Urbanization-led economic growth has created cities to drive infrastructure investments and population accumulation and exploit natural resources at an extreme phase. While coastal cities become vulnerable to climate change-induced extreme weather events and human-made disasters in recent history, effective measures to improve the resilience of cities are pivotal to developing sustainable living environments. This study proposes a framework to assess urban resilience to natural disasters (floods) using bottom-up spatial interactions among natural, physical, and social systems within cities and regions. It is noted that studies focus on either the vulnerability or coping capacity of urban communities to assess resilience, where effective strategies to manage disaster risk demand adaptation and mitigation measures at a spatial scale. Quantified resilience at small spatial units assists urban planning and disaster management agencies in the timely allocation of resources to optimize the recovery process. Moreover, spatial planning agencies can adopt resilience mapping to identify the potential growth zones while minimizing the natural disaster risks in urban growth management. Urban resilience can be embodied in spatial strategies with the operational framework proposed here, and future urban growth scenarios can be tested in multiple disaster conditions.

This study investigates the process of planning for future inpatient resources (beds, staff and costs) for maternity (pregnancy and childbirth) services. The process of planning is approached from a patient centered philosophy; hence, how do we discharge a suitably rested healthy mother who is fully capable of caring for the newborn baby back into the community. It demonstrates some of the difficulties in predicting future births and investigates trends in the average length of stay. While it is relatively easy to document longer-term (past) trends in births and the conditions relating to pregnancy and birth, it is exceedingly difficult to predict the future nature of such trends. The issue of optimum average bed occupancy is addressed via the Erlang B equation which links number of beds, average bed occupancy and turn-away. Turn-away is the proportion of times that there is not an immediately available bed for the next arriving inpatient. Economy of scale implied by queuing theory (and the implied role of population density) explains why many well intended community-based schemes fail to gain traction. The paper also addresses some of the erroneous ideas around the dogma that reducing length of stay ‘saves’ money. Maternity departments are encouraged to understand how their costs are calculated to avoid the trap where it is suggested by others that in reducing the length of stay, they will reduce costs and increase ‘efficiency’. Indeed, up to 60% of calculated maternity ‘costs’ are apportioned hospital overheads from supporting departments such as finance, personnel, buildings and grounds, IT, information, etc., along with depreciation charges on the hospital-wide buildings and equipment. These costs, “the fixed costs dilemma”, are totally beyond the control of the maternity department and will vary by hospital depending on how these costs are apportioned to the maternity unit. Premature discharge, one of the unfortunate outcomes of turn-away, is demonstrated to shift maternity costs into the pediatric and neonatal departments as ‘boomerang babies’ then require the cost of avoidable inpatient care. Examples are given from the English NHS of how misdirected government policy can create unforeseen problems.

With the sharp increase in the number of vehicles, the issue of parking difficulties has emerged as an urgent challenge that many cities need to address promptly. In the task of predicting large-scale urban parking data, existing research often lacks effective deep learning models and strategies. To tackle this challenge, this paper proposes an innovative framework for predicting large-scale urban parking graphs leveraging real-time service capabilities, aimed at improving the accuracy and efficiency of parking predictions. Specifically, we introduce a graph attention mechanism that assesses the real-time service capabilities of parking lots to construct a dynamic parking graph that accurately reflects real preferences in parking behavior. To effectively handle large-scale parking data, this study combines graph coarsening techniques with temporal convolutional autoencoders to achieve unified dimension reduction of the complex urban parking graph structure and features. Subsequently, we use a spatio-temporal graph convolutional model to make predictions based on the coarsened graph, and a pre-trained autoencoder-decoder module restores the predicted results to their original data dimensions, completing the task. Our methodology has been rigorously tested on a real dataset from parking lots in Shenzhen. The experimental results indicate that compared to traditional parking prediction models, our framework achieves improvements of 46.8% and 30.5% in accuracy and efficiency, respectively. Remarkably, with the expansion of the graph’s scale, our framework’s advantages become even more apparent, showcasing its substantial potential for solving complex urban parking dilemmas in practical scenarios.

Based upon 30-years of research by the author a new approach to hospital bed planning and international benchmarking is proposed. The number of hospital beds per 1000 population is commonly used to compare international bed numbers. This method is flawed because it does not consider population age structure or the effect of nearness-to-death on hospital utilization. Deaths are also serving as a proxy for wider bed demand arising from undetected outbreaks of 3000 species of human pathogens. To remedy this problem a new approach to bed modelling has been developed which plots beds per 1000 deaths against deaths per 1000 population. Lines of equivalence can be drawn on the plot to delineate countries with higher or lower bed supply. This method is extended to attempt to define the optimum region for bed supply in an effective health care system. England is used as an example of a health system descending into operational chaos due to too few beds and manpower. The former Soviet bloc countries represent a health system overly dependent on hospital beds. Several countries also show evidence for over-utilization of hospital beds. The new method is used to define a potential range for bed supply and manpower where the current most effective health systems currently reside. The method is applied to total curative beds, medical beds, psychiatric beds, critical care, geriatric care, etc., and can also be used to compare different types of healthcare staff, i.e., nurses, physicians, surgeons. Issues surrounding the optimum hospital size and the optimum average occupancy will also be discussed. The role of poor policy in the English NHS is used to show how the NHS has been led into a bed crisis. The method is also extended beyond international benchmarking to illustrate how it can be applied at a local or regional level in the process of long-term bed planning. Issues regarding the volatility in hospital admissions are also addressed to explain the need for surge capacity and why an adequate average bed occupancy margin is required for an optimally functioning hospital.

Optical networks, characterized by using optical fibers as a transmission medium, constitute the fundamental infrastructure employed today by network operators to deliver services to users. As network capacity is one of the key factors influencing optical network performance, it is important to comprehend its limitations and have the capability to estimate its value. In this context, we revisit the concept of capacity from various perspectives, including channel capacity, link capacity, and network capacity, thus providing an integrated view of the problem. Hence, we review the fundamental concepts behind optical networks, along with the basic physical phenomena present in optical fiber transmission and provide methodologies for estimating the different types of capacities, mainly using simple formulations. In particular, we propose a method to evaluate the network capacity that relies on the optical reach to account for physical layer aspects, in conjunction with capacitated routing techniques for traffic routing. We apply this method to three reference networks and obtain capacities ranging from tens to hundreds of Terabits/s. Whenever possible, we also compare our results with published experimental data to understand how they relate.

This study presented a centrifuge-based method for determining hydraulic properties in growing media, offering insights into water dynamics in growth substrates. The objectives of this study were to test the practical applicability of the centrifuge method as a quick test for a wide range of growing media, ii) to compare a simple substitution method to describe the bulk density of growing media with results of the standard method, and iii) to give a recommendation under which conditions the centrifuge quick test could serve as a replacement for the standard method. Methods involved centrifugation and correlation analyses. Results showed good agreement between the centrifuge and DIN methods, with notable compression effects at lower pF stages. The method's rapidity (2 days vs. up to 8.5 days) and correlation with standard methods highlight its potential for practical applications. Limitations, such as compression effects, were noted, emphasizing the need for careful interpretation. Overall, the centrifuge method provided a valuable tool for research and substrate development. This study contributes to refining measurement techniques in growth substrates, encouraging ongoing research in water dynamics in growing media.

Financial capacity instruments are psychometric tools designed to evaluate individual decisional capacity based on financial decisions. As tests are complex and need special conditions for administration and evaluation, it is difficult to use them in daily geriatric clinics. Our scoping review objective was to evaluate existing financial capacity instruments from the perspective of simplicity and portability. We evaluated one English speaking knowledge database (Medline) using a dedicated MeSH terminology. The review yielded one independent instrument, The Semi-Structured Clinical Interview for Financial Capacity, that can be easy adapted for every-day clinical use. It is simple to understand and perform and do not need trained personnel for administration. It can be finalized in 15 minutes. Initially validated on 261 subjects (with different forms of cognitive impairment), it showed good accuracy and precision mainly in subjects with cognitive impairment. The test is less apt to detect early or fluctuating cognitive impairment. Simplicity, the main advantage of the test, allows gamification fact that increases portability. Familiar images (coins, money) that are used for performing simple tasks does not need complex translation and adaptation. In form of a game, the test is suitable for serial administration, increasing the chance for early capacity reduction detection. Results reflect a physician judgement related to the subjects’ capacity to understand and execute simple financial instructions and not financial proficiency scores. The main limitation of our review is that we investigated only one, English speaking, knowledge database. The scoping strategy generated a financial capacity instrument that can be used in geriatric clinics for early diagnostic of decisional capacity reduction. Further studies are needed to evaluate the reliability and validity of the test in conditions of serial administration and in populations having various financial experience.

Global and human development and freedoms increasingly thrive on robust and policy-oriented research and related activities. Yet, the African research landscape faces a myriad of challenges, resulting in a very unequal continent in terms of research and research capacity. The prevailing research inequities and challenges in Africa are even more pronounced in the social sciences, humanities, arts, and related fields (SSHA). Here, the strengths and impact of scholarship in SSHA fields are often overshadowed by deficits and apparent preferential investment in research in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics-related fields. In response, the African Academy of Sciences commissioned a study in 2020 to generate evidence on the SSHA research support landscape in Africa. This paper summarizes findings from the literature review, key informant interviews, a bibliometric analysis, a survey with a sample of 670 respondents from SSHA communities in Africa, and a series of focus group discussions. We highlight key messages and make recommendations focussing on lessons learnt opportunities, and priorities for intervention to enhance significant SSHA research leadership capacity strengthening and, ultimately, minimize research inequalities in Africa.

Background. The measurement of physical performance constitutes an indicator of physical functional capacity and allows the design of physical exercise programs adapted to the individual abilities and needs of older adults with and without frailty. Aim. To present a synthesis of knowledge on the effect of exercise programs on physical performance in older adults with and without frailty in the community. Method. A systematic review was carried out in accordance with the PRISMA-2020 criteria. The search for articles was made until May 4, 2023 in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, SciELO and LILACS. The outcome variable was physical performance, measured through the SPPB (Short Physical Performance Battery). The mean difference (MD) was estimated to evaluate the effect. Results. We found 2,483 studies, of which 12 met the eligibility criteria for the systematic review and 9 for the meta-analysis. The effect of exercise on SPPB score was significantly higher in the exercise group compared to control in non-frail older adults with MD=0.51 [95% CI, 0.05 to 0.96, p<0.05]. Likewise, in older adults with frailty, the effect of exercise on the global SPPB score was significantly higher in the exercise group compared to the control with an MD=0.66 [95% CI, 0.09 to 1.24, p<0.05 ]. Conclusion. Our findings suggest that exercise programs are effective in increasing and/or maintaining physical performance in older adults with and without frailty, whose effect is more evident in older adults with frailty, probably due to the greater margin of recovery of intrinsic capacity.

This study analyzed the dynamic spatial and temporal distribution of natural disasters in Traditional Authorities Ngabu and Lundu in Chikwawa District in the Lower Shire Valley. The study assessed the vulnerability of people to disasters, evaluated the value of losses and damages incurred when disasters strike and to locate disaster hotspots. The mixed design that embraces qualitative and quantitative approaches was used. Data collection methods such as in-depth interviews, Focus Group Discussion, documentary review, structured interview and Participatory Geographical Information Systems (P-GIS) were employed. The study revealed that farming with 64%, 37% and 76% done before, during and after disasters respectively, was the main adaptive capacity to floods and drought in T/A Ngabu. In T/A Lundu, community members also valued farming with 58%, 55% and 70% done before, during and after disasters respectively. The study found that Traditional Environmental Knowledge Systems (TEKS) were highly valued in T/As Ngabu with 90% and Lundu 81%. The study also unveiled those disasters led to losses of human lives and livestock and damages to properties, environment and critical infrastructures. However, some community members still remained in the disaster-prone areas for farming, fishing, protecting the chieftaincy and ancestral reasons. The study also showed that CBDRM was highly adopted. However, disasters continued to occur and losses were increasing. Generally, CBDRM could be effective through multisectoral approach and good legal institutional framework. Therefore, the research recommends that further studies similar to this, should use GIS in assessing the efficacy of CBDRM approaches to produce hazard maps that will be used as models for disaster risk reduction in Chikwawa District in the Lower Shire Valley.

The study investigated the changes that occurred in the Mexican power sector pre-, during, and post-COVID-19 pandemic and its repercussions on energy sustainability goals. The study is based on the variability of the installed capacity, consumption, generation, and demand of the National Electric System (SEN), covering the period from 2017 to 2021. The data were collected from the Development of the National Electric System (PRODESEN), the Ministry of Energy, the National Energy Balance, and the government's official website. The results indicated that in-stalled capacity and generation increased by 22.83% and 27.86%, respectively, despite the pan-demic. This growth was attributed to clean energy, mainly photovoltaic solar and wind sources. Another finding is that the gross domestic product (GDP), consumption, and demand were seri-ously affected by COVID-19. They had a fall of 8.2%, 2.2%, and 4.4%, respectively, which trans-lates into a significant economic lag and a slowdown in energy self-sufficiency and the Mexican Energy Transition (TEM). Moreover, the objective of generating 35% and 40% of electrical ener-gy through clean energy will be achieved by 2031 and 2035, instead of 2021 and 2035, respec-tively.

