Deterioration of Jerusalem limestone from air pollutants; field observations and laboratory simulation

Samples of Jerusalem limestones were exposed to high levels of common air pollutants (SO₂, NO) in the presence and absence of hydrocarbon, water vapor and ultra-violet light. After exposure, the outer layers were shaved off and analyzed for sulfate and nitrate. The results revealed that even after one day of exposure significant concentrations of CaSO₄ and Ca(NO₃)₂ could be detected in the external 40 m layers. Sulfate formation was found to relate very strongly to relative humidity with nearly undetectable production at humidities below 10%. Nitrate formation was found to relate to UV light and to a limited extent to the presence of hydrocarbon but was unchanged at different humidities. Surface samples were taken from different sites of the old city wall and were also analyzed for the same substances. The data showed that the concentrations of especially CaSO₄, and to a limited extend Ca(NO₃)₂, measured at various points along the city walls were higher than the expected values extrapolated from laboratory simulations. The elevated pollution content may be explained in part due to the deposition of transported ions, especially sulfate, onto the stone surface. It was concluded that although air pollution may not cause any structural damage in the foreseeable future it definitely deteriorates the fine details of the ancient monument.     

Melanin-based colour polymorphism signals aggressive personality in nest and territory defence in the tawny owl (Strix aluco)

Nest and territory defence are risky and potentially dangerous behaviours. If the resolution of life history trade-offs differs between individuals, the level of defence may also vary among individuals. Because melanin-based colour traits can be associated with life history strategies, differently coloured individuals may display different nest and territory defence strategies. We investigated this issue in the colour polymorphic tawny owl (Strix aluco) for which plumage varies from dark to light reddish melanic. Accordingly, we found that (1) our presence induced a greater response (flying around) from dark-coloured than light-coloured females and (2) dark reddish males suffered lower nest predation rates than light-coloured males. In experimentally enlarged broods, the probability that females reacted after we played back the hoot calls of a stranger male was higher if these females were lighter reddish; the opposite pattern was found in experimentally reduced broods with dark parents being more reactive than light parents. Finally, darker females alarmed more frequently when paired with a light than with a dark male, suggesting that partners adjust their behaviour to each other. We also tested whether colouration is used as a signal by conspecifics to adjust the level of their defensive behaviour. Accordingly, breeding females responded more vigorously to a dark than a light reddish stuffed tawny owl placed beside their nest. We conclude that melanin-based colouration is a signal of alternative nest and territory defence behaviour that depends on ecological factors.     

The potential of animal manure management pathways toward a circular economy: a bibliometric analysis

Environmental Science and Pollution Research - Improper disposal of animal waste is responsible for several environmental problems, causing eutrophication of lakes and rivers, nutrient overload in...