Repeat Application Research Articles

Cross‐resistance of Clarireedia jacksonii to demethylation‐inhibiting fungicides

AbstractDollar spot, caused by Clarireedia jacksonii Salgado, is the most common turf disease in Eastern North America. It is often managed by repeat applications of demethylation‐inhibiting (DMI) fungicides, and decreased sensitivity to the DMI, propiconazole, has been reported. Cross‐resistance, where an organism shows resistance to multiple pesticides, was evaluated in lab studies for C. jacksonii starting almost 30 years ago with four DMI fungicides available at that time. The purpose of this study was to compare sensitivity among 20 isolates of C. jacksonii (low‐to‐high resistance) to 12 DMI fungicides. EC50 values (effective concentration for 50% inhibition of hyphal growth) were generated for each fungicide by isolate combination, and log10 transformations of these values were subjected to pairwise correlation analysis, giving R‐values ranging from 0.60 to 0.99 (all p ≤ 0.05). This suggested that there is significant cross‐resistance in C. jacksonii among the 12 DMI fungicides tested, ranging from partial (mefentrifluconazole and epoxiconazole) to almost complete.

Flexible Asymmetrically Transparent Conductive Metamaterial Electrode Based on Photonic Nanojet Arrays

AbstractFlexible transparent electrodes, encompassing the combination of optical transparency and electrical conductivity, empower numerous optoelectronic applications. While the main efforts nowadays concentrate on developing wire meshes and conductive oxides, those technologies are still in a quest to find a balance between price, performance, and versatility. Here we propose a new platform, encompassing the advantages of nanophotonic design and roll‐to‐roll large‐scale lithography fabrication tools, granting an ultimate balance between optical, electrical, and mechanical properties. The design is based on an array of silica microspheres deposited on a patterned thin aluminum film attached to a flexible polymer matrix. Microspheres are designed to squeeze 80% light through nanoscale apertures with the aid of the photonic nanojet effect given the light impinges the structure from the top. The photonic structure blocks the transmission for the backpropagation direction thus granting the device with the high 5‐fold level of asymmetry. The patterned layer demonstrates a remarkable 2.8 Ω sq−1 sheet resistance comparable to that of a continuous metal layer. The high conductivity is shown to be maintained after a repeatable application of strain on the flexible electrode. Such remarkable optical, mechanical and electrical properties, makes the demonstrated device an essential component for applications, where such attributes are critically required.

Integrating atmospheric water harvester with hydrovoltaics: Simultaneous freshwater production and power generation

Integrating an atmospheric water harvester (AWH) with hydrovoltaic (HV) technology pokes a new technology and notification to the arid region people to harvest freshwater and electricity simultaneously from the humid atmosphere even in the non-water region. In this work, we have fabricated a composite material by attaching the sulfonic groups to the graphitic oxide substrate (SGhO) through a one-step reflux method. The material delivers an excellent water absorbing ability of 0.3 g g−1h−1and 2 g g−1in 19 h under a 40–60 % humid environment. The electrical experiments show during moisture absorption, a specific voltage and current are generated indicating the dissociation of sulfonic groups in the graphitic structure creates a drift movement of H+ions through the composite. Our device delivers a voltage of 0.25 V and a high current of 160 µA from a single device during moisture movements through the structure under the relative humidity of 60–65 %. The rapid enhancement of the interfacial temperature from 31 °C to 44 °C within a minute due to the presence of graphitic oxide shows excellent photothermal capacity for the light-induced evaporation mechanism and collecting the condensed water as freshwater. The composite can evaporate all absorbed water within 0.5 h in one sun illumination (1 kW/m2) under the ambient relative humidity (RH) of 40–60 %. Several trials of washing treatments were done to ensure the chemical bonding of sulfonic groups into the graphitic structure. Therefore, it was confirmed the excellent stability, and repeatability for repeatable practical applications. Furthermore, the purity of the collected water is conducted with various analyses such as pH, TDS, and UV–Vis absorption studies and confirmed the excellent purified water which highly meets the global drinking water standards. Therefore, this work demonstrates a single way to achieve dual goals such as water harvesting as well as power generation for a better tomorrow.

