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Open Access Article
1 - Influence of Salinity and Supplementary Calcium on Growth, Concentration of Some Nutrients and Quality of Tomato Fruit under Hydroponic Conditions
abolfazl azadi abdolmajid ronaghi zahra ahmadi mojtaba sadri zahra asadi saber heidariBackground and Objective: Soil salinity is one of the important stresses in agricultural production and plays an important role in reducing the growth of crops such as tomatoes. The proper concentration of calcium in salinity conditions is an important factor in control MoreBackground and Objective: Soil salinity is one of the important stresses in agricultural production and plays an important role in reducing the growth of crops such as tomatoes. The proper concentration of calcium in salinity conditions is an important factor in controlling sodium and chlorine toxicity and increasing the yield of sensitive plants especially tomatoes. This research was carried out to study the effect of salinity and supplemental calcium on growth, concentration of some nutrients and fruit quality of tomato under hydroponic conditions. Method: For this purpose, a factorial experiment was conducted on the based on a completely randomized design with three replications in year 89-90 in the greenhouse of the Soil Science Department of Shiraz University. The treatments consisted of three levels of salinity (0, 10 and 20 mM) from sodium chloride and three levels of calcium (0, 5 and 10 mM) from calcium nitrate source. Findings: The results showed that the application of supplemental calcium in saline conditions to the nutrient solution reduced the negative effects of salinity and high sodium and chloride on tomato growth, although this supplemental calcium did not improve the growth and yield of the fruit, but could be considered as a competitive factor in the absorption of other cations by the plant. Discussion and Conclusion: The results showed that the sodium chloride had a negative effect on root and shoot dry weight, but this weight loss was significant only for the root (25.77% decrease compared to the control sample). Increasing salinity reduced the amount of nitrogen in the shoots. Changes in potassium were not significant in shoots, but in the root with increasing salinity and calcium, potassium absorption decreased. The lowest potassium uptake in the root was obtained from treatment with salinity of 20 mM and no supplemental calcium. Sodium chloride (salinity) treatment increased root and shoot sodium concentrations, and supplementation of calcium reduced the sodium concentration in them. The highest amount of magnesium absorption in shoots was in salinity treatment (20 mM) and without calcium, and the lowest magnesium adsorption was in non-saline treatments with 10 mM calcium. Salinity increased the concentration of manganese, zinc and copper in shoots and increased zinc in the root. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
2 - Noise Pollution in Urban Areas and the Effect of Traffic Management Procedures on Urban Environment (Case Study: 6th Region of Tehran Municipal)
Aysan Imanpour namin Touraj Nasrabadi Hossein Mehravaran Sanaz ZabaniBackground and Objective: Noise pollution is one of the most important pollutants of the environment in urban areas and it is evident for everyone that one of the environmental problems is to reduce noise pollution to increase life quality and decrease its effect on cit MoreBackground and Objective: Noise pollution is one of the most important pollutants of the environment in urban areas and it is evident for everyone that one of the environmental problems is to reduce noise pollution to increase life quality and decrease its effect on citizens' health. The city traffic and vehicles are the major sources of noise pollution in large cities especially Tehran. Region 6 of Tehran is the most polluted area in terms of noise pollution. Therefore, a noise barrier in length of 511m and an area of 3066m which is situated in the western margin of Kurdistan highway and it is the only highway with the noise barrier in this region. This highway was chosen as our case study. Method: Feasibility studies and construction of noise barrier of the highway was implemented before changing the intersection of Kurdistan-Gomnam highway from coplanar to non-coplanar type. But the traffic and noise pollution situation changed following the changing of the intersection of the highway. In this study, we attempted to model noise pollution situation of region and the reducer role of noise barrier given the non-coplanar intersection in addition to overview of noise pollution situation of region by the traffic data of three streets leading to intersection and mean sound level at some points and examine improvement and or deterioration level of environment noise pollution. Findings: The modeled maps were compared in four groups after being prepared and the reason for the increase and decrease of the noise level in each situation was stated. Discussion and Conclusion: After comparing it was found that by eliminating the cross-level intersection with traffic lights in addition to lowering the noise level at 1.7 m height, the vehicle traffic was also smoother and by distributing acoustic levels at different altitudes, due to the presence of Slope levels of overpass and overpass decreased overall noise pollution concentration at lower altitudes, and positive performance of the audio wall decreased slightly, and environmental management strategies were introduced to control noise pollution further. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
3 - Sub-Lethal Effects of Exposure to Copper Oxide Nanoparticles on Growth Indices and Body Biochemical Composition of Common Carp (Cyprinus Carpio)
hasan sahraei Seyyed Abbas Hoseini Seyyed Aliakbar Hedayati Rasoul GhorbaniBackground and Objective: Due to the increasing use of nanoparticles in human activities, as well as its role in reducing the adverse effects of heavy metals on living organisms, at this study the effects of sub-lethal concentrations of copper nanoparticles were discuss MoreBackground and Objective: Due to the increasing use of nanoparticles in human activities, as well as its role in reducing the adverse effects of heavy metals on living organisms, at this study the effects of sub-lethal concentrations of copper nanoparticles were discussed on growth factors and biochemical composition carcass of common carp. Method: 82 carp with an average weight of 42 ± 2 g was prepared and after adaptation for the laboratory condition, were exposed at 42 days at three treatments (10, 40, 80 ppm) and three replicates respectively, also a control group were prepared with three replications under the affect of sub-lethal concentrations of copper oxide nanoparticles. Findings: Analysis of growth indices showed that all growth indices had significantly different (P<0/05) with metal treatments in compared to the control group. So the control group had the highest average body weight, percent of body weight, SGR rate, and feed conversion efficiency with averaging 2.93. The lowest specific growth rate and the highest rate of conversion were related to the treatment number three (80 ppm), respectively. The amount of ash, fat, protein and maximum moisture was observed at the control group. The highest percentage of protein and fat was at treatment (3) and concentration of 80 milligrams per litre of copper oxide nanoparticles that in this regard showed significant differences (P<0.05) with the control group. Discussion and Conclusion: The results indicate that the presence of copper oxide nanoparticles in aquatic ecosystems have negative effects on growth and biochemical composition of fish carcasses even at sub-lethal concentrations, that by increasing the concentration of the nanoparticles in aquatic ecosystems, the influence of these effects will become clearer. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
4 - Investigating the Pollution of Renewable Power Plants with AHP, TOPSIS and VIKOR Analysis Approach
