Protection Strategies Research Articles

Tailoring the Charge Transfer‐Driven Oxidation in van der Waals Ferroelectric NbOI2 Through Hetero‐Interface Engineering

Abstract2D transition metal halide oxides (TMHOs) have attracted much interest due to their intriguing ferroelectrics and excellent nonlinear optics, however, their susceptibility to oxidation makes their basic research and practical application a challenge. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the oxidation mechanism and explore effective strategies for protection. Here, taking van der Waals (vdWs) ferroelectric NbOI2 as an example, oxidation mechanisms and tuning the oxidation behaviors of NbOI2 and its heterostructures by a variety of in situ experiments and first‐principles calculations are discovered. The ambient‐pressure X‐ray photoelectron spectra reveal a self‐limiting oxidation in isolated NbOI2, driven by spontaneously formed iodine vacancies that react with oxygen molecules due to their lower formation and adsorption energies. For the heterostructures with a lower Fermi level (such as WSe2) than transition state VI@NbOI2 (NbOI2 rich in I‐vacancies), the charge transfer from NbOI2 to WSe2 drives the continuous and complete oxidation of NbOI2 flakes. Moreover, the heterostructures with a higher Fermi level (such as graphene) than VI@NbOI2 can weaken the oxidation of NbOI2. By linking the energy band structures to oxidation behavior, the work offers a new oxidation mechanism of 2D air‐sensitive materials and a crucial strategy for improving their chemical stability.

Enhancing distance protection in transmission grids with high penetration of renewable energy sources through cooperative protection

AbstractThis article introduces innovative protection strategies, including cooperative protection, for power transmission grids amidst a significant shift towards renewable energy sources (RES) such as wind and solar power, as well as inverter‐based resources (IBRs). The method employs a global consensus algorithm to achieve cooperative protection efficiently. This scheme leverages consensus protocols to dynamically oversee distance relay decisions, ensuring efficient fault detection and localization. The decentralized nature of the proposed method enhances robustness and security, while its high‐speed operation is ensured through non‐iterative global consensus algorithms, which provide rapid fault detection and localization crucial for real‐time protection. By incorporating virtual leaders and leveraging existing communication infrastructure, the method achieves superior selectivity in identifying faulty lines, enhancing the reliability and stability of power transmission grids with high‐RES penetration. Notably, the method does not require learning and training processes, making it adaptable to varying power system topologies without the need for extensive retraining or adaptation periods. The proposed methodology enables simultaneous participation in multiple protection zones by establishing interaction rules between agents. Virtual leaders simplify the selection of protection areas, enhancing scalability and fault localization. Simulation results conducted on the IEEE 39‐bus test system validate the effectiveness of the proposed method.

COMPREHENSIVE CHARACTERISATION OF TEMPORAL VARIATIONS IN CONCENTRATIONS OF GASEOUS AMMONIA AND NITROGEN OXIDES IN TYPICAL URBAN ATMOSPHERE

Atmospheric ammonia (NH3) is a well-known contributor to secondary particle formation and canlead to severe environmental degradation and human health outcomes. In the context of the verylimited knowledge about updated data on NH3 levels in urban areas, this paper presents the results ofa one-year (Apr 2023 – Mar 2024) measurement campaign of NH3 concentrations conducted at theurban background site in Zabrze, located in the central part of the Upper Silesian Industrial District(USID) (southern Poland), which could be considered one of the European hotspots. The research wasperformed using an automatic ammonia analyzer Model T201 by Teledyne API, which provides dataon the levels of NH3 and other gaseous nitrogen compounds (NO (nitrogen oxide), NO2 (nitrogendioxide), NOx (nitrogen oxides) at hourly time resolution. Consequently, this enabled an analysisof specific temporal variations of NH3 concentrations, and therefore allowed the identification ofits possible emission sources and insight into processes involving ammonia. The results obtained inthis study revealed that ammonia stood out from nitrogen oxides and other atmospheric pollutants– with high NH3 concentrations recorded during spring and summer, which is related to the highintensity of gaseous NH3 formation under warm meteorological conditions. A different situationwas observed in the hourly NH3 concentration distribution scheme, which was manifested by muchless visible diurnal variations of NH3 levels, with no characteristic morning maximum, as well asthe occurrence of a broad afternoon maximum in the summer. In summary, anthropogenic sourceshad a significant impact on NH3 concentrations in the area under consideration, with a greater roleof traffic in the case of NOx, and a biomass and fossil fuel combustion and/or industrial sources –for NH3. Local meteorological conditions also had a notable influence on NH3 levels, of which airtemperature (positive correlation) and wind speed (negative correlation) were found to be the mostimportant. The ongoing research is planned to be continued, as it can provide valuable scientific datafor the development of air quality protection strategies and programmes in urban areas, especially inthe field of reducing emissions of gaseous precursors of particulate matter.