Abstract: This computational research study analyzes the increase of the specific charge capacity that comes with the reduction of the anisotropic volume expansion during lithium ion insertion within silicon nanowires. This research paper is a continuation from previous work that studied the expansion rate and volume increase. It has been determined that when the lithium ion concentration is decreased by regulating the amount of Li ion flux, the lithium ions to silicon atoms ratio, represented x, decreases within the amorphous lithiated silicon (a-LixSi) material. This results in a decrease in the volumetric strain of the lithiated silicon nanowire as well as a reduction in Maxwell stress that was calculated and Young’s elastic module that was measured experimentally using nanoindentation. The conclusion as will be seen is that as there is a decrease in lithium ion concentration there is a corresponding decrease in anisotropic volume and a resulting increase in specific charge capacity. In fact the amplification of the electromagnetic field due to the electron flux that created detrimental effects for a fully lithiated silicon nanowire at x=3.75 which resulted in over a 300% volume expansion becomes beneficial with the decrease in lithium ion flux as x approaches 0.75 which leads to a marginal volume increase of ~25 percent. This could lead to the use of crystalline silicon, c-Si, as an anode material that has been demonstrated in many previous research work to be ten times greater charge capacity than carbon base anode material for lithium ion batteries.

Eggplant is a vegetable grown worldwide, and due to quality standards, large amounts of biomass are generated after harvest. Biomass is considered a source of bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties. Therefore, this research aimed to evaluate microencapsulated alkaloids' bioaccessibility (BA) and antioxidant capacity from eggplant fruit biomass. Eggplant biomass was collected, and the total alkaloid content, antioxidant capacity, and alkaloid profile were determined before and after the digestion in vitro for encapsulated and non-encapsulated alkaloids. The bioaccessibility of microencapsulated alkaloids (12 % BA) increased three-fold compared to non-encapsulated (4 %BA). The antioxidant capacity of digested microcapsules measured by ORAC and TEAC assays was increased (30 and 8 µmol TE/g powder, respectively), and their bioaccessibility was higher than non-encapsulate alkaloids. Solamargine and solasonine decreased during in vitro digestion by 17 and 15 %BA, respectively. However, microencapsulation showed the protection of these alkaloids during in vitro digestion. This study demonstrates that microencapsulated alkaloids from eggplant biomass manage to protect bioactive compounds from in vitro digestion, having antioxidant potential mainly through hydrogen atom transfer. Therefore, microencapsulation represents an alternative to protect alkaloids and give added value to eggplant plant biomass.

PAVON has developed a malaria microscopy competency training scheme to augment competency in malaria microscopy. Here data accrued from training activities between 2020 – 2023 in Botswana are presented. Three trainings were done for 37 central and peripheral level technicians for a two-week period. The scheme consisted of basic theory on Plasmodium parasites, malaria epidemiology and diagnosis. Practicals focused on standard slide preparation, staining, parasite detection, speciation and counting. Scores were assessed by the Wilcoxon signed rank test. Participants who excelled joined the WHO External Competency Assessment for Malaria Microscopy (ECAMM). The median competency scores for the 3 trainings were: detection: (100, IQR=94, 100), (100, IQR=94, 100), and (92, IQR=92, 100) respectively, from pretest scores of (40, IQR=27, 54), (44, IQR=32, 52), and (20, IQR=10, 40); (z = 2.937, p<0.003); (z = 3.110, p=0.002); and (z = 2.251, p=0.024) respectively. Speciation: (93, IQR=86, 96), (81, IQR=73, 96) and (88, IQR=88, 100), from pretest scores of (50, IQR=30, 50), (36, IQR=20, 45) and (17, IQR=17, 50)(z = 2.936, p<0.003); (z = 3.152, p=0.002); (z = 3.237, p=0.001). Competency scores achieved in the ECAMM were 98/98; and 97/98, for sensitivity and specificity pre and post-tests. The training was effective in raising the competency skills of participants and is open to NMPs for critical capacity building.

Objectives: Evaluate the performance of diagnostic measures (sensitivity and specificity) of the intrinsic capacity (IC) construct recommended by the WHO ICOPE guidelines by domain and by age group. Study design: This cross-sectional study included 164 community-dwelling elderly (95 women and 69 men). The participants completed the assessment of the 5 domains of IC (cognition, psychological, vitality, locomotion and sensory). In addition, they were assessed for activities of daily living (ADL), instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), frailty and urinary incontinence. Main outcomes measures: Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the intrinsic capacity and identify which domains were compromised. Comparisons between three or more samples were made by 1-way ANOVA with Bonferroni post-test and those with two samples by the t-test or Mann-Whitney test for quantitative variables. Chi-square test was used for qualitative variables. The sensitivity and specificity of each domain and each domain by age group were evaluated using the ROC curve. Results: Participants with a decline in IC were older, worse ADL, IADL and mental function, low gait speed, and higher depression scores. In addition, people with a decline in IC had frailty, urinary incontinence. Other issues related to the decline in CI were self-reported non-practice of physical activities and level of schooling.The evaluation of each domain did not prove to be a good screening tool (sensitivity or specificity &lt; 80%, but both values &gt; 50%). When the analyses were separated by domain and age group, good performance was found in the psychological (69-69 years and ≥80 years), vitality (≥80 years) and sensory (≥80 years) domains. Conclusions: The ICOPE screening tool performed well in terms of diagnostic measures when applied by domain and age group.

As the most important component of soft robot, the pneumatic actuator can drive robot movement. However, the effect of the actuator pneumatic network geometry on the actuator load capacity is insufficient. In this paper, the finite element analysis method is applied to calculate the load force and stability torque of the pneumatic actuator under a wide range of length and height dimensions of the pneumatic network. The effect of the network size on the structure rigidity, load capacity and deformation of the actuator is analyzed. Based on the calculation results, the effect of network structure size on the deformation and load capacity is analyzed, and the optimal geometric results with the maximum load capacity are obtained. This study provides theoretical guidance for the structural design and optimization of the pneumatic actuator.

The research study assessed the level of household exposure, sensitivity, and capacity to cope with flood hazards in Kasese municipality, Kasese district, Uganda. The study used an indicator-based methodology. About 210 respondents were randomly sampled for interview. Individual weights for each indicator were allocated using Principal Component Analysis. Vulnerability indices were constructed at the household level and then aggregated at the division level. A Chi Square test at a significance level of 5% was used to test for differences in the level of household vulnerability. The results revealed that Nyamwamba division was most exposed while Central was least exposed to floods. The Central division was also found most sensitive while Bulembia was least sensitive to floods. Central division had better capacity to cope with floods while Bulembia had the least capacity. Results revealed a significant difference in the level of households’ vulnerability across the divisions. However, overall, Nyamwamba was found most vulnerable and Central least vulnerable to floods. About 43.8% of the households in Kasese municipality were found highly vulnerable to floods. Therefore, urgent attention by the government through policy action measures towards climate change adaptation should be given to address the high levels of vulnerability.

This work presents the results of three connection types in double-shear with dowel fasteners, using the simplified equations from the Eurocode 5. All design parameters were established and compared using three different wood strength and density properties, which constitute the members connections. Eighty-one connections were obtained, allowing to conclude about the number of fasteners needed to the applied tensile load. An increase in the number of dowels was obtained with the increased applied tensile load, lower dowel diameter, lower wood density, and lower strength material in all connection types in the study. The design characteristic load-carrying capacity per shear plane and fastener also decrease with the previously considered parameters.

Propolis is a bee product widely used as a dietary supplement and included in sweets or baby foods due to its well-known antioxidant and nutritional properties that are directly correlated with its phenolic composition. For this reason, this study analysed the total contents of flavones and flavonols, flavanones and dihydroflavonols, and the antioxidant capacity by using the methods of ABTS and linoleic acid/β-carotene in 99 samples of propolis from Spain and Chile. A rapid method was developed for quantifying these parameters in raw propolis using near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy with an optical fibre probe of remote reflectance applied directly to the ground up sample. The models developed allow the determination of the total of flavones and flavonols (0-183 mg rutin/ g propolis), of the total of flavanones and dihydroflavonols (9-109 mg pinocembrin/ g propolis extract), and the antioxidant capacity by the ABTS method (0-3212 nmolesTrolox/ mg of propolis) and of linoleic acid/β-carotene (22-86% inhibition). The NIR spectroscopy models were applied in external validation to different samples of the calibration group, which led to the conclusion that the methods developed provide significantly identical data to the initial chemical data of reference.

This work aims to investigate the impact of chemical treatment of Juncus acutus fibers on the hygric and mechanical performances of an innovative bio-sourced clay-sand-Juncus acutus fibers composite. This lightweight specimen has been produced from a mixture of 60 % natural clay and 40 % sand by mass, as a matrix, and reinforced with different amounts of Juncus fibers. The fibers were used as a partial replacement of sand in mixture by volume at 0 % (Control Specimen), 5 %, 10 %, and 20 %. In order to enhance the fiber-matrix interfacial bound, the raw fibers have undergone an NaOH alkali treatment with different concentrations of 1, and 2 wt. %. Morphological and mineralogical evaluation based on SEM micrographs and EDX analyses revealed that, the alkaline concentration of 1 wt. % is the optimized one for natural fiber surface modifications (removal of impurities without any surface damage). This optimal concentration is confirmed by tensile strength tests, showing that the treated fibers with this alkali solution presents the higher tensile stress value of 81.97 MPa, compared to those of treated fibers with 2 % NaOH (74.45 MPa), and the untreated fibers (70.24 MPa). However, mechanical test-results highlighted the benefit effect of the fiber alkali treatment on both the compressive and flexural strengths, particularly for fiber contents of 5 % and 10 %, which corresponds to a strengthening rate of 25 % and 30 %, respectively. Results also showed that the sample containing treated fibers exhibited a better moisture regulating property than that produced with untreated fibers. The specimens are classified as excellent hygric regulator based on their moisture buffer performance (MBV > 2 g/(m2.%RH)), according to NORDTEST classification. Results also indicated that the capillary water absorption and the apparent moisture diffusivity of composites was lowered due to high fiber-matrix interfacial bound, after fiber treatment. Consequently, the composite with treated fibers is less diffusive compared to that with untreated fibers, and thus expected to be more durable in a humid environment. These results were confirmed by morphological analysis of fibers-matrix interfacial transition zone.

This research evaluates the effect of varying hexagonal opening angles on the flexural and shear capacity of castellated beams. This study is conducted through experimental and numerical approaches using WF 150.75.5.7 steel profiles. The hexagonal opening angles are varied to 20°, 30°, 45°, 55°, and 60°. Experimental testing results show that beams with a 20° opening angle have higher flexural and shear capacities compared to larger opening angles. Numerical testing results are consistent with experimental results, showing more uniform deformation patterns and stress distribution at smaller opening angles. These findings contribute significantly to the design of more efficient and effective castellated beams in modern structural applications, particularly in constructions requiring high flexural and shear capacities.

This study investigates multiple extrusion regimens with twin screw extruder for valorising soy press cakes (by-products of soy drink & tofu manufacturing process) by varying physical conditions of extrusion (temperature and moisture content) for improving their morphological, physico-chemical, technological, and sensory parameters. Valorised soy press cakes were compared before and after extrusion. Four extrusion regimens (moisture content 30%-60% and temperature 110°C -120°C) were designed for producing different extruded samples. Small amounts (3%-6%) of untreated and extruded press cakes were utilised in the development of meat analogues. All samples showed comparable nutritional and trypsin inhibition activity with almost all samples possessing most essential amino acids above significant amounts. Press cakes with higher moisture indicated improved bulk density, water holding and oil holding capacity. Interestingly, the same samples also reportedly had texture more closely resembling native meat texture and scored the highest in overall sensory acceptance. Our results thus indicate that soy press cake samples from drink manufacturing process, when extruded with the regimen with 60% moisture and temperature of 120°C show the greatest potential in developing meat analogues.

Laboratory experiments were performed to measure the supercritical CO2 (scCO2) storage ratio (%) of the conglomerate and sandstone in Janggi Basin, which are classified as rock in Korea available for CO2 storage. The scCO2 storage capacity was evaluated by direct measurement of the scCO2 amount replacing pore water in a reservoir rock core. The scCO2 sealing capacity of the cap rock (i.e., tuff and mudstone), was also compared by measuring the initial scCO2 seepage pressure (Δp) into the rock core. The measured average scCO2 storage ratio of the conglomerate and the sandstone in Janggi Basin was 30.7 % and 13.1 %, respectively, suggesting that the scCO2 storage capacity is greater than 360,000 metric tons in the Janggi Basin. The initial scCO2 seepage pressure of the tuff in the Janggi Basin was 15 bar and continuous scCO2 injection into the tuff core occurred at Δp higher than 20 bar. For the mudstone, the initial scCO2 seepage pressure was higher than 150 bar (10 times higher than that of the tuff), demonstrating that the mudstone is more suitable than the tuff to shield scCO2 leakage from the reservoir rock in the Janggi Basin.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a public health problem exacerbated by the overuse and misuse of antibiotics and an inadequate capacity of laboratories to conduct AMR surveillance. This study assessed the capacity of laboratories in seven faith-based hospitals to conduct bacteriology, AMR testing and surveillance in Zambia. This multi-facility, cross-sectional exploratory study was conducted from February 2024 to April 2024. We collected and analysed data using the self-scoring Laboratory Assessment of Antibiotic Resistance Testing Capacity (LAARC) tool. This study found an overall score of 39%, indicating a low capacity of laboratories to conduct AMR surveillance. The highest capacity score was 47%, while the lowest was 25%. Only one hospital had full capacity (100%) to utilise a Laboratory Information System (LIS). Three hospitals had good capacity to perform data management with scores of 83%, 85%, and 95%. Only one hospital had full capacity (100%) to process specimens, and only one hospital had good safety requirements for a microbiology laboratory, with a score of 89%. This study demonstrates that all the assessed hospitals have a low capacity to conduct AMR surveillance. Therefore, there is an urgent need to strengthen the microbiology capacity of laboratories to enhance surveillance in faith-based hospitals in Zambia.

