bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Caregiver Perception of the Oral-Health-Related Quality of Life of Children with Special Needs: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Gavic Lidia , Brekalo Megi , Tadin Antonija
Published: August 2024

Background: Compared to the general population, individuals with special needs tend to have worse oral health, potentially diminishing their quality of life. This study aimed to evaluate the perception of parents and caregivers regarding the effect of oral health on the quality of life of individuals with special needs who received dental treatment under general anaesthesia, as well as the impact on their and their families’ quality of life. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study involved participants with special needs who had undergone a dental treatment under general anaesthesia. Before the intervention, an oral examination was conducted to count the number of teeth affected by caries. Parents or caregivers filled out a specially designed questionnaire that included sociodemographic information, details about the children’s oral hygiene and dietary habits, and questionnaires on the impact of their child’s oral health on their quality of life (P-CPQ) and the influence of the oral health of children with psychophysical difficulties on the family (FIS). The data collected were analysed both descriptively and using the chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, Kruskal–Wallis test, and Spearman’s correlation analysis. The level of significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. Results: This study involved 42 children (24 females and 18 males) with an average age of 21.14 ± 8.34 years. The average number of carious teeth per participant was 9.74 ± 5.63. About 66% of respondents reported that their children performed oral hygiene with their help, while 9.5% of them did not do so at all. Individuals with a higher number of caries had statistically significantly higher scores on the emotional well-being (p = 0.004) and social well-being (p = 0.033) subscales of P-CPQ, as well as on the parental emotions subscale of FIS (p = 0.020). Also, there was a difference in the number of carious teeth in participants due to unhealthy habits (drinking sweetened beverages, p = 0.030) and due to comforting with food (p = 0.004). Conclusion: The increase in the number of carious teeth in individuals with special needs has been associated with the quality of life of their families. To address this, it is crucial to promote the prevention of oral health issues by educating individuals with special needs and their caregivers on proper oral hygiene techniques and diets tailored to their specific requirements.
Vitality and Inhibition Parameters in the Analysis of Dual Fungal Cultures as an Effective Tool in the Bio-Protection of Forest Ecosystems
Authors: Pukalski Jan , Olchawa-Pajor Monika , Jedynak Paweł , Nawrot-Chorabik Katarzyna , Latowski Dariusz
Published: August 2024

Using a pathogenic fungus and selected endophytic fungi of the ash tree, we propose a modified model of fungal dual cultures that allows us to obtain two new parameters particularly useful in the search for fungal pathogen control agents. The first of these, called the vitality parameter, is applicable to the study of both biotic and abiotic factors affecting fungal growth. It is measured as the ratio of fungal growth radius in the direction of a studied factor to the growth radius in the opposite direction. The second parameter, called the inhibition parameter, relates to biofactors and is the ratio of the vitality parameters of the two tested fungi in dual cultures. This parameter combines the information on the growth of both dual culture components, for the first time, as a one value. In order to correctly determine the values of both parameters, a required inoculation configuration in dual cultures and a method for calibrating the duration of such cultures have been developed. All this together creates a new tool for a more sophisticated look at the use of dual cultures in the search for means to control fungal pathogens, including those that threaten the stability of forest ecosystems.
Rethinking Public Participation in Forest Policies: A Literature Review of Participatory Techniques
Authors: Baldessari Sofia , Paletto Alessandro , De Meo Isabella
Published: August 2024

Recently, the concept of participatory democracy developed in the early 1970s has come back into fashion to revitalize the public involvement in political decision-making processes. Public participation in forest policy has been fully conceptualized by the scientific community in the late 1990s and early 2000s, but in many contexts, the practical application remains unfulfilled. The aim of this study is to identify and analyse the participatory techniques used in the literature to increase knowledge and facilitate its transferability into forest policies and strategies. A literature review was carried out to offer an overview of the participatory techniques adopted in the decision-making process. At the end of the literature review, 24 participatory techniques were identified based on over 2000 publications. Afterwards, the participatory techniques were assessed using seven indicators (degree of participation, type and number of participants, type of selection, time scale, cost, and potential influence on policy). The results showed that the type of actors involved in the participatory technique is a key variable for the complexity and usefulness of the process, while the number of participants influences how information is disseminated. The Correspondence Analysis highlighted that the participatory techniques can be divided into four groups: the first group includes those techniques with a high degree of participation (i.e., collaborate) and a contextual high potential influence on policies (e.g., citizens’ juries and wisdom council); the second one includes techniques with a low degree of participation (inform) and influence on policies (e.g., social media, adverting, surveys, and polls); while the third and fourth groups consist of those with a medium–high degree of participation (consult or involve), but a variable type of selection and number of participants, and consequently of time and costs.
Time-Varying Evolution and Impact Analysis of Forest Tourism Carbon Emissions and Forest Park Carbon Sinks in China
Authors: Wang Liguo , Zhao Haoxiang , Wu Wenna , Song Wei , Zhou Qishan , Ye Yanting
Published: August 2024

