Wood quality has been an ongoing concern for specialists, which has become increasingly important in the current context, where the demand for wood is increasing and forest fires are more frequent and violent. The article aims to evaluate the quality of wood in trees affected by fires and the negative impact of these phenomena on the speed of wood degradation, as a result of the weakening of the trees due to the action of disturbing factors. Investigations were carried out using modern techniques on the beech trees (Fagus sylvatica L.) remaining in an area affected by a litter fire in 2017. Measurements were taken were made with the Arbotom Rinntech sound tomograph, the IML F-500 Resi resistograph and the Pressler core sampler to observe the quality of the wood inside the trunk. It was found that all the trees are in various stages of decaying the tomograms being able to highlight the severity of the defects only in the case of the total destruction of the wood structure as a result of the action of xylophages fungi, whose harmful influence is more pronounced when the injuries sustained by the trees from the fire were greater. Although the trees tried to close the fire wounds through their own defense mechanisms, the destructive action of the fungi intensified with the time.After the forest fires, for quickly and clear results regarding the internal quality of the wood could be used the resistograph. For valuable trees could be used the tomograph, but the measurements have to be taken only by qualified operators.

China's economic development has shifted from high speed to high quality. This study constructs an evaluation index for China’s high-quality development utilizing a new development concept. The entropy method and cluster analysis were used to assess the level of high-quality development in China between 2015 and 2021. Kernel density estimation method was employed to explore spatiotemporal dynamics. The results reveal significant differences in the level of economic development among provinces in China; the eastern region is significantly better than the central, northeastern, and western regions. From the perspective of the sub-item evaluation, challenges with uneven, uncoordinated, and insufficient economic development exist in various Chinese provinces.

Background/Objectives: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by various clinical presentations and manifestations that include biopsychosocial impediments. This study has three interrelated goals relevant to biopsychosocial functioning. The first is to compare cognitive, neuropsychological, and affective functioning and quality of life between patients with MS (PwMS) and a control group. The second is to examine whether cognitive and neuropsychological performance is affected by gender, and the third is to examine whether variation in QoL hinges on cognitive neuropsychological performance. Methods: This multicenter study was carried out among clinically stable PwMS under follow-up in two tertiary care units in urban Oman. Healthy controls, matched for age and sex, were also recruited as a comparison group. Data were collected using cognitive batteries sensitive to current reasoning ability and conventional neuropsychological batteries designed to measure verbal learning, visual-spatial ability, and processing speed. The affective range (anxiety and depressive symptoms) and quality of life (QoL) were also assessed. Results: The PwMS group scored lower on current reasoning ability, verbal learning, visual-spatial ability, and processing speed compared with the control group. The incidence of anxiety was higher in the PwMS group but there was no statistically significant difference in depressive symptoms. No significant differences were found in cognitive variables between the two sexes, except in visual-spatial ability, where women outperformed men. PwMS with low QoL scored lower on the attention and concentration indices than those with adequate QoL. According to QoL, no significant differences were observed in reasoning, verbal learning, and visual-spatial ability. Conclusions: The present sentinel study suggests that the Omani cohort with MS tends to have lower indices of current reasoning ability, visual and spatial memory and cognitive speed compared to control subjects. Gender differences are minimal, except for visual-spatial abilities where women outperform men. Quality of life significantly affects cognitive functioning. In general, the biopsychosocial impediment appears to be significant, indicating the need for comprehensive evaluation and care in the management of MS.

Within the European Union (EU), new plant varieties, to be included at the Common catalog of a member state, has to be registered at the national list, after plant variety testing processes to establish whether the candidate variety is distinguishable, uniform and stable (DUS) and meets the requirement of the cultivation or use value requirement (VCU). Technical development, climate change and changing consumer needs, including the detection of GMOs, necessitate the innovation of plant variety testing methods. Within the EU-funded "InnoVar" project, it has been sent out questionnaires to several countries, which were aimed at analyzing strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) of the current methods and with their help it is possible to have look for a new direction, opportunity and strategy, which can incorporate together with the innovation results into the development of the new methods. Our study confirmed that the SWOT analysis could be used to achieve the set goals; according to the answers to the questionnaires, it became necessary to introduce new characters (e.g. cold tolerance) and new test methods (molecular markers, precision techniques, organic farming) into the variety testing procedures. The development of high-yielding, disease and/or pest-resistant plant varieties with good adaptability and the accurate evaluation of genotypes play a crucial role in ensuring that farmers can access high-performing plant varieties and contribute to sustainable food production.

Ethiopian Airlines is a leading airline in the world. Its supply chain management is one of the most critical aspects in achieving its sustainability objectives. The present study aims to assess the sustainability practices and strategies of Ethiopian Airways in its supply chain, identifying areas for improvement and recommending strategies for enhancing sustainability. The study concentrates on pertinent sustainability concerns within the aviation sector while examining antecedent research on the sustainability of Ethiopian Airlines’ supply chain management strategies. The findings of the study reveal that there are several areas in need of improvement, including the implementation of waste reduction measures, the establishment of a recycling program, and the reduction of single-use plastic usage. It is suggested that promoting responsible tourism embodying sustainable practices is imperative, particularly within the airline context.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a complex illness with both hereditary and environmental compo-nents. Globally, in 2019, 18 million people had RA. RA is characterised by persistent inflammation of the synovial membrane that lines the joints, cartilage loss, and bone erosion. Phenolic molecules are the most prevalent secondary metabolites in plants, with a diverse spectrum of biological ac-tions that benefit functional meals and nutraceuticals. These compounds have received a lot of at-tention recently because they have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and anti-rheumatoid activity by modulating tumour necrosis factor, mitogen-activated protein kinase, nu-clear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells, and c-Jun N-terminal kinases, as well as other preventative properties. This article discusses dietary polyphenols, their pharmacological properties, and innovative delivery technologies for the treatment of RA, with a focus on their possible biological activities. Nonetheless, commercialization of polyphenols may be achievable only after confirming their safety profile and completing successful clinical trials.

The agricultural sector is amidst an industrial revolution driven by the integration of sensing, communication, and artificial intelligence (AI). Within this context, the internet of things (IoT) takes center stage, particularly in facilitating remote livestock monitoring. Challenges persist, particularly in effective field communication, adequate coverage, and long-range data transmission. This study focuses on employing LoRa communication for livestock monitoring in mountainous pastures in the north-western Alps in Italy. The empirical assessment tackles the complexity of predicting LoRa path loss attributed to diverse land-cover types, highlighting the subtle difficulty of gateway deployment to ensure reliable coverage in real-world scenarios. Moreover, the high expense of densely deploying end devices makes it difficult to fully analyze LoRa link behavior, hindering a complete understanding of networking coverage in mountainous environments. This study aims to elucidate the stability of Lora link performance in spatial dimensions and ascertain theextent of reliable communication coverage achievable by gateways in mountainous environments. Additionally an innovative deep learning approach was proposed to accurately estimate path loss across challenging terrains. Remote sensing contributes to land-cover recognition, while Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (Bi-LSTM) enhances the path loss model’s precision. Through rigorous implementation and comprehensive evaluation using collected experimental data, this deep learning approach significantly curtails estimation errors, outperforming established models. Our results demonstrate that our prediction model outperforms established models with a reduction in estimation error to less than 5dB, marking a 2X improvement over state-of-the-art models. Overall, this study signifies a substantial advancement in IoT-driven livestock monitoring, presenting robust communication and precise path loss prediction in rugged landscapes.

Environmental monitoring programs rely on periodic spot sampling at specific locations, followed by laboratory analysis, aiming at the evaluation of water quality at a catchment scale. For this purpose, automatic telemetric stations for specific parameters have been installed by the Institute of Marine Biological Resources and Inland Waters of Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (IMBRIW-HCMR) within several Greek rivers and lakes, providing continuous and temporal monitoring possibilities. Nevertheless, the employment of unmanned surface vehicles (USV) equipped with integrated sensors represents a tool valuable to several monitoring strategies, offering enhanced temporal and spatial coverage over specific timeframes, allowing for targeted examination of sites or events of interest. The USVs have been deployed by Athens Water and Sewerage Company (EYDAP) as a cost-effective tool for the environmental monitoring of surface water bodies of interest, with emphasis on the spatial fluctuations of chlorophyllα, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen and pH, observed in Koumoundourou Lake and rivers Acheloos, Asopos and Kifissos. The effectiveness of an innovative heavy metal (HM) system installed in the USV for thein situ determination of copper and lead was also evaluated herewith. The results obtained demonstrate that both the timely detection of potential pollution from both anthropogenic activities and natural processes as well as the monitoring of inland waters are made feasible through the employment of USV.

(1) Background: Grapes and their associated by-products (as grape pomace, GP) stand out for their polyphenol content, which makes them a source of bioactive compounds with antioxidant capacity. The aim of this research was to determine if the inclusion of 50 g/kg of GP in the diet of hens could enrich egg with antioxidants and to study its effect on internal and external egg quality parameters. (2) Methods: A trial was conducted with two genetic lines of hens, which were fed either a control diet or a diet containing 50 g/kg of GP. Performance, internal and external egg quality, and egg yolk content of vitamins E and A, and gallic acid were determined; (3) Results: In eggs laid by hens fed GP diet, Haugh units and yolk colour score were enhanced, and eggshell became thinner, but without affecting the breaking strength. No dietary effect was observed on vitamin contents in yolk. Higher gallic acid content was observed in yolk of eggs laid by hens fed the GP diet, suggesting that some dietary phenolic compounds could be transferred to the eggs. Hen genetics influenced egg weight, albumen Haugh units, shell thickness and α- and γ-tocopherol concentration in yolks; (4) Conclusions: Dietary inclusion of GP improved the internal quality of eggs, enriching yolks with a phenolic compound, but reduced shell thickness.

The aim of present study was to assess the microbiological quality of eight traditional meat products (black pudding, white brown, baked pate, roasted pork, raw smoked ham, smoked steamed sausage, raw smoked bacon, raw smoked loin) manufactured by polish farmers in the Lodz region. A total of 37 samples were collected and analyzed twice: within 24 h after purchase from manufactures and after 7 days of storage. Mesophiles, lactic acid bacteria (LAB), Enterobacteriaceae, presence of Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp. were determined. The counts of isolated microorganisms varied depending on the product type and manufacturer. Mesophiles and lactic acid bacteria constituted the main microflora in the tested meat products. Enterobacteriace value was below detection limit in the most samples. The highest mean bacteria counts (mesophiles, LAB and Enterobacteriace) during storage were estimated in black pudding, followed by smoked steamed sausage and white brown. In opposite, the lowest mean bacteria levels were in baked pate and roasted pork. The obtained results showed significant influence of storage time on the mean number of mesophiles and LAB in the meat samples. Negative results for Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes were observed during 7 days of storage, indicating the safety of the studied meat products.

Blueberries are rich in a variety of functional substances and have high nutritional and health values, but they are not resistant to decline during fresh storage. Here, the effects of six Bacillus species on storage quality of, and antioxidant levels in, the southern highbush blueberry ‘O'Neal’ fruit were investigated. Bacillus treatments reduced the fruit decay rate, slowed fruit quality decline, inhibited malondialdehyde accumulation, and increased superoxide dismutase and peroxidase activity levels. Bacillus altitudinis Y-14 had the best effect overall. Further, the effects of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP), B. altitudinis Y-14, and 1-MCP+B. altitudinis Y-14 treatments on the storage quality and antioxidant of rabbiteye blueberry ‘Brightwell’ fruit were investigated, and each treatment effectively reduced the decay rate and weight loss of fruit. When stored for 25 days, the decay rate of the 1-MCP+B. altitudinis Y-14 group was only 8.33%, significantly lower than that of the control. The three treatments delayed the fruit quality decline, inhibited malondialdehyde accumulation, and increased superoxide dismutase and peroxidase activity levels. The 1-MCP+B. altitudinis Y-14 treatment had the best effect. Thus, the combined 1-MCP and B. altitudinis Y-14 treatment may be an effective way to improve the storage quality and extend the storage period of blueberries.

Retiring coal power plants can reduce air pollution and health damages. However, the spatial distribution of those impacts remains unclear due to complex power system adjustments and pollution chemistry and transport. Focusing on coal retirements in Pennsylvania (PA), we analyze six counterfactual scenarios for 2019 that differ in retirement targets (e.g., reducing 50% of coal-based installed capacity vs. generation) and priorities (e.g., closing plants with higher cost, closer to Environmental Justice Areas, or with higher CO₂ emissions). Using a power system model of the PJM Interconnection, we find that coal retirements in PA shift power generation across PA and the Rest of PJM region leading to scenario-varying changes in the plant-level release of several air pollutants. Due to air pollution chemistry and transport and socio-demographics, these changes in turn give rise to a reduction of 10 to 182 PM_2.5-attributable deaths in PJM across the six scenarios, with most reductions occurring in PA. Scenarios that reduce more coal power generation yield greater aggregate health benefits due to air quality improvements in PA and adjacent downwind regions. In addition, vulnerable populations—in both PA and Rest of PJM—benefit most in scenarios that prioritize plant closures in PA near Environmental Justice Areas. These results demonstrate the importance of considering cross-regional linkages and socio-demographics in designing equitable retirement strategies.

Plato defined a quality as “some degree of perfection” [49]. Studies on quality have unveiled the internal and external quality factors [17] that significantly impact product quality [4]. Internal factors are invisible to the end customer and are dependent on overall work organisation by the development team [17]. This work organisation is called “the process” [11],[33]. In this article, we will discuss how to address the drone-dedicated software development process to support system verification and ensure product quality by supporting quality characteristics and therefore increase software development awareness and control. We will discuss the process's influence on overall work activities and relationships between those activities by addressing the software development process utilised in the drone-dedicated GNSS-denied navigation system development project. The result was observable after three weeks of starting the software development. It was focused on better team awareness, faster task completion, lower number of development mistakes, and better and faster change response than we observed in other projects that didn’t follow the predefined process.

This narrative review synthesizes recent basic and clinical research on visual disturbances in low-light environments, highlighting evaluation techniques for these conditions. It focuses on the degradation of visual acuity under dim lighting, exacerbated by pupil dilation, known as night vision disturbances (NVD). Key contributors to NVD include optical scattering, intraocular diffraction, ocular aberrations, and uncorrected refractive errors, all significantly impacting quality of life and functional abilities. The review also examines the effects of aging, eye disorders, surgical interventions, and corneal irregularities on NVD. It details the definitions, distinctions, and measurement methodologies for various optical phenomena, using both objective and subjective approaches, such as visual function questionnaires, simulators, and the Light Distortion Analyzer (LDA). The LDA is validated for clinical characterization and quantification of light distortion, proving useful in both clinical and research settings. The review advocates for continued innovation in therapeutic interventions to improve patient outcomes and alleviate the impact of visual disturbances.