We investigated the response of leaf photosynthetic capacity to climate warming and its variation among provenances of Larix gmelinii (Dahurian larch). Seedlings of 11 L. gmelinii provenances were transplanted into two common gardens with different climate conditions (control and warming climate). We measured the leaf photosynthetic capacity and explored its influencing factors. The warming treatment significantly increased the maximum net photosynthetic rate (Pmax-a), photosynthetic nitrogen use efficiency (PNUE), maximum carboxylation rate (Vcmax), maximum electron transport rate (Jmax), triose phosphate utilization rate (TPU), mesophyll conductance (gm), leaf nitrogen content (Narea), and chlorophyll content (Chlm). The Pmax-a was significantly positively associated with Vcmax, Jmax, TPU, gm, and Narea, and the slope of the correlations between Pmax-a and Vcmax, Jmax, and TPU was steeper in the warming treatment. The responses of Pmax-a, PNUE, Vcmax, Jmax, TPU, Narea, and Chlm to warming differed among provenances. The effects of warming on Pmax-a, Vcmax, Jmax, and TPU increased and then decreased as the aridity index of the original site increased. Overall, the warming treatment improved the photosynthetic capacity of L. gmelinii, but the extent of the improvement varied among provenances. These findings provide insights into the mechanisms underlying the responses of L. gmelinii to climate warming.

Elevated serum uric acid (sUA) is associated with risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). Here, we examined the prognostic significance of sUA and exercise capacity in 411 Japanese adults (age, ≥65; mean, 81 years) hospitalized for worsening CVD. Mean sUA was significantly higher in the 23% of patients on an sUA-lowering agent than in those not. When the patients were stratified by sUA into three groups (7.0 mg/dL), the high sUA group had significantly worse peak VO2 and composite endpoint (rehospitalization due to worsening CVD and all-cause mortality) compared with low and moderate sUA groups (P < 0.001). When the patients were stratified by sUA into five groups (sUA 10.0 mg/dL), the incidence of the composite endpoint was significantly higher in the highest sUA group compared with that in the reference group, but only in women. Univariate Cox regression analysis, but not a multivariate analysis, indicated that sUA was significantly associated with the composite endpoint. Although sUA and exercise capacity may have some degree of prognostic significance in older patients with CVD, this significance may differ between men and women.

This paper presents the results of experimental and numerical investigations aimed at enhancing the flexural capacity of Precast Concrete Corbel Beam-Column Connections (PC-CBCC) using Fiber-Reinforced Plastic (FRP) sheets. The experimental study primarily focused on assessing the flexural capacity of pinned PC-CBCCs reinforced with FRP layers, comparing them to a moment-resisting connection. A series of half-scale specimens, including three PC-CBCCs with varying FRP configurations, were tested alongside one in-situ concrete fixed connection. The objective was to quantify the ultimate flexural capacity of PC-CBCCs reinforced by FRP sheets. The effects of FRP layer thickness, locations, and potential debonding were examined under unidirectional static tests while applying a constant axial compressive load to the columns and subjecting the beams to lateral loads until fracture. Additionally, a precise finite element model of the PC-CBCCs and a fixed joint was developed and verified to simulate nonlinear static analyses of the connections in ANSYS software. A comprehensive comparison was conducted to determine their responses by employing various FRP configurations and properties. The tests and numerical results demonstrate that wrapping PC-CBCCs with anchored FRPs can transform pin connections into moment-resistant joints. Moreover, critical design parameters such as bond length, thickness, and placement of FRP sheets, along with appropriate mechanical anchorage, are identified to prevent debonding and delamination.

European cities are motivated to act towards the achievement of climate-neutral mobility solutions. Often, though, they are facing many challenges when bringing (innovative) sustainable mobility solutions forward. Capacity building that fills skills gap and/or enables acquisition of new ones related to the planning and implementation of such solutions can empower local/ regional authorities to identify them, adopt them and eventually deliver them properly. The aim of this paper is to present the Key Performance Indicator (KPI) framework that has been used for the assessment of the effectiveness of the Learning and Exchange Programme applied in an EU-funded project. It presents the methodological steps for the adoption of the KPIs, as well as the tools used for the selection of the KPI data and the KPI monitoring at project level. It also presents the results from the application of the framework for assessing the knowledge performance towards the deployment of sustainable mobility solutions. It finally reflects on recommendations for applying the KPI framework to other cases and thematic contents.

The concept of friction damper is widespread technique and used to reduce the structural vibrations in many industrial applications. These friction dampers are generally coated with low wear rate materials to reduce the fretting wear. This paper investigates the use of physical vapor deposition (PVD) nitride based AlTiN coating material applied over the stainless steel friction damper to enhance the damping capacity and to reduce the fretting wear. A friction test rig has been developed to measure the dynamic hysteresis characteristics of friction damper at high temperature (700 °C). The damping capacity and fretting wear analysis is carried out at room temperature, 300 °C and 600 °C. The force versus displacment characterisitcs curve is used to predict the damping capacity and fretting wear analysis is carried out at microscopic level for the comparision. It is observed that at room temperature AlTiN coated friction damper has not much influence to improve the damping capacity and to reduce the fretting-wear. However, at high temperature it has better damping capacity and less wear in comparision to uncoated friction damper. Wear behaviour in coated and uncoated damper is different at room temperature and at elevated temperature.

The calculation of the isobaric heat capacities of the liquid and solid phase of molecules at 298.15 K is presented, applying a universal computer algorithm based on the atom-groups additivity method, using refined atom groups. The atom groups are defined as the molecules' constituting atoms and their immediate neighbourhood. In addition, the hydroxy group of alcohols are further subdivided to take account of the different intermolecular interactions of primary, secondary and tertiary alcohols. The evaluation of the groups' contributions has been carried out by means of a fast Gauss-Seidel fitting calculus using experimental data from literature. Plausibility has been tested immediately after each fitting calculation using a 10-fold cross-validation procedure. For the heat capacity of liquids, the respective goodness of fit of the direct (R2) and the cross-validation calculations (Q2) of 0.998 and 0.9975, and the respective standard deviations of 8.2 and 9.16 J/mol/K, together with a medium absolute percentage deviation (MAPD) of 2.69%, based on the experimental data of 1133 compounds, proves the excellent predictive applicability of the present method. The statistical values for the heat capacity of solids are only slightly inferior: for R2 and Q2, the respective values are 0.9915 and 0.9875, the respective standard deviations are 12.19 and 14.13 J/mol/K and the MAPD is 4.65%, based on 732 solids. The predicted heat capacities for a series of liquid and solid compounds has been directly compared to those received by a complementary method based on the "true" molecular volume [1] and their deviations elucidated.

Hypoxia is the main survival challenge that human beings encounter in high altitudes, it is also the leading cause of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Studies have shown that hypoxia induces a large number of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in AMS patients, and the surge of ROS leads to the reduction of oxygen delivery capacity of erythrocyte, senescence and inflammatory impairment of erythrocyte and vascular endothelial cells to a certain extent. Through depicting a target-pathway network, our study indicates that Compound Danshen Dropping Pills (CDDP), which is one of the best-known traditional Chinese medicine used for the treatment of myocardial ischemic diseases, can improve red blood cell oxygen delivery capacity in AMS patients, alleviate tissue and organ damage, relieve a series of clinical symptoms caused by hypoxia through ROS clearance and related mechanisms. We further elucidate the active ingredients of CDDP targeting ROS related pathway by target-ingredient correspondence analysis. Tanshinone IIA, catechol and some other compounds of CDDP were identified to have certain targeting effect on ROS and ROS dependent pathways. This study provides new understandings of CDDP in clinical application on AMS.

The use of large-scale antenna arrays grants considerable benefits in energy and spectral efficiency to wireless systems due to spatial resolution and array gain techniques. By assuming a dominant line-of-sight environment in a massive MIMO scenario with favorable propagation, we derive analytical expressions for the sum-capacity. % Then, we show that convenient simplifications on the sum-capacity expressions are possible when working at low and high SNR regimes. % Furthermore, in the case of a high SNR regime, it is demonstrated that the Gamma PDF can approximate the PDF of the instantaneous channel sum-capacity as the number of BS antennas grows. A second important demonstration presented in this work is that a Gamma PDF can also be used to approximate the PDF of the summation of the channel's singular values as the number of devices increases. Finally, it is important to highlight that the presented framework is useful for LPWAN's as we show that the transmit power of each device can be made inversely proportional to the number of BS antennas.

High-Intensity Functional Training (HIFT) is a novel exercise intervention that may test body systems in a balanced and integrated fashion by challenging individuals’ abilities to complete mechanical work. However, research has not previously determined if physical work capacity is unique to traditional physiologic measures of fitness. Twenty-five healthy men and women completed a six-week HIFT intervention with physical work capacity and various physiologic measures of fitness assessed pre- and post-intervention. At baseline, these physiologic measures of fitness (e.g., aerobic capacity) were significantly associated with physical work capacity and this relationship was even stronger at post-intervention assessment. Further, there were significant improvements across these physiologic measures in response to the delivered intervention. However, the change in these physiologic measures failed to predict the change in physical work capacity induced via HIFT. These findings point to the potential utility of HIFT as a unique challenge to individuals’ physiology beyond traditional resistance or aerobic training. Elucidating the translational impact of increasing work capacity via HIFT may be of great interest to health and fitness practitioners ranging from strength/conditioning coaches to physical therapists.

This study investigates resource adequacy and renewable energy integration in the United States, European Union, and Pakistan amid global energy market liberalization and greenhouse gas re-duction efforts. It explores how these regions are adapting to the surge in renewable sources like wind and solar, which, despite their financial and environmental benefits, challenge resource adequacy and the economic viability of traditional energy sources. In the US and EU, significant improvements have been introduced in wholesale electricity markets and capacity accreditation mechanisms, which enhanced the large-scale deployment of renewables. This shift has prompted a reevaluation of resource adequacy, leading to increased deployment of battery storage and demand response. Presently, gas-based generation is largely upholding resource adequacy, however, future trends indicate a move towards greater consumer participation, energy efficiency, and utility-scale storage, with a decline in fossil fuel use. Pakistan aims to adopt a liberalized market structure by balancing competitive markets with legacy contracts. Public pressure is driving a shift from costly fossil-based generation to renewables. Similarly, a trend in the rise of behind-the-meter solar generation can be witnessed. In future, Pakistan may also experience resource adequacy challenges. It will likely need to implement battery storage, demand response, and modern capacity accreditation tools, by drawing lessons from developed markets.

The sustainability of cities often changes as rapid urban developments and population growth affect the carrying capacity. Understanding the dynamics of carrying capacity then becomes crucial for tourist-oriented cities. This study focused on Baguio City, the "Summer Capital of the Philippines," attracting large crowds on holidays and actively promoting various events on non-holidays, thereby having temporal context variations classified as regular days, days with events, and holidays. Using the enhanced urban carrying capacity load number (EUCCLN) model, load number (LN) changes for different temporal contexts are calculated based on spatial indicators grouped into air, traffic, economy, and waste. The city experiences the worst pressures on air quality during holidays with $99.23\%$ districts under very high to critical levels followed by regular and days with events. However, the total LN is balanced by favorable economic conditions with only $9.23\%$ at critical. EUCCLN effectively pinpoints areas experiencing critical states at any time, advocating targeted government monitoring. We demonstrate that Night Time Light, for places with no economic data available, can be used as a proxy to highlight areas requiring improved urban vibrancy. This work suggests that EUCCLN monitoring urban pressures can easily be expanded to nowcasting with real-time data.

Concerns regarding the safety of ethoxyquin (EQ) have gradually increased, highlighting the necessity of identifying safer and more effective antioxidants for use in animal feed. This study investigates the effects of a compound antioxidant (CA) as an alternative to ethoxyquin on feed oxidative stability, growth performance, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal health in broilers. A total of 351 one-day-old Arbor Acres Plus male broilers were randomly assigned to three treatments with nine replicates of 13 birds each. The experimental treatments included: CON group (basal diet), EQ group (basal diet + 200 g/ton EQ at 60% purity), and CA group (basal diet + 200 g/ton compound antioxidant, which comprises 18% butylated hydroxytoluene, 3% citric acid, and 1% tertiary butylhydroquinone). The experiment lasted for 21 days. Compared to the control group, supplementation with CA significantly reduced the acid value, peroxide value, and malondialdehyde content in the feeds after storage. Moreover, CA supplementation significantly decreased feed intake and the feed conversion ratio (FCR) without affecting weight gain of boilers, while also improving liver antioxidant capacity (increased T-AOC and SOD levels), intestinal antioxidant capacity (increased CAT, HO-1, and GPX7 protein expression), and enhancing the duodenal villus height-to-crypt depth ratio and jejunal villus height. Additionally, CA treatment reduced intestinal barrier permeability (decreased diamine oxidase activity and D-lactate levels), potentially by promoting the expression of Occludin, ZO-1, and Mucin2 protein. Furthermore, the addition of CA elevated the protein levels of NF-κB p50 along with its inhibitory factors, IκB and NF-κB p105, in the intestines of broilers, thereby enhancing immune regulatory capacity. This supplementation also led to an increased abundance of beneficial gut microorganisms, including Lactobacillus, Alistipes, Candidatus Arthromitus, and Turicibacter. In comparison to the EQ group, CA supplementation enhanced feed oxidative stability, decreased the FCR, and improved the intestinal morphology, barrier functions, and inflammatory status in broilers. These findings suggest that this compound antioxidant may serve as a healthier and more effective alternative to ethoxyquin.

