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Hepatotoxic Effects of Gaseous Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂), and Their Mixture on Sea Bass (Centropristis striata): Hematological, Biochemical and Genotoxic Studies Full text
2024
N. Gandhi, Y. Rama Govinda Reddy and Ch. Vijaya
This study meticulously explores the intricate hepatotoxic effects stemming from acute exposure to gaseous sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and their amalgamation on sea bass (Centropristis striata). Employing a comprehensive approach involving hematological, cytotoxic, and histochemical analyses, the research provides crucial insights into the potential adverse impacts of these pollutants on fish health. The examination specifically focuses on the effects of SO2+NO2 on hematological, histochemical, and serum biochemical parameters in Centropristis striata. Treatment groups, subjected to LC30, LC50, and LC90 acute exposure of gaseous SO2, NO2, and SO2+NO2, alongside a control group, underwent evaluation of parameters such as red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, total protein, albumin, serum creatinine, and blood urea. At the 96th hour, RBC values decreased, and WBC values increased in all experimental conditions compared to the control group (p>0.05). MCV and MCH increased with the concentration of gaseous pollutants and exposure time (p>0.05). Hematological parameter variations underscore disruptions in blood composition and immune responses. Simultaneously, alterations in serum biochemical parameters suggest potential impairments in liver and kidney functions, along with disturbances in lipid metabolism. Significant declines in albumin levels, indicating potential liver dysfunction or inflammation due to SO2 and NO2 exposures, were observed at all experimental conditions, while decreased globulin levels suggest immunosuppressive effects from combined pollutants. A substantial increase in the albumin/globulin ratio further signals an imbalance indicative of potential liver dysfunction or inflammation. Varied responses in liver enzyme levels (SGPT/ALT, SGOT/AST, ALP) underscore potential liver damage or injury (p< 0.05). These findings deepen our understanding of environmental impacts on aquatic ecosystems, emphasizing the need for ongoing efforts to ensure the health and sustainability of fish populations in polluted environments.
Show more [+] Less [-]Optimization, Characterisation and Evaluation of Biochar Obtained from Biomass of Invasive Weed Crotalaria burhia Full text
2024
Loveena Gaur and Poonam Poonia
Invasive weed plants are unwanted and hazardous waste biomass; and have extraordinary potential to serve as raw materials for biochar production. To evaluate the potentiality of invasive weed for bioenergy production in the form of biochar, Crotolaria burhia was investigated. The response surface modeling and optimization of the biochar parameters were conducted using the experimental design expert 13.0. The optimum value of the desirability function was obtained at a pyrolysis temperature of 450°C and a particle size of 50-100 mm. The model represents a p-value less than 0.0500 and a high F value, which denotes its reliable and accurate prediction of experimental data. A strong correlation was observed between actual and predicted values for biochar composites fixed carbon, carbon, surface area, pore size, and pore volume. In the present study, C. burhia biochar production was carried out by slow pyrolysis at 450°C under vacuum conditions. Biochar was found to be alkaline, with a 33.23% yield. Proximate analysis of C. burhia revealed 3.35% moisture content, 8.48% volatile matter, 81.24% fixed carbon and 6.94% ash content. The elemental analysis shows major concentrations of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen as 57.77%, 6.123%, and 27.60%, respectively. Low H/C and O/C molar ratios were quantified as 0.10% and 0.47%, respectively. It possesses a honeycomb structure having mesoporous surface porosity with a surface area of 155.19m²/g and the presence of a remarkable concentration of mineral elements calcium and potassium. Biochar rich in hydroxyl, carboxylic, and alkene functional groups enhances its applicability areas. These findings make C. burhia a potential feedstock for the production of good-quality biochar.
Show more [+] Less [-]Economic Feasibility of On-Grid Photovoltaic Solar Power Plants at Private Universities in Indonesia Full text
2024
Rijal Asnawi, Antariksa, Sukir Maryanto and Aminudin Afandhi
Campus 2 of the National Institute of Technology (ITN) Malang shows its commitment to utilizing solar energy by adopting a 500 kWp photovoltaic solar power plant (PV), making it the largest in Indonesia for a private university. This research aims to evaluate the economic feasibility of photovoltaic solar power plants (PV) at Campus 2 of the National Institute of Technology Malang. The implementation of renewable energy, particularly photovoltaic solar power, is gaining attention due to its contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and economic growth. However, the development of renewable energy sources faces several challenges, including the limitations of economic feasibility studies in Indonesia. A mixed-methods research approach is used, combining qualitative and quantitative data. Qualitative data are obtained from interviews with PV management staff, while quantitative data include net present value (NPV) calculations and payback periods (PBP). The research findings indicate that the on-grid photovoltaic solar power plant at Campus 2 of the National Institute of Technology (ITN) Malang has a capacity of 500 kWp, with a peak load reaching 380 kVA. The total project cost is Rp. 4,084,498,826, with annual operational and maintenance costs of Rp. 81,595,607. The price of electricity from the on-grid photovoltaic solar power plant is Rp. 930 per kWh. An NPV value of Rp. 7,789,395,602 indicates future profitability, while a PBP of 8.55 years demonstrates feasibility in terms of return on investment. In conclusion, the on-grid photovoltaic solar power plant at Campus 2 of the National Institute of Technology Malang has good economic feasibility due to factors such as controlled costs, competitive prices, a positive NPV, and a short PBP. Regular evaluations are necessary to ensure efficient operation and maximum benefits.