Zeinolabedin Sadeghi Maryam Rezaee Jafari Amin Ghasemi NejadBackground and Objective: Electricity production and consumption are considered as two of the most important factors and premises in the growth and development of every country. We need to build power plants for electricity production given the high costs and investment MoreBackground and Objective: Electricity production and consumption are considered as two of the most important factors and premises in the growth and development of every country. We need to build power plants for electricity production given the high costs and investment needed for the construction of each power plant in electricity industry, it is necessary to select these power plants according to a wide range of criteria. Method: Using economic, environmental and technical criteria, this study attempts to prioritize different power plants in Iran via AHP, TOPSIS and VIKOR method. Findings: Environmental pollution indices, initial investment per kilowatt hour of electricity generation, maintenance costs, easy access to spare parts and the possibility of developing and increasing capacity were introduced the main indicators affecting prioritization of the power plants in Iran. In general, according to all indices studied in this study, environmental pollution has the most impact on the prioritization of power generation plants. Also, the indexes related to the amount of initial investment per kWh, maintenance costs, the possibility of developing and increasing capacity, and easy access to spare parts were considered as the most important factors. Discussion and Conclusions: The findings from the prioritization by each methods of Multiple Attribute Decision Making show that wind plants have the top priority in the strategic selection of electricity plant, and solar energy. Hydropower, small-scale (scattered), gas, steam, combined cycle and diesel respectively are the next priorities .Therefore, it is suggested that government and political organizations start to make foundations and infrastructure required for utilization of such energies in power plants given the illustrated prioritization. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
5 - Environmental Risk Assessment for Gas Pipeline Construction Using the Multi-Index Compilation Decision Method (Case study: Gachsaran to Bidboland)
shahab Ahmadzadeh MARYAM ROBATI hanieh nikoomaramBackground and Objective: This study analyzes the risk assessment of Gachsaran petrochemical Ethan transformation 20 inch pipeline implementation design as one of the most important petrochemical designs of the country, with the knowledge of assuring necessity of proper MoreBackground and Objective: This study analyzes the risk assessment of Gachsaran petrochemical Ethan transformation 20 inch pipeline implementation design as one of the most important petrochemical designs of the country, with the knowledge of assuring necessity of proper and right implementation of projects and finally presenting solutions for adverse effects reduction on environment. Method: VIKOR and ENVID methods are types of environmental risk identification methods that show necessary applicability for projects’ risk amount assessment. Findings: In this research, relative analysis process of failure existence potentials is discussed and also sensitivity assessment and vulnerability detection of environment around us is done. This method conclude recognition of environment affected by gas leakage, important ecologic compartments checked and assessed considering environmental sensitivities, risk amount guaranty according to existing standards and identification of preventive actions and potential pipeline risk reduction actions. Discussion and Conclusions: The results show that in both mentioned methods, construction phase has more risk in comparison to application phase as in construction phase, physical and chemical and economical, social and cultural environments respectively get the most influence and in application phase with less severity comparing to construction phase Economical, social and cultural and physical and chemical receive the most influence. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
6 - Development of spatiol network for optimal routing of BRT lines
Zahra Abbasi aliasghar alesheikh saeed behzadi hossein aghamohammadiBackground and Objective: Numerous routing methods of public transportation systems have been designed. The main challenge of optimum routing of urban public transportation systems is defined as the determination of the optimal locations of the stations and the rou MoreBackground and Objective: Numerous routing methods of public transportation systems have been designed. The main challenge of optimum routing of urban public transportation systems is defined as the determination of the optimal locations of the stations and the routh lengths in a city. Method: To address the challeng designers are confronted with a wide range of criteria, among which cost, time and coathing are the most important ones. In this paper, routing optimization for a configuration of 9 bus lines in one of the Tehran districts was implemented. In order to optimize the bus routes, the origin and destination of each line were considered fixed and the intermediate routes were optimized. Eight factors consisting of: road capacity (LOS), land use, pavement status, crossing line width, components of road cross sections, population density and length of each edge (Arc) were selected for optimization process. According to the importance of each factor for routing, a special weighting coefficient were assigned to each criteria. After implementating Dijkstra algorithm, the routes of 5 bus lines must be changed. The line direction changing subsequently caused to new stations allocation requirement. Findings: After determining the allocation criteria and creating corresponding layers, 16 new stations were allocated. Finally, the proposed routes between these stations were identified. Discussion and Conclusion: One of the most important aspects of innovation in this study is the use of GIS capabilities to provide novel solutions for optimal routing of BRT lines. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
7 - Locating and Optimizing Coverage of CCTV Cameras to Support Better Monitoring Using S-ROPE Algorithm and 3D Visualization
Jafar Karimi Mohammad hassan VahidniaBackground and Objective: Modern surveillance systems based on CCTV cameras is an essential element for protecting the environment and social security. Camera network optimization and designing its architecture are among the issues of camera network studies. The purpose MoreBackground and Objective: Modern surveillance systems based on CCTV cameras is an essential element for protecting the environment and social security. Camera network optimization and designing its architecture are among the issues of camera network studies. The purpose of this paper is to develop a geospatial solution to find configurations for CCTV cameras in such a way that creates the maximum possible visual coverage in an urban area. Methods: In general, this research is performed in two steps. In the first step, the algorithm is used to locate cameras in two-dimensional space, and the resulting output is analyzed in the second step in a three-dimensional space and visually. The first step was performed using ArcGIS software and Python programming language, and the S-ROPE algorithm was used as a high-precision method for 2D camera deployment. After the modifications were made at the viewing and non-binary regions of the region, the location of the cameras was determined. In the second stage, the three-dimensional model of City Engine software was used to validate the output obtained using the S-ROPE algorithm. The evaluation of the applied method was performed on an urban study area. Findings: With the S-ROPE algorithm, an automated location determination for cameras was taken so that the area of 1798.28 m² was covered by a total area of 1953.98 m² of study area, i.e. 92%. After a three-dimensional review, only two cameras were added to the total of cameras to cover 100%. Discussion and Conclusion: With the proposed method, the number of cameras used makes significant savings, and the most possible coverage is achieved. The only challenge is the process time for large areas, which, due to the non-urgent nature of the problem, does not create a dent in the proposed method. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
8 - Critical Notes on Environmental Justice and Sustainable Development