Capsinoids (CAP) are potential antioxidant agents capable of reducing oxidative damage and the resulting complications triggered by obesity. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of CAP on adiposity and biomarkers of cardiac oxidative stress in rats with obesity induced by a high-fat diet. Male Wistar rats were exposed to a high-fat diet for 27 consecutive weeks. After characterization of obesity (week 19), some of the obese (Ob) animals began to receive capsinoids (10 mg/kg/day) by orogastric gavage. Adiposity and comorbidities were assessed. In the heart, remodeling, injury and biomarkers of oxidative stress were determinated. The treatment did not reduce the adiposity induced d by obesity, but they were efficient in reducing cholesterol levels. CAP treatment did not cause a difference in heart and LV mass, despite having reduced troponin I concentrations. Furthermore, capisinoids did not reduce the increase in advanced oxidation of proteins products (AOPP) and carbonylated proteins (CBO) caused by obesity in cardiac tissue. Besides that, it was observed that ObCap rats presented high levels of malondialdehyde and greater activity of antioxidant enzymes compared to Ob. In conclusion, treatment with capsinoids did not lead to significant positive effects in reducing obesity-induced oxidative stress.

In view of the floating rectangular aerostatic guideway problem of low load capacity and stiffness, this paper puts forward a kind of closed rectangular aerostatic guideway and its optimized design. Firstly, the analytic calculation formula of a closed rectangular aerostatic guideway was deduced. The use of MATLAB software for the numerical simulation and the parameter influence analyses was carried out in terms of the gas supply pressure on load capacity and stiffness. A simulation model of the rectangular air bearing was also built using the Fluent software, and the model was used for simulation calculations. Secondly, the static performance of the rectangular air bearing was analyzed by analyzing the distribution position and number of orifices on its load capacity and stiffness. On this basis, the response surface optimization design method is used to analyze the variation law of the load capacity and stiffness of the air bearing under different restrictor structural parameters. Finally, the optimal design parameters for the rectangular air bearing are obtained. The simulation results show that the optimized rectangular air bearing designed in this paper has a good load capacity and stiffness of 644.58N and 63.405N N∙μm^(-1).

Silicon has been proved to be one of the most promising anode materials for the next generation of lithium-ion battery. For the application in batteries, Si anode should have high capacity and must be industrially scalable. In this study, we have designed and synthesised a hollow structure to meet these requirements. All the processes are carried out without special equipment. The Si nanoparticles that are commercially available are used as the core sealed inside TiO₂ shell, with rationally designed void space between the particles and shell. The Si@TiO₂ are characterised using X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The optimised hollow structured silicon nanoparticles, when used as anode in lithium-ion battery, exhibit a high reversible specific capacity over 600 mAhg-1. This excellent electrochemical property of the nanoparticles can be attributed to their optimised phase and unique hollow nanostructure.

Waterlogging induced by rain in urban areas has a potential risk impact on property and safety. This paper focuses on the impact of rain on waterlogging and evaluates the waterlogging risk in the central city of Shanghai. A simplified waterlogging depth model is developed in different areas with different drainage capacity and rainfall in consumption of simplifying the effect of complex terrain characteristics and hydrological situation. Based on urban waterlogging depth and its classification collection, a Rain-induced Urban Waterlogging Risk Model(RUWRM) is further established to evaluate waterlogging risk in the central city. The results show that waterlogging depth is closely linked with rainfall and drainage, with a linear relationship between them. More rainfall leads to higher waterlogging risk, especially in the central city with imperfect drainage facilities. Rain-induced urban waterlogging risk model can rapidly gives the waterlogging rank caused by rainfall with a clear classification collection. The results of waterlogging risk prediction indicate that it is confident to get the urban waterlogging risk rank well and truly in advance with more accurate rainfall prediction. This general study is a contribution that allows the public, policy makers and relevant departments of urban operation to assess the appropriate management to reduce traffic intensity and personal safety or strategy to lead to less waterlogging risk.

There have been relatively few researches that determine the role of bricolage in mediating the empirical relationship between strategic flexibility and product innovation. However, most of the research has studied strategic flexibility to engage the absorptive capacity and facilitate product innovation. The Bricolage approach emphasizes utilizing existing resources in product innovation and explores the mechanisms behind bricolage. A resource-based approach to product innovation involves combining resources in the development process in a concrete manner. This is a groundbreaking study since it is the first to examine empirically how absorptive capacity affects product innovation through bricolage and the serial mediation of strategic flexibility. As a consequence of presenting our results, we concluded that absorptive capacity positively and significantly influences product innovation through the serial mediation of strategic flexibility and bricolage. For strategic flexibility to play a role in supporting product innovation, bricolage is one of the mechanisms that can be utilized. This study contributes to the literature on strategic flexibility by examining the effect of strategic flexibility on bricolage and product innovation from the standpoint that absorptive capacity enhances the strategic flexibility of high-tech SMEs in China. Furthermore, this research offers new insights into the relationship between absorptive capacity and product innovation. In addition, it also provides insight into the economic opportunities that may result from product innovation in transition economies such as China.

The aim of the work was to update the distribution range of Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus Skuse in the Americas, review the blood feeding patterns and compare the minimum infection rate (MIR) between studies of vertical and horizontal transmission of arboviruses. The current distribution of Ae. albopictus encompasses 21 countries in the Americas. In eleven published papers on the blood feeding pattern of Ae. albopictus, DNA from 16 species of mammals and five species of avian species was found. The most common host is humans, and dogs. We found 24 published papers on the identification of arboviruses in wild populations of Ae. albopictus with the potential to infect humans and animals. Eight arboviruses have been isolated in different studies carried out in Brazil, USA, Mexico, Colombia, and Costa Rica. Fifty-eight percent (14/24) of the publications reported vertical transmission of arbovirus. Positive pools were higher in vertical (8.45%) compared to horizontal transmission (0.97%). This was supported by the MIR, which was 3 times greater in vertical (MIR=3.21) than horizontal transmission (MIR= 1.08). In conclusion, Ae. albopictus is an invasive mosquito with wide phenotypic plasticity to adapt to broad and new areas, high vectorial competence to transmit several arboviruses mainly by transovarial transmission, it can participate in the endemic transmission, and serve as a bridge vector for emerging arboviruses between sylvan, rural, and urban areas.

A delayed crosslinked polymer gel was developed for indepth water control in mature oilfields. The thermal gelation behavior of nonionic polyacrylamide (NPAM) and PEI was investigated, and sodium citrate (NaCit) was selected as a new retarder to prolong the gelation time. The gelation performance of NPAM/PEI gel system can be adjusted by the variation of NPAM or PEI concentration, and a quadratic model was developed by statistical analysis, which predict the gelation time of NPAM/PEI gel system. The obtained model showed high significance and good reliability as suggested by the F-ratio of 175.16 and high adjusted R-square value (0.9732). The decrease of the initial pH value of gelling solution leads to the weaker gel viscosity and longer gelation time due to the protonation of amine groups on the PEI chains. Increasing temperature resulted in higher gel viscosity but shorter gelation time. The addition of NaCit showed a good delayed gelation effect on the NPAM/PEI gel system, and the gel system in the presence of NaCit exhibited a good compatibility with injected and formation water. A dense three-dimensional structure was observed in matured NPAM/PEI/NaCit gel, and it could keep stable below 150℃. The gel system could effectively reduce the permeability (>95%) and restricted the flow of water after matured in natural cores.

The novel COVID-19 pandemic prompted an unprecedented Institutional reaction to aggregate existing capacity from silos of research laboratories to establish a multidisciplinary research laboratory for COVID19 testing. In less than two weeks, resources were mobilized from the community to strengthen public health response and epidemic control. Such strengthening of institutional research capacity to support public health response contributes to a natural knowledge transfer, facilitates collaboration, and generates new frontiers for knowledge production that should ultimately lead to professional development and retention of skilled human resources. This report describes the pre-established mechanisms and involvement of the authors that made it possible to set-up a multidisciplinary laboratory in a remarkably short period of time. We also discuss the opportunities and sustainability of multidisciplinary laboratory research post-COVID19. Existing institutional capacity can be repurposed to establish multidisciplinary research laboratories to support the strengthening of basic and clinical translational research capacity in resource limited settings and impact on public health and scientific knowledge for socioeconomic development.

Since World War I, the commercial aviation industry has seen many improvements that now allow people and goods to reach the other side of the world in few hours, consuming much less fuel than in recent decades. Improvements in cargo capacity and energy efficiency were significant and, in this scenario, commercial airlines were able to thrive and bring great benefits to world economy. However, this sector is facing environmental challenges due to the intensive use of aviation fuel. Brazil is one of the largest domestic air passenger markets in the world and still has great growth potential, considering its economic potential and territorial dimensions: roughly the same size as the US and twice the size of the European Union. This paper discusses partial productivity of jet fuel in Brazilian domestic aviation and proposes an econometric method to support public regulators and airlines decisions. The proposed model uses variables such as aircraft size, route characteristics and idle flight capacity in a panel data analysis. The results show that reducing idle capacity is one of the best ways to achieve better short-term fuel efficiency and therefore will reduce environmental impacts and have positive economic effects on commercial air transport activities.

Over the past five years, the popularity of dietary nitrates as an ergogenic device among athletes has increased significantly. Hypoxic and acidic conditions that occur during exercise facilitate the conversion of nitrite to nitric oxide (NO) and increase the physiological efficiency of exogenously produced nitrite. After a few years of our team predicted experiments, as a nitric oxide precursor, amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus) was identified as a source of dietary nitrates (concentrations 9-11%). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of single-dose and long- term doses of dietary nitrates from amaranth concentrate on the aerobic capacity of physically active young persons. Thirteen healthy and physically active young participants were randomized to experimental and placebo groups using a increasing cycling exercise (ICE) and placebo- controlled design. Pulmonary gas exchange recording (oxygen uptake (VO 2 ), pulmonary ventilation (VE), respiratory exchange ratio (RER)) and analysis of blood lactate samples were obtained. Our findings indicate that the single dose of dietary amaranth (400 mg) significantly improved only the power of the test performance. Long-term (6 days) intake significantly increased the power of the test performance, the maximum oxygen consumption and the power of the test for the first ventilation threshold value (from 37.7±2.7 mL/kg/min during the first test to 41.2±5.4 mL/kg/min during the third test, p &lt;0.05).

Aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Hibiscus sabdariffa were spray-drying using maltodextrin (MD) and gum arabic (GA) as carriers agents. An experimental design Taguchi L8 with seven variables was implemented. Physicochemical properties in the encapsulates were evaluated by UV-Vis, XRD, spectroscopy and gravimetric techniques. Treatments with aqueous extracts showed the highest concentration of total soluble polyphenols (TSP) 32.12- 21.23 mg EAG/g DW, and antioxidant capacity (AOX) for ABTS assay. The best treatment for TSP and AOX was T4: 2.5% Hibiscus w/w, aqueous extracts, decoction, extract-to-carrier ratio 1:1 (w/w), proportion to carriers (MD:GA) 80:20 (w/w), 10000 rpm, 150°C. Taguchi L8 model is a tool that allows the use of multiple variables with a low number of treatments that indicate the drying conditions that give the best parameters, focusing mainly on TSP and AOX, in addition, is a good alternative for the preservation and stability of the PC in Hibiscus.

In recent years, the need for safe and modern composite barrier for the prevention of groundwater contamination and the provision of Geo-environmental protection has been studied together with the need of designing low cost and effective liner for isolating landfill contents from the environment. In this study, various mix designs involving two natural adsorbents, the Na-Bentonite and the pH-adjusted sawdust were prepared for a series of Geo-environmental experiments to be carried out to determine the adsorption capacity, buffering capacity, pH changes, and COD changes among others, in the presence of Pb(NO3)2 contaminant concentrations. Generally, the results showed an increase in adsorption capacity in the acidic segment of the treatment. An increase of 58% of the adsorption efficiency of the Na-Bentonite in adsorbing the contaminant at the highest concentration was the most important achievement of the system while in the acidic segment.

The coal mine underground reservoir is an appropriate solution between coal mining and groundwater resource protection and utilization. By calculating the storage capacity of a groundwater reservoir, the storage coefficient has been proved to be always an empirical value. Based on the mathematical derivation of the vertical fracture area ratio and the horizontal fracture area rate of the collapse zone and the fissure zone in the goaf area of the coal seam, the mathematical models of tem are derived, and the model for calculating the water storage coefficient is derived. The water storage coefficient derived from the theoretical model had more basis and more advanced than the traditional empirical value. By using this method, the practical calculation of No.1 underground reservoir of the DaLliuta Coalmine in Shenhua Shendong, has got a perfect matching with the actual groundwater storage capacity.

The aim of this study was to clarify effects of 3-week work-matched high-intensity intermittent cycling training (HIICT) with different cadences on VO2max in university athletes. Eighteen university athletes performed HIICT with either 60 rpm (n = 9) or 120 rpm (n = 9). HIICT consisted of eight sets of 20-s exercise with a 10-s passive rest between each sets. The initial training intensity was set at 135% of VO2 max and was decreased by 5% every two sets. Athletes in both groups performed 9 sessions of HIICT during 3-week. The total work-load and achievement rate of the work load calculated before experiments in each group were used for analysis. VO2max was measured pre and post-training. After 3-week of training, no significant differences in the total work-load and achievement rate of the work load were found between the two groups. VO2max similarly increased in both groups from pre to post training (p = 0.016), with no significant differences between the groups (p = 0.680). These results suggest that cadence during HIICT is not training variable affecting effect of VO2max.