Forests are an important part of natural resources and play an important role in carbon sinks. We measured carbon sinks in provincial forest parks using data from four forest inventory surveys in China and the forest stock expansion method. Carbon emissions from forest tourism were also estimated using energy statistics and forest park tourism data. On this basis, spatial analysis was used to summarize the spatial and temporal evolution of the carbon balance and the analysis of influencing factors. The results show the following: (1) With the passage of time, the carbon emissions from forest tourism in all provinces have increased to different degrees, and the national forest tourism carbon emissions have increased from 1,071,390.231 (million tons) in 2003 to 286,255,829.7 (million tons) in 2018; spatially, the distribution of carbon emissions from forest tourism is uneven, with an overall high in the south and low in the north, and a high in the east and a low in the west. (2) The carbon sink of forest parks showed a trend of gradual growth and spatially formed a spatial pattern of high in the northeast and low in the southwest, which is consistent with the distribution of forest resources in China. (3) For forest tourism carbon emissions, the total number of tourists, tourism income, and playing roads are significant influencing factors, and the baseline regression coefficients are 0.595, 0.433, and 0.799, respectively, while for forest park carbon sinks, the number of forest park employees can play a certain positive role in carbon sinks, with the regression coefficient being 1.533.
Decreased P Cycling Rate and Increased P-Use Efficiency after Phyllostachys edulis (Carrière) J. Houz. Expansion into Adjacent Secondary Evergreen Broadleaved Forest
Authors: Song Shuwang , Wang Lin , Compson Zacchaeus G. , Xie Tingting , Liao Chuyin , Huang Dongmei , Liu Jun , Yang Qingpei , Song Qingni
Published: August 2024

(1) Background: Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis (Carrière) J. Houz.) expansion has seriously altered the species composition and structure of adjacent forest ecosystems in subtropical regions. However, the shift in phosphorus (P) biogeochemical cycling has yet to be assessed, which is a critical gap considering the great variation in ecophysiological properties between invasive bamboo and the displaced native tree species. (2) Methods: We investigated and compared expansion-induced changes in P pools (plant, litter, and soil) and P fluxes (plant uptake and litterfall return) using paired sampling of the bamboo-dominated forest (BDF) and secondary evergreen broadleaved forest (EBF) at Jiangxi province’s Dagang Mountain National Forest Ecological Station. (3) Results: Both the P storage of the plants and litter were significantly greater by 31.8% and 68.2% in the BDF than in the EBF, respectively. The soil total P and available P storage were 28.9% and 40.4% lower, respectively, in the BDF than in the EBF. Plant P uptake was 15.6% higher in the BDF than in the EBF, and the annual litter P return was 26.1% lower in the BDF than in the EBF due to higher P resorption efficiency for moso bamboo compared with evergreen broadleaved tree species. The ecosystem P cycling rate was reduced by 36.1% in the BDF compared with the EBF. (4) Conclusions: Moso bamboo expansion slowed the broadleaved forest ecosystem’s P cycle rate, likely because moso bamboo has higher P-use efficiency, reserving more P in its tissues rather than returning it to the soil. The results from this study elucidate an understudied element cycle in the context of forest succession, demonstrating the ecosystem consequences related to bamboo invasion.
Partial Organic Substitution Fertilization Improves Soil Fertility While Reducing N Mineralization in Rubber Plantations
Authors: Xu Wenxian , Yang Qiu , Liu Wenjie , Jiang Yamin , Guo Xinwei , Sun Rui , Luo Wei , Fang Mengyang , Wu Zhixiang
Published: August 2024

Overuse of chemical nitrogen (N) fertilizers leads to N leaching and soil degradation. Replacing chemical N fertilizers with organic fertilizers can enhance soil nutrition, reduce N loss, and improve soil productivity. However, the effects of combining organic and chemical fertilizers on soil N components and N transformation remain unclear. A 12-year field study included four treatments: no fertilizer (CK), chemical fertilizer alone (CF), 50% chemical N fertilizer combined with co-composted organic fertilizer (CFM), and composted (CFMC) organic fertilizer. The results showed that CFM and CFMC significantly enhanced SOC, TN, LFON, DON, NH4+-N, and MIN levels compared to CF. The CFM and CFMC treatments enhanced the soil N supply capacity and N pool stability by increasing the N mineralization potential (N0) and decreasing the N0/TN ratio. The CFM and CFMC treatments decreased net N ammonification rates by 108.03%–139.83% and 0.44%–64.91% and net mineralization rates by 60.60%–66.30% and 1.74%–30.38%, respectively. Changes in N transformation have been attributed to increased soil pH, enzyme activity, and substrate availability. These findings suggest that partial organic fertilizer substitution, particularly with co-composted organic fertilizers, is a viable strategy for enhancing soil fertility, improving soil N supply and stability, and reducing N loss in rubber plantations.
Relationship between Urban Forest Fragmentation and Urban Shrinkage in China Differentiated by Moisture and Altitude
Authors: Zhou Jingchuan , Man Weidong , Liu Mingyue , Chen Lin
Published: August 2024