Payman Namamian sobhan tayebiThe international community is increasingly facing environmental problems such as deforestation, global warming, environmental pollution, species extinction and desertification, and more. The development of human society over the centuries has been such that it cannot r MoreThe international community is increasingly facing environmental problems such as deforestation, global warming, environmental pollution, species extinction and desertification, and more. The development of human society over the centuries has been such that it cannot rely solely on the environment. In this regard, economic, scientific and technological development is formed in space and time. In the course of this development, according to human concerns, sustainability is an issue that guarantees the rights of future generations. Although the frameworks of solidarity law have also taken great strides in this direction, the appropriate conditions have not been sufficient in any way. Hence, the spatial and temporal nature of human development has raised concerns about human rights and the environment. Using conceptual analysis, this article critically examines the concepts of environmental justice and sustainable development and proves that development is meaningful in terms of issues such as respect for the environment and respect for human rights against the environment. This article concludes that global happiness and prosperity can only be achieved in an atmosphere of understanding between nations on the basis that the protection of the environment and its sustainability is a matter of respect for environmental rights. Therefore, one of the suggestions of this article is to establish efforts related to sustainable development based on environmental justice. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
9 - Designing Strategies of Tourism Development Using SWOT-ANP Technique (Case Study: Historical Context of Tehran Metropolis)
Narges Ahmadifard Rasol DarabkhaniBackground and Objective: The tourism approach for presenting historical texts, in addition to responding to the needs of the people and everyday life, has a significant bearing on the identity of the historical context. By improving and developing the special historica MoreBackground and Objective: The tourism approach for presenting historical texts, in addition to responding to the needs of the people and everyday life, has a significant bearing on the identity of the historical context. By improving and developing the special historical features and cultural attractions of the place and promoting urban tourism, can help to the social and physical reconstruction of historical texts and finally, it can return the dynamics and civic life to these textures and create a perspective of the city that is results the interaction between time, culture, society and the physical, in order to provide simultaneous protection and development of the tissue. With regarding this, the present study seeks to identify the power of the region and formulate a Strategic Plan of Development with using a set of internal factors and a set of external factors. Method: The research method is descriptive and analytical. The method of data collection is through the design and completion of questionnaires. Analysis does with SWOT and ANP hybrid model in Super Decision software. Findings: The result of the research showed that from among the strategies reviewed, the following three strategies were prioritized: Integrated strategy and coordination of management decisions related to the development of regional tourism from the competitive strategies of the region and the strategy of raising awareness and training of human resource specialist and tourism related expert from strategies for defensive strategy and finally, the strategy to prioritize the area in the plans of the Municipality Planning Council as effective strategy in the competitive strategy are selected. Discussion and Conclusions: The result of this study show that with coordinating management decisions, budget allocations, education and Knowledge of expert human resources in tourism along with prioritizing the area in the plans of the municipal council planning in designing tourism development programs by authorities create strategic development in the region. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
10 - Mapping of Dusty Stormy Days in Iran Using Geostatistical and Mathematical Methods
Hassan Fathizad Ali Khanamani mohammad zareBackground and Objective: The number of stormy days is determined by various factors such as wind speed, rainfall, soil moisture and so on. The study of this index in the country can be considered in various plans. The purpose of this research is mapping of the number o MoreBackground and Objective: The number of stormy days is determined by various factors such as wind speed, rainfall, soil moisture and so on. The study of this index in the country can be considered in various plans. The purpose of this research is mapping of the number of dusty stormy days in Iran and selecting the best model based on the climatic data of 150 meteorological stations for the period of 25 years (1986-2010). Method: Dust stormy days’ data of the studied stations were analyzed using variogram curves to represents their spatial correlation. Gaussian variogram (R2=0.96) shows the highest correlation between the data. Then, map of the number of dust stormy days in Iran were prepared using different geostatistical and mathematical methods. For this purpose, several mathematical interpolation methods including Inverse Distance Method (IDW), Global Polynomial Interpolation (GPI), Radial Basis Function (RBF), Local Polynomial Interpolation (LPI), and geostatistical method of Kriging were used. To select the best interpolation method among several geostatistical and mathematical methods, statistical indicators of Root Mean Square (RMS) and correlation coefficient between observed and predicted data were used. Findings: Results show that the highest correlation between predicted and observed data (R2 = 0.74) was found in kriging indicator method. The southeast and southwest of the country have the highest number of dust storm days. Discussion and Conclusion: High number of dust stormy days in the southeast is resulting from drying of Hammon lakes and blowing of 120-day winds in Sistan plain, and entering of dust from Arabic countries form the direction of southwest. North part of the country has the lowest number of dust storm days. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
11 - Evaluation of Emprical Models for Sediment Yield Prediction at Semi-Arid Small Watershed using Measured Data
Ali Bagherian kalat Ali Akbar Abbasi Seyed Masoud SoleimanpourBackground and Objective: Due to the lack of sediment stations in most of the country's watersheds outlets and inadequacy of data, experimental models can be important tools for the production of these information layers. Common Empirical model in Iran is EPM. Method: MoreBackground and Objective: Due to the lack of sediment stations in most of the country's watersheds outlets and inadequacy of data, experimental models can be important tools for the production of these information layers. Common Empirical model in Iran is EPM. Method: Since this model has been designed in other countries, it is necessary to examine its performance in Iran. The main objective of the project is Model situations with nature and complete database available about erosion and its affecting factors. In implementing this plan, 4 small soil dams in Kardeh Dam and five sub-basins have a pond to collect runoff and sediment in Sanganeh of Kalat was selected. These catchment areas were studied and information layers for EPM model produced. Amounts of sediment were estimated and were compared with observed sediment. Findings: The results indicated that the uncalibrated FMS model overestimated the eroded materials. Results of the EPM and calibrated FMS model indicated 0.66 and 0.35 Nash-Sutcliff efficiency. Discussion and Conclusion: Therefore, we can accept the estimated results of this model as somewhat reliable. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
12 - Modelling of Input Phosphate Load to the Caspian Sea from Tajan Watershed Using Soil and Water Assesment Tool