Water is essential for living organisms. The increase in world population, global climate change and rapid growth in industrialization and urbanization have brought with them water issues around the world in recent years. Not only should existing water resources be used reasonably and efficiently but alternative water resources should also be explored and secured. Rainwater harvesting, which is one of the alternative water resources, can provide economic and environmental solutions. For rainwater harvesting, the size of reservoirs in which rainwater captured from roof catchments is stored should be determined. Determining the optimum tank capacity depending on precipitation and consumption rates allows us to make maximum use of rainwater tanks. The aim of this study is to determine the optimum tank capacity for the storage of rainwater captured from roof catchments in order to meet the water demand for agricultural production. Precipitation data were collected from the city of Isparta and its districts. Rainwater tank capacity was determined using the Rippl, residual mass curve, minimum flow and particle swarm optimization methods. Storage capacities varying according to roof areas and consumption rates are shown in a graph. Results show that particle swarm optimization is the best method.

This paper has two objectives: the first, to analyze the mediating effect of teacher empowerment between innovation culture and innovation capacity, and between inclusive leadership and innovation capacity; the second, to analyze the moderating effects of the school context on the innovation capacity. Data were collected in a representative sample of secondary schools in Valencia, Spain. The research model adopted is structural equation modeling, using the partial least squares (PLS) technique. The model has confirmed that teacher empowerment mediates between innovation culture and innovation capacity and between inclusive leadership and the innovation capacity. It is found that the educational context does not moderate the relationships in the proposed analysis model. This paper emphasizes the role of teacher empowerment in educational innovation and extends the knowledge of culture and leadership in the school organization.

The world will experience an estimated 40% freshwater supply shortage by 2030, converting water scarcity into one of the principal global challenges that modern society face. Urban water-reuse is recognized as a promising and necessary measure to alleviate the growing water stress in many regions. The transformation to widespread application of water-reuse systems requires major changes in the way water is governed, and countries such as Spain already find themselves involved in this process. Through the systematic assessment of the city of Sabadell (Spain), we aim to identify the main barriers, opportunities and transferable lessons that can enhance governance capacity to implement systems for non-potable reuse of treated wastewater in cities. It was found that continuous learning, the availability and quality of information and level of knowledge and strong agents of change are the main capacity-building priorities. On the other hand, awareness, multilevel network potential and implementing capacity are already well-established. It is concluded that in order to undertake a widespread application of water-reuse practices, criteria examining water quality according to its use need to be developed, independently of the water’s origin. The development and implementation of such a legislative frame should be based on the experience of local water-reuse practices and continuous evaluation. Finally, the need for public engagement and adequate pricing mechanisms are emphasized.

The antioxidant properties and polyphenol content of some selected aromatic plants grown in Greece were studied. Plants were refluxed with 60% methanol after acid hydrolysis. The phenolic substances were quantified by HPLC-DAD. The antioxidant capacity of the extracts was determined with the Rancimat test using sunflower oil as substrate. Free radical scavenging activity was measured using the stable free radical 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). Results were compared with standard BHT and ascorbic acid. Total phenol concentration of the extracts was estimated with Folin-Ciocalteu reagent using gallic acid as standard.

Drydocking a ship is essential to the routine maintenance process during its service/operational life. During the drydocking time, various surveys/inspections are carried out per requirements of the classification society, flag administration, and statutory bodies, particularly the underwater items. For shipyards, optimum utilization of drydock capacity (deadweight) is the most considered factor to optimize the physical performance indicators like drydock occupancy rate, capacity utilization rate, and drydock utilization. However, in real life, even after mobilizing all available resources to achieve the optimum usage rate, the overall physical performance could be higher or lower or not up to the expectation. The average size (deadweight) of ships calling to the drydock is observed to be far below the expected capacity, resulting in under-utilization of installed capacity. However, although the drydock occupancy rate is satisfactory, even 100%. For a substantial amount of time, the drydock has been under-utilized in terms of capacity utilization and drydock utilization rate. Drydocking activities of ships in two (2) drydocks of a shipyard are collected and analyzed. Various physical performance indicators (PPIs) are calculated. They are diagnosed year-wise and presented in tabular and graphical form to demonstrate their behavior over the operating period. Authors have investigated the behavior of the above-mentioned physical performance indicators to justify, technically, the selection of capacity of a drydock. A further attempt has been made to propose some recommendations and guidelines from technical viewpoints for the selection criteria of a drydock capacity based on available resources.

Carotenoids from different sources have different structures and functions and as a dietary component have potential health benefits for a wide range of organisms. The effects of halophilic Archaea-derived C50 carotenoids on poultry egg quality and gut microbiota remain largely unexplored. In this study, we isolated and obtained a strain of Halalkalicoccus paucihalophilus, named TRM89021, from the Pamir Plateau. It secretes large amounts of carotenoids. We characterized the carotenoid pigments produced by this strain and found that its main components were bacterioruberin and its derivatives. Effects of these carotenoids on egg quality and cecal microbiota composition of hens were investigated. Compared to the BDG, the supplementation with carotenoids in the CDG resulted in significantly lower a* and b* scores at week 5 and a lower b* score and Haugh units at week 2, while egg strength and weight were higher. The CDG also showed increased yolk antioxidant capacity, higher glutathione peroxidase levels, and significantly lower catalase levels (p<0.05). Plasma analysis revealed elevated total bilirubin and aspartate aminotransferase levels, along with reduced inorganic phosphorus levels in the CDG (p<0.05). No significant differences in cecal microbiota diversity were observed between groups at any taxonomic level (p>0.05). This result suggests that halophilic archaea-derived carotenoids display potential to be a natural feed supplement to improve egg quality. Our study provides a theoretical basis for application of archaea-derived carotenoids in poultry diets.

This paper explores the dynamics of political competition, resource availability, and conflict through a simulation-based approach. Utilizing agent-based models (ABMs) within an evolutionary game theoretical framework, we investigate how individual behaviors and motivations influence collective outcomes in civil conflicts. Our study builds on the theoretical model developed by Basuchoudhary et al. (2023), which integrates factors such as resource availability, state capacity, and political entrepreneurship to explain the evolution of civil conflict. By simulating boundedly rational agents, we demonstrate how changes in resource availability and state capacity can alter the nature of civil conflict, leading to different equilibrium outcomes. The findings highlight the importance of understanding individual motivations and adaptive behaviors in predicting the stability and resolution of conflicts. This research contributes to the growing body of literature on the use of agent-based models in evolutionary game theory and provides valuable insights into the complex interactions that drive civil violence.

The increasing environmental awareness and carbon-storing capability of wood have amplified its relevance as a building material. The demand for high-quality wood species necessitates exploring alternative, underutilized wood sources due to limited forest areas and premium wood volume. Consequently, the veneer-based industry is considering lower-value hardwood species like grey alder, black alder, and aspen as substitutes for high-quality birch. Initially less appealing due to their lower density and mechanical properties, these species show promise through densification, which enhances their density, strength, and hardness. This study aims to enhance plywood screw withdrawal capacity and surface hardness by densifying low-density wood species and using them in plywood face veneer layers or all layers. The relationship between wood density, surface hardness, and screw withdrawal capacity of plywoods made of low-value species like aspen and black alder is examined. Experimental work with a pilot-scale veneer and plywood production line demonstrates improved surface hardness (65% and 93% for aspen and black alder, respectively) and screw withdrawal capacity (16% and 35% for aspen and black alder, respectively) in face veneer densified low-value hardwood plywood. This research highlights the potential of densified low-value wood species to meet construction requirements, expanding their practical applications.

The gastrointestinal tract has a pivotal role in nutrient absorption, immune function, and overall homeostasis. The ileum segment of the small intestine plays respective roles in nutrient breakdown and absorption. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of heat-induced oxidative stress and the potential mitigating effects of an astaxanthin antioxidant treatment on the ileum of broilers. By comparing the growth performance and gene expression profiles among three groups- thermal neutral, heat stress and heat stress with astaxanthin, under two temperature conditions of 21-22°C and 32-35°C, this research aims to elucidate the role of astaxanthin in supporting homeostasis and cellular protection in the ileum. Results showed both treatments under heat stress experienced reduced growth performance, while the group treated with astaxanthin showed a slightly lesser decline. Results further showed the astaxanthin treatment group significantly upregulated in the cytoprotective gene expression for HSF2, SOD2, GPX3, and TXN, as well as the upregulation of epithelial integrity genes, LOX, CLDN1 and MUC2. In conclusion, our experimental findings demonstrate upregulation of cytoprotective and epithelial integrity genes suggests astaxanthin may effectively enhance the cellular response to heat stress to mitigate oxidative damage, and contribute to cytoprotective capacity.

Limited studies have shown that exposure to arsenic is associated with serum vitamin D levels, but the results are still inconsistent. A cross-sectional study of 762 participants was conducted in Wenshui Country, Shanxi Province, which was identified as an area of water-borne arsenicosis. The results showed positive relationship between arsenic species (iAs, MMA, DMA) and serum 25(OH)D. Binary logistic regression analysis showed that the significant increases of 0.4% and 0.6% in the risk of vitamin D excess for every 1-unit increment in the Box-Cox transformed urinary tAs and DMA, respectively. After stratifying populations based on arsenic methylation metabolic capacity, each one-unit increase in the Box-Cox transformed tAs level was associated with increases of 0.064 (95%CI: 0.032 to 0.096) in serum 25(OH)D in the populations with iAs% above the median. In the populations with skin hyperkeratosis, urinary iAs was positively associated with serum 25(OH)D (β=0.592, 95%CI: 0.041 to 1.143). Overall, our findings support the positive relationship between urinary arsenic and serum 25(OH)D.

The process of rainfall interception by tree organs is crucial in mitigating the impact of intense rainfall on urban drainage systems, particularly in the context of climate change. this study selected ten commonly found tree species in Shanghai. Main parts of trees, including leaves, branches, and bark, were collected to analyze their ability to intercept rainwater. The optimized Artificial Rainfall Simulation System (ARSS) was applied to simulate the rainfall. The time-changing process of rainwater interception in three organs was measured during a 180-minute rainfall event which under four different rainfall intensities (4, 8, 12, and 16 mm/h, respectively). Process models of rainwater interception in different organs were fitted with adsorption kinetic equations. The rainwater interception process of tree organs complied with the quasi 2nd-order adsorption kinetic equation. The rainwater interception capacity of leaves, branches, and bark of ten urban tree species ranged from 0.05 to 0.34 mm, 0.13 to 0.24 mm, and 0.29 to 1.22 mm, respectively. The rainwater interception capacity of three organs significantly differs (p&lt;0.05). It reveals that bark exhibits the highest rainwater interception ability. Coniferous tree species have a greater ability to intercept rainwater than broad-leaved tree species. There are also differences in the rainwater interception ability of trees in urban and natural areas.

Background: The purpose of this study was to ascertain the reliability of two 15-sec sprint cycling tests in men and women to estimate the maximum rate of glycolysis or lactate production (VLa-Max). Methods: Eighteen men and twelve women completed two sprint sessions over 1-week. A 10-min warm-up preceded a 3 µl blood lactate (BLC) sample, after which a 15-sec sprint was completed; cyclists then rested passively while multiple lactate samples were taken until levels peaked. VLaMax was calculated as (Peak BLC – Pre BLC) * (15-sec – Talac)-1. Trial differences and reliability across trials were analyzed using a paired-sample t-test, Pearson correlation, ICC, and Bland-Altman analysis with α=0.05 for all tests; data are reported as mean ± sd. Results: Power (W) was similar across trails (773.0 ±143.5 vs. 758.2 ± 127.4; p = 0.333) and coefficient of varia-tion (CV) of 4.7%. VLaMax was similar (0.673 ± 0.024 vs 0.635 ± 0.237; p = 0.280), but only moder-ately reliably across trials with a CV, ICC, and R value of 18.6%, 0.661, and 0.67, respectively. Conclusions: A 15-sec VLaMax cycling sprint is moderately reliable being affected both by the lac-tate measurement and other variables used in the calculation. More research may offer ways to improve reliability.

Type-2 diabetes mellitus is recognized as a serious public health concern with a considerable impact on human life, long-term health expenditures, and substantial health losses. In this context, the use of dietary polyphenols to prevent and manage Type 2 diabetes mellitus is widely documented. These dietary compounds exert their beneficial effects by several actions, including the protection of pancreatic islet β-cell, the antioxidant capacities of these molecules, their effects on insulin secretion and actions, the regulation of intestinal microbiota, and their contribution to ameliorating diabetic complications, particularly those of vascular origin. In the present review, we intend to highlight these multifaceted actions and the molecular mechanisms by which these plant-derived secondary metabolites exert their beneficial effects on type-2 diabetes patients.

This work discusses the relationship between foreign direct investment (FDI) and pollution in Spain using an autoregressive distributed lag regression model (ARDL) from 1961 to 2018. The authors apply the theoretical context of pollution haven/halo and conclude that FDI in Spain does not contribute to the transfer of green technologies for cleaner production, despite being included within the European environmental regulatory framework. The authors also verify the adequacy of the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) and the Load Capacity Curve hypothesis (LCC) in the Spanish environmental context and find that income per capita has a positive effect on environmental sustainability and quality. In this sense, the further development of an efficient renewable energy infrastructure could efficiently drive to a better standards all pollution indexes in Spain, including nuclear energy production, contributing the emissions neutrality aimed by the EU by 2050.