Show more [+] Less [-]Integrating Satellite Data and In-situ Observations for Trophic State Assessment of Renuka Lake, Himachal Pradesh, India Full text
2024
Sujit Kumar Jally, Rakesh Kumar and Sibabrata Das
The present study focuses on estimating the Trophic State Index (TSI) of Renuka Lake, the smallest Ramsar site in India, utilizing in-situ observed Secchi disk transparency (SDT) and satellite data. Site-specific algorithms were developed by establishing the relationship between the spectral band ratio of Landsat 8 OLI and LISS-III with that of in-situ measured SDT data. Notably, the exponential regression model outperformed other regression models (linear, logarithmic, polynomial, and power), achieving a better model output (R2=0.94). Additionally, water quality parameters, namely pH and dissolved oxygen (DO), were measured using the TROLL 9500 multi-parameter instrument. Various interpolation methods were applied to the in-situ data, with the exponential regression model yielding the most accurate results.This method was subsequently selected to generate two-dimensional water-quality images of Renuka Lake. The combined analysis of in-situ and satellite-derived trophic status indicates the eutrophic to hypereutrophic condition of the lake’s eastern and western parts. Satellite imagery spanning 2010-2019 consistently reveals a eutrophic state in the lake, with fluctuations in intensity over the period. The sustained eutrophic condition is attributed to escalating human-induced activities surrounding the lake, particularly in the western region.
Show more [+] Less [-]Isolation of Freshwater Algae from Some Reservoirs of Chiang Mai Rajabhat University, Mae Rim Campus, Chiang Mai Full text
2024
Pongpan Leelahakriengkrai, Phitsanuphakhin Chaimongkhon and Tatporn Kunpradid
A study on the biodiversity and isolation of freshwater algae from some reservoirs of Mae Rim Campus, Chiang Mai Rajabhat University, Chiang Mai Province, collected algal samples and assessed the water quality at four reservoirs, including Wiang Bua Reservoir, Ma Lang Por Reservoir, Education Auditorium reservoir, and Kru Noi Garden Reservoir. One hundred and six species of algae belonging to 8 phyla were found. The most prominent species were Cylindrospermopsis philippinensis, Trachelomonas volvocina, Peridiniopsis sp., and Coelastrum astroideum, respectively. The overall water quality was categorized as clean according to some physical and chemical parameters by the National Environmental Board of Thailand. However, high BOD values were detected at some sampling points. The algae isolation included 8 isolates, which could be utilized for various purposes in the future, such as biomass, protein, polysaccharide energy, bioactive compounds, antioxidant substances, wastewater treatment, environmental indicators, algal toxins, and phylogenetic studies. All strains were stored at the Centre of Excellence of Biodiversity Research and Implementation for Community, Chiang Mai Rajabhat University, for conservation and future development purposes.
Show more [+] Less [-]Identification and Functional Annotation of Echium plantagineum Metallothioneins for Reduction in Heavy Metals in Soil Using Molecular Docking Full text
2024
Y. S. Rasheed, M. S. AL-Janaby and M. H. Abbas
Heavy metal contamination in soil poses a significant environmental challenge globally, affecting agricultural productivity and human health. Phytoremediation, using plants to extract and detoxify heavy metals, presents a promising solution. This study investigates the novel potential of Echium plantagineum, a metal-tolerant species, in phytostabilization and phytoremediation and explores the role of metallothioneins in heavy metal reduction. A comprehensive literature review identified known metallothioneins involved in heavy metal reduction across various plant species. Moreover, genome annotation and gene prediction of Echium plantagineum were performed, predicting a total of 39,520 proteins. This comprehensive protein list facilitates the identification of metallothioneins or other metal-related proteins with potential functional roles in heavy metal tolerance, suggesting new targets to improve the effectiveness of phytoremediation. The sequences of these proteins were utilized to construct a protein BLAST database, against which known metallothioneins protein sequences from other plant species were subjected to BLAST searches, resulting in 41 top hits. Subsequent 3D modeling, structural analysis, protein-metal virtual screening, and functional annotation of the proteins revealed novel high affinities of Ctr copper transporter, zinc/iron permease, and nicotianamine synthase proteins with nickel, zinc, and zinc ion, suggesting their unexplored roles in the uptake of aforementioned ligands. Notably, this study identifies novel metallothioneins proteins in Echium plantagineum, highlighting their role in metal tolerance and phytoremediation.