ّFatemeh Rajaei Reza Dahmardeh Behrooz Mostafa GholipourBackground and Objective: The development of agriculture to respond to growing need for food causes more consumption of chemical fertilizers and water ecosystems pollution. Therefore, in this study estimation of nutrients from non-point sources, the amount of exceed tha MoreBackground and Objective: The development of agriculture to respond to growing need for food causes more consumption of chemical fertilizers and water ecosystems pollution. Therefore, in this study estimation of nutrients from non-point sources, the amount of exceed than standard level, evaluation of phosphate pollution input from Tajan watershed to the Caspian Sea is a priority for watershed health assessment. Method: In this study, the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) for the simulation of phosphate during the years from 2001 to 2014 were used. Findings: The results showed that annual phosphate during 2001 to 2014, from about 29,000 to 102,900 kg in watershed output were different. Phosphate in winter and autumn were allocated 98 percent of total annual load. The highest levels of phosphate were in February (an average of 11 621 kg) and lowest in June (average 0.7 kg). Also, phosphate concentration was higher than drinking water quality standards (0.2 mg/l) in most subbasins. Discussion and Conclusion: It is necessary to reduce the phosphatein in these subbasins. They should be prioritized in water quality management programs. Also, results showed that the SWAT model can be a useful tool for pollution reduction strategies. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
13 - Quantitative Determination of the Selected Nests Pressure of Wood Species in the Middle Forest of Northern Iran (Case study: Gorazbon section of Kheyroud forest)
Sajjad Babaie Mahmood Bayat Manoochehr Namiranian Sahar Heidari Masteali fatemeh AhmadlooBackground and Objective: Understanding the ecological niche of the different species is essential in many ecological issues. Ecological niches of species are one of the important factors in the tree species distribution pattern and for all species, it can be dete MoreBackground and Objective: Understanding the ecological niche of the different species is essential in many ecological issues. Ecological niches of species are one of the important factors in the tree species distribution pattern and for all species, it can be detected by examining distribution of species distribution. Ecological nest models often help to understand more ecosystems. These models are applicable in predicting ecosystem stability and sustainability ratios and ecosystems. Method: In order to determine the selective pressure of different species, the indicators of the equilibrium level of selected nests, the dominant level of selected nests and the crisis level of selected nests were used and 41.5 hectares of Khirud research and educational forest were fully surveyed (100%). Then, characteristics such as diameter equal to the chest of the trees were measured and using selective nesting indices, the selected pressure and nesting levels of beech, oak, hornbeam and alder species were measured. Findings: The values of the selective pressure were measured for the species on the Fagus orientalis 66.419, Quercus persica 3. 313, Carpinus orientalis 261. 28, Alnus 36. 962 and tilia begonifolia 9. 39 respectively. The final results showed that Carpinus orientalis wasat a Dominates niche level, the Fagus orientalis and Alnus was in the balance niche level and the Quercus persica was in intermediate between balance and critical level and also tilia begonifolia was in the critical niche levels. Discussion and Conclusion: The Carpinus species were at the dominant level of selective pressure, the Tilla species were at the equilibrium level and the Quercus species were at the equilibrium level of the crisis nest. The results of this study showed that selective strain quantification is an important factor in determining the current status of endangered species. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
14 - Estimation of Shadow Price and External Cost of Groundwater Salinity in Agricultural Sector
Fatemeh Abolghasemi Hamed Najafi Alamdarlo Seyed Abolghasem MortazaviBackground and Objective: The use of groundwater resources for agricultural purposes has led to an excessive withdrawal of aquifers and a reduction in groundwater levels in Iran. This issue has increased the salinity and has seriously threatened the agricultural product MoreBackground and Objective: The use of groundwater resources for agricultural purposes has led to an excessive withdrawal of aquifers and a reduction in groundwater levels in Iran. This issue has increased the salinity and has seriously threatened the agricultural production farms. Therefore, it is important to measure the cost of pollution caused by the production of different products and determine their shadow value. For this purpose, the shadow price of groundwater salinity in different provinces has been estimated during the period of 1964-1999. Method: In this study, directional output distance function in the quadratic form was used to determine the environmental efficiency and shadow price of groundwater salinity. Findings: The technical inefficiency and shadow value of salinity of the provinces was estimated in the agricultural activity. The results show that the provinces of the country have different conditions in terms of technical inefficiency. The average value of the directional output distance function of Iran is 0.228. Also, the average shadow value of salinity in the groundwater of Iran is 0.278 billion Rials per μS⁄cm. Discussion and Conclusion: It is suggested that policies should be developed to control the salinity of groundwater, taking into account the characteristics of each region, and priority should be given to provinces with less shadow prices. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
15 - Phenology of Ferula Ovinia and Poa Bulbosa Species and Time of Livestock Entry to and Exit from Rangeland in Goorab of Isfahan Province
maryam gholami mostafa saeedfarBackground and Objective: Phenological study is one of the important factors in optimal management of vegetation utilization. Ferula ovinia and Poa bulbosa are valuable rangeland species regarding to forage production and controlling soil erosion.In this research, an ap MoreBackground and Objective: Phenological study is one of the important factors in optimal management of vegetation utilization. Ferula ovinia and Poa bulbosa are valuable rangeland species regarding to forage production and controlling soil erosion.In this research, an appropriate time for livestock entering to and exiting from the Goorab rangeland in 35th kilometers west of Fereydoun Shahr city, was carried out during four years (2014-2017). Method: In this research, ten plant bases were selected and information about the phonological stages for each base in the 7-day period during the growth phase and 15 days in the reproductive phase were measured and recorded at the special form. At the same time, meteorological statistics were collected from meteorological station adjacent the project site. Findings: Growing of the Ferula ovinia was started in mid-March, and continued until early-June. Flowering stems was started in late May and continued until mid-June. Seeds formations were begun in early-June and completed in late July. Growing of the Poa bulbosa was started in mid-March, and continued until early-June. Flowering stems was started in late May and continued until early-June. Seeds formations were begun in early-June and until the end of in late June. Discussion and Conclusion: The results showed that according to the species behavior in the occurrence of biological phenomena in the different years of study, the best entrance and departure time should be specified based on physiologic phenomena in the specie of Poa bulbosa which the best time can be late May and mid-May. The time of departure of the livestock could also be continued till ‏mid-September due to the existence of dried Ferula ovina which is used by livestock in the summer if the number of livestock has been observed based on livestock capacity. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
16 - Measurement of Heavy Elements Concentration in the Muscle Tissue of Caspian Roach (Rutilus rutilus caspicus Yakovlev, 1870) (Case Study: Siah Darvishan River, Guilan province, Iran)