Exploring the impact of industrialization and electricity use on carbon emissions: The role of green FinTech in Asian countries using an asymmetric panel quantile ARDL approach

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to investigate how industrialization, financial development, electricity consumption, trade openness, and green FinTech affect on carbon emissions asymmetrically in Asian countries. DesignMethod/Approach: The study examined 29 years of panel data from 39 Asian countries from 1995 to 2022, sourced from World Development Indicators (WDI) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The study constructs a green financial technology index using principal component analysis (PCA). The study utilizes an Asymmetric Panel Quantile Autoregressive Distributive Lag (A-QARDL) model with pooled mean group (PMG) specifications to explore effects that exhibit cross-sectional homogeneous in the long-run, but heterogeneous in the short-run effects. FindingsIndustrialization and financial development have a strongly asymmetric impact on carbon emissions. Industrialization causes an increase in carbon emissions at various quantiles, while green FinTech plays a crucial role in mitigating these carbon emissions. Trade openness and domestic credit to the private sector also help reduce carbon emissions. Research limitations and implicationsThe study emphasizes the significance of employing green FinTech techniques and using renewable energy sources to meet sustainable industrialization and sustainability goals in Asian countries. The policy consequences include promoting environmentally friendly industrial practices, encouraging green financial investments, and boosting government financing for private sector research and development to mitigate carbon emissions. Originality/valueThe study employs robust modeling to analyze the role of green FinTech to enhance industrial sustainability. Both Industrialization and deindustrialization have an impact on economic emissions, and the potential of green FinTech's to promote sustainability contributes to the environment protection strategy.

Long-term corrosion protection of reinforcing bars via a self-responsive coating incorporating ZrP functional fillers

The conventional coating of reinforcing bars exhibits inadequate anti-corrosion efficacy stemming from a non-specific, blind protection mechanism, poses a threat to the durability of concrete. We devised a novel self-responsive functional filler, L-arginine (LA) intercalated zirconium phosphate (LCZrP), synthesized via an intercalation reaction. This innovative filler was seamlessly integrated into an epoxy (EP) resin matrix, yielding a smart anticorrosive coating that harmoniously combines active and passive corrosion protection strategies. The integration of LCZrP within the coating matrix serves a trifecta of purposes: it extends the corrosion propagation path, effectively disperses nanofiller agglomeration, and enhances interfacial adhesion with the epoxy coating. Critically, the controlled release of corrosion inhibitors from the interlayer further fortifies the coating's resistance to corrosion, imparting a multi-layered protective shield. After enduring a 60-day immersion in a simulated concrete pore solution, the LCZrP/EP coating demonstrated exceptional durability, maintaining a low-frequency impedance modulus value consistently within the range of 4.27×1010 to 5.12×1010 Ω·cm2, marking a remarkable 34-fold enhancement over the performance of the epoxy coating alone. This breakthrough underscores the LCZrP/EP coating's potential as a groundbreaking solution for reinforcing bar protection in concrete, harnessing the complementary strengths of epoxy resin's physical barrier, the impermeability of two-dimensional lamellar structures, and the proactive release of corrosion inhibitors to forge a robust, multi-faceted passivation layer.