Forest fragmentation and urban shrinkage have become the focus of attention in global ecological conservation, with the goal of achieving sustainable development. However, few studies have been concerned with urban forest patterns in shrinking cities. It is necessary to explore whether the loss of the population will mitigate urban forest degradation. Thus, in this study, 195 shrinking cities were identified based on demographic datasets to characterize the spatiotemporal patterns of urban forests in China against a depopulation background. To illustrate the explicit spatial evolution of urban forests in shrinking cities in China, in this study, we reclassified land-use products and determined the annual spatial variations from 2000 to 2022 using area-weighted centroids and landscape pattern indexes. The effects of different climatic and topographical conditions on the spatiotemporal variations in the urban forest patterns against population shrinkage were discussed. The results demonstrated that the forest coverage rate in the shrinking cities of China increased from 40.05 to 40.47% with a generally southwestern orientation, and the most frequent decrease appeared from 2010 to 2015. Except for the temperate humid and sub-humid Northeast China, with plains and hills, all geographical sub-regions of the shrinking cities exhibited growing urban forests. Relatively stable movement direction dynamics and dramatic area changes in climatic sub-regions with large forest coverage were observed. The urban forest centroids of shrinking cities at a lower elevation exhibited more fluctuating changes in direction. The urban forests in the shrinking cities of China were slightly fragmented, and this weakened condition was identified via the decelerating fragmentation. The urban forests of the shrinking cities in the warm-temperate, humid, and sub-humid North China and basin regions exhibited the most pattern variations. Therefore, it is emphasized that the monitoring of policy implementation is essential due to the time lag of national policies in shrinking cities, especially within humid and low-altitude regions. This research concludes that the mitigation of urban deforestation in the shrinking cities of China is greatly varied according to moisture and altitude and sheds light on the effects of the population density from a new perspective, providing support for urban forest management and improvements in the quality of residents’ lives.
Optimizing Carbon Sequestration Potential for Chinese Fir Plantations Using Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Min Zhiqiang , Tian Yingze , Dong Chen , Chen Yuling
Published: August 2024

Carbon sequestration management of plantation forests has become an important topic in the current context of vigorously promoting carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals and will be the goal and task of the forest industry for a long time. The objective of this study was to explore the applications of genetic algorithm (GA) in both near-optimal thinning regimes at stand level and near-optimal forest management planning at the regional level under the forest management objectives of carbon sequestration. This research integrates a carbon assessment technique with GA optimization to effectively enhance the management of carbon sequestration within plantation forests. Results indicate that the density effect model was an accurate and reliable carbon assessment method (R2 = 0.8701, RMSE = 7.548). The GA optimization approach is efficient in the near-optimal thinning regime and the appropriate forest management planning schedule under the forest management objectives of carbon sequestration. In the research area, the near-optimal carbon sequestration is 38,045.71 t, and in the 15 years from 2016 to 2030, the carbon sequestration of 20 Chinese fir stands should meet the annual thinning constraint condition of not less than 50 t. A near-optimal decision of the carbon sequestration management of plantation forests based on GA provides a theoretical basis and technical support for the compilation of a forest management plan at the stand and regional scales in the plantation operation management of carbon sequestration.
Improved Adaptive Backoff Algorithm for Optimal Channel Utilization in Large-Scale IEEE 802.15.4-Based Wireless Body Area Networks
Authors: Khanafer Mounib , Guennoun Mouhcine , El-Abd Mohammed , Mouftah Hussein T.
Published: August 2024

The backoff algorithm employed by the medium access control (MAC) protocol of the IEEE 802.15.4 standard has a significant impact on the overall performance of the wireless sensor network (WSN). This algorithm helps the MAC protocol resolve the contention among multiple nodes in accessing the wireless medium. The standard binary exponent backoff (BEB) used by the IEEE 802.15.4 MAC protocol relies on an incremental method that doubles the size of the contention window after the occurrence of a collision. In a previous work, we proposed the adaptive backoff algorithm (ABA), which adapts the contention window’s size to the value of the probability of collision, thus relating the contention resolution to the size of the WSN in an indirect manner. ABA was studied and tested using contention window sizes of up to 256. However, the latter limit on the contention window size led to degradation in the network performance as the size of the network exceeded 50 nodes. This paper introduces the Improved ABA (I-ABA), an improved version of ABA. In the design of I-ABA we observe the optimal values of the contention window that maximize performance under varying probabilities of collision. Based on that, we use curve fitting techniques to derive a mathematical expression that better describes the adaptive change in the contention window. This forms the basis of I-ABA, which demonstrates scalability and the ability to enhance performance. As a potential area of application for I-ABA, we target wireless body area networks (WBANs) that are large-scale, that is, composed of hundreds of sensor nodes. WBAN is a major application area for the emerging Internet of Things (IoT) paradigm. We evaluate the performance of I-ABA based on simulations. Our results show that, in a large-scale WBAN, I-ABA can achieve superior performance to both ABA and the standard BEB in terms of various performance metrics.
Evacuation Simulation and Fire-Risk Assessment on Underground Space of Guangzhou International Financial City
Authors: Li Pengyu , Bao Xiaohua , Hong Chengyu , Wang Daochu , Xie Xiaofeng , Fan Jianhao , Li Hong , Liao Longhui
Published: August 2024