Mohammad Ettefaghdoost Hamid Alaf NoveirianBackground and Objective: Heavy elements, due to their indissoluble structure, pose a serious threat to the health of aquatic animals as well as humans at high level of concentrations in aquatic tissues. For this purpose, the present study aims to investigate concentrat MoreBackground and Objective: Heavy elements, due to their indissoluble structure, pose a serious threat to the health of aquatic animals as well as humans at high level of concentrations in aquatic tissues. For this purpose, the present study aims to investigate concentration and order of elements accumulated in the muscle tissue of Caspian roach (Rutilus rutilus caspicus) in Siah Darvishan River as one of the fish species with high economic value and also the determination of its health for human consumption. Method: In this study, concentration level of eleven heavy elements (Pb, Hg, Cr, Cu, Zn, Cd, As, Fe, Mn, Ni and Se) in muscle tissue of 25 Caspian roach (Rutilus rutilus caspicus) caught by cast net from Siah Darvishan River (Guilan province, Iran) in summer 2016 were digested with closed-vessel method in CEM microwave digestion system afterwards measured and evaluated using by Varian® atomic absorption spectroscopy. Findings: The least and most accumulated elements have been observed, as follows: Zinc 30.58-33.53, Iron 18.63-20.89, Copper 3.54-4.24, Manganese 1.55-1.86, Lead 0.81-0.83, Arsenic 0.74-0.79, Nickel 0.56-0.61, Selenium 0.46-0.51, Cadmium 0.26-0.32, Chromium 0.13-0.16 and Mercury 0.079-0.095 microgram per gram dry weight, respectively. Discussion and Conclusion: The results show that, mean concentrations of all elements in muscle tissue of Caspian roach, except the five heavy elements; Nickel (0.584±0.026), Arsenic (0.764±0.027), Cadmium (0.296±0.024), Manganese (1.665±0.166) and Lead (0.817±0.011), were below than the standard approved by the international organization (FAO/WHO). Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
17 - Investigation of the effects of agricultural activities on the accumulation of cadmium, cobalt and chromium in soil
Ali Shahbazi AliReza Soffianian Norolah MirghaffariBackground and Objective: Every year a great deal of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and sewage sludge used in agriculture soils; this may cause the increase in concentration of Soil heavy metals. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of assessment o MoreBackground and Objective: Every year a great deal of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and sewage sludge used in agriculture soils; this may cause the increase in concentration of Soil heavy metals. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of assessment of agriculture activities on accumulation of Cadmium, Cobalt and Chromium; and determines the trend of heavy metal accumulation in soil.Method: To achieve this purpose 97 soil samples were taken from different agriculture fields with different cultivation archaism in Hamedan province in western IRAN by systematic approach. ANOVA test has been used to compare the concentration of heavy metals in different farms, the trend of accumulation heavy metals obtained in regards to cultivation archaism and the mean of metals concentration in different cultivations. Moreover, contamination Factor Index has been used for comparison of contamination risk in cultivations with various archaisms.Findings: Mean concentrations in 20-, 35- and 65-year-old cultures for cadmium metal were 0.14, 0.16 and 0.19, respectively, for cobalt metal, 17/94, 18/05 and 79/20, respectively and for chromium metal 58.89, 72.99 and 88.09 mg / kg, respectively. The results showed that the longevity of cultivation affected on heavy metal accumulation in soil. The trend of Cd, Co and Cr accumulation in soil was exponential.Discussion and Conclusion: Due to the fact that agricultural soils are one of the important routes for the transfer of heavy metals to the human food chain, it is necessary to monitor soils that are potentially exposed to toxic metals. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
18 - Assessment of urban areas sustainability, Case study: Kermanshah, Iran
Somayeh Zinatizadeh Aeizh Azmi Seyed Masoud Monavari Soheil SobhanardakaniBackground and Objective: sustainable development is the balance between various economic, social and environmental aspects which aims at improving the quality of human life. The aim of this study is to evaluate the six different areas of Kermanshah city based on urban MoreBackground and Objective: sustainable development is the balance between various economic, social and environmental aspects which aims at improving the quality of human life. The aim of this study is to evaluate the six different areas of Kermanshah city based on urban sustainable development indicators. Method: The research is applied and its method is descriptive-analytical. The level of development of different areas of Kermanshah has been studied using three methods, SAW, ELECTRE and TOPSIS in conjunction with Shannon's entropy and enjoying 44 effective indices in sustainable urban development as well as ELECTRE, TOPSIS, Excel, Shannon's entropy, SPSS soft wares. Findings: The results of this study indicate that in all three methods, 1 and 4 districts showed a higher stability. While areas 2 and 3 had an average sustainability and areas 5 and 6 showed less sustainability. Friedman's test results show that there is no significant difference among the three models in ranking the urban areas. Discussion and Conclusion: Given the results of this study, the level of urban services and amenities is not the same in different areas. So establishing a harmonious relationship among the six areas of Kermanshah to achieve sustainable development seems necessary. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
19 - Antimicrobial and Photocatalytic Properties of Bentonite/Titanium Dioxide Nanocomposites Doped with Silver
mahsa Madadi Mohammad GhorbanpourBackground and Objective: One of the main applications of titanium dioxide nanoparticles is killing the microorganisms spatially in drinking water and wastewater treatment. Method: Pure bentonite/Titanium Dioxide nanocomposites and doped with 3, 5 and 10% w/w sil MoreBackground and Objective: One of the main applications of titanium dioxide nanoparticles is killing the microorganisms spatially in drinking water and wastewater treatment. Method: Pure bentonite/Titanium Dioxide nanocomposites and doped with 3, 5 and 10% w/w silver were prepared by molten salt method. In this study, the antibacterial activity of silver doped titanium dioxide/bentonite nanocomposites was studied against two important microorganisms in food industry i.e. Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureusunder visible or UV radiation. The photocatalytic activity of these composites against methyl orange was also investigated. The prepared nanocomposites were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), UV-Vis diffusive reflectance spectrometer (UV-Vis DRS). Findings: The scanning electron microscope was showed, that agglomeration of spherical TiO2 nanoparticles formed on the bentonite surface. The XRD pattern revealed that all of the samples have only an anatase phase with crystalline size less than 50 nm. According to EDX analysis, the silver ions successfully doped to the TiO2 nanoparticles. According to UV-Vis DRS results, increasing amounts of doped Ag content in the silver-doped titanium dioxide results in a higher visible absorbance capability of the materials. Parent bentonite did not show antibacterial activity. Titanium dioxide/bentonite nanocomposites showed very weak antibacterial activity. The results showed that the antibacterial ability was significantly improved by doping silver content comparing with pure TiO2/bentonite nanocomposites. This study also showed that Gram-positive bacteria (S. aureus) were more readily disinfected by the photo catalysts than a Gram-negative bacterium (E. coli). According to photocatalytic activity findings, doping of nanocomposites with 5 % silver ions showed maximum photocatalytic activity. This is attributed to the increasing visible absorption capacity due to the presence of silver ions. Discussion and Conclusion: Antibacterial and photocatalytic activity of titanium dioxide/bentonite nanocomposites increases dramatically due to the addition of silver ions. This can be attributed to the release of silver ions from nanocomposites and the increase in the production of free radicals as a result of increased photocatalytic activity due to reducing the energy gap of titanium dioxide nanoparticles in nanocomposites. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