In the last century, statistical process control has been considered a successful methodology for monitoring the variability and stability of a process over time. The analysis of variability using functional data analysis has become widespread during the early years of the 21st century. The present study proposes the implementation of a hybrid methodology called functional process control based on the functional data analysis methodology and combines its advantages with those of statistical process control, in order to provide a tool for detecting functional deviations. The phases are: (1) stabilization of processes through the identification and elimination of special causes of functional variability; (2) improvement of the process to be controlled by minimizing the common causes of functional variability; and (3) monitoring of the processes to ensure the maintenance or addition of further improvements.

A smart water quality monitoring system based on the Internet of Things (IoT) paradigm was designed to protect water resources from pollution in real-time. Long-range (LoRa) application of the low-power, wide-area networking (LPWAN) concept has become a phenomenon in IoT smart monitoring applications. This study proposes the implementation of a LoRa network in a water quality monitoring system-based IoT approach. The LoRa nodes were embedded with measuring sensors pH, turbidity, temperature, total dissolved solids (TDS), and dissolved oxygen (DO), in the designated water station. It operates at a transmission power of 14 dB and a bandwidth of 125 kHz. The network properties were tested with two different antenna gains of 2.1 dBi and 3 dBi with three different spread factors (SF) of 7, 9, and 12. The water stations were located at Sungai Pantai and Sungai Anak Air Batu, both rivers on the Universiti Malaya campus. Following a dashboard display and K-means analysis of the water quality data received by the LoRa gateway, it was determined that both rivers are Class II B rivers. The results from the evaluation of LoRa performance on the Received Strength Signal Indicator (RSSI), Signal Noise Ratio (SNR), loss packet, and path loss at best were -83 dBm, 7 dB, < 0%, and 64.41 dB, respectively, with a minimum received sensitivity of -129.1 dBm. LoRa has demonstrated its efficiency in an urban environment for smart river monitoring purposes.

To investigate the effects of organic fertilizer combined with reduced chemical fertilizer on radish yield, quality, and soil environment in high mountainous areas (elevation: 1800 m), and to mitigate the environmental pollution caused by excessive use of chemical fertilizers. The field trial was conducted to study the effects of different fertilizer treatments. (Control:local fertilizer application rate: 375 kg·hm² reduction in chemical fertilizer + 4500 kg·hm² organic fertilizer; T1:12% reduction in chemical fertilizer + 4500 kg·hm² organic fertilizer; T2:20% reduction in chemical fertilizer + 4500 kg·hm² of organic fertilizer; T3:28% reduction in chemical fertilizer + 4500 kg·hm² organic fertilizer). Four different fertilizer ratios were studied to assess their impacts on radish quality, yield, and soil environment. The findings showed that T2 significantly increased radish yield by 12.92%. Moreover, it led to significant improvements in the content of vitamin C, soluble sugars, soluble solids, soluble proteins, titratable acidity, and glucosinolates, which increased by 10.62%, 2.15%, 50.00%, 26.90%, 43.90%, and 44.57%, respectively. Treatment T2 also significantly increased soil nutrient content, with a 7.69% and 14.29% increase in total nitrogen and total phosphorus content compared to the control (Control) treatment, and a significant reduction of 21.64% in soil bulk density . T2 treatment significantly enhanced soil urease activity, sucrase activity, alkaline phosphatase activity, and catalase activity, showing an improvement of 28.97%, 55.92%, 52.08%, and 17.47% compared to the control, respectively (p<0.05). Moreover, treatment T2 resulted in a relative abundance increase of 12.25% and 10.43% in Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria respectively. Thus, the combined application of T2:20% reduction in chemical fertilizer + 4500 kg·hm² of organic fertilizer improved the quality and yield of radish while optimizing the soil environment. T2 effectively promoted radish growth, enhanced radish yield and quality, and improved the soil environment.

This study presents a comparative analysis of indoor air quality (IAQ) across health centers in Arakale, Iju, Owode, FECA, and Oba Ile, Ondo State, Nigeria. Particle count data were analyzed to identify common trends, similarities, and differences in IAQ parameters, with the aim of informing targeted interventions for improving indoor air quality in healthcare settings. The findings reveal consistent positive skewness in particle count distributions, indicating occasional spikes in pollution levels amidst generally lower concentrations. Fine particles in the size range of PC 2.5 were consistently dominant across all locations, emphasizing their significance in IAQ assessment. Similar variability in particle count data suggests comparable levels of fluctuations in IAQ among the health centers. However, variations in PCA patterns highlight unique factors influencing IAQ in specific locations, such as combustion sources and control strategies. Targeted interventions, including enhancing ventilation systems, controlling indoor pollution sources, and promoting smoking cessation programs, are proposed to mitigate health risks associated with indoor air pollution exposure. Ongoing monitoring and collaboration with environmental experts are crucial for assessing IAQ trends and implementing evidence-based interventions to safeguard the health of patients, staff, and visitors in healthcare facilities.

Stormwater runoff from large roads is a major source of pollutants to receiving waters. Porous pavements have been shown to substantially reduce many of these pollutants, but studies are lacking on arterial roads. We sampled typical stormwater pollutants in runoff from sections of an arterial road 9-16 years after installation of three pavement types: control with conventional asphalt, porous asphalt overly, and full-depth porous asphalt. Both types of porous pavements substantially reduced most of the stormwater pollutants measured. Total suspended solids, turbidity, total lead, total copper, and 6PPD-quinone were all reduced by >75%. Total nitrogen, ammonia, total phosphorus, biochemical oxygen demand, total and dissolved copper, total mercury, total zinc, total polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate were all reduced by >50%. Reductions were lower or absent for nitrate, orthophosphate, E. coli, dissolved lead, and dissolved zinc. Most reductions were statistically significant. Many pollutants exceeded applicable water quality standards in the control samples but met them with both types of porous pavement. This study demonstrates that porous overlays and full-depth porous asphalt can provide substantial reductions of several priority stormwater pollutants on arterial roads for many years after installation.

Alternative fertilizations are essential to minimize the deteriorating effects of chemical fertilizers on soil and water quality/health. Accordingly, the present work investigated the effects of combined organic-inorganic fertilization (COIF) on wheat and rice yields, soil nutrients, and soil Cd accumulation. Hence, seven different treatments were set up: control (CK); conventional fertilization (CF); optimized fertilization (OF); organic fertilizer replacing 25% (T1) and 50% (T2) of OF; and organic nitrogen (N) replacing 25% (M1) and 50% (M2) of OF-N. Overall, significant increases occurred in the yields of COIF crops. Compared with the CF, the highest wheat and rice yields happened in M1 treatment (approximately by18.5%) (P < 0.05). COIF slightly alleviated soil acidification, and improved the cation exchange capacity (CEC) of the study soils. Besides, COIF treatments significantly increased the contents of total phosphorus, total potassium, available phosphorus, and available potassium by 6.35 to 16.9 %, 3.17 to 10.9 %, 5.53 to 28.7 %, and 2.6 to 12 %, respectively (P <0.05). Nevertheless, negligible increases took place in Cd content of COIF soils compared with the CK. Altogether, our results concluded on 25% replacement of OF-N by organic N (M1) to effectively improve the fertility/ecological sustainability of the study soils.

Following the transfer of hospital services to provincial government oversight, it is essential to understand how such changes impact service quality and efficiency. This study aims to identify the factors affecting hospital service quality post-transfer and evaluate the role of professional nurses in maintaining service standards under new governance.We conducted the study at sub-district health-promoting hospitals using a mixed-methods design based on the Global Fund-HSS framework (2012), which categorizes factors into accessibility, processes, productivity, and outcomes. We collected data from 340 nurses and 400 patients using structured questionnaires. We divided the questionnaires into seven sections, which captured a range of metrics such as the personal data of nurses, hospital service activities, and leadership qualities. We employed a Likert scale to gauge perceptions and expectations of service quality. We used paired t-tests to compare performance metrics before and after the administrative transfer, one-way ANOVA to assess variability among different service units, and binary logistic regression to identify key determinants of service quality in our statistical analysis. The analysis revealed a significant correlation between the attitudes and competencies of healthcare teams and the levels of service quality. Notably, service units transferred less than 50% exhibited minimal changes, indicating that the degree of transfer significantly impacts service outcomes. Despite these variations, the fundamental mission of promoting health remained consistent. The study emphasizes the critical role of nurses and recommends further research to identify additional factors that could improve service quality in transferred healthcare facilities. This could contribute to improved healthcare delivery across restructured health systems.

Following the transfer of hospital services to provincial government oversight, it is essential to understand how such changes impact service quality and efficiency. This study, conducted from 1 March 2023 to 31 March 2024 at sub-district health-promoting hospitals in Thailand, aims to identify the factors affecting hospital service quality post-transfer and evaluate the role of profes-sional nurses in maintaining service standards under new governance. Utilizing a mixed-methods design based on the Global Fund-HSS framework (2012), which categorizes factors into accessibility, processes, productivity, and outcomes, we collected data from 340 nurses and 400 patients through structured questionnaires. These questionnaires were divided into seven sec-tions, capturing metrics such as the personal data of nurses, hospital service activities, and lead-ership qualities. We employed a Likert scale to gauge perceptions and expectations of service quality and conducted paired t-tests to compare performance metrics before and after the admin-istrative transfer. One-way ANOVA was used to assess variability among different service units, and binary logistic regression helped identify key determinants of service quality. The analysis revealed a significant correlation between the attitudes and competencies of healthcare teams and the levels of service quality. Notably, service units transferred less than 50% exhibited mini-mal changes, indicating that the degree of transfer significantly impacts service outcomes. Despite these variations, the fundamental mission of promoting health remained consistent. The study emphasizes the critical role of nurses and recommends further research to identify additional factors that could improve service quality in transferred healthcare facilities, potentially contributing to enhanced healthcare delivery across restructured health systems.

Conventional farming relies on large-scale, intensive crop production using mechanical tillage and synthetic inputs like chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which, despite being economically beneficial, can be environmentally destructive, whereas organic cropping system offers a more sustainable alternative with less harmful environmental impact. But is organic system more beneficial for soil health than conventional? In this study, we focused on evaluating the functional potential of soil for the conversion of carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur, as well as measuring the actual activity of enzymes involved in these cycles. We used Chernozem soil samples from fields that were managed using organic (OCS) and conventional (CCS) methods as the objects of our study. Another objective of the study was to compare two methods: profiling of functional genes of the microbial community and measurement of actual enzyme activity. The comparison of OCS versus CCS indicates that functional gene profiling and enzymatic activity measurements similarly capture qualitative differences between these systems, but diverge in how they assess quantitative differences. A combination of these two methods for assessing soil conditions appears to be promising. Overall, the study demonstrated that the agronomic practices used in the conventional cropping system not only preserved the functional properties of the soil microbiome but also significantly enhanced its microbiological activity for nutrient bioconversion compared to the organic cropping system. However, the question remains as to how long the conventional system can sustain its high potential.

The quality prediction of quaternary structure models of a protein complex, in the absence of its true structure, is known as the Estimation of Model Accuracy (EMA). EMA is useful for ranking predicted protein complex structures and using them appropriately in biomedical research, such as protein-protein interaction studies, protein design, and drug discovery. With the advent of more accurate protein complex (multimer) prediction tools, such as AlphaFold2-Multimer and ESMFold, the estimation of the accuracy of protein complex structures has attracted increasing attention. Many deep learning methods have been developed to tackle this problem; however, there is a noticeable absence of a comprehensive overview of these methods to facilitate future development. Addressing this gap, we present a review of deep learning EMA methods for protein complex structures developed in the past several years, analyzing their methodologies and impacts. We also provide a prospective summary of some potential new developments for further improving the accuracy of the EMA methods.

The aim of the study was to test the significance of the EPT index in the water quality assessment of three types of water bodies in hilly and mountainous region of Serbia. The aquatic macroinvertebrate community was dominated by the group of insects, of which 95 taxa represent the EPT group. We compared the obtained values of biological indices used for the assessment of water quality according to the national legislation with the overall status assessment represented by the ecological quality classes (EQC). The results of the Spearman correlation test showed a negative correlation of EQC with the EPT index, BMWP score, H', total number of taxa and number of sensitive taxa, while a positive correlation was observed for the values of SI and Tubificinae %. The values of EQC and biological indices were subjected to principal component analysis (PCA). The results showed that the parameters that contributed most to the differences were the EPT index, the BMWP score and the number of sensitive taxa. The results indicate that the EPT index is an excellent indicator of changes in water quality and an important tool for the ecological categorization of water bodies in mountain regions.

Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects both patients and their caregivers, particularly parents who often become informal caregivers. Caring for someone with PD is linked to increased psychiatric morbidity and persistent anxiety-depressive distress. Methods: This study investigates the burden on caregivers of PD patients using multi-dimensional scales and identifies the personological and environmental factors contributing to this burden. Results: 20.6% of participants reported a severe burden according to the Caregiver Burden Inventory (CBI), while 13.8% had a moderate to severe burden according to the Zarit Caregiver Burden Inventory (ZBI). The Family Strain Questionnaire Short Form (FSQ-SF) high-lighted a minority of caregivers needing psychological support, with some cases requiring ur-gent attention, particularly in stress-related symptoms (SR) and urgent support (U). The Depres-sion Anxiety Stress Scales Short Version (DASS-21) results showed a higher prevalence of stress-related symptoms compared to anxiety and depression. Retired caregivers reported higher ZBI scores and lower life satisfaction levels compared to working caregivers. Additionally, years of schooling negatively correlated with the ZBI score. T-test analysis indicated that caregivers of patients with cognitive impairment were at greater risk compared to caregivers of patients with-out cognitive impairment. Conclusions: The results underscore the need for early recognition of risky situations and adequate support for caregivers.

Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) encompasses the comprehensive evaluation of an indi-vidual's health and well-being across multiple dimensions. Mindfulness, recognized as a scientifi-cally supported strategy for anxiety management, plays a role in enhancing both physical and mental health. The Gut-Brain Axis (GBA) serves as the bidirectional communication link between the gastrointestinal system and the central nervous system. This study aims to explore the associa-tion between Mindfulness and factors influencing the GBA in both healthy individuals and those with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD). A cross-sectional investigation involved 338 adults, in-cluding 50 IBD patients, utilizing validated Greek scales for Mindfulness (MAAS-15), Mediterra-nean Diet (14-MEDAS), and HRQoL (EQ-5D-5L). The questionnaire gathered demographic, an-thropometric, and lifestyle data. Among healthy participants, EQ-5D-5L showed a moderate cor-relation with the MAAS-15 scale (r=0.389, p

Landraces are considered a crucial component of biodiversity conservation, serving as a reservoir of genetic diversity. Consequently, the collection, cultivation and detailed characterization of such landraces constitute an inherent aspect of the world’s natural resource heritage. This effort holds promise for the development of elite varieties capable of thriving amidst continuous global climate fluctuations. In this context, we conducted a comprehensive assessment of the main agronomic attributes, physico-chemical properties, and functional quality traits of the major hot pepper landraces adapted to diverse climatic conditions in Tunisia. These landraces include ‘Dhirat’, ‘Semmane’, ‘Beldi’, ‘Nabeul’, ‘Jerid’, ‘Mahdia’, ‘Cayenne’, ‘Kairouan’ and ‘Baklouti’. Most of the pepper landraces exhibited satisfactory yields, ranging from 1163.25 to 1841.67 g plant-1 in ‘Jerid’ and ‘Kairouan’, respectively, indicating robust productivity, especially under prevailing climatic changes and high temperatures. Landraces such as ‘Baklouti’, ‘Beldi’, ‘Nabeul’, ‘Semmane’, ‘Kairouan’ and ‘Mahdia’ appear suitable for both fresh consumption and processing, owing to their favorable average fruit weight and soluble solids content. Functional quality and the levels of antioxidants, as well as radical scavenging activity, emerged as key discriminating factors among pepper landraces. Irrespective of genotype, capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin constituted the major capsaicinoids, accounting for at least 87% of the total. Total capsaicinoids ranged from 1.81 µg g−1 to 193.71 µg g−1, with ‘Baklouti’ and ‘Jerid’ identified as the most pungent landraces. Total carotenoids ranged from 45.94 µg g−1 to 174.52 µg g−1 with ‘Semmane and ‘Jerid’ exhibiting the highest levels. Considerable variation was observed in β-carotene content, spanning from 3% to 24% of the total carotenoids. α-Tocopherol content ranged from 19.03 µg g-1 fw in ‘Kair-ouan’ to 30.93 µg g-1 fw in ‘Beldi’, exerting a notable influence on the overall tocopherol content. Conversely, the other isomers were detected at very low concentrations. The total vitamin C content ranged from 132 mg 100g-1 fw in ‘Mahdia’ to 200 mg 100 g-1 fw in ‘Nabeul’, indicating relatively low genetic variability. However, large variability was detected in total phenolics content, ranging from 168.58 mg GAE kg-1 fw in ‘Beldi ‘to 302.98 mg GAE kg-1 fw in ‘Cayenne’. Among the pepper landraces tested, ‘Cayenne’ achieved the highest value of radical scavenging activity in both hydrophilic and lipophilic fractions (RSAHF and RSALF), with variations rang-ing from 59% to 120% for RSAHF and from 4% to 64% for RSALF. This study aims to: 1) preserve and enhance the value of local genetic resources, 2) identify desiderable traits for incorporation into breeding programs, and 3) develop high-quality, high-yielding cultivars capable of with-standing climate variations.

Researchers are exploring solutions to meet the growing demand for protein due to the expected increase in global population by 2050. Interest in alternative protein sources like insects has risen, driven by concerns about environmental impact and the need for sustainable food production. This study aimed to develop and evaluate the physicochemical properties of soy protein-based burger enriched with insect protein from Alphitobius diaperinus. Three formulations were developed: a control (B0), and burgers with 5% (B5) and 10% (B10) insect protein - Whole Buffalo Powder (WBP). Results showed that adding insect protein decreased the burger analogue's pH. There was observed a clear trend of increasing total lipids and SFA, and decreasing MUFA and PUFA, as the WBP concentration increases from 0% to 10%. No significant differences with increasing WBP concentration in the protein content of the burger analogue, as well as the cooking yield, were noted. The WBP addition had a notable effect on the color change, especially decrease in brightness (L*). It was shown that as the WBP concentration increased, there were no significant differences in the texture profile of the burger analogues. The formulation with 5% WBP concentration was the most acceptable in sensory analysis.

Contamination in coastal regions attributed to fluoride and nitrate cannot be disregarded, given the substantial environmental and public health issues they present worldwide. Maintaining water quality is crucial for environmental well-being. This comprehensive study was performed to assess the spatial as well as indexical water quality, identify contamination sources, and evaluate associated health risks pertaining to nitrate and flouride in AlHassa region, KSA. The physiochemical results revealed a pervasive pollution of the overall groundwater. The dominant water type was Na-Cl, indicating saltwater intrusion and reverse ion exchange impact. Spatiotemporal variations in physicochemical properties suggest diverse hydrochemical mechanisms, with geogenic factors primarily influencing groundwater chemistry. The groundwater pollution index varied between 0.8426 and 4.7172, classifying samples as moderately to very highly polluted. Similarly, the synthetic pollution index (in the range of 0.5021-4.0715) revealed that none of the samples had excellent water quality, with various degrees of pollution categories. Nitrate Health Quotient (HQ) values indicated chronic human health risks ranging from low to severe, with newborns being the most vulnerable. Household use of nitrate-rich groundwater for showering and cleaning did not pose significant health risks. Fluoride HQ decreased with age, and children faced the highest risk of fluorosis. The Hazard Index (HI) yielded moderate to high-risk values. Nitrate risks were 1.21 times higher than fluoride risks, as per average HI assessment. All samples fell into the vulnerable category based on the Total Hazard Index (THI), with 88.89% classified as very high risk. This research provides valuable insights into groundwater quality, guiding water authorities, inhabitants, and researchers in identifying safe water sources and vulnerable human populations. The results highlight the need for appropriate treatment techniques and long-term coastal groundwater management plans.

In the Vietnamese Mekong delta, soil quality and crop yield are steadily declining under rice monocultures with three crops per year. The objective of this study was to evaluate the medium-term effects of rotating rice with upland crops and adding organic amendments on rice yield and relate it to soil quality. A field trial with split-plot design including two factors and three replicates was carried out from 2017 to 2020, over the course of nine consecutive cropping seasons. Crop rotations and organic amendments were applied as main-plot and subplot factors, respectively. The rotations were: 1) rice–rice–rice (R–R–R), 2) soybean–rice–rice (So–R–R), and 3) sesame–rice–rice (Se–R–R), while organic amendment treatments included: i) no amendment (NO-AM); ii) compost of rice straw and cow manure (RS+CM), and iii) sugarcane compost (SGC); the composts were applied at a rate of 2.0 t ha-1. The rotation cycle started with the so-called spring–summer (SS), followed by summer–autumn (SA) and ended with the winter–spring (WS) season. Rice yield significantly (P < 0.05) increased by organic amendments after nine growing seasons (2019–2020 WS), with an increment of 5.1% for RS+CM (7.07 ton/ha) and 6.1% for SGC (7.14 ton/ha). Contrary to our expectation, rotations with upland crops did not significantly increase rice yield. Rice yield significantly and positively correlated with an integrated soil quality index SQI (r = 0.86) for the topsoil (0–15 cm), but not for the subsoil (15–30 cm). The increased availability of soil nutrients (Si and marginally also P) and improved soil physical properties probably induced by organic amendments, along with other soil properties under study, cumulatively attributed to enhanced rice yield. Use of a SQI involving several soil quality indicators enables to overall quantify the importance of soil fertility for rice yield versus other factors and it provides an effective means of quantifying the integrated effect of improved management. Moreover, integrating a wide range of soil quality indicators in a SQI ensures its applicability across diverse settings, including different crop rotations and various soil types.

Brand trust holds significant importance in the Mongolian cashmere industry. This study examines the primary predictors of customer brand trust among Mongolian cashmere users. Our research includes a survey with 800 participants and 20 individual interviews conducted among both Mongolian cashmere users and non-users. We utilized an online platform to reach participants, employing convenience sampling. The study investigates the relationship between various factors and brand trust within the context of Mongolian cashmere brands. Through a combination of in-dividual interviews and statistical analysis, we test six hypotheses. The findings indicate that higher brand quality, a strong reputation, greater transparency, effective issue resolution, commitment to environmental and social responsibility, and pre-purchase research on such commitments positively impact brand trust. Key insights gleaned from the interviews emphasize the importance of quality, reputation, transparency, customer service, and environmental responsibility in shaping consumer trust. These results offer valuable implications for cashmere brands aiming to bolster consumer trust and foster loyalty.

Until recently, no disease-specific health-related quality of life (HRQoL) instrument existed for pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI). In this revalidation study, the psychometric properties and the validity of the final German version of the 35-item QOLIBRI-KID/ADO questionnaire were examined in 300 children and adolescents. It is the first self-reported TBI-specific instrument for measuring pediatric HRQoL in individuals aged 8–17 years. The six-factor model fits the data adequately. Internal consistencies were excellent for the total score and satisfactory to excellent for the scale scores. Intraclass correlations indicated good test-retest reliability. Construct validity was supported by overlaps between the QOLBRI-KID/ADO and the PedsQL, which measures generic HRQoL. Discriminant validity indicated that HRQoL was significantly lower in older children and girls, and in those with anxiety, depression, and post-concussion symptoms than in comparison groups, replicating the results of the questionnaire’s first development study. Our results suggest that the QOLIBRI-KID/ADO is a valid and reliable multidimensional instrument for assessing disease-specific HRQoL after pediatric TBI in clinical and research settings, which can additionally be used across the lifespan in combination with the adult version. This may help to improve care, treatment, daily functioning and HRQoL after TBI.

Over 3.0 billion people of the 7.75 billion globally suffer from malnutrition due to deficiencies in micronutrients, particularly iron, zinc, and vitamins (such as vitamin A, B complex, E, and folate, etc.). In response, there is growing consumer interest in foods that provide traditional nutrients and contain additional compounds beneficial to health and well-being. Wheat is the most important cereal crop in terms of both production and consumption, contributing about 30% of total cereal consumption worldwide. It provides a significant source of carbohydrates and gluten protein (around 12-14% protein), which supply substantial energy. Wheat grain is also rich in various nutrients, such as macro-elements like phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg); microelements like iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), and vitamins B complex: thiamin (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), pyridoxine (B6), biotin (B7), folate (B9), additionally soluble fiber and other trace minerals which are higher than in other major cereals. The inner bran coats, phosphates, and other mineral salts in wheat contribute to its beneficial effects on bowel movements. Despite its nutritional benefits, the quality of wheat's nutrients is a topic of ongoing discussion. Exploring ways to enhance the nutritional quality of wheat could provide valuable insights for scientists working to improve global nutrition status.

Urban air quality is increasingly becoming a cause for concern for the health of the human population. The poor air quality is already wreaking havoc in major cities of the world, where serious health issues and reduction of average human life by a factor of years are reported. The air quality in developing countries can become worse as they undergo development. The urban air quality varies non-linearly depending upon the various factors such as land use, industrialization, waste disposal, traffic volume, etc. To address this problem, it is necessary to look at the plethora of available literature from multiple perspectives such as types and sources of pollutants, meteorology, urban mobility, urban planning and development, health care, economics, etc. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive survey of the state-of-the-art in urban air quality. We first review the fundamental background on air quality and present the emerging landscape of urban air quality. We then explore the available literature from multiple urban air quality measurement projects and provides the insights uncovered in them. We then take a look at the sources that are significantly contributing to polluting the air quality. Finally, we highlight open issues and research challenges in dealing with urban air pollution.

The aim of this study was to develop a ready-to-eat vegetable-herb mixes with high nutritional and sensory values, as well as good storability. In this regard the suitability of fresh herbs (peppermint, oregano, green basil, red basil, and parsley) was tested for use in mixes with fresh-cut iceberg lettuce. Lettuce-herb mixtures were stored for 6 days at 5°C. The reason for the decrease in the appearance of the salads was the browning of the cut surface of the lettuce, as well as discoloration on the cut herbs. Comparing the storage ability of cut herbs, red basil and parsley retained the best appearance for 6 d at 5 °C. A small addition of herbs to fresh-cut iceberg lettuce caused a significant increase in contents of pro-health ingredients in the mixes. There were large discrepancies in the sensory quality of the mixes, but the highest quality and consumer acceptance were found for salads with parsley (5% and 10%) and red basil (5%). After harvest, the fresh herbs were more contaminated by molds than the iceberg lettuce. Bacterial, yeast and mold contamination increased during storage, but the rate of mold growth was much lower in the mixes with parsley compared to lettuce alone.

Supplier collaboration and partnership in procurement are essential elements for enhancing organizational efficiency, innovation, and resilience in today's globalized markets. This qualitative study investigates the dynamics of effective supplier relationships, focusing on trust, communication, innovation, quality, cost savings, and resilience as critical factors. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews, case studies, and document analysis across diverse industries, highlighting insights from procurement professionals and supplier representatives. Key findings underscore the foundational role of trust and communication in fostering successful collaborations. Establishing transparent, ongoing communication channels facilitates mutual understanding, reduces conflicts, and enhances overall satisfaction. Collaborative innovation emerged as pivotal, enabling organizations to pool resources and expertise for product development and process improvement. Quality and reliability were identified as significant outcomes of close partnerships, particularly in industries with stringent standards such as aerospace and healthcare. Furthermore, the study reveals substantial cost savings and efficiency gains through collaborative efforts in process optimization and waste reduction. Effective risk management practices within these partnerships enhance supply chain resilience, enabling organizations to anticipate and mitigate disruptions proactively. Despite these benefits, challenges such as cultural differences, technological integration, and regulatory compliance require strategic mitigation strategies. In conclusion, organizations can optimize supplier collaborations by prioritizing trust-building, fostering a culture of innovation, and investing in robust relationship management practices. This approach not only enhances operational performance but also positions organizations to navigate market uncertainties and achieve sustainable growth in a competitive landscape.

This qualitative study explores supplier selection criteria from the perspectives of procurement professionals across diverse industries. Supplier selection is crucial for organizational efficiency and performance, influenced by factors beyond traditional cost considerations. The research aims to uncover nuanced criteria such as quality assurance, supplier reliability, innovation capability, sustainability practices, strategic alignment, relational dynamics, and risk management strategies. These criteria reflect a shift towards holistic evaluation frameworks that integrate economic, social, and environmental dimensions in procurement decision-making. Methodologically, the study employed semi-structured interviews with 30 procurement professionals, ensuring depth and diversity in perspectives. Thematic analysis was used to identify recurring themes and patterns, illuminating the complexities and strategic importance of supplier selection processes. Findings highlight the strategic role of suppliers in driving innovation, enhancing supply chain resilience, and supporting organizational goals. Moreover, the study underscores the significance of sustainable sourcing practices, ethical considerations, and effective supplier relationships in fostering long-term partnerships and mitigating operational risks. Practical implications suggest that organizations should adopt integrated approaches to supplier selection, leveraging data-driven insights and technological advancements to optimize decision-making. By prioritizing strategic alignment, fostering collaborative partnerships, and implementing robust risk management strategies, organizations can navigate uncertainties, capitalize on market opportunities, and sustain competitive advantage.