Clinching is a manufacturing method of mechanical joining two or more materials without the use of heat or additional components. This process relies on high plastic deformation to create a secure bond. Clinching technology is widely used for joining various grades and thickness of materials. Especially in the automotive industry, clinching is an alternative to spot resistance welding. However, the load-bearing capacity of clinched joints is comparatively lower when compared to resistance spot welded joints. This research aimed to enhance the load-carrying capacity of clinched joints. Experimental tests were conducted on clinched joints with locally modified microstructures to optimize their placement within the joint. The microstructure distribution in the clinched joint region was analysed using light and scanning electron microscopy, as well as microhardness measurements. Two material grades, micro-alloyed steels HX420LAD+Z and dual-phase ferritic-martensitic steels HCT600X+Z, were tested. Each grade underwent five groups of ten samples, subject to identical experimental conditions of local heating by resistance spot welding (RSW) and clinching. The application of RSW to the clinched joint area resulted in increase of load-bearing capacity for both joined types of materials.

The research aims to improve some of the physical and hydro-physical properties of some Vertisols in the southern region (part of the eastern Houran Plateau) in Sweda Governorate at the south of Syria. Using different quantities of volcanic ash, soil samples were collected from the Al-Thahallah village from a depth of (0-30) cm, The experiment was designed according to the complete random design with one factor that represents the ash quantity (1.25, 2.5, 5) %, with three replicates for each treatment in addition to the control treatment a0. The experiment was carried out within the plastic pots during agricultural season 2018/2019, in which the wheat of the Sham variety 3 were cultivated as a cover plant. The results showed that the addition of volcanic ash at the quantity of 5% led to a significant increase in the infiltration rate by (328.60) %,%, where the filtration rate increased from 0.42 cm/hr -1 to 1.80 cm.h-1, as well as for each of the air porosity by (89) % and the volume of infiltrate water by (40) %, compared with the control. The above-mentioned addition also resulted in a decrease in both dry bulk density, total soil porosity and volumetric swelling coefficient by (18.60, 5.80, 314) % Respectively, compared to the control. The addition also contributed to the reduce in the weighted moisture content when saturation and the field capacity, at the level of significance of 5%. The research recommends adding volcanic ash to the soil at a quantity of 5%, and adding enhancements with volcanic ash at various levels such as organic waste.

The problem of antimicrobial resistance has created a new need for alternative/ complementary treatments. To this end, bacteriophages offer an exciting prospect, as they can infect and kill specific bacteria without harming the host. This survey aimed to evaluate the state of applied phage research in Africa, among the members of the Africa phage Forum (APF). This was a cross-sectional survey whereby a google form was created for the members of the Africa Phage forum to fill so as to access the stage of phage research in Africa. Data was collected between June and July 2021 using a structured questionnaire form. A total of 65 out of a total of 101 forum members completed the questionnaire. The survey indicated that a majority 68% of phage researchers in Africa were at the training stages of their career. Some available participants were limited (8%). Most of the members identified funding, lack of skill set, near absence of adequate laboratory infrastructure as major hurdles for phage research. Despite these challenges, 73.3% of APF members work with the ESKAPE group with the majority of its members carrying out research in Phage in Biocontrol (80%), whereas others perform research related to human phage therapy (60%). However, it appeared this research has not yet reached the stage of commercialization. Overall, Phage research is in its infancy in Africa. Key challenges included poor laboratory infrastructure, lack of capacity building in the phage field, and lack of local awareness on the significance of phages for policymakers and governments. APF could, therefore, play a role in creating phage awareness in Africa; mobilizing resources; enhancing networks and collaborations amongst APF members and beyond, especially with more experienced phage mentors in the Western countries, to greatly reduce the gap in knowledge and enhance phage research in Africa.

The present study was conducted to investigate the comparative effects of organic and inorganic forms of sulfur, methyl sulfonyl methane (MSM) and sodium sulfate (SS), on laying performance, egg quality, ileal morphology, ileal volatile fatty acids, and antioxidant and stress markers in various biological samples in aged laying hens. A total of 144, 73-week-old Lohman Brown-Lite laying hens were randomly assigned to one of three experimental diets: basal diet (CONT), CONT + 0.2% MSM (MSM), and CONT + 0.3% SS (SS). The trial lasted for 12 weeks. MSM and SS groups contained 0.07% of sulfur, either organic or inorganic. Dietary MSM did not affect egg production and feed conversion ratio at 12 weeks compared with the CONT group. Dietary sulfur did not affect egg quality except for Haugh unit at 4 weeks which was lowered (P &lt; 0.05) in the SS group. Compared with the CONT group, higher (P &lt; 0.05) villus height and crypt depth ratio was observed in the SS group. None of dietary sulfur affected the percentages of short-chain fatty acids in the ileum. Total antioxidant capacity of liver increased (P &lt; 0.05) in laying hens fed MSM- and SS-added diets compared with the CONT group. The MSM and SS groups lowered (P &lt; 0.05) malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration in serum samples compared with the CONT. Finally, dietary MSM had the lowest (P &lt; 0.05) MDA concentrations in yolk samples. Taken together, our study showed that dietary organic and inorganic sulfur have positive effects on ileal morphology and antioxidant capacity in laying hens. However, SS-mediated inhibition in laying performance needs to be clarified.

The emergence of Airbnb along with an increase in urban tourism has intensified the pressure on urban areas while adding a new dimension in the dynamics of the housing distribution especially in historic cities. These dynamics affect both local economies and alter significantly the characteristics of urban space arising the necessity to create not only policies that foster sustainable tourism development but also to advance urban models that explore the relation between Airbnb and the traditional rental and accommodation sector. Through the case of Venice, the present study sheds light on the potential evolution of Airbnb housing in comparison to the traditional rental and homeowner market. In particular, it seeks to understand whether a potential equilibrium between these uses exists and if so, at which point in regards to this equilibrium the historic center of Venice is now. To tackle this question, methods deriving from the field of game theory and specifically evolutionary game theory are used. With the agents (players) being the housing units, the designed theoretical model explores the population dynamics of the housing units in Venice given the three options of homeownership or long-term rental (residential), short term rental over Airbnb (airbnb) or no use (vacant). The findings of our theoretical population game model are validated and discussed against a dataset describing the use patterns in the city of Venice during the past 20 years. A verification of the outcome through further case studies could eventually provide insights on future behavior of tourism pressure in historic urban areas.

This study investigated the phenolic compounds of 15 Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat cv. ‘Hangbaiju’, including 6 ‘Duoju’ and 9 ‘Taiju’ using high performance liquid chromatography. The antioxidant activities of these ‘Hangbaiju’ were estimated by DPPH, ABTS and FPAR assays. Results showed that a total of 14 phenolic compounds were detected in these flowers, including 3 mono-caffeoylquinic acids, 3 di-caffeoylquinic acids, 1 phenolic acid and 7 flavonoids. ‘Duoju’ and ‘Taiju’ possessed different concentration of phenolic compounds, and ‘Taiju’ exhibited higher caffeoylquinic acids and stronger antioxidant activities than ‘Duoju’. Caffeoylquinic acids showed a strong correlation with the antioxidant activities of the samples. Principal component analysis revealed an obvious separation between ‘Duoju’ and ‘Taiju’ using phenolic compounds as variables. Apigenin-7-O-glucoside, 3,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid, luteolin and acacetin were found to be the key phenolic compounds to differentiate ‘Duoju’ from ‘Taiju’.

Reinforced concrete (RC) columns are often placed under confinement to increase their strength and ductility. Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) materials have recently been recognized as favorable confinement systems. At present, a number of national standards and codes dedicated to the design of concrete components strengthened with CFRP in general and CFRP confinement in particular are available. These sets of rules provide design equations for confined reinforced concrete columns with circular and rectangular cross sections. Most of the standards and codes exhibit significant differences, including the used predictive models limitations, observed effects, and covered loading conditions. In this paper, five international standards and design guidelines are introduced and discussed. The purpose is to present a constructive and critical assessment of the state-of-the-art design methodologies available for CFRP confined RC columns and to discuss effects not previously considered properly. Therefore, some recent research efforts and findings from the Leipzig University of Applied Sciences are also introduced. The obtained data is used for a comparative study of the guideline predictive equations. Furthermore, it is shown that some new findings concerning the rupture strength and the maximum strength plus accompanying axial strain of a CFRP confined column are suitable to improve the current guidelines.

Downpours are increasing in frequency and severity due to climate change. Cities are particularly susceptible to downpours because of their large share of impervious surfaces. Minimising pluvial flood risk requires all involved stakeholders to collaborate and overcome probable barriers. Simultaneously, an increase in citizen engagement in climate adaptation is preferred, whereas experiences with inclusive decision-making are still limited. The aim of this paper is to obtain a deeper understanding of how the capacity to govern pluvial flood risk can be developed through citizen engagement. We scrutinised the capacity of local actors to govern pluvial flood risk in the city of Utrecht, the Netherlands. For the analysis of Utrecht’s problem-solving capacity, the Governance Capacity Framework provided a consistent assessment of governance components. The results indicate that Utrecht’s capacity to govern pluvial flooding is relatively well-developed. Collaboration between public authorities is advanced, sufficient financial resources are available and smart monitoring enables high levels of evaluation and learning. However, citizen awareness and engagement in policy making is rather low. Accordingly, citizens’ willingness to pay for flood adaptation is limited. Stimulating flood risk awareness by combining financial incentives with more advanced arrangements for active citizen engagement is key for Utrecht and other cities.

We applied a framework to assess climate change vulnerability of 52 major vegetation types in the western United States to provide spatially-explicit input to adaptive management decisions. The framework addressed climate exposure and ecosystem resilience; the latter derived from analyses of ecosystem sensitivity and adaptive capacity. Measures of climate change exposure used observed climate change (1981-2014) and then climate projections for the mid-21st century (2040-2069 RCP 4.5). Measures of resilience included (under ecosystem sensitivity) landscape intactness, invasive species, fire regime alteration, and forest insect & disease risk, and (under adaptive capacity), measures for topo-climate variability, diversity with functional species groups, and vulnerability of any keystone species. Outputs are generated per 100km² hexagonal area for each type. As of 2014, moderate climate change vulnerability was indicated for >50% of the area of 50 of 52 types. By the mid-21^st century, all but 19 types face high or very high vulnerability with >50% of the area scoring in these categories. Measures for resilience explain most components of vulnerability as of 2014, with most targeted vegetation scoring low in adaptive capacity measures and variably for specific sensitivity measures. Elevated climate exposure explains increases in vulnerability between the current and mid-century time periods.

Using the sustainable livelihoods analytical framework, adaptability of cattle raising to multiple stressors (e.g. climate change and market conditions) in the dry tropics of Chiapas, Mexico was evaluated. Three case studies located in the Frailesca region of Chiapas were analyzed: (I) peasant cattle raising in a rural village in the Frailesca Valley; (II) peasant cattle raising in a rural village in a natural protected area in the Frailesca Highlands; and (III) holistic cattle raising by farmers with private land ownership in the Frailesca Valley. Adaptability was evaluated using an index on a scale of one to a hundred; average values were: case I = 20.9 ± 1.4; case II = 32.1 ± 1.8; and case III = 63.6 ± 3.5. In order to increase farms adaptability and reduce the vulnerability of cattle raising families, there is a need to modify public policy to take into account the conditions of the most vulnerable farmers (cases I and II). Given the economic, environmental, and social context of Mexico´s dry tropics, establishing ecological or organic cattle raising and silvopastoral systems may reduce the vulnerability of farm families and increase their level of adaptability of their farms to multiple stressors.

Regional heat capacity change is calculated from the ratio between the addition or subtraction of heat (ΔQ) with the increase or decrease in temperature (ΔT) region. The purpose of this study is to calculate the regional heat capacity change due to the changes of land cover composition with forest, shrubs, oil palm plantation and bare soil using Landsat-5 TM satellite data on 1994, 2000 and 2010. Total area that used on ​​this study is 12971 ha. In 1994-2000, 4 % of forest area and 2% shrubs were increased, followed by additional of biomass forest 4.01 tons/ha and 2.83 tons/ha for shrubs. The increased of forest area and biomass (tons/ha) caused by forest and shrubs growth processing towards climax that added the canopy volume. So that, the regional heat capacity in 1994 amounted 19384 MJC^o-1 increased to 19929 MJC^o-1 in 2000. Data observation for 2000-2010 showed that forest area decreased by 66% due to forest’s clearing into oil palm plantations (47%), shrubs (8%) and bare soil (11%). But, plant’s biomass continue to increased, i.e 1.48 ton/ha for forest, 2.73 tons/ha for shrubs and 4.63 tons/ha for bare soil. Before 2000, there was no land cover by oil palm plantations, so the increasing rate from this land was the biggest than the three other lands, amounting to 122.29 tons/ha. Decreasing in the percentage of forest area does not cause a decrease in the heat capacity of the region. Intensive maintenance on oil plam plantation such as water management, fertilizer and planting space made it biomass productivity and ability to save the heat is greater than the forest. As the result, in 2010 regional heat capacity increased to 22508 MJC^o-1.

This study was conducted to explore the potential of superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) from used disposable diapers as soil moisture conditioner. Swelling behavior of the proposed hydrogel in response to external stimuli such as salt solutions, temperature and pH was studied. In addition, laboratory experiments were carried out to evaluate the effects of incorporation hydrogel on germination of bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) and pumpkin (C. pepo) seeds. The structure of the superabsorbent was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The results indicate that the proposed SAP exhibited a maximum swelling capacity of 189 g.g-1 of dry gel. It was observed that the swelling capacity decreased with an increase in the ionic strength of the swelling medium. When this SAP was mixed with sandy soil, the mixture was able to lose water more slowly. The seeds germination and seedling growth was remarkably influenced by the application of 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 w/w% of SAP compared to the untreated soil. Therefore, it follows that it is possible to take advantage of SAPs property from used disposable diapers to retain the moisture in soil as an alternative to value the use of such waste, showing that it has potential for diverse applications in agriculture.