20 - Measuring and Assessing the Urban Resilience in the Social, Economic, Physical and Environmental Dimensions (Case study: Shiraz City)
leyla mohammadi kazemabadi Mohammad Ali Khanizadeh Ahmad PourahmadBackground and Objective: The growth of modern cities is often followed without standards and unbridled. With this picture, if cities suffer from natural and abnormal accidents, it is very difficult to return to pre-disaster situations. Method: The present research is MoreBackground and Objective: The growth of modern cities is often followed without standards and unbridled. With this picture, if cities suffer from natural and abnormal accidents, it is very difficult to return to pre-disaster situations. Method: The present research is an applied and analytical-descriptive purpose. This study uses a hierarchical analysis model to evaluate resilience with emphasis on quality of life in Shiraz. In this regard, 30 questionnaires were submitted to experts and questions consisted of economic, socio-cultural, and social dimensions. Environmental and physical. Then, these dimensions and their sub-criteria were implemented in the AHP method. Findings: The findings indicate that: the highest level of resilience was given in the order of priority, then environment with average (0.224), socio-cultural dimension with mean (198/0), structural-dimensional dimension with mean (0.191) ) and the economic dimension with an average (0.110). Discussion and Conclusion: According to research findings, it can be claimed that the lack of environmental pollution and environmental diversity have led to relative stability in this category, and on the other hand, the existence of an almost optimal interpersonal and social relationship between the age structure and sex of the community is a resilient state and has created social and cultural aspects. The existence of varied uses and historic aberrations in urban context as a positive point and the existence of exhaustion in some places, both structural and functional, has been shown to be negative. Unfortunately, the economic quality and employment issues, as in other cities of the country, are very low and uncertain, and the need to strengthen this sector is highly felt. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
21 - Hazard Identification and Consequences Analysis of Possible Accidents in the Tank Farm & Flare of the ILAM Gas Refinery by ETBA and PHAST Soft wear
seyed Rohollah sharifi fatemeh RazavianBackground and Objective: The ILAM Gas Refinery, which produces natural gas, ethane, C3+, C5+, and Sulphur, is situated in the west of Iran and in the Central Zagros Range, and thus, examining the consequences of possible industrial accidents considering the probable ef MoreBackground and Objective: The ILAM Gas Refinery, which produces natural gas, ethane, C3+, C5+, and Sulphur, is situated in the west of Iran and in the Central Zagros Range, and thus, examining the consequences of possible industrial accidents considering the probable effects on personnel, equipment, installations, and the environment is of great importance. Method: In this study, the risks related to the storage tanks and flare were identified and prioritized. Then, the consequences of the identified risks for the selected scenarios comprising radiation due to fire, the pressure due to an explosion, and leakage of toxic material were modeled using the Process Hazard Analysis Software Tool (PHAST) for possible accidents. In this study, the ETBA method identified 70 risks, among which seven of them were in the unacceptable range, in which four risks were associated to the spherical storage tanks, loading (two risks), and the cylindrical storage tank and the flare were each assigned one risk. The risk associated with the heat energy of the spherical and cylindrical storage tanks and the flare were significant. Subsequently, the consequences of four scenarios including the sudden release of gas from the spherical storage tank, leakage of gas condensate from the cylindrical tanks, leakage of Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) from the loading arm, and flare-off were selected for simulation. Discussion and Conclusion: In the first scenario, the radiation resulting from fire and the shockwave of the spherical storage tank explosions affected a wide area of the refinery. In the second scenario, leakage of condensate gas from the adjacent wall to the cylindrical storage tanks is of certain significance. In the third scenario, the location of the loading platform is unsuitable. In the fourth scenario, the height of the flares is suitable and the release of toxic and flammable gases does not pose a significant consequence for the installations and people in connection. Reviewing the fire extinguisher systems, constant assessment of the lightning arrestors, and conducting firefighting drills are among the recommendations of this study. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
22 - Optimal location of municipal wastes tanks using GIS (Case study: Shahindezh city)
zahra yazdani Mohammad TalaeianBackground and Objective: Waste management is responsible for carrying out various processes to attract citizens' satisfaction. Proper placement of temporary storage tanks in the city is important. Therefore, the optimal location of municipal waste tanks is very importa MoreBackground and Objective: Waste management is responsible for carrying out various processes to attract citizens' satisfaction. Proper placement of temporary storage tanks in the city is important. Therefore, the optimal location of municipal waste tanks is very important. In addition, not using waste storage tanks in suitable places can cause environmental damage and negative effects on the beauty of the city landscape. The purpose of this study is to locate municipal waste tanks using powerful tools of GIS. Analysis Method: Waste pollution and its dangers are inevitable for communities. Traditional methods such as manually overlay maps are not possible due to the large amount of data. So, in this research a powerful tool such as GIS has been used in locating municipal waste tanks. For this purpose, 58 blocks in 4 regions with a population of 12 thousand households in the city of Shahindezh in West Azerbaijan province have been studied. Findings: According to the map obtained from GPS, the location of the main tanks in the city of Shahindezh was investigated. With having information on population density, production waste per capita, observing the specified distances and using the geographic information system, the centers purposed for the waste location tanks in this study were determined. So that by weighting the layers and superimposing the layers of maps in GIS software, it resulted in providing 804 points for locating reservoirs in the city. Discussion and Conclusion: Looking at the findings and in order to prevent irregular traffic of garbage trucks, reduce fuel, reduce the environmental impact of waste accumulated in inappropriate places and maximize use of the appropriate perspective, using the results of this research, temporary waste storage tanks can be used in appropriate numbers in the right places and created a safe environment which to be environmentally friendly with high security factor. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
23 - Prediction of Urban Physical Expansion Using Multi-Criteria Decision Making Model (Case study: Rasht City)
