Favorable Environmental Conditions Research Articles

CLINICAL SPECTRUM AND RISK FACTORS INFLUENCING PEDIATRIC MALARIA PUBLIC HEALTH CONCERN IN DISTRICT LOWER DIR

Malaria poses a major health crisis in District Dir Lower, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, disproportionately affecting children as a vulnerable population in the region. The annual prevalence of malaria among children stands at 81.35%. Monthly prevalence rates fluctuate, peaking in May (85.71%), June (84.44%), and July (86.00%), likely due to favourable environmental conditions such as higher humidity and the rainy season, which increase mosquito breeding. Conversely, the lowest prevalence is observed in March (68.57%) and December (75.76%). Gender-wise analysis indicates that male children have a higher prevalence rate of 84.09% compared to female children at 78.42%. Age-wise data reveals that children aged 9-10 years have the highest prevalence at 83.69%, followed by those aged 1-4 and 5-8 years, each exhibiting a prevalence rate of 80.00%. Plasmodium vivax was the most prevalent species, accounting for 75.79% of the total positive cases, followed by Plasmodium falciparum at 15.08% and mixed infections at 3.94%. Seasonal variations show a higher prevalence during the summer months (83.03%) compared to winter (78.76%), aligning with increased mosquito activity in warmer temperatures. Tehsil-wise data indicates that Timergara has the highest prevalence at 15.2%, while Samar Bagh has the lowest at 9.6%. These findings underscore the need for targeted malaria control strategies, particularly during peak transmission periods and in areas with higher prevalence rates.

The effect of two rearing systems and water exchange rates on growth, welfare and robustness of juvenile lumpfish

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of different tank designs and water exchange rates on growth, stress, skin and gill health in juvenile lumpfish in order to validate if different rearing regimes could increase welfare and robustness of farmed juvenile lumpfish. Experimental trials were conducted to investigate how lumpfish growth, condition factor, skin and gill mucus activity, cortisol and serotonin activity was affected by rearing in two systems (tank (T), raceway (R)) and two water exchange rates (high (T-H): 1350 L h−1; (R-H): 780 L h−1 and low (T-L): 450 L h−1; (R-L): 260 L h−1) during a 66 days laboratory trial. Furthermore, potential carryover effects on performance at sea were investigated by studying growth, condition and welfare of the same fish in small scale sea pens A combination of tanks and low water exchange rates (T-L) produced significantly smaller lumpfish, with significantly lower specific growth rate, and lower condition factor. Fish reared in raceways had significantly higher baseline plasma cortisol levels and elevated values of brainstem serotonergic activity compared to fish reared in tanks. There was an indication of lower defence activity in skin mucus cells in raceways at high water exchange, suggesting that raceways at high water exchange may have more favourable environmental conditions. The rearing conditions in the different tank designs at the hatchery stage did not seem to affect fish welfare during the subsequent stage in sea cages. Based on the significantly smaller size, slower growth rate and a condition factor below the threshold which represents acceptable fish welfare in lumpfish, rearing of juvenile lumpfish in tanks at the low water exchange rate (150% exchange of tank water per hour) is considered sub-optimal compared to exchange rates of 450% in tanks and 200% or 600% in raceways.

Cell size and selection for stress-induced cell fusion in unicellular eukaryotes.

In unicellular organisms, sexual reproduction typically begins with the fusion of two cells (plasmogamy) followed by the fusion of their two haploid nuclei (karyogamy) and finally meiosis. Most work on the evolution of sexual reproduction focuses on the benefits of the genetic recombination that takes place during meiosis. However, the selection pressures that may have driven the early evolution of binary cell fusion, which sets the stage for the evolution of karyogamy by bringing nuclei together in the same cell, have seen less attention. In this paper we develop a model for the coevolution of cell size and binary cell fusion rate. The model assumes that larger cells experience a survival advantage from their larger cytoplasmic volume. We find that under favourable environmental conditions, populations can evolve to produce larger cells that undergo obligate binary cell fission. However, under challenging environmental conditions, populations can evolve to subsequently produce smaller cells under binary cell fission that nevertheless retain a survival advantage by fusing with other cells. The model thus parsimoniously recaptures the empirical observation that sexual reproduction is typically triggered by adverse environmental conditions in many unicellular eukaryotes and draws conceptual links to the literature on the evolution of multicellularity.