To explore the evacuation situation of the underground space in the Starting Area of Guangzhou International Financial City under fire, personal evacuation was simulated with Pathfinder in three zones. Then, the visual animation and the human flow rate diagram were obtained and analyzed. A fire-risk assessment model based on a combined weighting and the technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) is proposed to assess the fire risk of three zones. First, six second-level indices were determined from three aspects: regional safety evacuation, regional fire prevention, and regional fire extinguishment. The value of regional safety evacuation was determined by the results of the evacuation simulation. Second, the subjective and objective weights of the second-level indices were determined based on the analytic hierarchy process and entropy weight method, respectively, and a combined weighting method was adopted to reflect the subjective and objective weights. Next, TOPSIS was used to calculate the relative closeness between each scheme and the ideal scheme. The relative closeness is an evaluation index used to determine the fire-risk level of three zones. It was found that the fire-risk level of Zone Ⅰ is high, requiring large-scale rectification. The fire-risk level of Zone Ⅱ is low, and the fire toughness is strong. The fire-risk level of Zone Ⅲ is medium and needs local rectification.
Fatal Heat Stroke: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Cioffi Andrea , Cecannecchia Camilla , Baldari Benedetta , De Simone Stefania , Cipolloni Luigi
Published: August 2024

As known in forensics, heat stroke deaths diagnosis is made by exclusion. In fact, in heat-related deaths, the gross and histologic postmortem findings are not pathognomonic, and biochemical investigations are not specific. Therefore, in such cases, a detailed examination of the circumstantial data and autopsied findings is necessary to exclude other possible causes of death. A case of fatal heat stroke of an elderly woman is reported. This case was diagnosed by examining the above elements in combination with immunohistochemical detection of heat shock proteins (HSPs). We then performed a narrative review of the literature on the subject to compare our case with similar ones. In view of the diagnostic complexity of heat-related deaths, we consider it essential to outline the state of the art on this topic. Our results may be a useful tool to orient forensic investigations into these types of deaths.
Stability Analysis Study of Time-Fractional Nonlinear Modified Kawahara Equation Based on the Homotopy Perturbation Sadik Transform
Authors: Chen Zhihua , Kosari Saeed , Shafi Jana , Derakhshan Mohammad Hossein
Published: August 2024

In this manuscript, we survey a numerical algorithm based on the combination of the homotopy perturbation method and the Sadik transform for solving the time-fractional nonlinear modified shallow water waves (called Kawahara equation) within the frame of the Caputo–Prabhakar (CP) operator. The nonlinear terms are handled with the assistance of the homotopy polynomials. The stability analysis of the implemented method is studied by using S-stable mapping and the Banach contraction principle. Also, we use the fixed-point method to determine the existence and uniqueness of solutions in the given suggested model. Finally, some numerical simulations are illustrated to display the accuracy and efficiency of the present numerical method. Moreover, numerical behaviors are captured to validate the reliability and efficiency of the scheme.
Preparation and Characterization of Preformed Polyelectrolyte and Polyampholyte Gel Particles for Plugging of High-Permeability Porous Media
Authors: Yelemessova Gulnur , Gussenov Iskander , Ayazbayeva Aigerim , Shakhvorostov Alexey , Orazzhanova Lyazzat , Klivenko Alexey , Kudaibergenov Sarkyt
Published: August 2024

Excessive reservoir water poses significant challenges in the oil and gas industry by diminishing hydrocarbon recovery efficiency and generating environmental and economic complications. Conventional polymer flooding techniques, although beneficial, often prove inadequate under conditions of elevated temperature and salinity, highlighting the need for more resilient materials. In this research, two types of acrylamide-based preformed particle gels (PPGs) were synthesized, as follows: polyelectrolyte and polyampholyte. These PPGs were engineered to improve plugging efficiency and endure extreme reservoir environments. The polyelectrolyte gels were synthesized using acrylamide (AAm) and sodium acrylate (SA), while the polyampholyte gels incorporated AAm, AMPS, and APTAC, with crosslinking achieved through MBAA. The swelling properties, modulated by temperature, salinity, and pH, were evaluated using the Ritger–Peppas and Yavari–Azizian models. The mechanical characteristics and surface morphology of the gels were analyzed using SEM and BET techniques. In sand pack experiments designed to mimic high-permeability reservoirs, the inclusion of 0.5 wt.% of fine PPGs substantially reduced water permeability, outperforming traditional hydrogels. Notably, the polyampholyte PPGs demonstrated superior resilience and efficacy in plugging. However, the experiments were limited by the low test temperature (25 °C) and brine salinity (26.6 g/L). Future investigations will aim to apply these PPGs in high-temperature, fractured carbonate reservoirs.
Analyzing Literacy on Weather-Related Hazards and Risks among Students of an Eastern Mediterranean Region
Authors: Papagiannaki Katerina , Makri Kyriaki , Kotroni Vassiliki , Lagouvardos Konstantinos
Published: August 2024

The present study analyzes students’ weather-related hazard and risk literacy in Greece, a climate change hotspot region in the Eastern Mediterranean. In this context, we examine the students’ level in two core literacy variables, namely knowledge and competency. In addition, we explore how knowledge, attitudes, and socio-demographic variables influence students’ competencies related to weather and climate risk assessment and adaptability. A questionnaire-based survey was conducted on 474 students aged 12–16. The regression results showed that knowledge significantly affects the level of competency. Self-belief and confidence in science were the most influential among the attitudinal variables. We conclude by discussing the educational and behavioral issues highlighted as essential to address them with targeted policies and measures in formal education complemented by non-formal educational activities. We also propose future education requirements like further integration of real-world applications and advanced technologies to enhance students’ literacy in weather-related hazards and risks.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Seepage Countermeasures and Retrofitting Strategies for Mitigating Nappe Flow-Induced Reverse Flow and Erosion for Overtopping Flow from a Levee
Authors: Ali Liaqat , Sekine Kento , Tanaka Norio
Published: August 2024