Hamide Aliani Hamed Aliani mohadeseh ghanbari motlagh Kamran RahimiBackground and Objective: The unplanned expansion of cities is one of the most important issues of urban management in developing countries. Because the increasing development of urban society and unplanned constructions have created many changes in their spatial constr MoreBackground and Objective: The unplanned expansion of cities is one of the most important issues of urban management in developing countries. Because the increasing development of urban society and unplanned constructions have created many changes in their spatial construction, which has led to the need for conscious guidance and design of suitable living space for cities. The purpose of this study is to find a set of suitable spatial zones for urban physical development. Method: Rasht city, as the center of Gilan County, has undergone many demographic and urban changes. In order to plan optimally and appropriately for the future urban development of the studied city, 14 ecological and socio-economic criteria were selected based on the opinions of experts and the Delphi method in 2018. Then the weighted linear composition method and network analysis process were used to zoning the ecological potential of the area for urban development. Findings: The results of the implementation of the multi-criteria evaluation method showed that the total area of the region is about 16.12% with very high capability. 29.54% of the region is unsuitable due to ecological conditions and unsustainable social tissue. Discussion and Conclusions: The results of this research can provide more study opportunities for planners and decision-makers to take preventive and controlling factors into strategic decisions. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
24 - The Principles of Openings and their Effects on the Natural Ventilation in Residential Buildings in Temperate and Humid Climates of Iran (Sample cases: Kolbadi house in Sari, and Shafahi house in Amol)
Mahboobeh Pourmousa Seyed Majid Mofidi Shemirani Mahnaz Mahmoudi ZarandiBackground and Objective: The use of non-renewable energies in the past has led to diminished energy resources together with emission of greenhouse gases, and the serious problem of climate changes. Therefore, using an alternative model will have a significant share in MoreBackground and Objective: The use of non-renewable energies in the past has led to diminished energy resources together with emission of greenhouse gases, and the serious problem of climate changes. Therefore, using an alternative model will have a significant share in reducing energy consumption, and more importantly, improving the quality of life. The improvement in indoor air quality and subsequent indoor thermal comfort using natural ventilation relies on such factors as air flow, indoor and outdoor temperatures, surrounding buildings, and most importantly, proportions of openings. Among these factors, opening and its design can be best controlled. Method: In the present article, the ventilations in Kolbadi house-Sari and Shafahi house-Amol (both belonging to the Qajar period) are analyzed in Fluent using CFD method. Findings: According to the results, there is a direct relationship between the volume of ventilation space (space configuration) and position of openings, and configuration and proportion of inlet opening to outlet opening has a direct effect on the behavior of air flow in natural cross ventilation, and can affect air flow velocity for better ventilation. In case of openings that play the role of ventilation, it is better to enlarge the inlet instead of minifying the outlets to improve the efficiency of the ventilation. Discussion and Conclusion: In the software analyzes, the results were identical for almost all areas examined. The analyses confirmed the increased airflow rate by a "2-fold" ratio of the opening area of the inlet to the outlet with similar results. Therefore, in Cs climate of Iran, the relationship of climate with indigenous architecture, the need for natural air flow and physical specifications of opening for human comfort can be observed. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
25 - Evaluating the Effect of Cost of Environmental Pollution on Efficiency (Case study: China's economic zones)
fatemeh Mehregan Soheyla SeyedboyerBackground and Objective: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the environmental impacts on the value of efficiency. Industries and companies making environmental pollution, bring costs to the community, which in the most cases are not taken into account for measuri MoreBackground and Objective: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the environmental impacts on the value of efficiency. Industries and companies making environmental pollution, bring costs to the community, which in the most cases are not taken into account for measuring efficiency. This study has attempted to find a proper model for evaluating efficiency using the two-stage data envelopment analysis, considering the costs of environmental pollution. Cost loss resulted from applying environmental constraints on undesirable outputs, are also discussed and calculated. Method: An analytical-descriptive method is utilized in this study. Two-stage data envelopment analysis has been used here to measure efficiency. At first, environmental constraints have been made up with respect to the problem and then added to the model. The proposed mathematical models are solved using the GAMS software and the values of efficiency are obtained. Findings: Results show that the model with environmental regulations has a lower efficiency value compared to the model without environmental regulation, indicating that applying environmental regulations on undesirable outputs, leads to losing some of desirable outputs and consequently some cost. The study involves 20 economic zones of China whose efficiency and cost loss are calculated. Discussion and Conclusion: The results show that in Guizhou and Guangdong regions, the efficiency is the same in both cases, indicating that these areas are on the edge of efficiency. The cost loss in these areas is zero. However, in areas such as Shaanxi and Liaoning, the difference is greater, indicating that for a long period of time, the economic development of these areas has been dependent on constant consumption of resources, which has caused reduced environmental quality. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
26 - Factors Affecting the Consumption of Ecological Resources in Iran Using Economic Approach
Morteza Molaei Ehsan Besharat Mehrdad MohammadiBackground and Objective: The objective of this study is the investigation of factors affecting Ecological Footprint and testing Pollution Haven and Environmental Kuznets’ Curve hypotheses. Method: In this study, after introducing ecological footprint as an indic MoreBackground and Objective: The objective of this study is the investigation of factors affecting Ecological Footprint and testing Pollution Haven and Environmental Kuznets’ Curve hypotheses. Method: In this study, after introducing ecological footprint as an indicator of natural resources degradation, factors affecting it is investigated in the form of natural resources degradation model for the period 1965-2011 using Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model; and Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) and Pollution Haven hypotheses were tested. In this study, the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), free trade index, urbanization, human development index, development of financial markets index were used as factors affecting the ecological footprint. Findings: Results show that per capita GDP, free trade, development of financial markets and urbanization have positive and significant impacts in long and short term periods, but human development has negative and significant impact on ecological footprint. These results confirmed Pollution Haven hypothesis; but the EKC hypothesis is not confirmed and the relationship between income and ecological footprint is in the form of N. The coefficient of Error Correction is negative and significant which represent the long run equilibrium. The coefficient is -0.99 meaning that ecological footprint corrects its previous period disequilibrium at a speed of 99% annually to reach at the steady state. Discussion and Conclusion: According to the results of this study, economic growth in Iran leads to more natural resources degradation. Therefore, governments should pay special attention to development programs in order to be sustainable. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
27 - Effect of Leakage Modification and Cooling Flow Rate Increase of Water-Cooled Condenser on NVD System Performance Equipped with Vacuum Tube Collectors
