly swabbed. Bacteria were isolated and identified using standard microbiological procedures. The disk diffusion method was used to assess the antibacterial activity of the aqueous and methanolic extracts of Senna occidentalis leaf extract at different concentrations (20 mg/ml, 40 mg/ml, 60 mg/ml, 80 mg/ml, and 100 mg/ml). The bacteria pathogens isolated and identified are Staphylococcus spp. 3(37.5%), Klebsiella pneumonia 2(25%), Escherichia coli 2 (25%), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa 1(12.5%). The aqueous extract was not effective, while the methanolic leaf extract of the plant displayed promising antibacterial activity at all concentrations against all the bacterial isolates, with the highest zones of inhibition recorded at 100mg/mL, measuring 16±5.0mm, 18±5.0 mm, 20±5.0 mm, and 15±0.0 mm, for Staphylococcus spp., Klebsiella pneumonia, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa respectively. The result of this study supports the traditional use of Senna occidentalis in the treatment of wound infections.

Understanding the control of gene expression and its consequences for cancer biology is greatly aided by the field of epigenomics, which is the study of epigenetic changes throughout the genome. Epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodeling, and non-coding RNA regulation, affect gene activity without altering the DNA sequence, in contrast to genetic mutations. These alterations have a critical role in controlling gene expression, which affects cellular functions such as growth, differentiation, and death. Epigenetic modifications play a major role in cancer by causing dysregulated gene expression, which silences tumor suppressor genes, activates oncogenes, and encourages genomic instability. For instance, hypermethylation of CpG islands at the promoters of tumor suppressor genes, such as p16INK4a and BRCA1, results in the transcriptional repression of these genes. In contrast, global hypomethylation activates oncogenes and causes chromosomal instability. Gene expression and the development of cancer are also highly impacted by histone alterations and chromatin remodeling. The methods for characterizing epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin accessibility, and non-coding RNA interactions, are explained in this article. It emphasizes how important these methods are for identifying the epigenetic changes that contribute to the development and progression of cancer. By addressing therapeutic implications and new treatments like DNA methylation and histone deacetylase inhibitors, this review closes the gap between basic epigenomic changes and their possible application in clinical practice. This study intends to improve cancer detection, prognosis, and treatment by providing a thorough grasp of epigenomic profiling, opening the door for more individualized and successful therapeutic approaches.

Artemisia annua, a medicinal plant with a history dating back over two millennia, has been recognized in ancient Asian and European medical texts as a remedy for a wide range of ailments. The World Health Organization (WHO) has endorsed this plant for the treatment of malaria. Traditionally, decoctions of the whole plant have been used to treat diseases such as malaria, cough, and cold. The dried leaf powder is employed to treat diarrhea. The entire flowering plant exhibits a multitude of therapeutic properties, including anthelmintic, antipyretic, antiseptic, and digestive aid. In addition, it can invigorate the body and improve gastric function. Artemisia annua contains a highly significant compound, artemisinin, which serves as the primary constituent of medications used globally to treat malaria. Furthermore, research has demonstrated artemisinin's ability to eradicate breast cancer cells. Tea prepared from Artemisia annua is utilized to manage HIV/AIDS. Recent scientific studies have extensively investigated the plant's antiviral effects on the HIV virus. Given the widespread prevalence of AIDS worldwide, these studies hold immense importance. Through this review, we aim to illuminate the significance and therapeutic applications of Artemisia annua. It is our hope that this study will contribute to a deeper understanding of this plant and its role in promoting public health.

One of the most basic human needs is access to safe and sanitary water. The effects of surface and groundwater pollution on public health are one of the most important human concerns. The basis for judging the health and potability of any water is its physical, chemical and microbial characteristics. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of urban drinking water in the eastern, western, and central regions of Mazandaran Province, Iran, and to compare it with international standards. Water samples were collected from various outlets and consumption points in three cities across different seasons and were subjected to a range of physical, chemical, and microbiological tests. The results indicated that all parameters fell within healthy limits and met the basic standards for drinking water, both in Iran and globally. However, fluoride levels were found to be below the standard, which may pose risks to oral health, and water hardness was somewhat high. In conclusion, while the drinking water in the eastern, western, and central regions of Mazandaran Province is deemed safe, ongoing monitoring is essential to maintain long-term safety and quality, particularly concerning fluoride and hardness levels.