Incorporation of undissolved lime from previous applications can ameliorate subsoil acidity promptly and improve crop performance on sandy soils of the semi-arid regions of Western Australia

Abstract Background and aims Repeated surface application of lime for managing subsoil acidity is slow and ineffective, resulting in an accumulation of undissolved lime (carbonate) in the topsoil. We investigated the impact of the incorporation of undissolved lime into the subsoil to improve acidity and crop performance. Methods The undissolved lime in 2-cm layers of topsoil (0–10 cm) from three long-term experiments in Western Australia was measured. Both limed and unlimed topsoil with the acidic subsoil of the same profile was incubated at eight incorporation rates for six weeks, followed by growing barley and wheat in the incubated soil for two weeks to assess the impact on soil acidity and crop root architecture, respectively. Furthermore, a three-year-long field experiment was conducted following strategic tillage in limed and control plots to assess the impact on soil acidity and performance of wheat, canola and barley. Results A significant amount of undissolved lime was concentrated in the topsoil, amounting to 1.7, 1.8 and 1.3 t/ha for the limed plots at Wongan Hills, Northam and Merredin, respectively. Incubation of 5–25% topsoil after incorporation with the acidic subsoil was enough to ameliorate subsoil acidity and to improve root length density by up to 13-fold depending on undissolved lime content in topsoils and soil type. In the field experiment, the incorporation of undissolved lime also significantly improved subsoil acidity and canola performance. Conclusion We concluded that the incorporation of topsoil containing sufficient undissolved lime with acidic subsoil may offer a quick amelioration of subsoil acidity.

Mode of application of sulfonated graphene modulated bioavailable heavy metal contents and microbial community composition in long-term heavy metal contaminated soil

Nanomaterials are increasingly recognized for their potential in soil remediation. However, their impact on soil microbial communities in contaminated soil remains poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the dynamic effects of sulfonated graphene (SG) following one-time or repeated applications on heavy metal availability and soil microbial communities in long-term heavy metal-contaminated soil over 180 days. Our findings revealed that one-time SG application at 30 mg kg−1 significantly increased the bioavailable cadmium (Cd) and copper (Cu) contents by approximately 30 %–40 % after 2 and 180 days. Repeated SG applications, however, displayed no significant influence on heavy metal availability. One-time SG application, coupled with the increased available Cd, induced significant enrichment of some specific functional bacterial genera involved in glycan biosynthesis metabolism and biosynthesis of other secondary metabolites, thereby decreasing the available contents of heavy metals after 90 days. However, the shifts in bacterial community structure and function were subsequently partially recovered after 180 days. Conversely, repeated SG treatments led to minimal alterations after 90 days while leading to similar shifts in the bacterial community at 60 mg kg−1 after 180 days. The fungal community structure remained largely unaltered across all SG treatments. Intriguingly, SG treatments substantially stimulated fungal biomass, with the stimulation degree dependent on SG dosage. These results provide valuable insights for developing phytoremediation strategies, suggesting tailored SG applications during specific growth phases to optimize remediation efficiency.

Family Courts in England & Wales: A population-level evidence base about court users who experience domestic abuse

ObjectivesThe caseload of family courts in England and Wales includes a growing share of domestic abuse cases. To increase knowledge about such cases, the research uses new administrative datasets and linkages. Trends between 2011-2021 are examined in the context of policy and operational changes. MethodThe complete set of family court cases is held in HM Courts & Tribunals Services (HMCTS) systems. Some family court data are collected by the Children and Families Court Advisory Support Service (Cafcass), insofar as courts refer the case to Cafcass. Using their new linkage, we conduct a descriptive analysis of domestic abuse cases in England and Wales over the ten years from 2011. This project is one of the first to gain approval from HMCTS to use their de-identified family court data. ResultsThe data linkage allows to describe how court users approach domestic abuse matters, drawing distinctions between: emergency cases; lack of legal representation in court (litigants in person); repeat applications; presence of children in the household. Furthermore, the data show how courts respond through case management, timeliness of decisions and legal outcomes made. The policy context reveals how court users adapted to changes in eligibility for civil legal aid and to changes over how courts operated under lockdown measures. ConclusionData linkage research is providing an evidence base at population level about court users in England and Wales who experience domestic abuse. This can help inform practice to support families, and policies to ease overburdened courts and avoid returns to court.