Elevated carbon dioxide (eCO₂) stimulates wheat grain yield, but simultaneously reduces protein (N) concentration. Also other essential nutrients are subject to change. This study is a comprehensive synthesis of wheat experiments with eCO₂, estimating effects on N, minerals (B, Ca, Cd, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, P, S, Zn), and starch. Analysis was made by i) deriving response functions for the relative effect on element concentration in relation to CO₂ concentration, ii) meta-analysis to test the magnitude and significance of observed effects, and iii) relating CO₂ effects on minerals to effects on N and grain yield. Responses range from zero to strong negative effects of eCO₂ on mineral concentration, with largest reductions for the nutritionally important elements N, Fe, S, Zn and Mg. Together with the positive but small and non-significant effect on starch concentration, the large variation in effects suggests that CO₂-induced responses cannot be explained by a simple dilution model. To explain the observed pattern, uptake and transport mechanisms may have to be considered, along with the link of different elements to N uptake. Our study shows that eCO₂ has a significant effect on wheat grain stoichiometry, with implications for human nutrition in a world of rising CO₂.

The sustainability of agricultural commodities produced in the Southern U.S. under irrigation is increasingly at risk due to erratic rainfall patterns, inadequate water supplies and compromised water quality. This study assessed the needs of crop growers in the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Southern Region. The purpose was to identify growers’ critical water resource management concerns to identify research priorities from the perspective of growers in this region. To obtain this information, a questionnaire was developed and distributed to growers throughout the Southern Region in 2020. The final sample included 112 crop (row and specialty) production growers from the Southern Region. Overall, respondents named the water available to irrigate as the greatest water resource management priority. Within all the water availability priorities asked, respondents’ first choice was declining water supply in the future. Declining water supply and the cost of irrigating presently were the next most frequently named water availability priorities. Growers named both increasing the efficiency of irrigation and development of farming practices to improve soil moisture retention as the first and second focus of future irrigation research, respectively. These results will aid in strengthening existing and developing new initiatives for water research and Extension in this region.

Image fusion is a useful tool for producing a high-resolution multispectral image to be used for land use and land cover mapping. In this study, we use nine pansharpening algorithms namely Color Normalized (CN), Gram-Schmidt (GS), Hyperspherical Color Space (HCS), High Pass Filter (HPF), Nearest-Neighbor Diffusion (NND), Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Resolution Merge (RM), Stationary Wavelet Transform (SWT), and Wavelet Resolution Merge (WRM) to fusion Worldview-3 multispectral Bands and panchromatic band. In spectral and spatial fidelity, several image quality metrics are used to evaluate the performance of pansharpening algorithms. The SWT and PCA algorithms showed better results compared to other pansharpening algorithms while GS and CN algorithms showed the worst results for the original image fusion. The effect of fusion on each band was separately investigated and according to the calculations, we found that the CoastalBlue band and the Blue band showed the best result and the NIR-1 band and NIR-2 band show the worst result for the original image fusion. In the end, we conclude that the choice of fusion method depends on the requirement of remote sensing application.

The European Union Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC; WFD) aims to achieve a good ecological and chemical status of all bodies of surface water by 2027. The development of an integrated guidance on surface water chemical monitoring (e.g. WFD Guidance Document No. 7/19) has been transferred into national German law (Ordinance for the Protection of Surface Waters, OGewV). For the majority of compounds, this act requires a monthly sampling frequency to assess the chemical water quality status of a surface water body. To evaluate the representativeness of the sampling strategy under the OGewV, high-frequency online monitoring data is investigated under different sampling scenarios and compared with current, monthly grab sampling strategy. About 23 million data points were analyzed for this study, three chemical parameters (dissolved oxygen, nitrate-nitrogen, chloride concentration) and discharge data were selected from four catchment of different sizes ranging from 51391 km² to 84 km² (Elbe, Vereinigte Mulde, Neiße and two stations at Lockwitzbach). In this paper we proposed short-term online-monitoring (STOM) as a sampling alternative. STOM considers the placement of online sensors over a limited duration and return interval. In general we: (I) compare the results of conventional grab sampling with STOM, (II) investigate the different performance of STOM and grab sampling using discharge data as proxy for analyzing event-mobilized pollutants and (III) investigate the related uncertainties and costs of both sampling methods. Results show, that STOM outperforms grab sampling for parameters where minimum/maximum concentrations are required by law as the probability to catch a single extreme value is higher with STOM. Furthermore, parameters showing a pronounced diurnal pattern, like dissolved oxygen, are also captured considerably better. The performance of STOM showed no substantial improvements for parameters with small concentration variability, as nitrogen-nitrate The analysis of discharge events as a proxy parameter for event-mobilized pollutants proved that the probability of capturing samples during events is significantly increased by STOM.

The dynamic global automotive sector is characterized by an ever-evolving demand for high-quality vehicles and accessible prices. This research tackles the issue of scrap reduction in electric motor manufacturing for the automotive industry, specifically in a Chinese company, by employing the PDCA methodology. The paper delves into the company's background and current landscape, while pinpointing the problem: specific production lines segments experiencing hi-pot issues are the primary source of scrap. The overarching goal is to design and implement a strategy that, leveraging the PDCA approach, reduces scrap generated during the eight-months subassembly (armature) manufacturing process, from its current average of 2.92% to 0.7%, ultimately enabling the company to eliminate hi-pot defects.

Anxiety disorders affect patient quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to examine the associations between improved QoL and reduced clinical symptoms and Korean medicine (KM) in patients with anxiety disorders. Medical records of patients with anxiety who were treated with KM (acupuncture, Anxiety disorders affect patient quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to examine the associations between improved QoL and reduced clinical symptoms and Korean medicine (KM) in patients with anxiety disorders. Medical records of patients with anxiety who were treated with KM (ac-upuncture, psychotherapy, Chuna therapy, aromatherapy, or herbal medicine) for at least 4 weeks were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical, QoL, and cost outcomes were measured at baseline and at 4 and 12 weeks (Anxiety: State-Trait Anxiety Inventory[STAI X-1(state), X-2(trait)], Beck Anxiety Inventory[BAI]; anger: State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory State[STAXI-S(state), T(trait)], Anger Expression Inventory[AXI-K-I(anger-in), AXI-K-O(anger-out), AXI-K-C(anger-control); depression: Beck Depression Inventory-II[BDI II], QoL: QoL-related instruments Euro Quality of Life 5 Dimensions utility score[EQ-5D], Euro QoL Visual Analog Scale[EQ-VAS]). The quali-ty-adjusted life years (QALYs) and average cost-effectiveness ratio of KM for anxiety were esti-mated. The medical records for 67 patients were evaluated. KM treatments were found to be as-sociated with decreased anxiety (STAI X-1; STAI X-2; BAI, p

Automobile industry is recognized as one of the most influential sectors shaping the global economies, societies, and individual lifestyles. Therefore, fierce competitions among different companies are continuously undergoing, and innovations deserve special attention to improve the competitiveness. In the past several years, additive manufacturing (AM) is emerging as an innovative technology in the applications of automobile industry with significant advantages over traditional techniques. As a result, increasing attention has been attracted to combining AM technology with the development of automobile industry. Currently, many automobile players are optimizing their industrial layout by incorporating with innovative AM techniques, and meanwhile, many research progresses have been achieved to meet the market demand. This article aims at presenting a timely review to conclude the recent advances in the application of AM techniques in automobile industry, focusing on the available AM techniques, printable materials, and the industry applications. The future research opportunities and challenges are also outlooked. Hopefully, this work can be useful to the related researchers, as well as the game players in the industry of this field.

This study explores the public library service evaluation domain through user-generated content on Google Maps, highlighting digital feedback's significant yet underexplored potential in understanding public library patronage across Taiwan's six major cities. Utilizing a mixed-methods research design, this study integrates Google Maps review content analysis with Social Network Analysis to delineate public perceptions and identify areas for service enhancement in public libraries. It innovatively leverages personal experiences extracted from over 60,000 Google Maps reviews to evaluate public library services in cities such as Taipei, New Taipei, Taoyuan, Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung. The research taps into the National Library of Taiwan's National Library Statistics System to provide a robust analysis of library performance and user satisfaction, offering a novel perspective by emphasizing user-centric feedback from Google Maps as a primary data source. This approach provides quantitative data on library usage and geographic distribution and enriches our understanding of the qualitative experiences of library users. In analyzing the keywords from Google Maps reviews of public libraries, we categorize and interpret these under the three core LibQUAL+ dimensions—Affect of Service, Information Control, and Library as Place. The findings expose variances in perceived service quality among the cities, with Kaohsiung and Taichung receiving the highest accolades for service satisfaction. Simultaneously, the study identifies potential areas for improvement, particularly in cities with lower satisfaction ratings like Taipei. This personalized feedback illustrates the intimate relationship between public libraries and their communities, offering invaluable insights for policymakers and library management to enhance service delivery and user experience.

This study investigates how customers’ technological readiness affects service quality and the adoption of self-service banking by developing an empirical model. The model was proposed to explore the relationships between technology readiness, self-service quality, and customer satisfaction. The hypotheses and stability of the model were tested using structural equation modeling. The findings revealed that technology readiness, including the optimism, innovation, and insecurity dimensions, had a significant positive impact on self-service quality. In addition, service quality fully mediated the relationship between technological readiness and customer satisfaction. These results suggest that when customers are ready to embrace and use new technology, their evaluation of service quality is high. Thus, bank managers should drive customer perceptions of the quality of self-service banking by improving their technological readiness through various measures. Furthermore, based on the mediating effect of self-service quality, banks must be aware that improving service quality can enhance customer satisfaction and maintain a competitive advantage.

Dealing with and maintaining high-quality standards in the design and construction phases is challenging, especially for on-site construction. Issues like improper implementation of building components and poor communication can widen the gap between design specifications and actual conditions. To prevent this, particularly for energy-efficient buildings, it's vital to develop resilient, sustainable strategies. These should optimize resource use, minimize environmental impact, and enhance livability, contributing to carbon neutrality by 2050 and climate change mitigation. Traditional post-occupancy evaluations, which identify defects after construction, are impractical for addressing energy performance gaps. A new, real-time inspection approach is necessary throughout the construction process. This paper suggests an innovative guideline for prefabricated buildings, emphasizing digital 'self-instruction' and 'self-inspection'. These procedures ensure activities impacting quality adhere to specific instructions, drawings, and 3D models, incorporating relevant acceptance criteria to verify completion. This methodology, promoting alignment with planned energy-efficient features, is supported by BIM-based software and Augmented Reality (AR) tools, embodying Industry 4.0 principles. BIM and AR bridge the gap between virtual design and actual construction, improving stakeholder communication and enabling real-time monitoring and adjustments. This integration fosters accuracy and efficiency, key for energy-efficient and Nearly Zero-Energy Buildings, marking a shift towards a more precise, collaborative, and environmentally sensible construction industry.

CAMx-LPiG (Comprehensive Air Quality Model with Extensions – Linear Plume in Grid) is an online hybrid model, based on the Chemistry and Transport Model (CTM) CAMx, that includes a sub-grid scale module to simulate the dispersion of linear road traffic emissions, called LPiG. LPiG is a plume in grid module specifically developed by extending the capabilities of the Lagrangian puff sub-grid model available in CAMx. The online integration of the local scale model within the Eulerian CTM allows for a multiscale simulation of air quality from the regional scale to the urban scale, preserving a coherent description of the chemical state of the atmosphere at all spatial scales and avoiding any double counting of the emissions simulated by the sub-grid module. In this work the model is presented and evaluated against measured NO2 concentrations for the city of Milan for the month of January 2017. The model is able to introduce road traffic induced gradient in NO2 concentration at sub-grid resolution. Moreover, CAMx-LPiG is shown to reduce the bias compared to CAMx stand-alone simulations.

The paper describes the new method for image compression based on coordinated group signal transformation. The algorithm is a type of difference coding. Coordinated processing significantly simplifies the difference signal conversion scheme using a single group codec for all signals. The described method considers color channels as correlated signals of a multi-channel communication system. The specifics of the processed data required modification of the coordinated group processing algorithm. First, we changed how to calculate the difference signals to prevent data loss. Secondly, the group codec was supplemented with a neural network to improve the quality of reconstructed images. We considered the following types of neural networks: fully connected, recurrent, convolution, and convolution in the Fourier space. Based on the simulation results, it is best to use fully connected neural networks if the goal is to minimize processing delay time. These networks have a response time of 13 ms. On the other hand, if the priority is to improve quality in cases where delays are not critical, then convolution neural networks in the Fourier space should be used. These networks have a response time of 140 ms and are of significant interest.

This study examines the complex relation among environmental taxes, productive capacities, urbanization, and their collective effects on environmental quality in Africa, drawing on two decades of data from twenty African countries. It situates the study within the broader discourse on sustainable development and economic growth, emphasizing the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) framework to examine the relationship between economic development, characterized by urban expansion and increased productive capacities, and the adoption of environmental taxes amidst the continent’s diverse economic and environmental environments. Using advanced econometric techniques, including the Cross-Section Augmented Autoregressive Distributed Lag (CS-ARDL) model and the Dynamic Common Correlated Effects Mean Group (DCCEMG) estimator, the study addresses data challenges such as cross-sectional dependence and slope heterogeneity. The results provide important insights into the dynamics of environmental quality in relation to economic and urban growth and the role of environmental taxation. The study proposes tailored policy strategies aimed at strengthening sustainable development initiatives in line with international agreements such as the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals. These strategies advocate for a nuanced application of environmental taxes and the promotion of productive capacities to enhance environmental sustainability across the African continent.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas emitted from carbon fuel combustion. In this study we monitored indoor carbon monoxide (CO) levels for 120 homes over three seasons in the North Denver metropolitan region as part of an environmental justice initiative to quantify health and social well-being impacts from a major freeway construction upgrade nearby. Urban outdoor CO levels are typically very low (less than 1 ppm in Denver) due to air pollution control strategies and technologies implemented over the past several decades. However, people can still be exposed to higher than outdoor levels of CO in their homes due to the operation of indoor appliances that use carbon fuels such as natural gas. Our data show that ~10% of the homes had consistent daily average levels of CO above 3.5 ppm and 24-57% of the homes showed peaks greater than 9 ppm. While much higher levels can result in CO poisoning and fatalities, these lower levels of CO have been associated with adverse health impacts, especially pregnant women, and sensitive populations. Our results highlight the need for increasing awareness regarding CO exposures in homes with gas appliances and motivate the transition from non-electrified homes toward electrification.