Independent Wind Power Units with Optimal Control in the Condition of Ice Formation on Wind Wheel Blades being the Part of Wind Powerplant

Based on theperformed analysis of independent wind electric power unitcontrol with pre-installed blades at a required angle according to an estimated engine starttime,pitch drive and ice formation on wind wheel blades to minimize transient time of regulation thewind turbine generator phase voltage that provides self-excitation quality ofasynchronous generator under incomplete information on wind speed and electric loading and accounting the parameters of inductive resistance x1, reduced inductive resistance x′2, starter winding phase resistance r1, reducedstarter winding phase resistance r′2 that may change in time significantly, the differentiation criterion of access time to thebladeposition controldevice from the offered and basiccontrol methods is established. The software module to automate theindependent wind power control being the part of wind power plant is developed, providing timely system preparation for external disturbances taking into account ice formation on wind wheel blades at different modes of power unit operation shows that efficiency of the offered control typein winter can be realizable at speed of a wind from 13m/c and above to eliminate delaysin control. The improvedsoftware of electric power unit control being the part of a wind power plant on the basis of power unit control modes is improved: «Independentcontrol. Summer mode», «Power system control. Summer mode»- electric power is produced at favorable environment conditions; «Independent control. Winter mode», «Power system control. Winter mode» - electric power is producedwhen ice is formedon wind wheel blades.

Evaluation of biological seed treatment for management of sudden death syndrome of soybean in Wanatah, IN, 2024

Sudden death syndrome (SDS), caused by Fusarium virguliforme, is a devasting disease of soybean in the United States, with significant yield losses occurring under favorable environmental conditions. This report evaluates the efficacy of biological seed treatment on soybean variety (‘AG26XF1’) The trial was conducted in 2024 in a research field in Wanatah, Indiana. Sudden death syndrome (SDS), root rot severity, and grain yield were assessed for each seed treatment. The findings from this study will provide valuable information to guide soybean growers in selecting effective seed treatments for sudden death syndrome management.

Генетична мінливість Acipenser baerii (Brandt, 1869) за білковим поліморфізмом у процесі доместикації в індустріальній аквакультурі

Purpose. To investigate the variability of the genetic structure of brood Siberian sturgeon by protein system loci during domestication under conditions of intensive aquaculture. Methodology. The study of polymorphism of protein systems was carried out using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. To assess the genetic structure of the Siberian sturgeon group, we used the blood serum age-5-6 fish (n=30) grown using intensive technology in floating cages in the climatic conditions of the Forest-Steppe of Ukraine. We determined the distribution of allelic and genotypic frequencies at the transferrin (TF), albumin (ALB) and esterase (Est-1, Est-2, 3.1.1.1) loci. During artificial reproduction and subsequent cultivation of Siberian sturgeon, the main productive parameters were determined and abiotic environmental factors were analysed using generally accepted methods. Statistical processing of the obtained data was carried out using common methodological techniques. Findings. Under favorable environmental conditions, high growth and survival rates of fish were observed at all stages of cultivation with positive dynamics of the development of their reproductive system. The genetic structure of a group of Siberian sturgeon individuals with an average weight of 3.60±0.11 kg was characterized by a high level of heterozygosity (94.2%). The value of Wright’s fixation index (FIS) varied in the range from -0.346 (at the ALB locus) to -0.741 (at the Est-2 locus) with a mean value of -0.491. A negative value of the fixation index (inbreeding coefficient) indicates the absence of inbreeding in the studied fish stock. Originality. The genetic structure of the Siberian sturgeon breeding group was studied for the first time during the domestication process during intensive cultivation in floating cages in the climatic conditions of the Forest-Steppe of Ukraine. Practical Value. The study results are aimed at improving breeding methods with sturgeons in aquaculture and improving the quality of brood sturgeon stocks. Keywords: Siberian sturgeon, genetic structure, heterozygosity, protein systems, polymorphism, domestication.