In this study, broilers were selected as the research object to investigate the effects and mechanism action of dietary gallic acid (GA) supplementation on growth performance, meat quality, antioxidant capacity, and muscle fiber-related gene expression. A total of 750 one-day-old healthy 817 male crossbred broiler chickens were divided into five treatment groups, with six replicates per group: control group (CON), basal diet, basal diet with lipopolysaccharide challenge (LPS), basal diet with 150, 300, 450 mg/kg GA supplementation and LPS challenge (GA150, GA300, GA450). On days 14, 17, and 20, chickens in the LPS, GA150, GA300, and GA450 groups received intramuscular injections of LPS, while chickens in the CON group received saline. Compared with the LPS group, adding GA (GA150 and GA300) significantly increased the average daily gain (ADG) of broiler chickens from 1 to 50 days old (p < 0.05), and had the tendency to increase average daily feed intake (ADFI) (p = 0.078). Dietary addition of 450 mg/kg GA significantly reduced the pH value of breast muscle at 45min after slaughter (p < 0.05), and as the level of GA addition increased, the pH value first decreased and then increased. Compared with the LPS group, adding 450mg/kg GA significantly increased the brightness of breast muscles at 45min and 24h after slaughter (p < 0.001). Dietary supplementation of 450 mg/kg GA significantly decreased the total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) content of post-mortem breast muscle (p < 0.05). Adding 450 mg/kg GA could significantly increase C22:6n-3 concentration in breast muscle (p < 0.05). Different GA levels had no significant effect on the intramuscular fat (IMF) content of broiler breast muscle (p > 0.05). Adding GA (GA150 and GA300) significantly increased (p < 0.05) the total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activity in the breast muscle after LPS stimulation, significantly increased (p < 0.05) the catalase (CAT) activity, and significantly reduced (p < 0.05) malonic dialdehyde (MDA) production, and had the tendency to increase glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity (p = 0.066). In addition, dietary supplementation of GA significantly increased the expression levels of myosin heavy chain (MyHC) I and MyHC IIa in breast muscles (p < 0.05), and significantly decreased the expression level of MyHC IIx (p < 0.05). In summary, dietary addition of GA can alleviate the stress response on the growth performance of broiler chickens and improve antioxidant capacity and meat quality. The appropriate amount of dietary GA at each stage was 300 mg/kg.

Utilizing reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) equipped with numerous passive reflecting elements to control wireless communication environment has garnered significant interest from both academic and industrial circles. In this paper, we study the performance of RIS-aided wireless communication systems based on the path loss model in lower frequency band and mmWave band. Based on the proposed model, it is difficult to directly study and obtain the closed-form expressions for the achievable capacity, since that millimeter- wave (mmWave) band may lead to the near-field communication (NFC) environment. Consequently, the upper bound of the achievable capacity are analysed with Hölder inequality in NFC. Simulation and analytical results indicate the correctness of our derived expressions, which shows that the RIS elements number, the RIS elements length, and the angle of signals transmitting from RIS to user can affect the upper bound of achievable capacity for our proposed system.

This study aimed to compare the effects of adding fermented feed to daily feed on slaughter performance, meat quality, and flavor compounds of cage chickens. Control group (CK) of the Guangxi Partridge chicken received a standard base diet (CK), pellets added with 10% fermented banana peel (Pe-10), 20% fermented banana peel (Pe-20), 10% fermented banana pulp residue (Pu-10) and 20% fermented banana pulp residue (Pu-20). The slaughter performance, meat quality, and flavor compounds in the meat samples of the chicken in these groups were evaluated. The results showed that the chicken in Pe-10, Pe-20, Pu-10, and Pu-20 had pectoral muscle percentages, thigh muscle percentages, and total fatty acids content of chest meat higher than CK. The moisture content, meat color, carcass weight, total net weight, and abdominal fat percentages of the meat samples in these experimental groups were not remarkably different. The flavor compounds in the meat samples of the chicken fed with the two concentrations of fermented banana peel and banana residue were significantly different from those in the control group. When the amount of fermented banana peel added to the daily feed increased from 10% to 20%, the flavor compounds in the chicken samples changed significantly. In conclusion, different proportions of fermented banana peels and dregs in diets can improve slaughter performance and chicken quality and affect its flavors.

Pile foundations are widely employed in engineering to bolster structures and efficiently transmit loads to the underlying soil or rock. However, in karst terrains, the occurrence of multi-layered stone projections or caves can drastically affect the bearing capacity and stability of these pile foundations. In order to study the influencing factors of vertical bearing capacity of pile founda-tion in multi-layer karst cave environment, the bearing capacity test of pile foundation was carried out at the construction site. The results show that with the increase of external load eccentricity, the bearing capacity of pile foundation decreases obviously. Subsequently, we developed a finite element model for pile foundations in a double-layered karst area using the commercial general finite element software ANSYS. This model facilitated our analysis of the bearing capacity of concrete pile foundations under progressively increasing loads, accounting for variations in rock height, eccentricity, and elastic modulus. The findings reveal the following: (1) Under consistent external loading, the maximum displacement of pile foundations increases with eccentricity. (2) As concrete strength rises, the maximum displacement gradually decreases, while the corresponding peak stress remains approximately constant. (3) The height of karst caves significantly impacts the bearing capacity of pile foundations. Therefore, during construction, it is crucial to minimize or avoid traversing areas with high karst caves. In engineering applications involving multi-layered karst landforms, it is essential to assess the bearing capacity of pile foundations beforehand, paying particular attention to the effects of karst cave height, pile eccentricity, and concrete strength on the bearing capacity. This will enable the optimization of the design scheme, avoidance of high karst cave areas, and ensure the safety and stability of the structure.

Study assessed the wind potential of three sites in Chad: Koro Toro, Salal and Nedeley. Analysis of the Weibull distribution curves reveals marked seasonal variability in wind speed, concentrated around the mean. Three models of high-power wind turbines were analyzed. At Koro Toro, the Siemens Gamesa SG 14-222 DD has a capacity factor of between 0.52 and 0.682, allowing a daily flow of pumped water of between 1.4 and 6.1 million m³. The Enercon E-126 EP4 performs slightly less well. At Salal, the Siemens Gamesa has a capacity factor of between 0.4463 and 0.6605, with a water flow rate of between 0.9 and 3.7 million m³/day. The Vestas V164-10.0 MW has a higher capacity factor (0.6327 to 0.8115) but a lower water flow rate (0.5 to 1.9 million m³/day). Enercon's performance is comparable to that of Siemens Gamesa. The Nedeley study reveals favorable conditions, with seasonal variations in wind speed and capacity factor indicating good wind potential, and maximum daily water flows of between 3 and 6 million m³. Analysis of the wind roses shows interesting potential in these towns, with a dominant east-north-easterly wind at maximum frequencies of 40%. The absence of calm winds is promising, although Nedeley and Salal have a residual presence. This study shows that the sites offer good wind potential This, enabling the production of electricity and heat.

The intraday electricity market is increasing its importance within the energy markets. This article introduces a case study, basing on real examples of the contribution electricity markets make to prevent and/or solve emergencies in electric system. The case study was conducted in four possible states on short-term markets – different variants of trading period lengths and intervals in which the system imbalance is evaluated. The outage of the biggest power plant´s unit in the transmission system was always considered, and together with the situation in the short-term markets, the impact on the operation and maintenance on a transmission system was evaluated from that point-of view, system imbalance, and necessity to activate necessary ancillary services by an operator.

The thymus, a central lymphoid organ in animals serves as the site for T cell development, differentiation and maturation, vital to adaptive immunity. Thymus is critical for maintaining tissue homeostasis to protect against tumors and tissue damage. Overactive or prolonged immune response can lead to oxidative stress from increased production of reactive oxygen species. Heat stress induces oxidative stress and overwhelms the natural antioxidant defense mechanisms. The study objectives were to investigate the protective properties of astaxanthin against heat-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in the chicken thymus, by comparing the growth performance and gene signaling pathways among three groups- thermal neutral, heat stress and heat stress with astaxanthin. The thermal neutral temperature conditions were 21-22°C and heat stress temperature was 32-35°C. Both heat stress groups experienced reduced growth performance, while the astaxanthin treated group showed a slightly lesser decline. The inflammatory response and antioxidant defense system were activated by the upregulation of the NF-kB, NFE2L2, PPARα, cytoprotective capacity and apoptotic gene pathways in the heat stress compared to the thermal neutral group. Conversely, expression levels were without significance between the thermal neutral and heat stress with antioxidant groups, suggesting astaxanthin antioxidant effectiveness to mitigate inflammation and oxidative stress damage.

Hazelnut (Corylus avellana L.) is of great agroeconomic importance, prized for its nutritional value and antioxidant properties. Its yield and quality may differ due to factors such as season (S), locality (L) and cultivar (C). Our objective was to determine the dynamics of morphological features and antioxidant properties in nuts of Barcelona and Tonda di Giffoni (TDG) cultivars planted at two localities (Cunco and Perquenco) during three productive seasons (S1, S2 and S3). Barcelona grown in Perquenco in S1 and S3 (less precipitation, more solar radiation), performed better than in Cunco with respect to most morphological nut, kernel and shell features, and the same parameters generally had the same trends for TDG in S2 and S3. Among the seasons at the same localities, the differences between the predominant condition defects for both cultivars were in the decreasing order wrinkled/deformed kernels, double kernels, blank and mold ker-nels, with about 75% of hazelnuts without defect. In both cultivars, the shell had higher antioxi-dant properties that increased in S1 and S3 at both localities, and were consistently higher than in the kernels. Lipid peroxidation was higher in the kernel than shell in both cultivars and local-ities for S1 and S3. The results of this study suggest that the different hazelnut cultivar features including physical and chemical components depend on season and locality, which offers im-portant clues for all those interested in the hazelnut industry.

In order to explore the effects of glutamate on the growth performance, antioxidant capacity and protein metabolism of juvenile Chinese mitten crab. 0%, 1% and 2% glutamate were supplemented to low protein (30%) and normal protein (35%) diets respectively. There were 5 parallel tanks in each treatment, and the feeding duration was 8 weeks. The results showed that dietary glutamate did not significantly affect the weight gain of Chinese mitten crab. Diets supplemented with 2% glutamate significantly decreased the crude protein of crabs. The T-AOC of crabs fed the 30% protein diets was significantly lower than crabs fed the 35% protein diets. At 30% protein level, the superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity significantly increased with the increase of glutamate content. Dietary glutamate significantly down-regulated the relative expressions of mTOR, PI3K, S6K1 and 4EBP at 35% protein level. In conclusion, dietary glutamate cannot significantly increase the growth of Chinese mitten crab, but it can improve the antioxidant capacity in Chinese mitten crab under low protein condition.

Potassium-oxygen batteries (KOBs) are a promising energy storage technology with high theoretical en-ergy density, low overpotential and long cycle life. Cathode microstructure plays a significant role in the electrochemical performance of KOB. In this article, hierarchical porosity was introduced to commer-cially available carbon paper cathodes by the thermal pretreatment in air at different pretreatment times. This pretreatment modifies the properties, such as, surface area, defects, oxygen functional groups etc. and it has been found to enhance the discharge capacity and it result in reduction of dis-charge overpotentials.

The rebound behaviors of rubber balls based on ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM) / chlorinated butyl rubber (CIIR) blends were investigated systematically. A novel method was proposed to characterize the damping capacity of the EPDM/CIIR blends. The damping capacity can be represented by the rebound height of rubber balls, and lower rebound height corresponds to better damping capacity. A mathematical model expressed by an equation obtained through theoretical derivation has been proposed to predict the rebound height of the rubber balls. The energy dissipation rate (EDR) defined by the ratio of the height loss to the rebound time was proposed to further characterize the damping capacity. The EDR value shows the highest for the pure CIIR and lowest for the pure EPDM, showing a decrease trend with the increase of EPDM content in the rubber blends. By comparison one can obtain that the damping capacity of the EPDM/CIIR blends decreases with the decrease of external excitation, the conclusion of which plays a key role in the formulation design of viscoelastic damping rubber materials.

To investigate the effect of prohexadione-calcium (Pro-Ca) primed on seed germination and seedling growth of oilseed rape under salt stress, to alleviate the inhibition of soil salinization on the growth of oilseed rape, and to improve the sustainability of agricultural production. Using Huayouza 158R and Huayouza 62 as test materials, the regulation of seed germination and seedling growth under the stresses of 0, 100, and 150 mM NaCl (S0, S100, and S150) was investigated after the primed of Pro-Ca. We conducted six treatments, S0: non-primed + 0 mM NaCl, PCS0: Pro-Ca primed + 0 mM NaCl, S100: non-primed + 100 mM NaCl, PCS100: Pro-Ca primed + 100 mM NaCl, S150: non-primed + 150mM NaCl, Pro-Ca+S150: Pro-Ca primed + 150 mM NaCl. The results showed that salt stress inhibited seed germination and seedling growth, and Pro-Ca primed significantly increased the germination index and vigor index of oilseed rape seeds. The average germination time and malondialdehyde (MDA) content were significantly reduced, which resulted in the optimal initiation fiddling concentration of 8mg·L-1. The morphological parameters of oilseed rape decreased significantly under salt stress, with leaf area decreasing by 70.69% and 75.03% and total chlorophyll content decreasing by 18.55% and 18.68% at S150. With the rise of salt stress, the changes of each photosynthetic parameter were somewhat similar, and Pn, Gs, Ci, and Tr continued to decline, indicating that the effects of salt stress on photosynthesis in oilseed rape might be mainly attributed to stomatal restriction and inhibition of photosynthetic pigment synthesis. While Na+ and MDA contents increased significantly, reaching a peak at S150, indicating that Na+ content increased significantly under salt stress, which resulted in the slow growth of oilseed rape and weak plants under the influence of Na+ salt damage. After Pro-Ca primed, leaf area and photosynthetic pigment synthesis increased, and the initiation treatment promoted the rise of Pn, Gs, Ci, and Tr under salt stress. The Na+ content decreased by 7.29% and 6.96% in PCS100 compared with S100, decreased by 9.23% and 25.02% in PCS150 compared with S150, and increased in K+ and Mg2+ after Pro-Ca primed. At this time, the antioxidant enzyme activities increased, and the MDA content and relative conductivity decreased. It was concluded that Pro-Ca primed improved the photosynthetic capacity of oilseed rape by promoting leaf growth, stomatal opening, and photosynthetic pigment synthesis. At the same time, reducing Na+ content and promoting K+ and Mg2+ absorption and antioxidant enzyme activities together alleviate salt damage and improve salt tolerance of oilseed rape.