A superior variant of dried jujube in China is ‘Huizao’ (HZ) jujube. Nonetheless, detailed evaluations of the texture quality of HZ fruits have been the subject of few studies. Texture is a significant indicator of the sensory and processed quality of a fruit. Here, we differentiate and characterize the texture quality of HZ fruits from the four primary producing regions in southern Xinjiang, as well as develop a system for assessing the texture quality of HZ fruits. Furthermore, five texture indices of HZ fruits from 109 plantations were exhaustively evaluated utilizing principal component analysis, Pearson correlation analysis, and hierarchical clustering analysis. Consequently, by the 10th, 30th, 70th, and 90th percentiles, each index was classified into five grades—lower, medium, high, and higher. Correlation investigation indicated strong relationships between the springiness, chewiness, cohesiveness, gumminess, and hardness of HZ fruits. Springiness, hardness, and adhesiveness are essential indicators that influence the texture of HZ fruits. We used clustering analysis to separate the six texture indices into three major categories (hard factor, stick-elastic factor, and adhesive factor), with indices representing hardness, springiness, and adhesiveness, respectively. Furthermore, according to the factor molecules, the texture quality of HZ fruits in the four production areas was evaluated as Bazhou (1.24) > Hotan (0.773) > Kashi (-0.577) > Aksu (-0.852). RDA analysis of six texture quality parameters and 24 climate conditions identified higher mean temperature (TEM) and lower relative humidity (RHU) as the primary factors contributing to the improved texture quality of HZ fruits in Xinjiang. This study identified the texture quality characteristics of HZ fruits in four major producing areas of Southern Xinjiang, and it offered a theoretical foundation for optimizing the dominant producing areas and regional production of HZ varieties in Xinjiang.

Climate change, growing world population and increasing food demand require higher yields and adaptability of crops, including spring bread wheat. Modern plant breeding based on achievements of genetics has a significant impact on plant resistance to diseases, climate variability and other factors. Genome wide association studies (GWAS) is one of genetics tools for mining of genome loci associated with economically important traits. In the current study, we applied GWAS to reveal QTL for spike productivity and grain quality using a panel of spring varieties of Triticum aestivum L. bred in different decades of the last century in Russia and Germany. The study has enabled to find new genetic markers associated with grain yield and quality. Studying genetic basis of grain yield and quality by comparison of wheat varieties from different breeding periods, including landraces preserved as the source of valuable genetic diversity for breeding and genetic studies, makes it possible not only to understand selection processes in the past, but also to develop strategies for future breeding work.

Introduction: Agricultural practices significantly influence soil microbial populations and physicochemical properties, which are crucial for crop growth and quality. This study aims to investigate the impact of different agrochemical applications on soil microbial dynamics, soil physicochemical properties, as well as yield and proximate properties of maize. Methods: Carefully gathered topsoil samples at depths ranging from 1 to 15 cm, were transported to Jimma University to cultivate maize. Over a period of up to 120 days, soil and maize samples were collected at specified days to analyze various parameters, including soil pH, microbial populations, as well as nutrient content both in soil and plants. The collected data was statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA, with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: The soil bacterial and fungal populations were measured on days 5, 10, 20, 40, 80, and 120. The highest total mesophilic bacterial count (TMBC) was measured in the pots containing compost (G) and the lowest in pots that received macronutrient fertilizers and glyphosates (B) (i.e. 91.8 x 105 and 13.13 x 105 cfu/g of soil, respectively). The highest total mesophilic fungal count (TMFC) was observed in pots containing glyphosates and compost (F) (i.e. 67.25 x 104 cfu/g soil) and again the lowest in pot treated with macronutrient fertilizers and glyphosate (B) (i.e. 3.23 x 104 cfu/g soil). Moreover, the pots treated with macronutrient fertilizers and glyphosate (B), macronutrient fertilizers (A), and micronutrient fertilizers (C) exhibited the lowest levels of Fe and Zn. Furthermore, the pots receiving macronutrient fertilizer combined with glyphosate (B), as well as those receiving macronutrient fertilizers (A) alone had the lowest concentrations of Mn and Cu micronutrients. Finally, in maize the lowest protein, fats, and carbohydrates (g/100g) were found in the pots treated with macronutrient fertilizer combined with glyphosate (B, 2.21 ± 0.2), micronutrient fertilizer (C, 8.57 ± 0.25), and glyphosates only (D, 57.34 ± 0.1). Maize treated with compost (G) showed the highest levels of Fe, Cu, and Zn, while macronutrient fertilizer combined with glyphosate (B) resulted in the lowest content of these micronutrients. Additionally, maize receiving micronutrient fertilizer (C) had the highest concentration of Mn, whereas those treated with glyphosates (D) had the lowest. Conclusions: Significant variations in soil’s mesophilic bacterial and fungal populations, micronutrient levels, and nutritional composition were observed, indicating treatment-related changes. Generally, treatment with micromineral fertilizer combined with glyphosate (B) seemed to deplete the soil while compost treatment improved. Compost-treated soils exhibited the highest mesophilic bacterial and fungal count, as well as Fe and Zn micronutrient concentrations. The use of agrochemicals also had a negative effect on maize yield quality. The fluctuations in the soil parameters underscore the multifaceted effects of agrochemical treatments.

In the context of evolving perceptions of sexuality, particularly within the realm of health and disability, this study investigates the impact of multiple sclerosis (MS) on female sexual function and quality of life. A quantitative study involving 130 female MS patients aged 35 to 50 was conducted, employing measures such as The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), The Multiple Sclerosis Intimacy and Sexuality Questionnaire-19 (MSISQ-19), and The Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). Results indicate a significant association between greater sexual dysfunction and poorer quality of sex life, alongside the correlation of increased fatigue with diminished sexual satisfaction. Factors such as education level, time of diagnosis, and treatment regimen also influenced outcomes. Findings underscore the importance of supportive interventions, including counseling, to enhance the quality of sex life for women with disabilities, particularly those with MS.

The article "Ensuring Quality Medicine is Not a Single Event but a Combined Effort of a Pharmaceutical Company" explores the multifaceted approach required to maintain high standards in pharmaceutical manufacturing. It emphasizes that quality assurance in medicine production is not an isolated event but a continuous, integrated process involving multiple departments and stages. The article highlights the roles of research and development, rigorous clinical trials, regulatory compliance, and robust manufacturing practices in ensuring the efficacy and safety of medicines. It also discusses the importance of quality control measures, such as stringent testing protocols and regular audits, to detect and mitigate potential issues early. The collaboration between different teams within a pharmaceutical company, including scientists, engineers, and quality assurance professionals, is crucial for sustaining quality throughout the product lifecycle. Moreover, the article addresses the necessity of adhering to global standards and guidelines, such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), to ensure consistency and reliability in drug production. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement and vigilance, pharmaceutical companies can effectively safeguard public health and maintain trust in their products. This holistic approach underscores that delivering quality medicine is an ongoing commitment requiring coordinated efforts across the entire organization.

ABSTRACT Lubricants play a crucial role in reducing friction and wear between surfaces in relative motion. Engine oil, as a lubricant, is specifically designed to minimize friction and wear between the moving parts of different equipment and machinery. Engine oil blending serves the purpose of adjusting the variety of lubricants available to meet specific performance requirements. Through blending, it is possible to tailor the characteristics of the lubricating oil, such as viscosity, stability, and additive content, to optimize its effectiveness in reducing friction, protecting engine components, and enhancing overall equipment performance. By customizing lubricant formulations through blending, manufacturers can address the diverse lubrication needs of modern engines and machinery, ensuring smooth operation, longevity, and efficiency.To enhance the quality of the lubricant and achieve the desired high-performance multi-grade engine oil, a systematic approach was followed. The process began with testing the specific gravity of the oil using a hydrometer and thermometer to ensure accurate measurements. Subsequently, 5 liters of base oil were carefully measured and poured into a stainless steel reactor pot to serve as the blending vessel. Following this, 1 liter of paraffin oil (100N) was added to the base oil to introduce specific properties to the blend. To further optimize the formulation, 0.42 kg (7% of the total blend) of additives, including a selection of specific performance-enhancing compounds, was incorporated. These additives, such as Aspen, Tackifier, and other essential components like anti-wear, corrosion inhibitors, detergents, dispersants, and antioxidants, were meticulously measured and added to the mix. Through this precise blending process, the goal was to craft a high-quality multi-grade engine oil that meets the stringent performance requirements for various operating conditions and equipment types. After the melted Aspen and dissolved tackifier were added to the mixture, thorough stirring was carried out to ensure uniform distribution until a homogeneous blend was achieved. The mixture was then exposed to heat to facilitate the reaction between the base oil and additives, reaching a temperature of 70°C for optimal blending. Subsequently, 0.5 kg of viscosity index improver was introduced into the mixture and stirred continuously for a period of 5 minutes to ensure proper integration. Following this step, 5 grams of dye were carefully added to the mixture, and stirring was continued to evenly disperse the coloring agent throughout the blend. This meticulous process aimed to ensure that all components were effectively incorporated, facilitating the production of a high-quality, customized multi-grade engine oil with enhanced performance characteristics and optimal lubricating properties. After subjecting the mixture to a temperature of 70°C, the heat source was removed, allowing the product to gradually cool down to room temperature, which was estimated to be around 30°C. Following this cooling process, the product underwent a filtration step to remove any residual impurities present in the mixture. A sample of the purified product was then extracted for further analysis. Quality control tests were meticulously carried out on the sample to ensure that the product met the rigorous standards set by the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON). The results obtained from the quality control tests were highly promising, indicating that the product indeed complied with the stringent specifications outlined by the regulatory body. This adherence to quality standards is essential in ensuring the product's reliability and performance in various applications. The successful outcome of the quality control test underscores the meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence in the production process. The rigorous quality control procedures implemented in the analysis of the product highlight the commitment to upholding high standards of quality and safety in the manufacturing process. By consistently meeting and exceeding industry regulations and standards, the product not only demonstrates its reliability but also reflects a dedication to customer satisfaction and product excellence. The adherence to the SON standards showcases a commitment to producing top-quality products that meet the needs and expectations of consumers and industry stakeholders alike.

Background/Objectives: Parental internalizing issues, particularly maternal mental health, can significantly influence adolescents' mental health by altering parenting behaviors and roles. This study aims to explore how parental rejection, a dimension of both maternal and paternal behavior, moderates the relationship between parental depression, anxiety, and stress with adolescents' mental health and quality of life. We hypothesized that parental rejection would have a significant moderating effect on these relationships; Methods: This cross-sectional, non-interventional study involved 206 parents (138 mothers) of adolescents aged 12-18 years from the general population. Participants were recruited online via convenience sampling and completed the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS), the Parental Acceptance-Rejection Questionnaire, the KIDSCREEN-27 to evaluate adolescents' quality of life, and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire to assess adolescents' mental health; Results: Parental rejection was found to moderate the relationship between maternal anxiety and adolescents' quality of life, as well as between maternal anxiety and adolescents' mental health problems. Paternal rejection moderated the relationship between paternal stress and adolescents' mental health. However, parental rejection did not moderate the relationship between parental depression and adolescents' quality of life or mental health; Conclusions: These findings emphasize the significant role of maternal rejection in the association between maternal mental health, particularly anxiety, and adolescents' mental health outcomes. Paternal rejection also showed some moderating effects, though to a lesser extent. These results underscore the importance of considering both maternal and paternal influences in adolescent mental health and quality of life. Further research is necessary to fully understand the gender-specific dynamics of these relationships.

In this study, we adopt a unique approach by utilizing the responses of human autonomic systems to gauge the abundance of pollutants in inhaled air. Air pollution has numerous impacts on human health on a variety of time scales. This study uses biometric observations of the human autonomic response on the second timescale to investigate how the human body autonomically responds to inhaled pollutants in microenvironments, including particulate matter. PM1 and PM2.5, carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and nitric oxide (NO) on small temporal and spatial scales. These pollutants are exemplars of the wider human exposome. We compare two experimental approaches that use a similar methodology, employing a biometric suite to capture the physiological responses of cyclists and sensors to monitor the pollutants in the air surrounding them. We employ machine learning algorithms to estimate the levels of these pollutants and decipher the body’s automatic reactions to them. We observed high precision in predicting PM1, PM2.5 and CO2 using a limited set of biometrics from participants. Although the predictions for NO2 and NO were reliable at lower concentrations, the precision varied throughout the data range. This discrepancy suggests the potential to improve our models with more comprehensive data collection or advanced machine learning techniques.

Advanced air treatment systems have the potential to reduce airborne infection risk, improve indoor air quality (IAQ) and reduce energy consumption, but few studies reported practical implementation and performance. PlasmaShield®, an advanced multi-modal HVAC-integrated system was directly compared with a standard MERV-13 system in a post-surgical pediatric healthcare setting. The evaluation entailed monitoring of multi-size airborne particles, bioaerosols and key IAQ parameters. Measurements were made of outside air, recovery room supply air and air in the occupied space for 3 days prior to, and after, installation of the PlasmaShield system. Compared with the existing arrangement, very significant reductions in particle number concentrations were observed in the occupied space, especially with virus-like submicron particles. Significant reductions in airborne culturable bacteria and fungi were observed in the supply air, with more modest reductions in the occupied space. In the case of virus-like particles, there was an 8-fold improvement in equivalent clean air, suggesting a 5-fold infection risk reduction for long range exposure. The data suggest multiple benefits of airborne particle and biaerosol reduction, with applications beyond healthcare. Long term studies are recommended to confirm the combined IAQ, health and energy benefits.

Genetic enhancement of grain production and quality is a priority in wheat breeding projects. In this study, we assessed two key agronomic traits - grain protein content (GPC) and thousand kernel weight (TKW) - across 179 Bulgarian contemporary and historic varieties, and landraces in three growing seasons. Significant phenotypic variation existed for both traits among genotypes and seasons, and no discernible difference was evident between the old and modern accessions. To understand the genetic basis of the traits, we conducted a genome-wide association study with MLM using phenotypic data from the crop seasons, best linear unbiased estimators, genotypic data from the 25K Infinium iSelect array, and a Bonferroni-adjusted p-value. As a result, 776 significant quantitative trait nucleotides (QTNs) organized into quantitative trait loci were discovered, including 25 loci associated with GPC, and 35 loci linked to TKW. Additionally, 14 environmentally stable QTNs were identified for TKW. Certain loci on chromosomes 2A, 3A, and 6B favorably in-fluenced GPC, while the locus on chromosome 6D impacted TKW positively. These loci may reflect novel associations to the two traits. Annotations for proteins involved in the remobilization of carbon and nitrogen from vegetative tissues to developing grain during senescence, as well as in the following buildup of resources required for seed germination, have been found for selected pu-tative candidate genes. These include genes coding for 11S globulin seed storage protein, glutamine synthetase, metalloendopeptidase, components of the ubiquitin/proteasome system, sucrose transporter, alpha-amylase, NAC and bZIP transcription factors. Our findings highlight promising genomic regions for targeted breeding programs aimed at improving grain yield and protein content.