The Norway maple (Acer platanoides) population space location and vital state in the urban park

Urban green spaces are integral to sustainable city development, offering ecological, social, and economic benefits, including climate regulation, biodiversity preservation, and improved human well-being. Among urban trees, the Norway maple (Acer platanoides) is widely utilized for landscaping due to its attractive appearance, vibrant autumn foliage, and adaptability to urban conditions. However, its invasive potential raises concerns for native biodiversity. This study explores the spatial distribution, morphometric characteristics, and vitality of A. platanoides in the Botanical Garden of the Oles Honchar Dnipro National University. The research employed a quasi-regular sampling grid and recorded 113 specimens, representing 15.5% of the tree population.The study analyzed tree height and trunk diameter, revealing a linear relationship indicative of uniform growth patterns. The trees ranged in height from 4.1 to 28 meters, with taller specimens exhibiting trunk diameters between 45 and 57.3 cm. Morphometric assessments indicated that the most numerous group of trees had a trunk diameter of less than 10 cm, highlighting the prevalence of younger individuals. The vitality assessments based on a 5-point scale showed that 94 trees were in good condition (vitality score of 2), while no trees exhibited signs of severe weakening or decay (scores of 4 or 5). The overall vitality index of 97.6% reflects favorable environmental conditions and the species' ability to thrive in an urban park setting. The Norway maple’s ecological resilience is attributed to its tolerance for varied soil conditions, moderate temperatures, and shade. Despite its benefits in urban landscaping, including erosion control and aesthetic contributions, the species presents challenges as a prolific seed producer and an aggressive competitor in disturbed ecosystems. It displaces native flora and alters forest dynamics, necessitating careful management to mitigate its invasive tendencies. This study underscores the dual role of A. platanoides as both a valuable component of urban green infrastructure and a potential ecological disruptor. The findings provide insights into the species’ adaptability and its implications for biodiversity conservation. Urban planners and ecologists must balance the use of A. platanoides in cityscapes with strategies to preserve native species and ecological integrity. Effective measures, such as pruning and selective planting, could enhance its contributions to urban ecosystems while minimizing its negative impacts. By evaluating the ecological and morphological features of A. platanoides in a controlled urban environment, this research contributes to a broader understanding of urban tree management. It highlights the need for comprehensive strategies to integrate multifunctional green spaces into urban matrices, ensuring sustainable development and resilience against climate change. The results emphasize the critical importance of monitoring and adaptive management practices to optimize the ecological and social benefits of urban greenery while addressing the challenges posed by invasive species.

Hymenopteran parasitoids as a biological control agent of potato tuber moth Phthorimaea operculella (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae): A review

Potato tuber moth (PTM), Phthorimaea operculella Zeller (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) is the most destructive and cosmopolitan oligophagous pest of potato and many Solanaceous crops. Larvae damages potato leaves and tuber in both field and storage and causing significant yield losses. Chemical management of PTM through the use of pesticides is challenging, as the extensive application of these chemicals to control the pest leads to numerous health problems, destruction of beneficial organisms, and the development of insecticide resistance in pest populations. A safe and sustainable approach to pest control is to use parasitoid wasps as biological control agents. In this review, sixty-five species of parasitoid wasps of PTM under six families (Braconidae, Chalcididae, Encyrtidae, Eulophidae, Ichneumonidae and Trichogrammatidae) have been reported. Copidosoma koehleri (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae), Apanteles subandinus (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), Orgilus lepidusa (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) have been successfully introduced to control PTM worldwide. In warm environmental conditions, Trichogramma principium (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) is a better candidate for mass rearing and release as a biological control agent against PTM. Under favorable environmental conditions, successful parasitoid establishment is achievable through intercropping, combined releases of parasitoids from diverse families and sterile PTM, selective pesticide application, and improved mass rearing technologies. This review provides insights that can assist policymakers in making informed decisions for more effective pest management programs. Bangladesh J. Zool. 52(3): 185-195, 2024

INFLUENCIA DE FACTORES AMBIENTALES EN LA PRODUCCIÓN DE INFLORESCENCIA EN SISTEMAS DE CULTIVO DE Vanilla pompona EN LA CONCESIÓN PARA LA CONSERVACIÓN DE TINGANA, MOYOBAMBA, PERÚ