FT-IR Analysis Results of Rolling and Temperature Effects on Flexible Substrate

Abstract This research investigates the complexities of molecular structural analysis applied to film substrates post the rolling process, concentrating specifically on characterizing flexible substrate materials, particularly polyimide (PI) film. By deliberately adjusting the number of rolling cycles and temperature parameters, a meticulous series of scratch tests was conducted. Following this, comprehensive sample analyses were carried out employing Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, enabling a thorough exploration of the molecular composition and structural integrity of the substrates. Our experimental findings confirm that molecules with weaker bonds tend to dissociate under physical stresses like rolling. While the dissociation of bonds does not strictly correlate proportionally with the frequency of stress application, a weakening of bonds is observed, particularly after repeated stress applications, indicating the susceptibility of molecular bonds to external stress.

Toxicokinetics of 2-ethylhexyl salicylate (EHS) and its seven metabolites in humans after controlled single dermal exposure to EHS

The chemical UV filter 2-ethylhexyl salicylate (EHS) is used in various personal-care products. The dermal and oral metabolism of EHS have already been targeted by different studies. However, toxicokinetic data after a single dermal exposure to EHS was missing. In our study, three volunteers were dermally exposed to a commercial EHS-containing sunscreen for 9 h with an application dose of 2 mg sunscreen per cm2 body surface area. The exposure was performed indoors, and sunscreen was applied on about 75% of the total skin area. Complete urine voids were collected over 72 h and eight blood samples were drawn from each subject. Urine samples were analyzed for EHS and seven known metabolites (5OH-EHS, 4OH-EHS, 2OH-EHS, 6OH-EHS, 4oxo-EHS, 5oxo-EHS, and 5cx-EPS) by online-SPE UPLC MS/MS. The peaks of urinary elimination occurred 10–11 h after application. The elimination half-lives (Phase 1) were between 6.6 and 9.7 h. The dominant urinary biomarkers were EHS itself, followed by 5OH-EHS, 5cx-EPS, 5oxo-EHS, and 4OH-EHS. 2OH-EHS, 6OH-EHS, and 4oxo-EHS were detected only in minor amounts. An enhanced analysis of conjugation species revealed marginal amounts of unconjugated metabolites and up to 40% share of sulfate conjugates for 5OH-EHS, 5oxo-EHS, and 5cx-EPS. The results demonstrated a delayed systemic resorption of EHS via the dermal route. Despite an extensive metabolism, the parent compound occurred as main urinary parameter. The delayed dermal resorption as well as the slow elimination of EHS indicate an accumulation up to toxicological relevant doses during daily repeated dermal application to large skin areas.

High-rate intercity quantum key distribution with a semiconductor single-photon source

Quantum key distribution (QKD) enables the transmission of information that is secure against general attacks by eavesdroppers. The use of on-demand quantum light sources in QKD protocols is expected to help improve security and maximum tolerable loss. Semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) are a promising building block for quantum communication applications because of the deterministic emission of single photons with high brightness and low multiphoton contribution. Here we report on the first intercity QKD experiment using a bright deterministic single photon source. A BB84 protocol based on polarisation encoding is realised using the high-rate single photons in the telecommunication C-band emitted from a semiconductor QD embedded in a circular Bragg grating structure. Utilising the 79 km long link with 25.49 dB loss (equivalent to 130 km for the direct-connected optical fibre) between the German cities of Hannover and Braunschweig, a record-high secret key bits per pulse of 4.8 × 10−5 with an average quantum bit error ratio of ~ 0.65% are demonstrated. An asymptotic maximum tolerable loss of 28.11 dB is found, corresponding to a length of 144 km of standard telecommunication fibre. Deterministic semiconductor sources therefore challenge state-of-the-art QKD protocols and have the potential to excel in measurement device independent protocols and quantum repeater applications.