Levee failure due to nappe flow and subsequent erosion presents a significant challenge to flood protection infrastructure. This study evaluates the effectiveness of horizontal drainage layers, a common seepage control method, in mitigating these risks. While many traditional solutions to mitigate overtopping are costly and complex, horizontal drainage layers offer a promising and cost-effective alternative. These layers not only address seepage control but also manage nappe flow-induced erosion, potentially reducing construction and maintenance costs. Despite extensive research on their role in seepage control, a gap remains in understanding their effectiveness against overtopping-induced erosion, particularly in managing reverse flow. Existing studies often address seepage control or nappe flow erosion separately, overlooking the integrated impact of these layers. This study aims to address this gap by evaluating the performance of horizontal drainage layers under simulated overtopping conditions. The research involves two series of experiments, Series I: Focuses on newly built levees equipped with full (HD15L50 and HD25L50, where the thicknesses are 15 and 25 cm, respectively, with a horizontal drainage layer length of 50 cm and a crest length of 40 cm), partial length (HD15L40 and HD25L40), and short/reduced length (HD15L30 and HD25L30). The results showed that full-length layers reduce erosion inside the levee body and foundation by almost 100% and enhance levee stability due to their superior ability to dissipate hydraulic energy. Series II: Investigates practical solutions for retrofitting existing levees using shorter drainage layers with extended crests and gauzed sheets (HD15L15L30C60GH and HD25L30C60GH, where the thicknesses are 15 and 25 cm, the drainage length is 30 cm, and the crest is extended to 60 cm with gauzed sheets). Although shorter layers were less effective than full-length ones, extending the levee crest significantly improved their performance, achieving protection levels comparable to full-length layers, providing a valuable solution for upgrading existing levees. Overall, this study offers valuable insights by systematically evaluating and optimizing seepage control techniques. These findings can be directly applied to guide levee design, maintenance, and risk reduction strategies. This research contributes significantly to improving the resilience of levee systems against water pressure and ensuring their long-term stability.
What Mistakes Can Be Made When Performing the Electrical Cardioversion Procedure?—Analysis of Emergency Medical Team Performance during the Championships in Emergency Medicine
Authors: Ćwiertnia Michał , Dutka Mieczysław , Białoń Piotr , Szlagor Michał , Stasicki Arkadiusz , Mikulska Monika , Hajduga Maciej B. , Bobiński Rafał , Kawecki Marek , Ilczak Tomasz
Published: August 2024

Background: Medical personnel carrying out electrical cardioversion (EC) procedures must remember to have the R-wave sync mode switched on, use the correct energy and maintain personal safety. The defibrillators used by medical response teams most often switch out of cardioversion mode once a shock is delivered. Therefore, this mode must be switched on again before subsequent shocks are delivered. The main aim of the study was to assess the ability of emergency medical teams participating in emergency medicine championships to perform EC. Methods: The research was a retrospective observational study and was based on an analysis of the evaluation sheets from two tasks simulating the management of a patient with unstable tachycardia conducted during the International Winter Emergency Medicine Championships. Three-person teams consisting of paramedics and representing the Polish emergency services were included in the study. The team representing the championship organiser and the few foreign teams participating in the competition were excluded from the study. Results: The decision to conduct EC was taken by 36 teams (83.72%) in 2015 and 27 teams (87.10%) in 2019. In both editions of the championships, during consecutive shocks, the percentage of actions performed correctly decreased significantly—switching on synchronisation mode in 2015 (94.4%, 83.33%, 72.22%) and in 2019 (100%, 88.89%, 81.48%); correct energies in 2015 (91.67%, 80.56%, 77.78%) and in 2019 (92.59%, 85.19%, 81.48%); shocks in a safe manner in 2015 (94.44%, 94.44%, 91.67%) and in 2019 (100%, 96.30%, 96.30%). Conclusions: Teams participating in the assessed tasks in a significant majority of cases correctly qualified the patient for EC, and correctly carried out the actions required for this procedure. It is of particular note that with every subsequent shock, the percentage of shocks carried out without the sync mode increased significantly.
Blues from Tikuna/Magüta Masks and a Still Unknown Blue Colorant in Technical Art History and Conservation Science
Authors: Puglieri Thiago Sevilhano , Maccarelli Laura
Published: August 2024