Show more [+] Less [-]Odor Emissions from Municipal Solid Waste Open Dumps Constituting Health Problems Due to their Composition, Ecological Impacts and Potential Health Risks Full text
2024
S. Srinivasan and R. Divahar
The presence of Hydrogen sulfide, Methane, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), and other odorous compounds in the ambient air is the root cause of the offensive odor emitting from the MSW dumping yard. Composition features and health risks associated with odor emissions concentrations in MSW dumping yards. This paper aims to provide an overview of research on health problems due to their composition, ecological impacts, and potential health risks of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and to examine the relationship between VOC exposure and chronic illnesses in humans and the environment. In this study, a comprehensive investigation of VOC odor emission from an urban MSW dumping site has been performed. The VOC odor sample was analyzed using the GC-MS technique. The maximum VOCs concentration reported is due to tert - butylbenzene at 1.41μg.m-3 and the minimum is due to Sec-butylbenzene at 0.07 μg.m-3. Scientific databases, including Google Scholar, California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA), and US EPA (Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS), were searched extensively using a bibliographic technique, in addition to a case study on MSW dumping yard workers. The findings of epidemiologic and experimental research, the emission of odors as a result of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can cause a variety of non-cancerous health effects that are linked to abnormal functioning of the body’s vital organs, including the nervous and coronary, and pulmonary systems. It can also have minimal impact on the environment by causing global warming and ozone layer depletion. The odor emissions from the dumpsite pose both carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic risks to the health of the individuals participating in the dumping yard. As a result of these results, it is important to manage odor emissions (VOCs) during composting and take steps to reduce their negative effects on the environment and public health.
Show more [+] Less [-]The Impact of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles on Crude Oil Biodegradation with Bacterial Consortium Full text
2024
Suganya Kalaiarasu, K. J. Sharmila, Santhiya Jayakumar, Sreekumar Palanikumar and Priya Chokkalingam
This study was performed to determine the effect of synthesized iron oxide nanoparticles on the consortium of isolated bacterial strains from the crude oil-contaminated site. The iron oxide nanoparticle (FeNPs) was synthesized by chemical co-precipitation method and confirmed with its characterization results such as UV-spectroscopy, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), High-Resolution Scanning Electron Microscopy (HR-SEM), Zeta potential and Particle Size Analyser studies. The isolates were cultured in LBBH (Luria-Bertani and Bushnell Haas) medium containing crude oil as a carbon source with incubation for 7 days. This study was performed using FeNPs with four different concentrations (10, 50, 100 and 150mg) incorporated with the isolated microbes clubbed as a consortium. The rate of biodegradation was investigated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. By comparing the control sample (crude oil) there was a better degradation in FeNPs added bacterial culture than consortium degradation. The obtained results conclude that studying different concentrations of FeNPs with the consortium of isolated microbes showed degradation differences, whereas 150mg concentration has a better degradation effect compared to other variations. It should be carried out to avoid agglomeration of nanoparticles by improving their biocompatibility and quality to influence the biodegradation of crude oil.
Show more [+] Less [-]Green Marketing Practices and Sustainability Performance of Manufacturing Firms: Evidence from Emerging Markets Full text
2024
Derrick Nukunu Akude, John Kwame Akuma, Emmanuel Addai Kwaning and Kojo Agyekum Asiama
This study investigates the relationship between green marketing practices and the sustainability performance of manufacturing firms in emerging markets. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from 270 respondents, and the analysis was conducted using Smart PLS-SEM (version 4). The results demonstrate a significant positive relationship between green internal marketing and the overall sustainability performance of the firms. Specifically, green marketing communication was found to positively influence both environmental and social performance, although it did not have a significant effect on financial performance. Likewise, the adoption of green products substantially improved environmental performance but did not significantly impact financial or social performance. Additionally, the study supports a positive association between green strategy implementation and sustainability performance. These findings underscore the critical role of integrating green marketing practices into sustainability initiatives. The research provides valuable insights for managers and policymakers, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to green marketing to enhance environmental and social outcomes, even if financial benefits are not immediately apparent. This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on sustainable business practices and offers practical implications for achieving long-term sustainability in manufacturing firms.
Show more [+] Less [-]Phenopalynological Study of Some Ornamental Species in the Giza Region, Egypt Full text
2024
W. K. Taia, W. M. Amer, A. B. Hamed and A. M. Abd El-Maged
Mature flower buds were collected from twenty species planted on the different roads in the Giza district from May to September 2022 and 2023. The pollen grains were examined carefully and photographed using a 40x10x magnification lens in an OPTICA (B-150D) light microscope fitted with a USB digital video Camera and Computer Software. At least 30 pollen grains/each species were measured and described. Non-catalyzed pollens were sputtered onto Aluminum stubs, coated with 30 nm gold, and examined and photographed using JEOL JSL IT 200 SEM. The morphological characters of the pollen grains were examined. According to the pollen size Acalypha wilkesiana and Tecoma stans were the smallest pollen grains, from 20.0μm to 26.0μm, which facilitate their introduction to the nose causing asthma and rhinitis. Clerodendrum inerme pollen grains have echinate exine surface, which causes allergic symptoms more than the psilate ones. Plumbago capensis has intectate exine with echinate columella causing human disorders. This study demonstrates the critical position of air pollution in this area with the change in the phenological aspects of the plants resulting in producing immature pollen grains in huge amounts, which cause human disorders and pollinosis. Our results showed that the studied species can induce allergy in one way or another if we consider the situation of the studied area, weather pattern, and pollen characteristics.
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