Thermal cross section of poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) hydrogels for neutron dose calculation

Phantom materials are used to design radiation safety and protection strategies by means of numerical dose calculation. In the case of thermal neutrons, the radiation transport in the phantom relies on mass attenuation coefficients and total cross sections which are dependent on the physical and chemical properties of the material. Specifically for medical applications, such as neutron capture therapy, the neutron-induced dose is mainly related to the neutron absorption by hydrogen and nitrogen in the human tissue and body. Here, we investigate the use of poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) as a phantom material by experimental measurement and modeling of its total neutron scattering cross section and mass attenuation coefficient. We show that by varying the hydration level from 10 to 40 w%, one can obtain a neutron attenuation coefficient similar to polymethyl methacrylate or more representative of the human body, respectively. By benchmarking our phenomenological model on the experimental data, we provide a new example of how to use the average functional group approximation to accurately model total neutron cross sections in the framework of personalized medicine approaches.

Source apportionment and influencing factors of surface water pollution through a combination of multiple receptor models and geodetector

In line with sustainable development goals (SDGs), precise quantification of water pollution and analysis of environmental interactions are crucial for effectively safeguarding water resources. In this study, Nemerow's pollution index was used to evaluate water quality, three receptor models were used to identify pollution sources, and Geodetector analysis was applied to explore environmental interactions in the North Shangyu Plain, Southeast China. Using 5207 surface water samples from September 2023 with 11 physicochemical parameters, the results showed that surface rivers in the North Shangyu Plain exhibited varying degrees of pollution: slight pollution upstream, moderate pollution in midstream and downstream, and concentrated high pollution in certain areas, with TN, CODCr, and TP as the primary pollutants. Multimethod source apportionment significantly improved the accuracy of pollution source attribution and identified five main sources: domestic sewage (1.42%–3.54%) characterized by NO3-N, phytoplankton source (38.43%–50.05%) indicated by chl and PC, agricultural cultivation (16.1%–17.63%) marked by TP and CODMn, industrial wastewater (17.64%–25.1%) primarily associated with TN, and natural source (10.32%–13.26%) characterized by DO, NH3-N, and CODCr. Influencing factor analysis validated the source identification. Natural factors had minor impacts on water parameters, while pollution control from agricultural activities was suggested to diversify fertilizer types rather than merely reduce quantities. The combined effects of industrial and aquaculture activities intensified pollution from TN, chl, and PC, underscoring the need for targeted management practices. This study showed the objectivity and reliability of using a combined approach of multiple receptor models and Geodetector to evaluate the river water quality status, which helps assist decision-makers in formulating more effective water resource protection strategies.

Advancements and Applications of Anti-Fraud Graphical Passwords

Visual cryptography represents a sophisticated and innovative approach to secure information sharing, gaining traction within the field of information security. This technology adeptly transforms sensitive data into visually interpretable graphics or images. These images are then segmented into multiple independent parts, each distributed among different stakeholders. This strategy ensures that no single party can access the complete data without collaboration, thereby enhancing security. This dissertation delves into several anti-fraud visual password schemes designed to mitigate risks associated with deceptive behaviors by participants and distributors alike. By addressing these vulnerabilities, the proposed schemes enhance the integrity and reliability of the data sharing process. The application of visual passwords in real-life scenarios not only bolsters data security but also shields private information from potential leaks. By reducing the complexity and cost associated with traditional decryption methods, visual cryptography offers substantial support for a wide array of application scenarios. This dissertation presents a comprehensive exploration of visual cryptography's potential to revolutionize data protection strategies, illustrating its importance and utility in contemporary digital environments.