Blue is one of the most challenging colors for humans to produce and one of the most important colors in art history. Literature from the Tikuna/Magüta culture, from the Amazon Forest, suggests the use of chemical reactions between the juice of the naīcü fruit and iron to produce a blue colorant still unknown among technical art historians and conservation scientists. Additionally, the coloring materials from the Tikuna/Magüta people were never chemically investigated. Therefore, this manuscript presents the investigation of blue colorants from twenty-two Tikuna/Magüta masks and one stamp used to decorate similar items. Collections from four museums, from the USA and Brazil, were examined, and Raman spectra indicated the presence of Prussian blue, phthalocyanine blue, indigo, ultramarine, crystal violet, amorphous carbon, anatase, and barium sulfate (or lithopone). Although the unknown blue colorant was not detected in this campaign, the authors hypothesize the chemical composition and reactions involved in its production by considering the chemistry of naīcü and anthocyanins. The continuation of this work with community-based participatory research (CBPR) approaches is also discussed, justifying why reproduction was not considered in this work and supporting a more socially responsible and inclusive practice in technical art history and conservation science.
Ecklonia maxima and Glycine–Betaine-Based Biostimulants Improve Blueberry Yield and Quality
Authors: Lopes Tiago , Silva Ana Paula , Ribeiro Carlos , Carvalho Rosa , Aires Alfredo , Vicente António A. , Gonçalves Berta
Published: August 2024

The consumption of blueberries has increased in recent years due to their excellent flavor and high antioxidant activity, which promote human well-being and health. Several sustainable cultural practices, such as biostimulants, have been applied to increase crop performance. The pre-harvest foliar application of two doses of a biostimulant based on the macroalgae Ecklonia maxima (EM), two doses of a glycine–betaine (GB) biostimulant, and two doses of the combination of the biostimulants in ‘Duke’ and ‘Draper’ blueberry cultivars in 2022 and 2023 were studied. The application of 4 L ha−1 EM significantly increased the yield of ‘Draper’ blueberries, while the same occurred in ‘Duke’ fruits treated with 4 L ha−1 EM + 4 kg ha−1 GB. The blueberries sprayed with both doses of EM + GB were heavier and larger. ‘Duke’ fruits treated with EM were firmer and, following 4 L ha−1 EM + 4 kg ha−1 GB treatment, presented a lower concentration of organic acids, determined by HPLC, greater sensorial sweetness, and lower acidity. Therefore, these biostimulants are recommended for a more environmentally friendly production perspective, as they may increase blueberry yield and improve fruit quality.
Effect of Edible Wax on Postharvest Greening of Potato Tubers during Light Exposure
Authors: Manamela Juliet Makalla , Satekge Thabiso Kenneth , Mafeo Tieho Paulus , Aliniaeifard Sasan
Published: August 2024

During retail storage, potato tubers are exposed to light that results in tuber greening. Green tubers are toxic and rejected by consumers. In the present study, the effect of Citrashine® natural wax on the postharvest tuber greening of two potato cultivars (‘Mondial’ and ‘Sifra’) was studied. The tubers were irradiated with white light during a 12-day storage period at ambient temperature. During light exposure, tubers were evaluated for colour, pigmentation, chlorophyll fluorescence and starch granule distribution at 3-day intervals. The results showed that wax-treated tubers had significantly (p < 0.05) less green colour as represented by visual and objective colour parameters (a*, b*, C* and h°), compared to those treated with water (control). The pigmentation of the tubers was significantly influenced by the postharvest Citrashine® natural wax treatment. The total chlorophyll content was significantly lower in wax-treated tubers, while the carotenoid content was significantly higher in wax-treated tubers compared to their contents in control samples. Scanning electron microscopy showed that the starch granule size was normally distributed in wax-treated tubers compared to the untreated ones, which was negatively skewed. In conclusion, Citrashine® natural wax showed the potential to be a postharvest technology for controlling greening defects on potato tubers. The results provide a possible effective strategy for controlling the postharvest greening of potato tubers.
Combination of Sulfur Dioxide-Generating Pads Reduces Gray Mold Disease Caused by Botrytis cinerea in ‘BRS Vitoria’ Hybrid Seedless Grapes during Cold Storage
Authors: de Aguiar Aline Cristina , Caetano Bruna Evelise Bosso , Roberto Sergio Ruffo
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to assess the cold storage preservation of ‘BRS Vitoria’ seedless grape by combining SO2-generating pads. ‘BRS Vitoria’ grapes were freshly harvested from a commercial vineyard in Marialva, PR, Brazil. The trial was carried out in a completely randomized design with four treatments and five replications, and each plot consisted of five bunches individually packaged in clamshells. Treatments included (a) control (without SO2 pads), (b) field ultrafast SO2-generating pad before packaging (FieldSO2), (c) dual-release SO2-generating pad during cold storage (DualSO2), and (d) FieldSO2 + DualSO2. After being harvested, bunches subjected to FieldSO2 treatments were placed in a 20 kg harvest box with perforated liners. Subsequently, the FieldSO2 was placed on top of the grapes, and the liner was sealed for 4 h. Afterwards, bunches were packaged according to the treatments, and the boxes were kept in cold storage (1 °C ± 1 °C) for 60 days and at room temperature for 3 days. After 60 days of cold storage, by using a combination of FieldSO2 and DualSO2 pads, the cold preservation of ‘BRS Vitoria’ grape bunches can be extended up to 60 days with total absence of gray mold with fresh stems, with no negative impact on weight loss, shattered berries or even bleaching. This treatment can be used to optimize the cold storage period of ‘BRS Vitoria’, especially for export markets, where long periods of cold preservation are required.
Perspective for the Safe and High-Efficiency Storage of Liquid Hydrogen: Thermal Behaviors and Insulation
Authors: Wang Haoren , Gao Yunfei , Wang Bo , Pan Quanwen , Gan Zhihua
Published: August 2024