Background: School nursing plays a crucial role in promoting the health and well-being of students in educational settings. Previous research has highlighted its protective effect across various health domains, including substance use, mental health, violence, and sexual health. Despite its importance, the job satisfaction of school nurses and the factors influencing it have been insufficiently addressed in scientific research, underscoring the need to better understand their challenges and barriers. Therefore, the objective of this research is to evaluate the perceived job satisfaction and professional quality of life of school nurses at a national level in Spain. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using the Font-Roja Job Satisfaction Questionnaire and the CPV-35 Professional Quality of Life Questionnaire. The sample included 553 school nurses from different geographical regions in Spain, selected through school nursing groups and associations. Data were collected from November 2023 to February 2024. Results: The majority of the nurses were women (68%), with a median age of around 40 years and predominantly less than 5 years of work experience (56%). Significant differences were observed in job satisfaction and professional quality of life depending on the employing entity (healthcare and educational settings). Factors such as workload, institutional support, and work experience influenced the perception of job satisfaction. Conclusions: We affirm that this study, being one of the first of its kind at a national level in Spain, highlights the need to develop effective strategies to improve the job satisfaction and professional quality of life of school nurses. School nurses in Spain present a moderately high level of job satisfaction, although there are significant differences in factors such as status and job monotony depending on the sector of employment (Healthcare, Education, Others). Nurses in educational contexts report lower levels of job satisfaction, influenced by the nature of the work, interpersonal relationships, opportunities for professional development, and institutional support. Additionally, work experience impacts satisfaction, being more positive for nurses with greater experience. We also affirm that the professional quality of life of school nurses is homogeneous, with an average score of 6.000 on the CPV-35. Although professional competence is uniformly perceived, work pressure is a common concern. Working more than 37.5 hours per week is associated with higher professional quality of life, although also with lower job satisfaction. Only half of the schools have a school nurse, highlighting the need for policies that ensure equity in service provision. There is also a recognized need for health training for teachers, which could improve support for nurses and student health. Active interaction with the educational community reinforces the integral role of school nurses and emphasizes the importance of the socioeconomic context in interventions and resource allocation. Keywords: School nursing, job satisfaction, professional quality of life, work factors, educational settings.

Urban air pollution is a critical global environmental issue, necessitating an understanding of the spatiotemporal characteristics and driving factors for effective environmental protection and urban planning. This study introduced an advanced air quality assessment system that integrates environmental, socio-economic, and urban layout factors, addressing gaps in traditional models that often overlook the impact of urban spatial structures. Analyzing air quality data from Beijing's main urban area (2016-2020) alongside multi-source geographic data, the research develops a comprehensive evaluation system, incorporating 14 key driving factors. Employing Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) and Multi-scale Geographically Weighted Regression (MGWR), the study quantitatively assessed the influence and spatial heterogeneity of these factors. Findings revealed an annual improvement in air quality, with a U-shaped seasonal pattern and significant spatial clustering (Global Moran’s I = 0.922). The MGWR model, in particular, provided a superior fit over GWR, effectively capturing the spatial variability of factors. Variables such as NDVI), economic output (GDP), and humidity space adjustment capability (HSAC) showed significant positive spatial impacts on air quality, while population density (POP), temperature (TEMP), and road density (RD) exhibited negative effects. These insights enhance the understanding of air pollution dynamics and aid in refining urban planning strategies.

Nowadays, determining the socioeconomic factors' influence on environmental quality is a crucial issue for policymakers. We aim to explore the impact of socioeconomic factors i.e., ethnic conflicts inform ethnic fragmentation, institutions quality effectiveness, and energy consumption on environmental quality by testing the various hypotheses (Pollution Halo Hypothesis, IPAT, and EKC) in 40 selected Asian countries throughout 1993-2019. We also use a set of control variables which are gross domestic product per capita, foreign direct investment inflows, and population growth to determine their impact on environmental quality. We use the Panel Quintile Regression Method of 0.25, 0.5, and 0.75 to analyze the results. We find ethnic conflict negatively affects the environmental quality at all quantiles. The institution's variables regulatory quality and rule of law negatively influence the environmental quality. Our result supports Porter's hypothesis because the effect of direct foreign investment on the amount of CO2 emissions is negative and significant at 0.25, 0.5, and 0.75 quantiles which states that foreign direct investment in the host country supports environmental quality. Furthermore, our results support the IPAT hypothesis in selected Asian countries.

To explore the coupling mechanism between urban-rural transformation (URT) and the ecological environment in counties forms the basis for achieving high-quality and sustainable county development. Despite the richness of research on the relationship between urban and rural development and the ecological environment, the county level remains the basic unit of rural revitalization in China, and further research on the coupling mechanism between URT and the ecological environment at this level is needed. Therefore, the study developed an evaluation system for URT, incorporated NDVI data indicators, and employed the coupling coordination degree (CCD) model along with GIS tools to investigate the spatio-temporal pattern of URT and NDVI evolution, and the CCD in each administrative village within Lingbao City. Additionally, a geoDetector model was employed to analyze the influencing factors affecting the CCD of URT and NDVI. Finally, the study explores the coupling mechanism and optimization path. The result shows that: (1) During the study period, the URT level in administrative villages within the study area markedly improved, while NDVI exhibited an increasing-then-decreasing trend; (2) The CCD between URT and NDVI in the northern and central regions of the study area is higher than that in the southern region, with an overall low level; (3) The spatial heterogeneity of CCD is significant, largely influenced by socio-economy, natural environment, policy funds, and geographical location, where the elements comprising CCD mutually influence each other; (4) Drawing upon the coupling and coordination dynamics between URT and the ecological environment within Lingbao City, this research categorizes it into seven types with distinct optimization paths. This study provides a valuable reference for guiding the high-quality and sustainable development strategies for mountainous and hilly counties within the Yellow River basin.

Resistance spot welding is an established joining process in the production of safety-relevant components in the automotive industry. Therefore, a consecutive process monitoring is essential to meet the high-quality requirements. Artificial neural networks can be used to evaluate the process parameters and signals to ensure the individual spot weld quality. The predictive accuracy of such algorithms depends on the provided training data set and the prediction of untrained data is challenging. The aim of this paper is to investigate the extrapolation capability of the multi-layer perceptron model. That means, that the predictive performance of the model will be tested with data that clearly differs from the training data in terms of material and coating composition. Therefore, three multi-layer perceptron regression models were implemented to predict the nugget diameter from process data. The three models were able to predict the trained datasets very well. The models, which were provided with features from the dynamic resistance curve predicted the new dataset better than the model with only process parameters. This study shows the beneficial influence of the process signals on the predictive accuracy and robustness of artificial neural network algorithms. Especially, when predicting a data set from outside of the training space.

In recent years, online review system attracts attention to assess seller-customer relations in the world of e-commerce. To address the quality concern of online review, especially incentivized ones, this study evaluates credibility and consistency based on reviews’ volume, length, and content to distinguish the impact of incentives on customer review behavior, improving review quality, and purchase decision-making. Software product reviews collected from software review websites, including Capterra, Software Advice, and GetApp undergo Exploratory Data Analysis (EDA) to reveal critical features such as cost, support, usability, and product features. The indirect impact of companies’ size, direct impact of users’ experience, and different impacts of changing situations during years on the incentive reviews’ volume are major findings of sentiment analysis. A/B testing results show a minimal to no impact of such reviews on purchasing decisions, highlighting discrepancies in credibility and consistency in volume, length, and content. Employing advanced techniques like Sentence-BERT (SBERT) and TF-IDF, the study explores semantic differences in reviews to improve recommendation systems for a more customized shopping experience. This approach seeks to establish a framework that discerns between review types and their effect on customer behavior. The findings contribute to developing more sophisticated and consistent e-commerce solutions, emphasizing the importance of authentic and reliable online reviews in influencing consumer choices.

Remote Photoplethysmography (rPPG) has emerged as a non-intrusive and promising physiological sensing capability in HCI research, gradually extending its applications in health-monitoring and clinical care contexts. With advanced machine learning models, recent datasets collected in real-world conditions have gradually enhanced the performance of rPPG methods in recovering heart-rate and heart-rate variability metrics. However, the signal quality of reference ground-truth PPG data in existing datasets is by and large neglected, while poor quality references negatively influence models. Here, this work introduces a new imaging blood volume pulse (iBVP) dataset of synchronized RGB and thermal infrared videos with PPG ground-truth signals from the ear and its high resolution signal quality labels, for the first time. Participants perform rhythmic breathing, head-movement, and stress-inducing tasks, which help reflect real-world variations in psycho-physiological states. This work conducts dense (per sample) signal quality assessment to discard noisy segments of ground-truth and corresponding video frames. We further present a novel end-to-end machine learning framework, iBVPNet that features an efficient and effective spatio-temporal feature aggregation for reliable estimation of BVP signals. Finally, this work examines the feasibility of extracting BVP signals from thermal video frames, which is underexplored. The iBVP dataset and source codes are publicly available for research use.

The popularity of handheld devices for point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) has increased in recent years due to their portability and cost-effectiveness. However, POCUS has the drawback of lower imaging quality compared to conventional ultrasound, because of hardware limitations. Improving the quality of POCUS through post-image processing would therefore be beneficial, with deep learning approaches showing promise in this regard. This review investigates the state-of-the-art progress of image enhancement using deep learning suitable for POCUS applications. A systematic search was conducted from January 2024 to February 2024 on PubMed and Scopus. From the 457 articles that were found, the full text was retrieved for 69 articles. From this selection, 15 articles were identified addressing multiple quality enhancement aspects. A disparity in the baseline performance of the low-quality input images was seen across these studies, ranging between 8.65–29.24 dB for the Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR) and 0.03-0.71 for the Structural Similarity Index Measure (SSIM). In six studies, where both PSNR and the SSIM metrics were reported for the baseline and the generated images a mean difference of 6.60 (SD ± 2.99) and 0.28 (SD ± 0.15) was observed for the PSNR and SSIM, respectively. The reported performances demonstrate the potential of deep-learning-based image enhancement for POCUS. However, variability in the extent of performance gain across datasets and articles was notable, and the heterogeneity across articles makes quantifying the exact improvements challenging.

In the current complex and uncertain macroeconomic situation, improving the inherent resilience of the new energy vehicle industry chain is the key to effectively addressing various risks and challenges, and achieving dynamic balance between high-quality industrial development and industrial chain security. Based on the basic concept of resilience and the actual situation of new energy vehicle industry chain development, this study constructs a comprehensive evaluation index system for the resilience of the new energy vehicle industry chain, which includes four dimensional first-level indicators of coping resistance, adaptive resilience, autonomous control and leading competitiveness. In addition, it is measured by combining the data related to the new energy vehicle industry chain in Changzhou City. Our study shows that the situation on the new energy vehicle industry chain is complicated, and the comprehensive evaluation index system is more favorable for evaluating its resilience level.

: Following the phenomenal growth of and competition among coffee chain retailers, the coffee chain market has expanded substantially thanks to rising income levels, the increasing young population, and rapidly changing lifestyles. Attracting consumers’ attention and enhancing their loyalty behaviors have become very difficult for coffee chain retailers. This study seeks to understand the mechanisms through which emotions and the dedication-constraint model lead to brand loyalty and willingness to pay more to certain coffee chain retailers. Emotions and the dedication-constraint model are major factors in the research, but few studies have combined them to examine the formation of loyalty behaviors. This study synthesizes emotional responses and the dedication-constraint model to develop a theoretical model. Based on the ambivalent view of emotions, it also examines how positive and negative emotions affect the combination of brand loyalty and willingness to pay more to certain coffee chain retailers. Moreover, it identifies the antecedents of affective and calculative commitments in the context of coffee chain retailers. Our findings indicate that loyalty behaviors (dedication- and constraint-based mechanisms from brand loyalty and willingness to pay more to certain coffee chain retailers), emotional responses, and affective and calculative commitments significantly affect brand loyalty directly and indirectly through both positive and negative emotions. Furthermore, service quality, physical environment quality, and price fairness significantly affect affective commitments, while price fairness significantly affects both affective and calculative commitments. Finally, affective and calculative commitments significantly affect willingness to pay more, both directly and indirectly, through positive emotions and affect it directly through negative emotions. The results’ theoretical and managerial implications and possible future research directions are discussed.

(1) Background: Sleep disordered breathing represent a growing public health concern, especially among children and adolescents. Full-night polysomnography is considered the gold standard for diagnosing obstructive sleep apnea. Our goals are to identify personal and environmental risk factors for the onset and persistence of sleep respiratory disorders. We also want to investigate the differences in neuropsychological profiles; (2) Methods: This is an observational, retrospective cohort study. We collected information on adenoidectomy or adenotonsillectomy. We reviewed the clinical history and preoperative visits and collected data through a telephone questionnaire. Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ) and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) are questionnaires used for screening sleep respiratory disorders in children. The data were statistically analyzed it using SPSS version 22.0 for Windows (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL); (3) Results: The study involved 138 patients, but only 100 parents participated. A higher percentage of patients with sleep disordered breathing were observed to have mothers who smoked during pregnancy. A smaller proportion of patients with sleep disordered breathing had a habit of using a pacifier. A rise in physical results is associated with a reduction in the PSQ at follow-up (p=0.051). An increase of overall academic achievement is associated with an average decrease in the PSQ at follow-up (p&lt;0.0001). A more significant proportion of patients undergoing adenotonsillectomy were observed to have a history of prematurity and cesarean birth (4) Conclusions: These results provide essential information on the effectiveness and effects of adenotonsillectomy intervention compared to adenoidectomy intervention and the factors associated with SDB in children undergoing these interventions.

The Atlantic Canada Together Enhancing Acute Stroke Treatment (ACTEAST) project is a Modified Quality Improvement Collaborative (mQIC) designed to improve ischemic stroke treatment rates and time-based efficiency in Atlantic Canada. This study specifically evaluates the implementation of the mQIC in Nova Scotia using qualitative methods. The mQIC spanned six months and included two Learning Sessions, multiple webinars, and a per-site virtual visit. Each session was followed by an action planning period to guide implementation efforts over the following 2-4 months. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) was utilized to develop a pre-tested, semi-structured interview guide, which aimed to uncover barriers and facilitators to mQIC implementation. Interviews were conducted with 14 healthcare professionals, generating 454 references that were coded into 28 CFIR constructs. Notably, 84% of these references were positively framed as facilitators. Despite this, significant barriers were identified, including resource availability, competing priorities, communication challenges, and difficulties engaging key stakeholders. Some barriers were particularly prominent during specific phases of implementation. The study findings offer valuable insights into the implementation of quality improvement initiatives in stroke care. They underscore the importance of recognizing and addressing context-specific barriers, while also leveraging identified facilitators to drive successful implementation and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

Background: Since 2010, Burkina Faso has developed and initiated community-based management of childhood illnesses. Following the increased presence of community health workers and the adoption of free community health care, this study aims to assess community satisfaction with curative care administered by community health workers. Methodology: It was a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study. Data were collected in the health districts of Boussé and Boussouma from 20 February to 30 March 2023 for quantitative data and from 12 to 30 January 2024 for qualitative data using a questionnaire (household survey) and an interview grid (focus groups). Analyses were conducted using SPSS IBM 25 and Nvivo 14. Results: Households benefit from oral curative care when using CHWs, but are not satisfied with the temporal accessibility of these community health workers. Temporal accessibility and awareness during care have a significant influence on household satisfaction. Conclusion: Curative care by community health workers is effective, but its use could be improved by addressing the unavailability of community health workers, inputs and better communication during care.