Efficient removal of fluoride from water: Adsorption performance of MgO-x adsorbents derived from Mg-MOF-74 and insights from DFT calculations

Magnesium oxide (MgO), an inexpensive and non-toxic substance, is considered an excellent and environmentally friendly fluoride adsorbent. In this study, a series of MgO-x materials (MgO-300, MgO-500, MgO-700 and MgO-800) were obtained by calcination with Mg-MOF-74 as a precursor, and they were used for efficient fluoride removal from wastewater. Both MgO-500 and MgO-700 exhibit excellent fluoride adsorption capacity in the pH range of 3.00–10.00. Specifically, their maximum adsorption capacities are 151.11 mg g−1 and 173.30 mg g−1, respectively. By analyzing the adsorption isotherm and kinetic data, it is confirmed that the adsorption of F− by MgO-x is more in line with the Langmuir isotherm model and the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. Interestingly, the adsorption rate of MgO-500 was significantly faster than that of MgO-700. MgO-x exhibited excellent repeat application performance, with MgO-500 maintaining 75.5 % fluoride ion removal efficiency and 81.5 % regeneration efficiency after five adsorption/desorption cycles. FTIR and XPS analyses show that the adsorption mechanism of fluorine on MgO-x is mainly the result of ligand exchange and electrostatic attraction. Density functional theory calculations show that the adsorption of fluorine on the MgO (110) plane is more favorable than on the (100) plane. This study demonstrates that magnesium oxide derived from Mg-MOF-74, as an economical and environmentally friendly material, has great potential to remove excess fluoride from water.

Split ring resonator geometry inspired crossed flower shaped fractal antenna for satellite and 5G communication applications

This work suggests a fractal antenna in the shape of a crossed flower with a split ring resonator geometry. This suggested antenna serves the Sub-6 GHz 5G and satellite repeater applications for wireless devices operating in the frequency range of 4.01–4.82 and 7.6–7.94 GHz, respectively. The suggested antenna's performance parameters have been empirically confirmed by creating a printed prototype. The antenna geometry is based on a lower-cost FR4 substrate and consists of a mix of crossed floral square-shaped split-ring resonators organized in a Minkowski fractal configuration. A thorough examination of both manufactured and simulated antennas is conducted to demonstrate the uniqueness and edge over traditional dual-band antennas. The suggested fractal antenna's overall physical dimensions measure 0.90λ x 0.96λ at a lower resonant frequency. The response of the unit cell antenna is recorded when Split Ring Resonators are grouped in a fractal antenna with a flower shape. The measured findings verify that the proposed and constructed antenna has an electrical impedance bandwidth of −10 dB at lower frequency band (18.80 %, 4.01–4.82 GHz) and upper frequency band (4.41 %, 7.6–7.94 GHz) of −10 dB. The simulated and fabricated prototypes exhibit good agreement with respect to the stable gain and radiation patterns. Because of its consistent radiation efficiency in the realized resonating bands, the suggested prototype is a strong contender for 5G Sub-6 GHz and X band satellite applications.

Monitoring lung recruitment.

This review explores lung recruitment monitoring, covering techniques, challenges, and future perspectives. Various methodologies, including respiratory system mechanics evaluation, arterial bold gases (ABGs) analysis, lung imaging, and esophageal pressure (Pes) measurement are employed to assess lung recruitment. In support to ABGs analysis, the assessment of respiratory mechanics with hysteresis and recruitment-to-inflation ratio has the potential to evaluate lung recruitment and enhance mechanical ventilation setting. Lung imaging tools, such as computed tomography scanning, lung ultrasound, and electrical impedance tomography (EIT) confirm their utility in following lung recruitment with the advantage of radiation-free and repeatable application at the bedside for sonography and EIT. Pes enables the assessment of dorsal lung tendency to collapse through end-expiratory transpulmonary pressure. Despite their value, these methodologies may require an elevated expertise in their application and data interpretation. However, the information obtained by these methods may be conveyed to build machine learning and artificial intelligence algorithms aimed at improving the clinical decision-making process. Monitoring lung recruitment is a crucial component of managing patients with severe lung conditions, within the framework of a personalized ventilatory strategy. Although challenges persist, emerging technologies offer promise for a personalized approach to care in the future.