Mohammad Javad Abbaspour mohammad behshad ShafieiBackground and Objective: Lack of access to sufficient fresh water is a major threat to people around the world, and to prevent this, extensive research is being done to find new ways to purify different sources of brackish water at lower cost, energy and environmental MoreBackground and Objective: Lack of access to sufficient fresh water is a major threat to people around the world, and to prevent this, extensive research is being done to find new ways to purify different sources of brackish water at lower cost, energy and environmental impacts. The purpose of this study is to produce the freshwater through an NVD system using vacuum tube collectors and vacuum creation by a vacuum pump. Hence, this kind of system could be considered as an innovative combination one; in addition, the effect of different vacuum pressures on yield, then the effect of leakage modification and flow rate increase of cooling water on the system performance were experimentally investigated. Method: In this research, a vacuum pump was utilized to create an initial vacuum, and when it is switched off, a barometric water column maintains the vacuum naturally throughout the consecutive days. The vacuum collectors were used in order to enhance the saline water heat transfer; later the system performance was continually examined. After the improvements were carried to the system, the yield and efficiency were analyzed and compared with the first test. Furthermore, a pressure gauge, a pyranometer and some thermocouples were applied so as to measure the system pressure, solar radiation and temperatures respectively. Findings: The current study found that the yield and efficiency of the system increased by raising the vacuum pressure; besides, after the leakage modification and cooling water flow rate enhancement, the efficiency has been insignificantly varied in the first consecutive days resulting in a superior capability to produce fresh water for more than three days without reusing the vacuum pump. Discussion and Conclusion: The results of this study indicated that raising the vacuum pressure increased the yield and efficiency so that they reached to 8.114 kg/m2d and more than 51% respectively. Moreover, the efficiency slightly varied and as a result, the system would be able to produce freshwater for more than three days without reutilizing vacuum pump. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
28 - Material Flow Cost Accounting (MFCA) to Manage Continuous Productivity Improvement (Case Study: Recovery Section (Line 6) and Cutting and Packaging section of Iran Aluminum Factory (IRELCO))
faeze jafarnasab Zahra AbediBackgrounds and Objectives: Green productivity strategy with foresight and relying on the foundations of productivity improvement is considered as a key strategy in line with the goals of the Millennium Development and Sustainable Development. The most important green p MoreBackgrounds and Objectives: Green productivity strategy with foresight and relying on the foundations of productivity improvement is considered as a key strategy in line with the goals of the Millennium Development and Sustainable Development. The most important green productivity technique is material and energy flow cost accounting, which in addition to having a complementary role with other ISO 14000 series (environmental management system), includes other green productivity techniques such as Deming cycle, Six Sigma, 3R and there are cases like this. Method: In this paper, in addition to tracking the flow of materials and energy in production processes, quantitative and monetary estimation of quantification centers, the balance of inputs and outputs in each part is estimated and also the potential for reducing materials and energy in these sectors is specified. Results: According to the calculations, the amount of material and energy losses was equal to 17910.6425 tons worth 901761.462 million Rials. The most losses are related to the "CD Hall" quantification center in the resuscitation section and the "cutting" quantification center in the cutting and packaging section, which accounted for 51.61% and 99.94% of the total waste in each section, respectively. Also, the lowest losses were related to the "FTP" calibration center in the resuscitation section and the "transportation" calibration center in the cutting and packaging section. Findings: As calculations and its results, by using Material Flow Cost Accounting in sections that considered in IRALCO, weight of wastages equals to 17910,6425 tons that worth 901761,462 Rials. According to the findings and estimations most of wastages belongs to measurement center of “CD hall” in reduction and measurement of “cutting” in cutting and packing section, respectively with 51/61% and 99/94% of total wastages. Furthermore the lowest amount of wastages belong to "FTP[1]" measurement center in reduction section and “transferring” measurement center in cutting and packing section that has few wastages. Discussion and Conclusion: Material Flow Cost Accounting is one of the green productivity techniques that by reducing production inputs consumption per production output unit or provision of services unit, reducing production costs, reducing wastages in production processes leads to increasing quality and competitiveness of product and also it leads to economic growth and profitability environmental protection and improving production efficiency of the organization. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
29 - Determination of ED50 in a Calcareous Soil Contaminated with Different Concentrations of Ni
Mansoureh Malhan Saeid Hojati Naimeh EnayatizamirBackground and Objectives: Soil microbial properties such as biomass, microbial respiration and nitrogen mineralization can be used as indicators to show the stress caused by heavy metal pollution on soil quality. The aim of this study was the measurement soil microbial MoreBackground and Objectives: Soil microbial properties such as biomass, microbial respiration and nitrogen mineralization can be used as indicators to show the stress caused by heavy metal pollution on soil quality. The aim of this study was the measurement soil microbial activity to evaluate the effect of soil Ni contamination on soil quality and determination of ecological dose 50 (ED50). Method: This study was conducted as a factorial experiment in year 2016 based on a randomized completely design with three replications. The experiment factors including Ni concentration in six levels (0, 50, 100, 150, 300 and 600 mg Ni kg-1) and two incubation times (15 and 60 days). Soils sample was spiked uniformly with different concentrations of NiCl2. Microbial respiration, microbial biomass carbon, heterotrophic population and metabolic quotient were measured after incubation times of 15 and 60 days, then according to the results, ED50 was determined by using the dose-response curve. Findings: Soil Nickel contamination on the indicator was significantly effective at P<0.01 level. Heterotrophic population, respiration and microbial carbon biomass decreased significantly (P<0.01) compared to control by increasing the Ni concentration and incubation times, whereas the increase of Ni concentration and incubation times were not significantly affected on metabolic quotient. The minimum amount of microbial respiration, microbial biomass carbon, and the heterotrophic population was observed at the end of incubation times and 600 mg Ni kg-1 with 77.07, 75.72 and 99.99% decrement compared to the control, respectively. ED50 value (mg/kg soil) of microbial respiration, microbial biomass carbon, and heterotroph population increased from 77.55, 78.63, 81.34 to 97.84, 111.04 and 84.67 respectively, with increased incubation time. Discussion and Conclusion: The soil contaminated with Nickel acutely decreased the biological activity of soil and the ecological dose increased with increasing the incubation time, suggesting that toxicity of Ni to soil microbial activity was decreased with increased incubation time. Ni concentration of 100 mgNikg-1 soil can be considered as the critical range of Ni for soil quality at which negative effect was observed. Manuscript profile
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