In order to cope with the limited supply of feed for global animal production, there is a pressing need to explore alternative feed resources. Orange pulp, a by-product of agriculture and industry, has shown potential to positively or neutrally impact pig productive performance when included in their diet. However, there is a lack of research on the effects of fermented navel orange pulp (FNOP) on pig growth and productive performance. This study aimed to investigate the effects of FNOP as a dry matter substitute on pig’s growth performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality, meat nutrition, and serum biochemical indicators. The experiment involved 128 finishing Tibetan pigs, divided into four feed treatment groups, with varying levels (0%, 5%, 10% and 15%) of FNOP replacing dry matter in the basal diet. The results indicated that substituting 5% to 15% FNOP had no adverse effects on pig growth performance. However, at a 15% substitution rate, there was a decrease in serum growth hormone and IGF-1 levels, along with an increase in feed-to-gain ratio. A 10% FNOP replacement notably increased the eye muscle area of pigs. Additionally, 5% and 10% FNOP substitutions reduced the drip loss of pork. The study also found that substituting 5% to 15% FNOP increased unsaturated fatty acids and umami nucleotide contents in pork, as well as raised serum total protein and uric acid (nucleotide metabolism related-product) levels. These findings suggest that moderate FNOP substitution might enhance meat quality and maintain growth and productive performance in Tibetan pigs by improving protein synthesis and nucleotide metabolism, while also reducing feed costs. The optimal substitution ratio identified was 10%.

Maize silage is produced to alleviate forage shortage on dairy animals, particularly during the dry season. Microorganisms play a significant role in silage fermentation and thus determine the silage quality. Therefore, modulation of microorganisms in silage may help prohibit undesired bacteria and improve silage quality. Hence, this study evaluated the effects of tannin extract as an additive on fermentative quality, aerobic stability and microbial composition of maize silage. Therefore, a mini-silo experiment of maize with five treatments was conducted for 75 days. The results showed that additives modulate silage microorganisms. In addition, tannin extract reduced certain silage bacteria while promoting others. However, this is without affecting the silage’s fermentative quality and aerobic stability. All silage fermented well with a pH below 4.2. Tannin extract improved dry matter recovery of silage while reducing silage weight loss. Furthermore, tannin extract suppressed the establishment of undesired bacteria, such as genera Dysgonomonas, Gluconacetobacter and Clostridium, while promoting desirable bacteria, such as genera Lactobacillus and Weissella, which attributed to silage quality. Therefore, it is concluded that tannins can be strategically used as silage additives to modulate microbial composition of silage and improve silage quality by promoting the dominance of desirable bacteria in silage.

Water quality assessment in pastoral of Tibetan Plateau, which is water sources for about 40% of world's population and the runoff-yield area of Yellow rivers, is very important. In this paper, Xiahe county which belongs to Tibetan Plateau pastoral was investigated. Six parameters(via, chloride, COD, ammonia nitrogen, nitrate, fluoride, sulfate) were selected to assess the water quality and health degree by using fuzzy comprehensive evaluation methods. The hydrochemical type in surface water was of HCO3--Mg2+-Ca2+ type. The cations and anions in surface water were mainly from weathering and dissolution of carbonate rock. Results showed that the water quality in all 69 sampling sites was all of class Ⅰ. The integrated health degree reached more than 0.85 and the health rate were 100%. Although ammonia nitrogen was regarded as the main contamination factor, but it had a little effect on the entire body of water. Overall, the surface water qualities of most samples in Xiahe County was good condition.

This paper presents an advanced software tool for precise laser beam propagation analysis, focusing on the calculation of the M2 value, a key measure of beam quality. Developed in Python, the software integrates libraries like NumPy, Matplotlib, and SciPy for robust data handling and accurate polynomial fitting. It features a user-friendly interface for easy data input, analysis, and visualization, making it accessible to both professionals and novices. The tool has been rigorously validated against theoretical models (M2=1) and experimental data (showing M2=1.2548 and 1.3166), ensuring high accuracy and reliability. It visualizes beam width data and fitted polynomial curves, aiding in assessing beam propagation characteristics and optimizing laser systems. Future enhancements include additional beam quality metrics, machine learning integration, and cloud-based functionality. This tool significantly advances laser beam analysis, benefiting research and industrial applications by improving performance and efficiency. The software is available at DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.13325911

(1) Background: Sarcopenia, a condition characterized by a decrease in muscle mass and strength, is very common in patients with obesity and can be aggravated by bariatric surgery, potentially compromising the clinical results of surgery. There is increasing interest in pa-tient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) to assess results in other health variables that may be especially important for individual patients. The role of exercise in enhancing health-related quality of life (HRQoL) after surgery remains underexplored. This study investigated the impact of exercise on HRQoL in bariatric sarcopenic patients via the Sarcopenia Quality of Life (SarQoL) questionnaire. (2) Method: Candidates for surgery took part in the EXPOBAR program and were randomized into experimental and control groups. The intervention lasted 16 weeks, starting one month after surgery, and included combined aerobic and resistance exercise. Outcomes, including body composition and physical fitness parameters, were measured before and after the intervention. All participants underwent gastric bypass surgery (RYGB). (3) Results: The baseline characteristics of the participants were not significantly different between the two groups. All patients met the criteria for moderate/severe obesity and the EASO/ESPEN criteria for sarcopenia, namely, reduced muscle strength assessed by grip strength and reduced muscle mass assessed by the ASMM score/weight. After completing the study protocol, patients in both groups had increased HRQoL, but the increase was significantly greater in the intervention group than in the control group. (4) Conclusion: Our findings suggest that exercise plays a crucial role in improving both physical and psychological well-being in postbariatric patients, highlighting the need to integrate structured exercise programs in post-surgery care. This study was prospectively registered at Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03497546).

The quality of healthcare services is a very important indicator of social welfare in developed and emerging countries. Good quality levels are critical to ensuring patient safety, improving health outcomes, increasing patient satisfaction, optimizing resource utilization, and meeting regulatory requirements. The stable and sustainable operation of medical institutions urgently requires the establishment of a reliable and effective medical quality performance evaluation platform. However, the complexity of the evaluation process, involving numerous evaluators and the consideration of different subjective and objective criteria, poses significant challenges and essentially constitutes a group multi-criteria decision-making problem. This article uses the overall medical environment of the institution, medical service attitude, medical security, administrative service measures, etc. as measurement standards to deal with this challenge. It proposes a medical service quality measurement model suitable for both qualitative and quantitative analysis. In view of the heterogeneity of information, the two-tuple fuzzy language calculation method is introduced to enable evaluators to skillfully manage diverse information and effectively avoid potential information omission problems in the subjective evaluation integration process. The effectiveness and feasibility of the model were demonstrated by applying it to the operational framework of a medical institution in central Taiwan.

Aims: This study aims to evaluate the impact of family-centered empowerment on Jordanian adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1DM), focusing on their HbA1c levels, self-efficacy, and quality of life (QOL). Background: Poor glycemic management in adolescents with type 1 diabetes increases complications. Improved control is linked to various variables, but few studies focus on Middle Eastern populations. Methods: An experimental study involved 68 adolescents with T1DM visiting Jordanian Royal Medical Services' clinics. Two sets of participants were created: control (n = 34) and intervention (n = 34). Data was collected through face-to-face interviews and medical records. Results: The study found significant differences in self-efficacy scores between the intervention and control groups, with the intervention group experiencing a significant decrease in HbA1c readings and a significant difference in QOL between pre-program and post-program phases. Discussion: Family empowerment can significantly improve the lives of Jordanian teenagers with type 1 diabetes. This strategy leads to improved glycemic management, increased self-efficacy, and improved quality of life. Future treatments and health policies should recognize and value the critical role families play in the care of this population. Conclusion: The study suggests that patients with T1DM should receive continuous care education sessions, including self-care training, to improve their health. Nurses should also incorporate these training into treatment plans and educational programs for adolescents to enhance their QOL.

Quality of life (QoL) assessments are integral to cancer care, yet their effectiveness in providing essential information for supporting survivors varies. This study aimed to elucidate key indicators of QoL among colorectal cancer survivors from the perspective of healthcare professionals, and to evaluate existing QoL questionnaires in relation to these indicators. Two studies were conducted: a Delphi study to identify key QoL indicators and a scoping review of questionnaires suitable for colorectal cancer survivors. Fifty-four healthcare professionals participated in the Delphi study's first round, with 25 in the second. The study identified two primary QoL domains (Physical and Psychological) and 17 subdomains deemed most critical. Additionally, a review of 12 questionnaires revealed two instruments assessing the most important general domains. Findings underscored a misalignment between existing assessment tools and healthcare professionals' clinical priorities in working with colorectal cancer survivors. To enhance support for survivors' QoL, efforts are needed to develop instruments that better align with the demands of routine QoL assessment in clinical practice.

Background: Reliable HPV testing and genotyping are essential for quality assurance in HPV-based primary screening, disease management and for monitoring the impact of HPV vaccination. The clinical validation of HPV molecular diagnostic assays has significantly contributed to these objectives, however little emphasis has been placed in assuring sample quality. This study aims to assess the accuracy of sample cellularity assessment using C-C Motif Chemokine Receptor 5 (CCR5) gene target as a marker of sample adequacy in molecular diagnostics. Methods: Jurkat cell line samples were counted both using Thoma cell-counting chamber and Fluorescent-Activated Cell Sorting (FACS). Jurkat cell line samples at three different concentrations were subsequently evaluated using the OncoPredict HPV Quality Control (QC) real-time PCR assay, employing CCR5 for molecular cellularity quantification. Results: Cellularity values obtained were comparable across the 3 different methods for all dilutions of the cell line tested. Conclusions: The results obtained from this study show that CCR5 represents a promising molecular marker for the accurate quantification of sample cellularity, confirming its use as a reliable sample adequacy control, thus reducing the risk of “false negative” results.

Background: Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a long-term condition, which is more common among people aged 65 years or more. People with Parkinson (PwP) tend to lose motor functions and find themselves in more fatigue and pain, sometimes leading to anxiety, distress and in extreme cases, even depression. So far, there is no cure for PD and they need support from family members, healthcare professionals and carers, as the disease progresses. A large proportion of carers for PwP are their spouses. Progression of PD can result in loss of employment, reduced work hours or premature retirement, for both PwP and their carers. This poses a huge financial burden as income reduces on one hand, and expenses increase on the other. There is a lack of evidence on the societal costs of Parkinson's disease, and this study tries to fill that gap. Objectives: To examine the impact of financial distress on quality of life (QoL) and wellbeing of PwP and their carers in the UK. Methods: A mix of online and postal, cross-sectional survey was administered, which received responses from 853 respondents, out of which 776 were PwP and 546 were carers. The survey sought data on management of the socioeconomic, health and living conditions of PwP and their carers. Net effect of financial distress (cost of healthcare use, non-health expenditure, societal costs and other direct / indirect cost components) on QoL (and VAS scores) as well as wellbeing scores (life satisfaction and happiness scores) of PwP and their primary carers are estimated using simple linear regression models. Results: Financial burden of treatment increase whereas quality of life and wellbeing of PwP decrease with progression of PD. Similar association but of a milder magnitude is observed on quality of life of their primary carers. A strong negative association is found between quality of life of PwP, with financial burden, while holding for demographic and socioeconomic factors, and for disease progression and treatment. The QoL of carers increase up to a financial burden threshold, before it starts declining. This could be because of the increased expenditure in initial phases is associated with improved activities of daily living and lesser reliance on carers. Financial distress is more pronounced among PwP having annual income below £20,000. Despite a small representation of persons from ethnic minority (5 per cent representation), it is observed that the impact of financial distress could be more pronounced on PwPs from other ethnicities. Also, it would be more on women than on men, irrespective of ethnicity. Conclusion and Policy Implications: Cost of care cuts both ways, reduced or lost employment as well as increased expenses on healthcare. This results into a considerable financial distress and deterioration in quality of life and wellbeing of both PwP and carers. Most carers are spouses of PwPs, thus their physical and psychological health and wellbeing is found to deteriorate with the progression of PD due to increased burden of care. Therefore, informal / family carers should get support in the form of respite care. This can help revitalise their energy and psychological wellbeing. Financial distress indicators need to be explored further.

Power quality (PQ) plays an important role in ensuring the smooth operation of power systems. PQ disturbances may cause significant consequences, impacting the reliability and efficiency of power networks. This paper presents a comprehensive review of PQ within smart grids and the integration of renewable energy sources. Methods of detecting, classifying, optimizing, and mitigating PQ events are reviewed with providing a brief theoretical explanation for each technique. Related work done in the past two decades, was conducted, presenting a clear view of the development of research in a chronological order serving as a guide for future investigations in this field of study.

Estimating ground surface PM2.5 with fine spatiotemporal resolution is a critical technique for exposure assessments in epidemiological studies of its health risks. Previous studies have utilized monitoring, satellite remote sensing or air quality modeling data to evaluate the spatiotemporal variations of PM2.5 concentrations, but such studies rarely combined these data simultaneously. We develop a three-stage model to fuse PM2.5 monitoring data, satellite-derived aerosol optical depth (AOD) and community multi-scale air quality (CMAQ) simulations together and apply it to estimate daily PM2.5 at a spatial resolution of 0.1˚ over China. Performance of the three-stage model is evaluated using a cross-validation (CV) method step by step. CV results show that the finally fused estimator of PM2.5 is in good agreement with the observational data (RMSE = 23.00 μg/m^3 and R2 = 0.72) and outperforms either AOD-retrieved PM2.5 (R2 = 0.62) or CMAQ simulations (R2 = 0.51). According to step-specific CVs, in data fusion, AOD-retrieved PM2.5 plays a key role to reduce mean bias, whereas CMAQ provides all-spacetime-covered predictions, which avoids sampling bias caused by non-random incompleteness in satellite-derived AOD. Our fused products are more capable than either CMAQ simulations or AOD-based estimates in characterizing the polluting procedure during haze episodes and thus can support both chronic and acute exposure assessments of ambient PM2.5. Based on the products, averaged concentration of annual exposure to PM2.5 was 55.75 μg/m3, while averaged count of polluted days (PM2.5 > 75 μg/m3) was 81, across China during 2014. Fused estimates will be publicly available for future health-related studies.