Optical backbone networks constitute the fundamental infrastructure employed today by network operators to deliver services to users. As network capacity is a key factor influencing optical network performance, it is important to understand how topological and physical properties impact its behavior and to have the capability to estimate its value. In this context, we propose here a method to evaluate the network capacity that relies on the optical reach to account for physical layer aspects, in conjunction with constrained routing techniques for traffic routing. As this type of routing can lead to traffic blocking, particularly due to the limitation on the number of wavelengths per fiber, we also propose a fiber assignment algorithm designed to deal with this problem. We apply this method to a set of randomly generated networks using a modified Waxman model, and for a network with 60 nodes, in a scenario without blocking, we obtain capacities of about 2.5 Pbit/s for a symbol rate of 64 Gbaud and about 5 Pbit/s for a symbol rate of 128 Gbaud. Remarkably, this duplication in the total network capacity is achieved by an increase in the total fiber length of only about 51%.

This study investigated the impact of chitosan (CH, 1%) and aloe vera gel (AL, 30%) edible coatings on the preservation of blue honeysuckle quality during a 28-day storage at -1°C. Coating with CH, AL, and CH+AL led to notable enhancements in several key attributes. These included increased firmness, total soluble solids, acidity, pH, and antioxidant capacity (measured through DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays), as well as the preservation of primary (ascorbic acid) and secondary metabolites (TPC, TAC, and TFC). These coatings also resulted in reduced weight loss, respiration rate, color, abscisic acid, ethylene production, and malondialdehyde content. Notably, the CH+AL treatment excelled in preserving secondary metabolites and elevating FRAP-reducing power, demonstrating a remarkable 1.43-fold increase compared to the control after 28 days. Overall, CH+AL exhibited superior effects compared to CH or AL treatment alone, offering a promising strategy for extending shelf life and preserving quality of blue honeysuckle during storage.

Offshore Wind Turbines (OWT) with increasingly higher energy output are being developed to meet energy demand, posing challenges for their foundation design. Several foundation types are used to support these turbines with monopiles (MP) accounting for 80% of the installed capacity. In this study, three-dimensional (3D) nonlinear finite element models (FEM) were employed to investigate the behaviour of monopile foundation supporting a 5MW wind turbine when subjected to lateral loading. Results indicate that the MP behavior depending on the pile length to diameter (L/D) ratio and the soil shear strength. Inspection of bending moment profiles at the lateral ultimate capacity indicated the monopiles can behave in flexible manner even with low L/D ratio. The L/D ratio affected the MP normalized lateral ultimate capacity at varying degrees and the biggest effect was for soft clays, amounting to around 5 folds increase for L/D values of 3.33 to 13.33. Lesser effects were found for stiff clays.

Stevia rebaudiana (Bert.) is a natural sweetener with diterpenic glycosides, offering 300 times more sweetness than sucrose, and boasting low-calorie content, along with medicinal and therapeutic properties. To address a limited genetic diversity, a germplasm bank comprising 115 segregated lines of stevia was established in Colombia. Notwithstanding, the fungus Athelia rolfsii adversely impacted key stevia lines, leading to wilting and plant mortality. For this reason our study aimed to explore the biocontrol potential of native strains of Trichoderma spp., isolated from productive lots in Colombia's Cordoba department, as a solution to manage A. rolfsii. Soil samples underwent serial dilution technique (103 conidia.mL-1) to obtain Trichoderma spp. isolates, which were thoroughly morphologically and molecularly characterized. A total five native strains were identified through sequencing the PCR products using universal ITS primers, and comparisons with the GENBANK database confirmed their identity (OK310695.1, ON237703.1, ON238106.1, ON237737.1, and ON237923.1). Their biocontrol efficacy against A. rolfsii was evaluated using the dual culture technique. Remarkably, all strains exhibited significant biocontrol capacity against the A. rolfsii isolate INVEPAR-05 (OK271308.1), except for Trichoderma viride INVEPAR-T10 (ON237923.1). These findings suggest that Trichoderma spp. could be a potential option to manage the fungus in stevia.

The increasing amount of data transmitted through digital broadcasting and communication channels requires efficient transmission methods that make the most of limited resources such as frequency, time, and power. The layered division multiplexing (LDM) system, which is adopted by the Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) 3.0 standard, is considered one of a solution for achieving efficient transmission. Additionally, the layered time-division multiplexing (LTDM) and time layered division multiplexing (TLDM) systems have been developed as well. These layered transmission systems, utilizing multiple physical layer pipes (PLPs), offer a wide range of services including mobile and rooftop TV. To compare the efficiencies of different layered transmission systems, the article introduces the concept of normalized channel capacity. This measure allows for a fair comparison among the systems by taking into account the specific channel capacity requirements of each service. By summing the normalized channel capacities, a method is proposed to select the most efficient transmission system among the four systems: LDM, LTDM, TLDM, and time division multiplexing (TDM). The Lagrange multiplier method is employed to find the parameters that maximize the sum of the normalized channel capacities in these systems. Through simulations conducted with the determined parameters, it is demonstrated that the LDM system exhibits the highest efficiency among the four systems.

Major emergencies can have a devastating impact on society, becoming a catalyst for social disorder and unrest and a trigger for social or political change. In today's world of frequent emergencies, the emergency management capacity of local governments is key to promoting safe operations and maintaining stability in cities and towns. Aiming to explore the direction and focus of local government emergency management capacity building, this paper establishes a local government emergency capacity evaluation system based on the emergency management process and combines Gray-Dematel, a gray decision laboratory analysis method, and AISM, an adversarial explanatory agency model, to derive the importance and intrinsic relationship among emergency capacity indicators. The algorithm describes the importance degree of each indicator in the system and also helps better understand the intrinsic relationship among the indicators. The outcomes of this research can be used to outline directional suggestions for the development of local government emergency response capacity and provide a new theoretical basis for more effective construction of local government emergency response capacity.

The impacts of climate change are already felt across the globe, and (SIDS) are at the forefront. Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) are extremely vulnerable to climate change and adaptation is crucial, however they often lack funding or the fiscal capacity to make the necessary invest-ments and require support from climate finance instruments. The Green Climate Fund (GCF) was designed with the objective of achieving a “paradigm shift” towards low-carbon and climate resilient country-driven development pathway. Despite the amounts invested, assessing the impacts of climate finance on adaptation and adaptive capacity, particularly at the institutional level remains a challenge. Researchers identified two key components for more efficient adapta-tion policies at the national level: the degree of adaptation mainstreaming and institutional adaptive capacity. In SIDS, institutional capacity at the national level is seen as a key component to achieve the objectives of climate change strategies, and is supported by several programmes, including the Green Climate Fund Readiness Preparatory Support Programmes. However, to date few studies have analysed the linkages between climate finance, adaptation mainstreaming and adaptive institutional capacity. Through the review of the Readiness Grants and semi-structured interviews in three Caribbean SIDS, this research assess how climate finance may promote in-stitutional change through the mainstreaming of adaptation policies at the national level and contribute to more institutional adaptive capacity. It shows that the grants had a positive impact, which can be limited to by the strength of the institutions in place. These results demonstrate that access to climate finance can create a window of opportunity for countries to accelerate institu-tional change and allow to make recommendations on how to maximise the impacts adaptation funds. More in-depth studies would be needed to examine the complementary influence of the different climate finance flows (multilateral or bilateral) and their interplay with national institu-tional mechanisms.

A frequent problem in Geotechnics is the soils with inadequate physical-mechanical properties before the efforts to which they will be subjected by the constructions, incurring cost overruns caused by their engineering improvement. The need to improve the engineering properties of soils is not recent, currently observing that the most common alternatives are binders such as cement and lime. The climate change observed in recent decades and the uncontrolled emission of greenhouse gases have motivated Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental researchers to seek mechanisms for soil reinforcement from a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach by proposing the use of recycled and waste materials. An alternative is natural fibers, which can be obtained as waste from many agro-industrial processes, implying their high availability and low cost. Sawdust as a by-product of wood processing has a rough texture that can generate high friction between the fiber and the matrix of the soils, leading to a significant increase in its shearing strength and bearing capacity. This concept of improving the properties of soils using natural fibers distributed randomly is inspired by the natural phenomenon of grass and/or plants that when growing on a slope can effectively stabilize a said slope.

To further explore the bearing capacity and sustainable construction of vacuum drainage pipe (VDP) piles, field tests were carried out to compare and analyze the ultimate single pile bearing capacity, pile side friction and pile end resistance of ordinary piles and vacuum drainage pipe piles. The effect of the VDP pile on energy conservation and emission reduction in practical projects is discussed. The results shows that the VDP pile basically eliminated the soil squeeze and did not cause excessive relative displacement of pile and soil after vacuum consolidation. The VDP pile enhances pile side friction resistance, resulting in a 17.6% increase in ultimate bearing capacity compared to traditional piles. The VDP pile method can reduce carbon emissions by 31.4% compared to traditional methods. This study provides guidance for the production and design of VDP piles in the future and demonstrates their potential for energy conservation and emission reduction benefits compared to traditional methods.

A field experiment was conducted on the farm of Abi Jarash in Agricultural Collage, different rates of olive solid waste and cow manure were used, as follows: (control, fresh olive solid waste 100%, fresh olive solid waste 75%+ cow manure 25%, fresh olive solid waste 50%+ cow manure 50%, fresh olive solid waste 25+ cow manure 75%, Fermented Olive Solid Waste 100%, Fermented olive solid waste 75%+ cow manure 25%, Fermented olive solid waste 50%+ cow manure 50%, Fermented olive solid waste 25+ cow manure 75%), wheat was seeded. The impact of fresh and fermented olive solid waste and cow manure on some chemical and fertility soil properties was studied. the olive solid waste treatment 100% which added had more effect on the organic matter, exchange capacity, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in soil, plant and productivity, after that the fermented olive solid waste 75% + cow manure, fresh olive solid waste 100% comparing with the control, the values of organic matter were (25% 2.73, 2.39) and the cation exchange capacity (21.76, 20.44, 19.38) and for phosphorus (303.3, 277.8, 171.8) mg / kg, while the values of potassium ​​were (303.3, 277.8, 171.8) mg / kg. In terms of plant content, the plant content of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium were the same as for grains (2.784, 2.606, 2.126), (0.4535, 0.4226, 0.2753), (1.876, 1.762, 1.234) respectively, (0.2875, 0.2016) respectively for the same previous treatments and elements. olive solid waste 100% was the highest productivity comparing with the other treatments, where the productivity of wheat was (9.513) ton. ha-1.

Air traffic congestion is caused by the unbalance between increasing traffic demand and saturating capacity. Flight delay not only causes huge economical lost, but also has very negative environmental impact in the whole air transportation system. In order to identify the impact of extended TMA on airport capacity, an airspace capacity assessment method based on augmented cell transmission model was proposed. Firstly, the airspace structure was modeled with points, segments, layers, and cells. Secondly, mixed integer linear programming model was built up with maximum throughput or capacity as the objective function. Finally, genetic algorithm was used to find the optimal result, and the results were validated by comparing with the fast-time simulation results generated by total airspace and airport modeler (TAAM) software. It is found that the proposed method could achieve a relatively accurate result in a much affordable and fast way. The numerical results could be very helpful for air traffic controllers to analyze the dynamic traffic flow entering and exiting TMA, so as to make decisions via reasonable analysis and do planning in advance by referring to the airport capacity.

This single-blind and cross-sectional study evaluated the role of Rho-kinase (ROCK) as a biomarker of the cardiovascular remodelling process assessed by echocardiography in competitive long-distance runners (LDR) during the training period before a marathon race. Thirty-six healthy male LDR (37.0±5.3 years; 174.0±7.0 height; BMI: 23.8±2.8; VO2-peak: 56.5±7.3 mL·kg-1·min-1) were separated into two groups according to previous training level: high-training (HT, n=16) ≥100 km·week-1 and low-training (LT, n=20) ≥70 and &lt;100 km·week-1. Also, twenty-one healthy nonactive subjects were included as a control group (CTR). A transthoracic echocardiography was performed and ROCK activity levels in circulating leukocytes were measured at rest (48-hr without exercising) the week before the race. HT group showed higher left ventricular mass index (LVMi) and left atrial volume index (LAVi) than other groups (p&lt;0.05, for both), also higher levels of ROCK activity were found in LDR (HT=6.17±1.41 vs CTR=1.64±0.66 (p&lt;0.01); vs LT=2.74±0.84; (p&lt;0.05)). In LDR a direct correlation between ROCK activity levels and LVMi (r=0.83; p&lt;0.001), and LAVi (r=0.70; p&lt;0.001) were found. In conclusion, in male competitive long-distance runners, the load of exercise implicated in marathon training is associated with ROCK activity levels and the left cardiac remodelling process assessed by echocardiography.