<p><strong>Background.</strong> Vanilla is a crop of great economic and sociocultural importance, due to the relevance of compounds such as vanillin, which is used in the production of pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food products. Low inflorescence production is a frequent problem that is related to adverse environmental factors in cultivation systems, affecting the production of this edible orchid. <strong>Objective.</strong> To evaluate the influence of environmental factors on inflorescence production in cultivation systems of <em>Vainilla pompona</em> in the Tingana Conservation Concession, Moyobamba, Peru. <strong>Methodology.</strong> Every two weeks, between June and September 2023, <em>V. pompona </em>inflorescence production was recorded and environmental conditions (temperature, relative humidity and luminosity) were monitored in three different cultivation systems: raschel mesh (RM), secondary forest (SF) and forest plantation (FP). The analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to determine the influence of environmental factors on inflorescence production, considering the months of study and cultivation systems as fixed factors and temperature, relative humidity and luminosity as covariates. <strong>Results.</strong> August was the month that presented higher average values of temperature (between 22.8±0.9 and 24.1±1.2 °C) and luminosity (between 49877.8±12746.4 and 97341.5±27413.3 Lux), and lower relative humidity (between 78.8±4.4 and 84.9±4.1 %). FP recorded higher temperature (24.1±1.2 °C) and lower relative humidity (78.8±4.4 %) than SF and RM, where environmental factors were relatively similar with a slight increase in SF. There was higher inflorescence production in SF (n = 44), followed by FP (n = 40) and RM (n = 36), with July being the month of highest production in all three cropping systems. Inflorescence production varied between study months and not between cropping systems. Temperature and luminosity had significant effects on inflorescence development and relative humidity did not influence the variable. During July, environmental conditions were optimal for inflorescence production in the three cropping systems, with SF being the one with the highest production. <strong>Implications.</strong> Farmers in the Tingana Conservation Concession may choose to grow <em>V. pompona</em> in SF, as it presents more favorable environmental conditions and it is advisable to develop pruning practices in RM to promote optimal conditions. <strong>Conclusions.</strong> Temperature and luminosity are important environmental factors for the development of <em>V. pompona</em> inflorescences in the Tingana Conservation Concession.</p>

Evaluation of cultivars and foliar fungicides for Fusarium head blight management of wheat in Vincennes, IN, 2024

Fusarium head blight (FHB), caused by Fusarium graminearum, is a disease of wheat that can lead to significant yield loss and mycotoxin contamination under favorable environmental conditions. This report evaluates the efficacy of six fungicide programs in managing FHB on two wheat cultivars ('P25R40' and 'P25R61'). The trial was conducted in 2024 in a research field in Vincennes, Indiana. Fusarium head blight incidence, severity, and index; deoxynivalenol (DON) levels; and grain yield were assessed in the trial. The findings from this study will provide valuable information to guide wheat growers in selecting effective disease management programs for FHB management.

Role of metal(ii) hexacyanocobaltate(iii) surface chemistry for prebiotic peptides synthesis.

Double metal cyanide (DMC), a heterogeneous catalyst, provides a surface for the polymerization of amino acids. Based on the hypothesis, the present study is designed to evaluate favorable environmental conditions for the chemical evolution and origin of life, such as the effects of temperature and time on the oligomerization of glycine and alanine on metal(ii) hexacyanocobaltate(iii), MHCCo. A series of MHCCo complexes were synthesized and characterized by XRD and FT-IR techniques. The effect of outer metal ions present in the MHCCo complexes on the condensation of glycine and alanine was studied. Our results revealed that Zn2+ ions in the outer sphere showed high catalytic activity compared to other metal ions in the outer sphere. Manganese(ii) hexacyanocobaltate(iii) (MnHCCo), iron(ii) hexacyanocobaltate(iii) (FeHCCo), nickel(ii) hexacyanocobaltate(iii) (NiHCCo) complexes condense the glycine up to trimer and the alanine up to dimer. At the same time, ZnHCCo showed the most valuable catalytic properties that change glycine into a tetramer and alanine into a dimer with a high yield at 90 °C after four weeks. ZnHCCo showed high catalytic activity because of its high surface area compared to other MHCCo complexes. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Electron Spray Ionization-Mass Spectroscopy (ESI-MS) techniques were used to confirm the oligomer products of glycine and alanine formed on MHCCo complexes. The results also exposed the catalytic role of MHCCo for the oligomerization of biomolecules, thus supporting chemical evolution.