Conventional cancer clinical trials can be time-consuming and expensive, often yielding results with limited applicability to real-world scenarios and presenting challenges for patient participation. Real-world data (RWD) studies offer a promising solution to address evidence gaps and provide essential information about the effects of cancer treatments in real-world settings. Defining RWD based on its original intent, which is the collection of data at the point of care for clinical purposes, can distinguish it from conventional clinical trial data. RWD can be generated using experimental designs that resemble those used in conventional clinical trials, but with several advantages, such as improved efficiency and a better balance between internal and external validity. RWD can support pharmacovigilance, insights into disease progression, and the development of external control groups. Prospective RWD collection enables evidence generation based on pragmatic clinical trials (PCTs) that support randomized study designs and expand clinical research to the point of care. To ensure the quality of real-world studies, it is crucial to implement auditable data abstraction methods and develop new incentives to capture clinically relevant data electronically at the point of care. The treatment landscape is constantly evolving, with the integration of front-line immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), either alone or in combination with chemotherapy, affecting subsequent treatment lines. Real-world effectiveness and safety in underrepresented populations, such as the elderly, patients with poor performance status (PS), hepatitis, or human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients, are still largely unexplored. Similarly, the cost-effectiveness and sustainability of these innovative agents are important considerations in the real world.

Considering the unquestionable role of education in economic development, it has an impact at a macroeconomic level—contributing to enhancing productivity and innovation, reducing poverty and promoting social cohesion—and at a personal level—ensuring the improvement of knowledge, skills and individual capabilities and promoting social values like empowerment and equality. Notably, quality education is recognized as one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which, jointly with other behaviors and attitudes, could impact the development of societies in other fields like health and well-being, cultural preservation, environmental sustainability and even peace and stability—all of them also listed as SDGs. However, the capacity, or not, to reach higher levels of compliance with quality in education (SDG 4) varies from country to country, according to the 2023 Sustainable Development Report results. Thus, the present study used a fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis to assess the conditions for attaining higher levels of quality education based on the different indicators used to measure SDG 4. The analysis will allow comparisons of results among different countries and provide information about the initiatives that could be relevant to increasing quality education worldwide and for policymakers.

Study Objectives: To (1) investigate the prevalence of sleep disorder symptoms in caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and (2) the relationships between caregiver sleep problems and their health-related quality of life and family quality of life. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study of caregivers (N=62) of children ages 6 to 11 years old diagnosed with ASD receiving care at a regional autism research and resource center. Measurements and Results: Participants completed the Sleep Habits Questionnaire (SHQ), the Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) SF-12, and the Beach Center Family Quality of Life Scale (FQOL). Caregivers with longer sleep duration reported better mental health and better family quality of life. Caregivers who reported insomnia symptoms, non-restorative sleep, and insufficient sleep were more likely to report poorer mental health than caregivers who did not report these sleep disorder symptoms. Caregivers with obstructive sleep apnea and restless legs syndrome experienced worse physical quality of life. Conclusions: The physical and mental health of the primary caregiver is essential to the support of the child with ASD and to the functioning of the family. The study findings point to the importance of future research and interventions to enhance sleep health in order to improve quality of life for caregivers of children with ASD.

This qualitative study explores the dynamics of customer satisfaction and supplier collaboration within Italian restaurant operations. Through in-depth interviews, participant observations, and document analysis, the research investigates key factors influencing these relationships. Trust and communication emerged as foundational elements, crucial for ensuring reliable ingredient supply and maintaining culinary authenticity. Quality and authenticity of ingredients were identified as primary drivers of customer satisfaction, underscoring the strategic role of suppliers in delivering superior dining experiences. Customer feedback played a pivotal role in shaping operational practices, highlighting the iterative process of adapting to customer preferences to enhance service delivery and loyalty. Emotional intelligence among managers facilitated effective supplier relationships, fostering collaborative partnerships and navigating operational challenges with empathy and skill. Economic considerations were vital in balancing cost efficiencies with quality standards, guiding strategic decisions in supplier management. Technological integration enhanced supply chain management, optimizing logistics and responsiveness to market demands. The adoption of sustainable sourcing practices reinforced restaurants’ commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement, aligning with consumer preferences for ethical dining options. The findings suggest actionable insights for restaurant managers to optimize supplier collaborations, enhance operational efficiency, and sustain competitive advantage in the hospitality industry.

The institutionalization of people with intellectual disabilities has been a common international response across cultures and generations that persists to this day. This chapter recounts its inheritance and manifestation in modern service provision. An institutional mind-set persists among clinicians and managers despite policies that emphasise the rights of persons with intellectual disability and anti-discriminatory practice. Alternative provision is rooted in person-centred practice; with a growing body of evidence for the improved quality of life that results from it. A reflective activity encourages readers to examine a recent case when they were associated with an institutional placement and what alternatives might have been sought. Yet alliances with other professionals, self-advocates and family carers will be needed to effect real and lasting changes in our service cultures and even then, the long shadows of institutional care may still persist.

Sachet water (SW) is a major source of drinking water in most Nigerian homes, thus making it a possible conveyance medium for health risks due to contamination rather than for replenishment of the body. This study collected SW from three busy neighborhoods and investigated for the presence of indicator bacteria – Escherichia coli (E. coli), Total Coliform (TC), Total Heterophilic Bacteria (THB), and Staphylococcus – and some physio-chemical parameters – total dissolved solids (TDS), pH, electrical conductivity (EC), and salinity. Multi-variable and exploratory statistical methods were applied to the results to determine correlations between bacterial contamination levels and perceived brand reputation. Bacteriological test with raw SW samples appeared too numerous to count (TNC) and thus required serial dilutions. After seven dilutions, results obtained revealed that SW brands with good reputation had no TC and E. coli and was statistically significant with groupings of other SW brands (χ2 = 12.28; p < 0.05 and χ2 = 37.96; p < 0.05) respectively. Additionally, SW brands with poor reputation had mean values of TC (19.7X10^8 cfu/ml;14X10^8 cfu/ml1.15X10^8 cfu/ml) and E.coli (18.2X10^8 cfu/ml;38.7X10^8 cfu/ml,32.4X10^8 cfu/ml) exceeding threshold value of zero set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Only one sample from poor reputation brand tested positive for Staphylococcus and was not statistically significant (χ2 =5.2191; p = 0.074). Principal Component Analysis (PCA)/ Factor Analysis (FA) revealed that most of the SW had fecal contamination in an alarming magnitude. Therefore, this study suggests that periodic cleaning of distribution lines, location specific treatment, QC and QA measures should be taken to reduce water security risk for SW consumption in the region.

Asphalt binder requires more investigation to be accurately and precisely extracted since it is a significant procedure for quality control quality assurance (QC/QA) and subsequent binder characterization. In this research, the authors provided a hands-on experience with binder extraction to deliver recommendations concerning the sensitive steps that may affect the outcomes (extracted binder content, P_be%). Based on the extraction by the centrifuge method, two mineral matter determination methods (ashing and centrifuge) were addressed. Field cores were investigated with comparing the P_be% to the actual binder content, P_ba%. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey Post-Hoc statistical analyses, in addition to linear least square regression analysis, were used to show the significance of difference according to 38 variant cores randomly obtained from the field segments (in-service roads) via the first two weeks from the construction date. Such cores involved reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP), reclaimed asphalt shingles (RAS), and a wide range of additives. The two extraction methods were compared with concluding that the centrifuge method was highly recommended based on a quantitative evaluation, which delivered the same average P_ba% based on the 38 cores. Furthermore, the centrifuge method provided much saving in the experimental time (almost half the time required for the ashing method). It was found that the ashing outcomes were equal to the centrifuge outcomes with disregarding the ammonium carbonate addition. Thus, it could be recommended to reassess the ammonium carbonate addition as it might excessively compensate for fake minerals that have not been lost by the ignition oven.

The fish supply chain (FSC) industry faces a significant challenge in terms of maintaining fish quality and authenticity throughout the chain. The main goal of modern FSC systems is tracking and tracing the fish product at each stage, from harvester to end customer, as well as assessing its quality and authenticity. Integrating FSC with new technologies, such as Blockchain (BC), Big Data, Artificial intelligence (AI), and Internet of Things (IoT), enhances fish product traceability, authenticity, visibility, and security. We propose a BC-based FSC framework that follows a layered architecture consisting of a SC layer, an IoT layer, and a BC layer. We integrate a new AI-based hand-held device, a Quality, Adulteration & Traceability (QAT) device, that can identify fish species and assess fish quality. We leverage the key features of BC and smart contracts, deployed over the Ethereum platform for the proposed framework integrated with QAT technology. Extensive validation of smart contracts is conducted to prove its practical feasibility.

Conclusions: The quantitative method provides a large-scale overview of the biometry measurements of an entire practice. Image audits can then be focused on sonographers whose measurements are outliers, avoiding the time, complexity, and expense of auditing those whose measurements fall within the expected range. We encourage commercial software developers to include tools in their ultrasound reporting software to facilitate such quantitative review.

The recent consecutive economic and social crises impose sustainable “form farm to fork” food chain management to feed the global population. In this study we investigate young consumers (Gen Z) price perceptions in purchasing foods in Greece to find out the determinants ensuring sustainable, future food consumption. We used 8 overall price perceptions determinants, 5 with negative roles namely value &amp; price consciousness, coupon &amp; sales proneness, price mavenism and 3 with positive roles namely price-quality, price-value, and prestige-sensitivity for the formation of the study’s questionnaire. A total of 514 students (Gen Z by 85%) answered the questionnaire, promoted through the Google platform during September and October 2023. Data was analyzed with statistical tools, combining cross and chi-square tests. Between the negative determinants the “value consciousness” price perceptions (71.02%) were the most important parameters in purchasing food, followed by “price consciousness” (55.02%) parameters. “Coupon proneness” by 48.4% and “sales proneness” by 49% parameters were equally lower to the participants’ references, while “price mavenism” parameters were minimally preferred by only 26.4% by the participants. Participants exhibited major preference for “value to price” interconnection (66.7%) such as for good value for money, value exceeding its price, overvalued low priced foods, while their preference for “quality to price” interconnection was significantly lower (48.8%) such as for getting what you pay, more money for better quality, priced quality foods. The “prestige- sensitivity” price perception was out of their preference for food purchase (only 7.1%). Our findings indicate that young consumers (Gen Z) pay more attention to the value negative and positive parameters concerning price perceptions for food purchase rather than quality, coupons &amp; sales, low price, and mavenism or even prestige of the foods. This means that value issues such as the perceived environmental impact (green value), the climate crisis, the social signaling potential and others are high in their concerns for their future including their price perceptions for food purchase.

The construction time of concrete structures in hydraulic tunnels is long, the construction environment is complex, and there are many influencing factors. The requirements for construction quality are high, not only to meet the strength requirements, but also to meet the design requirements of erosion resistance, crack resistance, and seepage resistance according to its specific operating environment. Therefore, evaluating the construction quality of concrete structures in hydraulic tunnels is of great significance. Considering the randomness and fuzziness of factors affecting the construction quality of concrete structures in hydraulic tunnels, this paper proposes a comprehensive evaluation model based on Combined Weighting (CWM) and Uncertainty Measurement Theory (UM). The IAHP method and CRITIC method are used to determine the subjective and objective weights of evaluation indicators, combined weighting is based on the principle of minimum entropy, and the UM method is used to evaluate the construction quality level. Finally, taking a hydraulic tunnel as an example, its construction quality grade is calculated to be III according to the evaluation model proposed in this paper, which matches with the engineering reality, and a comparative study is made with the mixture element topology theory at the same time. It is verified that the evaluation model can scientifically and reasonably evaluate the construction quality level of concrete structures in hydraulic tunnels.

Assessment of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) after pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) has been limited in children and adolescents due to a lack of disease-specific instruments. To fill this gap, the Quality of Life after Traumatic Brain Injury for Children and Adolescents (QOLIBRI-KID/ADO) was developed for the German-speaking population. Reference values from a comparable general population are essential for comprehending the impact of TBI on health and well-being. This study examines the validity of the German QOLIBRI-KID/ADO in a general pediatric population in Germany and provides reference values for use in clinical practice. Overall, 1997 children and adolescents aged 8-17 years from the general population and 300 from the TBI population participated in the study. The questionnaire was tested for reliability and validity. A measurement invariance (MI) approach was used to assess the comparability of the HRQoL construct between both samples. Reference values were determined by percentile-based stratification according to factors that significantly influenced HRQoL in regression analyses. The QOLIBRI-KID/ADO demonstrated strong psychometric properties. The HRQoL construct was measured largely equivalently in both samples, and reference values could be provided. The QOLIBRI-KID/ADO was considered reliable and valid for assessing HRQoL in a general German-speaking pediatric population, allowing for clinically meaningful comparisons between general and TBI populations.

In the fast-evolving landscape of web services, success relies on optimizing efficiency, reliability, and user satisfaction. Decision-making in real-world applications demands a blend of quantitative (numerical values of quality of Service factors) and qualitative data of experts’ ratings of the quality of service factors. This paper proposes an optimization technique that integrates Hesitant and Intuitionistic Fuzzy Linguistic Terms with TOPSIS, leveraging Entropy Objective weights. There is limited research on Hesitant Intuitionistic Fuzzy Linguistic terms and the need to model fuzziness, haste and intuition in data precisely from experts rating. Thus, this article introduces an Entropy-based model tailored for web service optimization. Using the WS-DREAM dataset, quantitative data was extracted and objective weights were determined through the Entropy algorithm and qualitative evaluations from five experts, employing Hesitant Intuitionistic Fuzzy Linguistic Terms, were integrated. The process involved computing criteria weights and experts' assessment of Quality of Service factors for four services (S1, S2, S3, and S4) to form the Fuzzy Decision Matrix using modified Online output software. Applying the proposed technique to a web service optimization problem validated its effectiveness. The results indicated optimal selection of S1 as the best web service, supported by Coefficient Index values (0.785). This study introduces a novel approach, Entrop – Hesitationistic - Fuzz-TOPSIS, for web service optimization, integrating quantitative and qualitative data through an Entropy-based model. The effectiveness of the proposed technique, validated through application on the WS-DREAM dataset, underscores its potential in addressing real-world decision-making challenges. The optimal selection of S1 as the best web service suggests practical utility. The study encourages further exploration of this technique's applicability to diverse Multiple Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) problems, opening avenues for future research and application.