Outcome of Targeted Driving Pressure Mechanical Ventilation in ARDS patients

Background: Lung protective strategy in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) patients is based on low tidal volume (VT), lower end-inspiratory (plateau) pressure and higher positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP). But to predict body weight adjusted tidal volume, heterogeneous pathology of the lung in ARDS with different respiratory system compliance (CRS) is not considered. In driving pressure (ΔP=VT / CRS) tidal volume (VT) is normalized to functional lung size. It is unclear whether mechanical ventilation targeting driving pressure (ΔP) is more effective than low tidal volume ventilation (LTVV) in patients with ARDS. Materials and Methods: An open labelled randomized controlled trial was conducted at Intensive Care Unit of Dhaka Medical College Hospital, a tertiary care referral hospital over 12 months from March 2021 to February 2022. Ninety two patients with ARDS, defined by the Berlin criteria, requiring mechanical ventilation were randomized to 1:1 ratio after enrollment in the study using simple random sampling, one group receiving targeted driving pressure (ΔP) that is </=14cm of H2O ventilation another group receiving low tidal volume ventilation (LTVV) that is 4-6ml/kg PBW. Results: The study found no significant differences between the two groups in terms of clinical variables and laboratory parameters (p > 0.05), except for the duration of mechanical ventilation (MV), which was significantly shorter in the Targeted ΔP group (p<0.05). Aspiration pneumonia was the most common cause of ARDS, occurring in 34.8% of the Targeted ΔP group and 39.1% of the LTVV group. The Targeted ΔP group demonstrated a significant increase in mean respiratory system compliance compared to the LTVV group (p<0.001), and a significantly shorter length of ICU stay (p <0.001). Additionally, the PaO2/FiO2 ratio was significantly higher in the Targeted ΔP group on Days 3, 5, and 7 (p<0.05). Mean exhaled tidal volume was also significantly higher in the Targeted ΔP group on these days (p<0.05). In the Targeted ΔP group, mean driving pressure significantly decreased on Days 3, 5, and 7 (p <0.001), along with a significant reduction in mean plateau pressure (PPlt) (p <0.001). Mean positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) significantly decreased on Days 3, 5, and 7 (p <0.001). Respiratory rate significantly decreased on Day 7 (p <0.05). Mean set tidal volume (VT) significantly increased on Days 3, 5, and 7 (p <0.001). Moreover, the 28-day mortality incidence was significantly lower in the Targeted ΔP group compared to the LTVV group (8.7% vs. 26.1%, p <0.05). Conclusion: Targeted Driving pressure (ΔP) guided ventilation offers significant clinical benefits over LTVV in managing ARDS patients in terms of increased respiratory system compliance (CRS), shorter lengths of hospital and ICU stays, and lower in-hospital mortality. Bangladesh Crit Care J September 2024; 12 (2): 81-88

Advancements in Bacteriophages for the Fire Blight Pathogen Erwinia amylovora.

Erwinia amylovora, the causative agent of fire blight, causes significant economic losses for farmers worldwide by inflicting severe damage to the production and quality of plants in the Rosaceae family. Historically, fire blight control has primarily relied on the application of copper compounds and antibiotics, such as streptomycin. However, the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains and growing environmental concerns have highlighted the need for alternative control methods. Recently, there has been a growing interest in adopting bacteriophages (phages) as a biological control strategy. Phages have demonstrated efficacy against the bacterial plant pathogen E. amylovora, including strains that have developed antibiotic resistance. The advantages of phage therapy includes its minimal impact on microbial community equilibrium, the lack of a detrimental impact on plants and beneficial microorganisms, and its capacity to eradicate drug-resistant bacteria. This review addresses recent advances in the isolation and characterization of E. amylovora phages, including their morphology, host range, lysis exertion, genomic characterization, and lysis mechanisms. Furthermore, this review evaluates the environmental tolerance of E. amylovora phages. Despite their potential, E. amylovora phages face certain challenges in practical applications, including stability issues and the risk of lysogenic conversion. This comprehensive review examines the latest developments in the application of phages for controlling fire blight and highlights the potential of E. amylovora phages in plant protection strategies.