Evaluation of IPM modules for the management of thrips on coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) under semi-arid conditions

Three species of thrips viz., Frankliniella schultzei Trybom, Thrips tabaci Lind., and Caliothrips indicus Bag. (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) causes major damage to coriander crops under favourable environmental conditions. Thrips infestation initiated on coriander crop at 20 days after seed germination with very few in numbers and then gradually increased population to its maximum at 45 to 50 days after seed germination. In this study, eight strategically developed IPM modules were evaluated against thrips’s mixed population, amongst them, IPM module M-5 consisted with imidacloprid 600FS @ 3ml/kg (ST) at sowing time followed by foliar application of ker plant extract @ 10ml/lit., Verticillium lecani (1x108cfu/g) @ 6g/lit., and fipronil 5%SC @ 0.035% at definite interval, given effective management of thrips (96.39 and 94.88% mortality in thrips population in 2018-19 and 2019-20, respectively) with relative safety to natural enemies, and pollinators, and lower the pesticide load for pest management practices. Two years study data were also revealed the effectiveness of IPM modules M-5 correlated with higher seed yield (2709 kg/ha), economics (Rs.1.50 Lakh) and B: C ratio (4.9:1). Subsequently, it recommends that IPM modules consisted with botanical product, entomopathogenic fungi based bio-pesticides and insecticides exhibited sustainable management module for thrips on coriander and comparatively safer to natural enemies.

Acceptance and Use of App‐Based Language Learning Among Young Adolescents in a Self‐Directed Context

AbstractApp‐based language learning has gained attention for its potential to promote L2 learning beyond the classroom. However, few learners use L2 learning apps long enough to fully benefit from this learning method. Using the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology, I explored the acceptance and use of a commercially available language learning app among young English as a foreign language (EFL) learners (N = 297, aged 12–13) in a self‐study context. Structural equation modeling revealed two key findings. First, the more students perceived a focal app as a useful tool and felt supported by socially important others, the more likely they were to accept the app. Second, this acceptance, combined with favorable environmental conditions, increased their actual app usage out of class. Based on these findings, pedagogical implications discuss how teachers can enhance young adolescents' app‐based language learning in self‐study settings.

Genetic Variation of Growth Traits and Seed Production in a Patagonian Native Pasture in Semiarid Rangelands Under Different Environmental Settings.

Rangelands play a crucial socioeconomic and environmental role worldwide. In South America, desertification and overgrazing has led to their deterioration and declining productivity. Breeding programs that use native forage species of economic and ecological importance, such as Festuca pallescens (St. Yves) Parodi, may provide locally adapted germplasm that enhances productivity without threatening local biodiversity. These programs may even promote the conservation of native species. To this end, we characterized the phenotypic variation of nondestructive variables (growth and reproductive traits) related to forage and seed production during spring and early summer (growth and reproductive periods). Plants from ten populations were grown under common garden conditions in two environmental settings (sites) over two years. By early summer of the second year, most populations maintained a consistent relative performance with higher values for basal diameter, height and synflorescence production at site 2. This suggests more favorable environmental conditions for the species and highlights their potential for enhancing both seed and forage production. The growth and reproductive traits were probably largely influenced by micro-environmental cues (i.e., soil type and moisture), showing predominantly plastic patterns. The populations displaying phenotypic plasticity and above-average values for both traits were selected for further evaluation in breeding programs.

Silver spoons, reproduction, and growth catch-up in eastern Grey kangaroos.