Liquid hydrogen is a promising energy carrier in the global hydrogen value chain with the advantages of high volumetric energy density/purity, low operating pressure, and high flexibility in delivery. Safe and high-efficiency storage and transportation are essential in the large-scale utilization of liquid hydrogen. Aiming at the two indicators of the hold time and normal evaporation rate (NER) required in standards, this paper focuses on the thermal behaviors of fluid during the no-vented storage of liquid hydrogen and thermal insulations applied for the liquid hydrogen tanks, respectively. After presenting an overview of experimental/theoretical investigations on thermal behaviors, as well as typical forms/testing methods of performance of thermal insulations for liquid hydrogen tanks, seven perspectives are proposed on the key challenges and recommendations for future work. This work can benefit the design and improvement of high-performance LH2 tanks.
Wastewater Surveillance of Mpox during the Summer Season of 2023 in Slovenia
Authors: Rožanec Jan , Kranjec Natalija , Obid Ivana , Steyer Andrej , Cerar Kišek Tjaša , Koritnik Tom , Fafangel Mario , Galičič An
Published: August 2024

Since COVID-19, mpox was the first emerging pathogen to have spread globally in 2022. Wastewater-based surveillance (WBS) has proven to be an efficient early warning system for detecting potential resurgences. This report aims to provide insight into the development and implementation of WBS of mpox in Slovenia and to incorporate the surveillance results into the development of public health interventions. WBS of mpox was conducted during the period from 1 June 2023 to 30 September 2023 at the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) Ljubljana and WWTP Koper. The selected detection method of the monkeypox virus (MPXV) in the wastewater sample was based on PCR analysis. The implemented laboratory method showed that the sample preparation and concentration method enables a stable procedure for MPXV detection in wastewater samples. The laboratory analysis of wastewater samples from the selected WWTPs did not detect the MPXV during the monitoring period. In the event of MPXV detection in a wastewater sample, targeted public health interventions would be implemented, focusing on increasing awareness among the groups of men who have sex with other men and searching for positive mpox cases. We recommend that the developed system be retained in the case of an emergency epidemiological situation.
A Scoping Review of Non-Communicable Diseases among the Workforce as a Threat to Global Peace and Security in Low-Middle Income Countries
Authors: Doh Daniel , Dahwa Rumbidzai , Renzaho Andre M. N.
Published: August 2024

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) continue to pose a threat to public health. Although their impact on the workforce is widely recognized, there needs to be more understanding of how NCDs affect peace and security, particularly in low-middle-income countries. To address this, we conducted a scoping review and presented a narrative to explore how NCDs in the workforce threaten peace and security. Out of 570 papers screened, 34 articles, comprising 26 peer review and 8 grey literature, met the study criteria. Our findings reveal that while no study has drawn a direct relationship between NCDs in the workforce in LMICs and peace and security, several studies have demonstrated a relationship between NCDs and economic growth on one hand and economic growth and peace and security on the other. Therefore, using economic growth as a proximal factor, our findings show three pathways that link NCDs in the workforce to peace and security: (i) NCDs lead to low productivity and poor economic growth, which can threaten public peace and security; (ii) NCDs in the workforce can result in long-term care needs, which then puts pressure on public resources and have implications for public expenditure on peace and security; and (iii) household expenditures on caring for a family member with an NCD can destabilize families and create an unfavourable condition that threatens peace and security. This research highlights the dual threat of NCDs to health and security, as they impact human resources and community structures crucial for peace and security. The results underscore the importance of considering the workplace as a strategic setting for NCD prevention, which will have long-term implications for economic growth and peace and security.
Prevalence and Sociodemographic Correlates of Smoking among Schoolchildren in Albania
Authors: Çumashi Rudina , Mone Iris , Burazeri Genc , Çela Lulzim , Mechili Enkeleint A. , Qirjako Gentiana
Published: August 2024

Smoking among children remains a critical public health issue, with millions of minors engaging in tobacco use, leading to addiction and long-term health consequences. Our objective was to assess the prevalence and sociodemographic distribution of smoking habits among Albanian children. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Albania in 2022, including a nationwide representative sample of 5454 schoolchildren aged 11, 13, and 15 years (N = 5454; ≈52% girls; response rate: 96%). Data on smoking habits were gathered, along with sociodemographic factors of schoolchildren. Binary logistic regression was used to assess the associations of smoking variables with sociodemographic factors. The prevalence of smoking variables was 12% for lifetime cigarette smoking, 7% for current cigarette smoking, 20% for lifetime smoking of e-cigarettes, and 13% for current smoking of e-cigarettes. Independent positive correlates of both cigarette and e-cigarette smoking included male gender, age 15, and pertinence to more affluent families (all p < 0.01). The prevalence of smoking among Albanian children is seemingly high, which should be a cause of serious concern to decisionmakers and policymakers in this transitional country. Albania should immediately consider the implementation of expanded comprehensive tobacco control measures, which will save lives, reduce illness, and help reduce the economic burden associated with tobacco-related illness.
An Integrated Framework for Drought Stress in Plants
Authors: Cao Yanyong , Yang Wenbo , Ma Juan , Cheng Zeqiang , Zhang Xuan , Liu Xueman , Wu Xiaolin , Zhang Jinghua
Published: August 2024