Immunomagnetic separation for the enrichment of trace enrofloxacin and analysis of degradation byproducts in water

ABSTRACT The presence of trace antibiotics in water can lead to the development of drug-resistant bacterial strains, posing risks to ecosystems and human health. Immunomagnetic separation (IMS) using magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) is an effective technique for targeted enrichment. This study established and optimized a separation system for the immunomagnetic microsphere enrichment of enrofloxacin (ENR) antibiotics, achieving efficient enrichment and isolation of ENR. To address potential elution degradation, an analysis of ENR degradation pathways and toxicity assessment of degradation products was performed. The study manifested the successful conjugation of antibodies to magnetic microspheres, leading to a 97.68% separation efficiency for ENR in water through IMS. Specifically, 1 mg of MNP@Ab could specifically bind to 1.5 ng of ENR at 37 °C for 30 min, and the elution rate exceeded 83%. No degradation products of ENR were detected during the enrichment and isolation procedures. Nevertheless, extending the elution time to 1 h disclosed three major degradation pathways with higher toxicity risks than ENR based on ecological risk assessment. To strictly control the elution temperature and elution time, the increase in temperature and time will heighten the risk of degradation products. This study presents an efficient strategy for water treatment and environmental protection.

Combatting Cybersecurity Threats on Social Media: Network Protection and Data Integrity Strategies

Combatting Cybersecurity Threats on Social Media: Network Protection and Data Integrity Strategies

Integrated geochemical analysis of urban and peri-urban soils: a case study of Lamia City, Greece.

The occurrence of Potentially Toxic Elements (PTEs) and other chemical elements in urban and peri-urban soils impacts human health and quality of life, posing a challenge for geoscientists. This study investigated the soil geochemistry of Lamia City, focusing on identifying the geogenic and anthropogenic origins of elements. A total of 168 topsoil samples (0-10cm) were collected in April 2023, and the analysis included the near-total concentrations of 51 elements. Descriptive, correlation, multivariate statistics (i.e., Factor Analysis-FA and Hierarchical Cluster Analysis-HCA), Geographic Information Systems (GIS) mapping, and mineralogical analysis were employed to identify potential element sources. The results indicated that the elements in soils originated from geogenic, anthropogenic, and mixed sources. Geogenic origins are associated with ultramafic rocks (e.g., Mg, Cr, Ni, Co, Fe, Sc, Mn), carbonate rocks (e.g., Ca, Sr), and Quaternary sediments (e.g., K, Na, Ba, Tl, Be, Rb, Ti, V, Ga, and Rare Earth Elements-REEs); associations are linked to specific identified minerals. All applied statistical analyses reveal that the mobility of chemical elements in the urban and peri-urban soils of Lamia city is primarily affected by geochemical processes such as element substitution, chemical weathering, pedogenesis, adsorption, precipitation, evaporation, and organic matter presence. The P, Ag, Hg, Pb, Sn, Zn, Sb, Cd, Cu, and U were associated with anthropogenic influences, particularly in areas with high population density, heavy vehicle traffic, and intensive agricultural practices. Additionally, some elements (e.g., Ca, Cd, Cu, Mo, Mn, and Li) exhibited mixed origins. This integrated approach offers valuable insights into the spatial distribution and sources of PTEs in urban and peri-urban environments, providing critical information for environmental management and public health protection strategies.

The Privacy-Centric Data Pipeline : Strategies for Implementing Robust Security Measures in Data Engineering

This article presents a comprehensive framework for addressing data privacy and security challenges in modern data engineering environments. As organizations grapple with ever-increasing volumes of sensitive data and an evolving regulatory landscape, data engineers face complex challenges in safeguarding information throughout its lifecycle. We explore key components of a robust data protection strategy, including regulatory compliance, technical safeguards, and organizational practices. Our analysis covers critical areas such as encryption methodologies, access control mechanisms, data masking techniques, and lifecycle management policies. We also examine the role of data governance frameworks and the importance of continuous employee training in maintaining a secure data ecosystem. By synthesizing current best practices and emerging trends, this article provides data engineers and organizations with actionable insights for implementing effective privacy and security measures. Our findings underscore the need for a holistic approach that integrates technical solutions with strong governance practices to ensure data integrity, confidentiality, and compliance in an increasingly data-driven world.