Early growth and environmental conditions can shape life-history trajectories. Long-lived iteroparous species with indeterminate growth face growth-reproduction trade-offs for most of their lives. Poor early conditions can delay primiparity and restrict growth, potentially compensated for by faster growth later in life, at the cost of reduced reproduction. We explored the variation in age at primiparity and early reproduction in eastern Grey kangaroos, based upon 13 yr of monitoring about 100 known-age females. We then examined associations between early reproduction, later reproduction, and lifetime growth. We used a modified von Bertalanffy growth function to model the indeterminate growth of females and to test the effects of early reproduction on lifetime growth. Favorable environmental conditions, large size, and condition as a subadult led to earlier reproduction and higher reproductive success at ages 3 to 5. As females aged, size and condition had diminishing effects on reproductive success. Females with greater early-adulthood reproduction had slightly higher reproduction later in life. We did not detect a growth cost of early reproduction. Large females in good condition favored early reproduction over growth, while those with poor early growth exhibited growth catch-up at the cost of reproduction both early and later in life. As reported for other long-lived iteroparous species with indeterminate growth, female kangaroos prioritize growth over reproduction for much of their lifespan. Eastern Gray kangaroos show heterogeneity in early growth and reproductive strategies. Early primiparity and reproduction are constrained by body condition, size, and environmental conditions when females are pre-reproductive subadults.

Ornamental Fish Diversity and Scope for its Development in Andhra Pradesh, India

Andhra Pradesh is endowed with a wealth of water resources including rivers, canals, reservoirs, ponds and tanks, two large estuarine systems (Godavari and Krishna), backwaters near Kakinada and Visakhapatnam. These water bodies are home to a rich biodiversity of ichthyofauna. Among, these natural resources a diverse and unique group of fishes are found those having economic importance to the aquarium sector. Keeping ornamental fish as a hobby is gaining popularity in the world, hence this sector assumed significant importance in fisheries. The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) was launched in India in the year 2020-21 and implemented for five years, till 2024-25, which has enhanced the ornamental fish production and trade. With the presence of indigenous fishes and a suitable environment for seed production of these ornamental fishes few coastal states such as West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and the North-Eastern states are contributing to this sector in our country. The entrepreneurs in the state are highly focused on the production of food fish activities from both the culture and capture, this might be the reason that the ornamental fish sector has received less attention. Currently, the demand for aquarium fish in the state are largely fulfilled by importing the fish from other states. Approximately 175 numbers of ornamental fish aquarium shops are mainly trading exotic varieties of fishes in the state. With the growing demand for aquarium fish in the domestic and international market, promoting this sector with the setting up of breeding and rearing units in the state may create employment and livelihoods especially in rural and semi-rural areas. Considering the importance of this sector and the presence of favorable environmental conditions for the breeding and rearing of ornamental fishes, the sector has ample scope for development in the state of Andhra Pradesh.

Association of apple powdery mildew (Podosphaera leucotricha) and anthracnose (Neofabraea malicorticis) epidemics with environmental factors and agronomic practices in Chencha highlands, southern Ethiopia

Apple powdery mildew and anthracnose are widely distributed and major constraints on apple production around the world. The objective of the study was to determine powdery mildew and anthracnose prevalence, intensity, and association between biophysical factors. To this effect, field assessments were conducted in Chencha highlands of southern Ethiopia during the 2021 and 2022 production years. A multistage random sampling approach was followed for data collection, and the association between disease severity and biophysical factors was analyzed using a logistic regression model. A total of 164 apple orchards were inspected in five of the top apple-producing farmer associations (FAs) in the district. Results showed that the diseases were prevalent in apple fields, although the level of importance varied among FAs. Mean powdery mildew and anthracnose severity were lower in 2021 (23.56 and 22.39%) than in 2022 (28.89 and 26.11%), respectively. Age of tree, cropping system, disease status and management, yield, and weed showed highly significant (P < 0.0001) associations with powdery mildew and anthracnose severity. Likewise, altitude, production year, survey site, and relative humidity were significantly (P < 0.0001–0.05) associated with anthracnose severity in both single and multiple reduced variable models. In the model, precipitation was highly significant (P < 0.0001) in association with powdery mildew severity than anthracnose. Aged trees, monocropping, disease, and weed management, along with favorable environmental conditions, were highly contributing factors to the high (> 26% for powdery mildew and > 24% for anthracnose) disease severity in the model. Conversely, recently established orchards (≤ 5 years), mixed crops with legumes, and pruning with appropriate sanitation applied as disease management practices contributed to low (< 26% for powdery mildew and < 24% for anthracnose) disease severity. In conclusion, the current study indicated that powdery mildew and anthracnose diseases were major constraints on apple production, and their epidemic development was significantly influenced by biophysical factors. Hence, the findings may provide a basis for developing powdery mildew and anthracnose sustainable management strategies, which would ensure apple production in the study areas and in agro-ecologies of a similar kind elsewhere. Thus, following intercropping and/or mixed cropping and proper disease and weed management, along with other good agronomic practices, is suggested to manage the two diseases in the area and other related agroecologies.