Finding repeatable progressive pass clusters and application in international football

Progressive passing in football (soccer) is a key aspect in creating positive possession outcomes. Whilst this is well established, there is not a consistent way to describe the different types of progressive passes. We expand on the previous literature, providing a complete methodological approach to progressive pass clustering from selection of the number of clusters (k) to risk-reward profiling of these progressive pass types. In this paper the Separation and Concordance (SeCo) framework is utilised to provide a process to analyse k-means clustering solutions in a more repeatable way. The results demonstrate that we can find stable progressive pass clusters in International Football and their efficacy with progressive passes “Mid Central to Mid Half Space” in build-up and “Mid Half Space to Final Central” into the final 3rd having the best balance between risk (turnover) and reward (shot created) in the subsequent possession. This allowed for opposition profiling of player and team patterns in different phases of play, with a case study presented for the teams in the Last 16 of the 2022 World Cup.

Seeded bermudagrass establishment as affected by nitrogen source, rate, and application frequency

AbstractSeeded bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon L.) cultivars are a popular choice for many athletic fields and golf course areas throughout the transition zone and southern United States, but the nitrogen (N) needs to optimize turf coverage are not well defined, and N is likely often applied in excess of actual plant needs. A field study was conducted to compare a controlled release versus readily soluble N‐source, total N‐rate, and application frequency for seeded bermudagrass establishment on a native soil in the northern transition zone. ‘Rio’ bermudagrass was seeded in June 2020 and 2021 to evaluate eight granular N‐fertilizer programs using either ammonium sulfate or polymer‐coated urea (PCU). Total N ranged from 0.0 to 6.0 lb N 1,000 ft−2 among three application frequencies, including applications only at planting (PCU only), or applications at planting with repeat applications every 7 or 14 days following bermudagrass germination. Time to 50% green coverage ranged from 20 to 24 and 23 to 30 days in Year 1 and 2, respectively, and varied by N‐program. Applying PCU at planting, 2 lb N 1,000 ft−2, resulted in similar number of days to 90% green coverage compared with other fertilization programs in both study years but with less overall N and fewer applications. These results indicate that applying more than 3 lb N 1,000 ft−2 over the first 60 days of establishment provided no measurable benefit in terms of time to maximum turf coverage.

Gate‐Based Protocol Simulations for Quantum Repeaters using Quantum‐Dot Molecules in Switchable Electric Fields

AbstractElectrically controllable quantum‐dot molecules (QDMs) are a promising platform for deterministic entanglement generation and, as such, a resource for quantum‐repeater networks. A microscopic open‐quantum‐systems approach based on a time‐dependent Bloch–Redfield equation is developed to model the generation of entangled spin states with high fidelity. The state preparation is a crucial step in a protocol for deterministic entangled‐photon‐pair generation that is proposed for quantum repeater applications. The theory takes into account the quantum‐dot molecules' electronic properties that are controlled by time‐dependent electric fields as well as dissipation due to electron–phonon interaction. The transition between adiabatic and non‐adiabatic regimes is quantified, which provides insights into the dynamics of adiabatic control of QDM charge states in the presence of dissipative processes. From this, the maximum speed of entangled‐state preparation is inferred under different experimental conditions, which serves as a first step toward simulation of attainable entangled photon‐pair generation rates. The developed formalism opens the possibility for device‐realistic descriptions of repeater protocol implementations.