With global warming, drought stress is becoming increasingly severe, causing serious impacts on crop yield and quality. In order to survive under adverse conditions such as drought stress, plants have evolved a certain mechanism to cope. The tolerance to drought stress is mainly improved through the synergistic effect of regulatory pathways, such as transcription factors, phytohormone, stomatal movement, osmotic substances, sRNA, and antioxidant systems. This study summarizes the research progress on plant drought resistance, in order to provide a reference for improving plant drought resistance and cultivating drought-resistant varieties through genetic engineering technology.
The First Patient with Tibial Hemimelia-Polysyndactyly-Triphalangeal Thumb Syndrome Caused by De Novo c.423+4916 T>C ZRS Variant: A Case Report
Authors: Zepeda-Olmos Paola Montserrat , Robles-Espinoza Kiabeth , Esparza-García Eduardo , Magaña-Torres María Teresa
Published: August 2024

Genetic variants in the zone of polarizing activity regulatory sequence (ZRS) that induce ectopic expression of the SHH gene have been associated with different ZRS-related phenotypes. We report the first patient with a de novo variant, c.423+4916 T>C, in ZRS (previously classified as a variant of uncertain significance) that causes tibial hemimelia-polysyndactyly-triphalangeal thumb syndrome (THPTTS). A two-month-old male patient presented with bilateral preaxial polydactyly, triphalangeal thumb, and tibial agenesis and was heterozygous for the variant c.423+4916T>C (neither of his parents was a carrier). The findings obtained from the family study were sufficient to reclassify the variant from “uncertain significance” to “likely pathogenic” according to three criteria from the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics guidelines, as follows: (1) absence of gnomAD, (2) confirmation of paternity and maternity, and (3) strong phenotype–genotype association. In ZRS-associated syndromes, a wide clinical spectrum has been observed, ranging from polydactyly to THPTTS; our patient has the most severe and rare phenotype. We did not perform functional assays. However, the c.423+4916T>C variant is flanked by three variants, which have been proven not only to cause the phenotype but also to increase the expression of SHH. Through all this data gathering, we consider the c.423+4916T>C variant to be causative of THPTTS.
Populus trichocarpa EXPA6 Facilitates Radial and Longitudinal Transport of Na+ under Salt Stress
Authors: Liu Zhe , Yin Kexin , Zhang Ying , Yan Caixia , Zhao Ziyan , Li Jing , Liu Yi , Feng Bing , Zhao Rui , Liu Jian , Dong Kaiyue , Yao Jun , Zhao Nan , Zhou Xiaoyang , Chen Shaoliang
Published: August 2024

Expansins are cell wall (CW) proteins that mediate the CW loosening and regulate salt tolerance in a positive or negative way. However, the role of Populus trichocarpa expansin A6 (PtEXPA6) in salt tolerance and the relevance to cell wall loosening is still unclear in poplars. PtEXPA6 gene was transferred into the hybrid species, Populus alba × P. tremula var. glandulosa (84K) and Populus tremula × P. alba INRA ‘717-1B4’ (717-1B4). Under salt stress, the stem growth, gas exchange, chlorophyll fluorescence, activity and transcription of antioxidant enzymes, Na+ content, and Na+ flux of root xylem and petiole vascular bundle were investigated in wild-type and transgenic poplars. The correlation analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) were used to analyze the correlations among the characteristics and principal components. Our results show that the transcription of PtEXPA6 was downregulated upon a prolonged duration of salt stress (48 h) after a transient increase induced by NaCl (100 mM). The PtEXPA6-transgenic poplars of 84K and 717-1B4 showed a greater reduction (42–65%) in stem height and diameter growth after 15 days of NaCl treatment compared with wild-type (WT) poplars (11–41%). The Na+ accumulation in roots, stems, and leaves was 14–83% higher in the transgenic lines than in the WT. The Na+ buildup in the transgenic poplars affects photosynthesis; the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT); and the transcription of PODa2, SOD [Cu-Zn], and CAT1. Transient flux kinetics showed that the Na+ efflux of root xylem and leaf petiole vascular bundle were 1.9–3.5-fold greater in the PtEXPA6-transgenic poplars than in the WT poplars. PtEXPA6 overexpression increased root contractility and extensibility by 33% and 32%, indicating that PtEXPA6 increased the CW loosening in the transgenic poplars of 84K and 717-1B4. Noteworthily, the PtEXPA6-promoted CW loosening was shown to facilitate Na+ efflux of root xylem and petiole vascular bundle in the transgenic poplars. We conclude that the overexpression of PtEXPA6 leads to CW loosening that facilitates the radial translocation of Na+ into the root xylem and the subsequent Na+ translocation from roots to leaves, resulting in an excessive Na+ accumulation and consequently, reducing salt tolerance in transgenic poplars. Therefore, the downregulation of PtEXPA6 in NaCl-treated Populus trichocarpa favors the maintenance of ionic and reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis under long-term salt stress.