Identifying surviving Pinna nobilis after the Mass Mortality Event (MME) in the Mediterranean: Proposal of a low-risk methodology for collecting genetic samples.

Identifying surviving Pinna nobilis after the Mass Mortality Event (MME) in the Mediterranean: Proposal of a low-risk methodology for collecting genetic samples.

Are Rapidly Intensifying Tropical Cyclones Associated with Unique Vortex and Convective Characteristics?

Abstract The largest tropical cyclone (TC) intensity forecast errors are typically associated with episodes of rapid intensification (RI). Here, we explore whether TCs that undergo RI are associated with different vortex and convective characteristics compared to TCs that are either slowly intensifying (SI) or nonintensifying (NI). Because characteristics of TC structure are strongly linked to intensity, a normalization technique is employed to examine how the anomalous TC structure, relative to the average structure for a given intensity, is related to TC intensity change. TC structure is assessed using a recently developed database of airborne Doppler radar analyses collected by NOAA’s WP-3D aircraft over the last three decades, primarily in the North Atlantic basin. We find that RI episodes are associated with significantly taller and narrower primary circulations than both SI and NI episodes. RI episodes also tend to occur in storms with anomalously deep overturning circulations and larger azimuthally averaged ascent in the upper troposphere than SI and NI episodes. Additionally, the inner core of RI TCs exhibits a significantly greater areal coverage of convective bursts, which are defined as locations with relatively vigorous ascent in the mid–upper troposphere. Ultimately, TC intensity change is governed by multiscale processes, and RI is found to occur preferentially in TCs that have both favorable synoptic-scale environmental conditions and favorable vortex structures for intensification. Consequently, observations of the anomalous TC structure may serve as useful predictors for TC intensity change and RI. Significance Statement Current forecasts of tropical cyclone (TC) intensity have the largest errors when storms experience periods of rapid intensification (RI). This study explores whether TCs that undergo RI have unique vortex and convective characteristics compared to TCs that either slowly intensify or those that fail to intensify altogether. It is found that TCs which undergo RI tend to have taller and narrower vortex structures than non-RI storms. TCs that undergo RI also display stronger ascent in the upper troposphere than non-RI storms. These characteristics may serve as useful predictors for TC intensity change and forecasting whether RI will occur.

Photocatalytic Performance of Cementitious Composites Modified with Second-Generation Nano-TiO2 Dispersions: Influence of Composition and Granulation on NOx Purification Efficiency

This study investigated the influence of the composition of photocatalytic dispersions made with second-generation nano-TiO2 on the air purification performance of photocatalytic cementitious composites. Nine mortar series were prepared, incorporating photocatalytic dispersions of variable content of nano-TiO2, dispersing agent (superplasticizer), and hydrophobic admixture. The total mass content of nano-TiO2 in investigated mortars was kept at the same level. For investigated composites, photocatalytic removal of NOx was evaluated under simulated laboratory conditions mimicking polish autumn/winter irradiation conditions. The results indicate that within the tested range of variability, the dispersion composition significantly influenced the granulation of the dispersed nano-TiO2 particles, which in turn affected the air purification performance of the composites. A predictive model was developed to account for environmental factors potentially influencing photocatalytic performance in urban environments. The model estimated that, depending on environmental conditions and photocatalytic dispersion composition, the composite’s photocatalytic layer could remove up to 1.067 g/m2 of NO2 per year in favorable environmental conditions. Photocatalytic cementitious composites can act as environmentally beneficial composites, contributing to carbon-negative construction practices and improving urban air quality. This highlights the dual benefits of offsetting embedded carbon emissions and enhancing air purification efficiency in sustainable urban infrastructure.