PERSONAL HYGIENE AND THE INCIDENT OF SCABIES: COMPREHENSIVE CASE MANAGEMENT AT PHC SURABAYA HOSPITAL

Introduction: One of the risk factors for scabies is poor hygiene. Scabies is a skin condition caused by infestation and sensitization to the Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis mite. While scabies can be treated, it is often diagnosed late, leading to delayed treatment and easy spread within groups. Objective: This paper aims to present a case of scabies in a patient who contracted the infection within the school environment, emphasizing the importance of hygiene and health awareness, particularly regarding skin health, to prevent disease transmission. Case Report: The patient presented to the Skin and Venereology Clinic at PHC Hospital with complaints of generalized itching persisting for 3 months, similar to symptoms experienced by classmates. The itching was accompanied by the presence of small ulcers. Treatment involved the application of Sulfur precipitatum Cream 10%, Krotamiton Cream 10%, and Permethrin Cream 5% once, to be left on for 8-10 hours (with a repeat application after 1 week), along with Cetirizine 10 mg. Conclusion: After weekly evaluations over 3 months, coupled with pharmacological therapy and adherence to hygiene practices, the patient returned symptom-free and without complications.

Evaluation of florpyrauxifen-benzyl for control of Old World climbing fern

Old World climbing fern [Lygodium microphyllum (Cav.) R. Br.; OWCF] is an invasive vine in many Florida wetlands. Management involves poodle cutting the climbing rachis at approximately 120 cm, with a subsequent foliar application of glyphosate to the remaining rooted vines. Recently, there has been increasing interest in synthetic auxin herbicides for OWCF control. Florpyrauxifen-benzyl is a new auxin mimic that was developed for weed control in aquatics and is selective at low use rates. There is limited information regarding its activity on OWCF. We conducted field studies at four wetland sites in south Florida from 2017 to 2020 to evaluate the effectiveness of florpyrauxifen-benzyl for OWCF control. In small-plot studies at two locations, florpyrauxifen-benzyl applied at 0.08 and 0.16 g L 1 reduced OWCFcover to 4%at 3 moafter treatment (MAT) and 21% at 6 MAT.However, florpyrauxifen-benzyl at these concentrations did not consistently control OWCF at 12 MAT. An additional study evaluated banded applications of florpyrauxifen-benzyl or glyphosate compared to poodle cutting for control of the climbing rachis. For both herbicides, banded applications did not control the climbing rachis, whereas poodle cutting provided complete control of all climbing rachis. Finally, an operational field study demonstrated florpyrauxifen-benzyl applied by professional applicators at 0.16 g L 1 reduced OWCF cover to 9% at 17 MAT and was not different from glyphosate applied at 14.4 g L 1. These studies indicate florpyrauxifen-benzyl is active on OWCF and future research should evaluate the effectiveness of repeat applications for longer-term control.

Study of the collagen tissue nanostructure by analyzing the echo decay obtained using the MRI technique.

The multicomponent relaxation observed in nuclear magnetic resonance experiments in biological tissues makes it difficult to establish a correlation between specific relaxation times and tissue structural parameters. The analysis of a nanostructure (the characteristic size of 10-1000 nm) is usually based on formulas for relaxation times which depend on structural parameters at the atomic or molecular levels in the size range of 0.1-5 nm. We have recently developed an analysis method in which relaxation times' anisotropy in a sample is explicitly related to its structure of nanocavities containing a liquid or gas. However, the method is based on the analysis of experimental data on the anisotropy of relaxation times obtained by using the standard NMR technique and rotating the sample relative to a magnetic field and requires a series of experiments. In the present study, to address this challenge, we develop a new method of analysis of a multi-exponential magnetic resonance signal that does not require determining relaxation times and eliminates the sample rotation and the necessity of a series of experiments. Using the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique, the total signal from the whole sample was obtained as a sum of the signals (echo decays) from all voxels. In contrast to previous research, the volumes of nanocavities and their angular distribution can be obtained by analyzing a single total signal for the entire cartilage. In addition, within the framework of this approach, it is possible to identify the reason for the multicomponent nature of relaxation. The proposed method for analyzing a single multi-exponential signal (transverse relaxation) was implemented on cartilage. Using the signal, three anatomical zones of cartilage were studied, revealing significant structural differences between them. The proposed method not only avoids the need for sample rotation but also enables repeated application of layer-by-layer magnetic resonance imaging with micron resolution. The study results allow us to suggest that water molecules contributing to the echo decay are more likely located in nanocavities formed by the fibrillar structure rather than inside the fibrils.