The association of glyphosate exposure with kidney stones in American adults: A nationally representative cross-sectional study

ObjectiveGlyphosate has been ubiquitously present in our living environment due to its efficient herbicidal ability, but its association with the prevalence of kidney stones remains uncertain. This study aims to explore the impact of glyphosate exposure on kidney stones and to investigate the mediating effects of some serologic indicators. Furthermore, we attempt to identify the specific populations at greater risk of exposure. MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study of the U.S. adult population examining the association between glyphosate exposure and kidney stones based on data from the 2013–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). We implemented multi-model-adjusted logistic regression and smoothed curve fitting to explore the connection between them. Further subgroup analyses were conducted to confirm the magnitude of exposure risk in specific populations. Mediation effects analysis served to provide insight into the underlying mechanisms of the link. ResultsA total of 4302 participants' health data were ultimately analyzed, and the prevalence of kidney stones was 10.85 %. Participants with the highest urinary glyphosate(uGLY) content(Q3) had a higher prevalence of kidney stones compared with participants with the lowest uGLY content(Q1) (OR=1.70, 95 %CI: 1.10–2.63). Smoothed curve fitting revealed a linear positive association between ln-transformed uGLY and kidney stones (OR=1.21,95 %CI:1.08–1.37, LLR=0.291), and this exposure-outcome effect was at greater risk in men (OR=1.24,95 %CI: 1.05–1.46), non-Hispanic whites (OR=1.29, 95 %CI: 1.09–1.53), and hypertensive groups (OR=1.23,95 %CI: 1.05–1.44). Serum biochemical markers HDL, ALP, and serum glucose partially mediated the correlation between glyphosate and kidney stones (2.44–4.20 %). ConclusionGlyphosate exposure is significantly associated with the prevalence of kidney stones. In men, non-Hispanic whites, and hypertensive populations, the management of glyphosate exposure should be emphasized, and appropriate protective strategies may be beneficial in reducing the burden of kidney stones. More high-quality clinical inquiries and animal toxicology experiments are still required to verify the reliability of our findings and their underlying mechanisms.

Rethinking diversification: Assessing the impact of energy concentration on climate change in rentier and non-rentier countries

Energy diversification, a critical strategy for environmental protection, has been surprisingly understudied in academic discourse. This paper seeks to address this gap by investigating the relationship between energy diversification and climate change in 76 countries from 1990 to 2020. We employ panel data techniques, and the system generalized method of moments (SYS-GMM) to analyze the impact of energy diversification, as measured by the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index, on CO2 emissions. Additionally, control variables such as economic growth, trade openness, foreign direct investment, information and technology adoption, natural resource rents, and urbanization are included in the model. The analysis is re-estimated for various country groupings based on income level and resource dependence (rentier vs. non-rentier). The findings reveal a significant positive association between energy concentration and CO2 emissions across all country groups, with the most pronounced impact is observed in middle-income, resource-rich economies (i.e., middle-income rentiers). The study also highlights differing effects of diversification on CO2 emissions between high-income and middle-income nations, which reflects the prevalence of non-rentier economies among high-income countries and rentier economies in middle-income countries. The causal relationship between CO2 emissions and energy diversification in different groups of countries is tested using the panel Granger causality test. The results reveal strong bidirectional causality between CO2 emissions and energy diversification in all country groups analyzed, except for middle-income rentier countries. By elucidating the multifaceted relationship between energy diversification and climate change, this study aims to provide valuable policy recommendations to advance sustainable development and environmental management.