Dynamics of the microorganisms’ number in the soil mass of podzolized chernozem after treatment with fungicides of various origins

In a laboratory model experiment, the dynamics of the number of bacteria and micromycetes in the soil mass of podzolized chernozem after a one-time treatment of its surface with fungicides of various origins investigated. Chemical fungicides based on the active substances carbendazim, tebuconazole and azoxystrobin, and biological fungicides based on the antagonistic fungi Trichoderma viride (lignorum) and Chaetomium cohliodes were used. The soil mass for the experiment was taken from the arable layer of the soil on the site without fertilizers in the field experiment of the Department of Agrochemistry NSC "Institute for Soil Science and Agrochemistry Research named after O. N. Sokolovsky" (NSC "ISSAR") on the territory of SE "EF Hrakivske" (Noviy Korotych village, Kharkiv district, Kharkiv region). During 110 days of composting at a constant temperature, changes in the state of microbial communities, in particular soil micromycetes, and the speed and completeness of their recovery compared to soil not treated with fungicides evaluated. The state of the microflora was monitored four times during the study period according to the parameters of the number of microorganisms belonging to various ecological-trophic and taxonomic groups, the total biological index (TBI) and indicators reflecting the functional state of microbial coenoses (oligotrophy and mineralization indices, the coefficient of microbial transformation of soil organic matter (MTSOM). On the fifth day after treatment with fungicides, the number of bacteria and micromycetes in the samples of the treated soil mass was slightly higher higher than in the control samples, and on the twentieth day, on the contrary, it was significantly lower. The number of bacteria was lower by 20-46 %, micromycetes by 16-34 % compared to the control. On the fortieth day, a partial restoration of the number of bacteria to the level of the untreated control soil observed, and the number of micromycetes remained lower by 9-36 % compared to the control in the case of chemical fungicides. When using biological fungicides, the number of micromycetes approached the values in control soil and accounted for 84-94 % of them. On the one hundred and tenth day, the number of microflora in the soil treated with chemical fungicides according to TBI was 79-89 % of the control values, and in the soil treated with biofungicides it was 102-104 %. The number of micromycetes decreased to a lesser extent and recovered most completely and quickly in the case of the application of the biological fungicide Hetomic. Given the important role of soil micromycetes in the functioning of soils, a decrease in their number due to the accumulation of residual amounts of chemical fungicides in the soil can have a negative impact on many soil-biological processes, in particular the decomposition of plant residues and further transformation of organic matter, as well as on the phytosanitary state of the soil. Therefore, in order to avoid the possible consequences of their excessive or repeated application and the associated threat of soil contamination, it is necessary to carry out microbiological monitoring of soils in areas with a high fungicide load.

A single tDCS session can enhance numerical competence

While numerical skills are increasingly important in modern life, few interventions have been developed to support those with numeracy skills difficulties. Previous studies have demonstrated that applying transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) can improve numerical skills. However, tDCS interventions designed to induce lasting changes typically involve reapplying brain-stimulation over several days. Repeated tDCS application can increase the risks associated with the procedure, as well as restricts the transferability of the method to a wider population, particularly those who may experience mobility issues, such as stroke survivors with acalculia. The current study investigated whether a single session of tDCS (anodal to right parietal lobe and cathodal to left parietal lobe), followed by four self-practice sessions without tDCS, could result in enhancement of numerical skills. Nineteen healthy adults (n = 10 tDCS, n = 9 sham control) implicitly learnt the magnitude association of nine arbitrary symbols, previously used by Cohen Kadosh et al. (2010). Numerical proficiency was assessed using number-to-space task, while automaticity was assessed with numerical Stroop. Results revealed that single-session tDCS had a significant effect on participants' accuracy on the number-to-space tasks, but not on the numerical Stroop task's congruity effect, implying automaticity may require longer practice. We conclude that a single session of tDCS should be considered as an avenue for interventions.