Metaverse risks and harms among US youth: Experiences, gender differences, and prevention and response measures

Research indicates that participation in metaverse environments and with virtual reality (VR) is increasing among younger populations, and that youth may be the primary drivers of widespread adoption of these technologies. This will more readily happen if their experiences are safe, secure, and positive. We analyze data from a nationally representative sample of 5005, 13- to 17-year-olds in the United States to measure their experiences of 12 specific harms on VR platforms, and which protective strategies they employed to prevent or respond to them. Girls were more likely to be sexually harassed and to experience grooming/predatory behavior, and were more likely to have been targeted specifically because of their gender. Finally, girls were more likely to engage in some specific protective measures online, but overall both boys and girls use platform safety mechanisms infrequently. We discuss enhancements in policy, content moderation, and feature sets that can serve to better safeguard youth in the metaverse.

The Emission Characteristics and Health Risks of Firefighter-Accessed Fire: A Review.

The exacerbation of wildfires caused by global warming poses a significant threat to human health and environmental integrity. This review examines the particulate matter (PM) and gaseous pollutants resulting from fire incidents and their impacts on individual health, with a specific focus on the occupational hazards faced by firefighters. Of particular concern is the release of carbon-containing gases and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from forest fires and urban conflagrations, which exceed the recommended limits and pose severe health risks. Firefighters exposed to these pollutants demonstrate an elevated risk of developing pulmonary and cardiovascular diseases and cancer compared to the general population, indicating an urgent need for enhanced protective measures and health management strategies for firefighters. Through a meticulous analysis of the current research findings, this review delineates future research directions, focusing on the composition and properties of these pollutants, the impacts of fire-emitted pollutants on human health, and the development of novel protective technologies.

Sun Protection as a Strategy for Managing Heat Stress in Avocado Trees.

The increasing incidence of heat stress due to global climate change poses a significant challenge to avocado (Persea americana) cultivation, particularly in regions with intense solar radiation. This review evaluates sun protection strategies, focusing on the efficacy of different sunscreen products such as kaolin, titanium dioxide, and calcium oxide in mitigating thermal stress in avocado trees. The application of these materials was shown to reduce leaf and fruit surface temperatures, improve photosynthetic efficiency, and enhance fruit quality by preventing sunburn and dehydration. Despite these benefits, challenges remain, including the optimal timing and dosage of application, and the potential residue impacts on fruit marketability. The review emphasizes the need for ongoing research to develop more effective formulations and to integrate these sun protection strategies with other agronomic practices. The role of extension services in educating producers about the proper use of these technologies is also highlighted as crucial for the successful adoption of sun protection measures in avocado farming.

The Protective Effect of the Supplementation with an Extract from Aronia melanocarpa L. Berries against Cadmium-Induced Changes of Chosen Biomarkers of Neurotoxicity in the Brain-A Study in a Rat Model of Current Lifetime Human Exposure to This Toxic Heavy Metal.

Since even low-level environmental exposure to cadmium (Cd) can lead to numerous unfavourable health outcomes, including damage to the nervous system, it is important to recognize the risk of health damage by this xenobiotic, the mechanisms of its toxic influence, and to find an effective protective strategy. This study aimed to evaluate, in a female Wistar rat model of current human environmental exposure to Cd (1 and 5 mg/kg of diet for 3-24 months), if the low-to-moderate treatment with this element can harm the brain and whether the supplementation with a 0.1% Aronia melanocarpa L. (Michx.) Elliott berries (chokeberries) extract (AE) can protect against this effect. The exposure to Cd modified the values of various biomarkers of neurotoxicity, including enzymes (acetylcholinesterase (AChE), sodium-potassium adenosine triphosphatase (Na+/K+-ATPase), phospholipase A2 (PLA2), and nitric oxide synthase 1 (NOS1)) and non-enzymatic proteins (calmodulin (CAM), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1)) crucial for the functioning of the nervous system, as well as the concentrations of calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) and some metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) in the brain tissue. The co-administration of AE, partially or entirely, protected from most of the Cd-induced changes alleviating its neurotoxic influence. In conclusion, even low-level chronic exposure to Cd may adversely affect the nervous system, whereas the supplementation with A. melanocarpa berries products during the treatment seems a protective strategy.