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Tracking trajectories of the unconnected vehicles contributes to the improvement of traffic efficiency and safety. However, the effects of occlusions on the accuracy and reliability of the tracking results are nonnegligible. To address this issue, a modified multiple objects tracking algorithm was proposed to reduce the loss of trajectories caused by occlusions. The proposed algorithm was based on the multiple objects detection results, in which the motion states of the detected objects were determined. Further, the Kalman filter was employed to predict the trajectories, and each trajectory was uniquely matched to the detected object labeled with a tracking identity (ID) using the Hungarian algorithm. Afterward, a flexible life cycle strategy was proposed in terms of the speeds and accelerations of the detected objects, which controls the life cycle of the labeled trajectories when the occlusion occurred and guarantees the continuity of trajectories. The proposed tracking algorithm was tested on the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology and Toyota Technological Institute (KITTI) data set, and the classification of events, activities, and relationships workshops, multiple object tracking (CLEAR-MOT) metrics was introduced to evaluate the performance of the proposed algorithm. The results indicated that the proposed algorithm with appropriate life cycle apparently increased the precision and accuracy and reduced the influence of occlusions on multiple objects tracking. Future work will concentrate on field implementations of the algorithm, and various scenarios and weather conditions will be taken into account. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Harmful algal blooms (HAB) are natural environmental occurrences that can disrupt ecosystem function that supports fisheries and aquaculture, as well as rendering harvested seafood, especially shellfish, unsafe for consumption by humans or wildlife species. Many dinoflagellates that cause HAB have a life cycle with a sexually produced resting stage called the resting cyst. The resting cyst enables the species to persist in an area where conditions for growth vary seasonally. These species often are found as vegetative stages only during a short period of the year. Most of the time is spent dormant or quiescent as thick-walled resting cysts with very low metabolic activity. By summarizing findings from an iterative series of research projects investigating different parts of the sexual life cycle, a more complete picture of the role of the sexual stages emerges, illuminating the consequences of life cycle within the environmental context. Gametes, the sexual stages, are formed at the end of the growing season in response to environmental signals which remain largely unknown. Gametes have lower cell-specific density and different swimming behavior compared to vegetative cells. Specifically, vegetative cells perform daily vertical migrations; whereas, gametes accumulate in patterns influenced by lower cell-specific density, changed swimming behavior, and attraction to each other. The patterns and patches of accumulated gametes (sexually induced cells) aggregate into larger and larger patterns. Together with large-scale hydrographic water movements, such as upwelling, water stratification, and fronts, cells originating from a low vegetative cell density background distribution assemble and become concentrated within a constricted space, thus forming a dense "bloom." This process is distinctly different from the paradigm of blooms resulting from simple, vegetative cell divisions. Undisturbed blooms of cyst-producing dinoflagellate gametes end with gamete fusion into diploid zygotes that transform into resting cysts. The resting cysts sink according to shape and cell-specific density into the silt fraction of the sediment. Cyst preservation depends upon the oxygenation level of the sediment and the presence of fauna. Hypoxic/anoxic conditions lower cyst mortality from benthic grazers. The reestablishment of motile, vegetative cells occurs under seasonally favorable conditions, and successful population growth depends upon environmental conditions, such as weather and nutrient availability. Factors that increase HAB risks of resting cyst-producing dinoflagellates are eutrophication leading to high cell numbers and high cyst preservation in hypoxic benthic zones. Hydrographic factors causing increased cell accumulation also are important, and intensified water stratification can amplify encystment success. These insights underscore mechanisms by which climate change is affecting HAB ecology and subsequent effects upon marine and coastal fisheries and aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maintenance framework – preventive maintenance of hydraulic steel barriers Hydraulic steel components are of great importance with regard to the functionality of hydraulic engineering structures and thus the efficiency of the federal waterways in Germany. Over 1500 hydraulic steel components are installed in locks and weirs alone, which regulate the water level as closures in weirs and enable ships to overcome height differences as gates in locks. Due to the required movements and partially running water, the hydraulic steel components are subjected to high exposure, which can trigger a corrosion process that reduces the resistance of the components. Together with a neglected maintenance the structural inspection documents as a result a correspondingly poor condition of the hydraulic steel components. These boundary conditions have prompted the Federal Waterways and Shipping Administration (WSV) to switch to a preventive maintenance strategy for the preservation of hydraulic steel components. Within the framework of a maintenance action plan, corroded steel components are to be repaired and the corrosion protection renewed at fixed intervals. This represents a challenging task for the administration as the client and the companies carrying out the work as the contractor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A highly fecund root‐lesion nematode parasitizing a variety of crops was discovered and found to be widespread in Kenya and South Africa. These populations were molecularly identical to Pratylenchus teres teres and P. teres vandenbergae based on D2‐D3 of 28S rDNA and Hsp90 sequences. However, based on morphological differences with the original description of P. teres and its different geographical distribution, Pratylenchus vandenbergae stat. nov., previously known as subspecies P. teres vandenbergae, is recognized as a separate species. This species is characterized by a slightly offset labial region with three annuli, en face morphology belonging to Group II, lateral field with four incisures with two outer bands areolated as observed under a light microscope and the inner band also partially areolated at the vulva region as observed in scanning electron microscopy view, a robust stylet (14–17 μm) with rounded knobs and subcylindrical tail with annulated tail tip. This important and common species remained largely under the radar, probably due to identifications based only on sequence similarity, including mislabelled Pratylenchus bolivianus sequences in GenBank. Pathogenicity of P. vandenbergae stat. nov. in finger millet roots was confirmed through acid fuchsin staining, and reproduction and pathogenicity tests in maize, soybean, sunflower and tomato plants demonstrated its capacity to affect crop growth. Life cycle comparison with P. penetrans in vitro showed a similar life cycle length but significantly higher fecundity. Finally, significant differences in pathogenicity and reproduction of P. vandenbergae stat. nov. were found both at genotype level (finger millet genotypes OKHALE‐1 & KNE1034) and crop level (maize, soybean, sunflower and tomato plants). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The black squash mirid, Pycnoderes quadrimaculatusGuérin-Méneville, 1857, was recently found feeding on chayote squash, Sechium edule (Jacq.) Sw. (Cucurbitaceae), under cultivation in Campo Grande, Veracruz, Mexico. Based on the economic importance of this plant in the region, research under laboratory conditions was initiated to study essential aspects of the biology (duration of life cycle and survival) and basic morphology of this pest insect. The duration of the egg, immature (instars 1—5), and adult stages lasted 14.2, 14.1, and 31 days, respectively. Elongated, slightly curved eggs, without respiratory projections, were inserted in the main and secondary veins of chayote leaves. All nymphal instars were yellowish to pale greenish with distinct black regions and black setae scattered over the dorsum, except for the hyaline to whitish and smooth first instar. Sexual dimorphism was not present in P. quadrimaculatus. The probability of survival for males and females feeding on chayote squash was estimated to be 100% at 3 and 21 days, respectively. Subsequently, survival decreased without significant differences between the sexes. This is the first report of aspects of the life cycle, morphology, and survival of P. quadrimaculatus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is a highly recyclable thermoplastic comprising 17% of all plastic produced. Yet, demand for recycled HDPE (r-HDPE) has outrun availability, partly due to manufacturers' interest in meeting sustainability goals and recycled content mandates. Given that HDPE has a variety of uses, understanding optimal allocation of the constrained r-HDPE supply across product categories and lifespans will support the challenge of addressing broader sustainability goals and establishing circular economy (CE). By utilizing systems dynamic (SD) and life cycle analysis (LCA) modeling, this work studies whether prioritizing r-HDPE for longer-life products is more environmentally beneficial, compared to shorter-life products (e.g., food-grade packaging). Specifically, this work compares the production of milk containers and drainage pipes using virgin and r-HDPE as examples of HDPE applications through three scenarios. Key findings emerged from this study including the demonstration of a slight advantage to prioritizing allocating the constrained r-HDPE supply to the longer-life product vs the shorter-life product and a distinct challenge in hitting recycled content targets with current recycling rates and 2030 goals for the United States. This highlights a need to expand current recycling infrastructure in tandem with other CE practices to reduce plastic consumption and sustain environmental health for all. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the Industry 5.0 paradigm evolves to the forefront of research directions, a dissonance emerges between smart and sustainable elements. This stems from the misbalance of priorities appointed during the engineering design process. Selection of technology driven features, such as collaborative robots and IoT devices are often implemented at the expense of other criteria such as environmental sustainability. This observation is investigated on a workstation designed for human-robot collaboration (HRC), but with limited regard to the energy consumption and carbon footprint incurred during its life cycle. Consequently, this research work attempts to understand the consequences of design decisions for HRC safety (physical and cognitive) on environmental sustainability. The impacts of various HRC workstation scenarios (including various safety features and components) are evaluated using environmental metrics while Design for Environmental Sustainability (DfES) is adopted to close the rift between safety and sustainability. This work uses material substitution and dematerialisation to compensate for the negative impacts resulting from smart HRC features, achieving a reduction of 10 % in both energy consumption and carbon footprint when compared to the same workstation not having undergone the DfES exercise. This paves the way for academia and industrial designers seeking to strike a balance between human-centric and environmentally sustainable HRC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, our objective is to explain the decline in the income share of the middle class and the increase in the share of the wealthy - a global empirical phenomenon, commonly referred to as "The Elephant" (Lakner & Milanovic, 2013; Milanovic, 2016) - by examining the different life-cycle income paths of heterogeneous income classes and the varying tax burden on labor and capital income. The model investigates the diverse life-cycle paths and their nonlinear behavior among the income classes under scrutiny. This approach enables us to dynamically analyze the divergence in the income distribution using one of the more important models in economics: The life-cycle and permanent-income framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Spodoptera frugiperda (FAW) is a pest that poses a significant threat to corn production worldwide, causing millions of dollars in losses. The species has evolved into two strains (corn and rice) that differ in their genetics, reproductive isolation, and resistance to insecticides and Bacillus thuringiensis endotoxins. The microbiota plays an important role in insects' physiology, nutrient acquisition, and response to chemical and biological controls. Several studies have been carried out on FAW microbiota from larvae guts using laboratory or field samples and a couple of studies have analyzed the corn strain microbiota across its life cycle. This investigation reveals the first comparison between corn strain (CS) and rice strain (RS) of FAW during different developmental insect stages and, more importantly, endosymbiont detection in both strains, highlighting the importance of studying both FAW populations and samples from different stages. Methods: The composition of microbiota during the life cycle of the FAW corn and rice strains was analyzed through high-throughput sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene using the MiSeq system. Additionally, culture-dependent techniques were used to isolate gut bacteria and the Transcribed Internal Spacer-ITS, 16S rRNA, and gyrB genes were examined to enhance bacterial identification. Results: Richness, diversity, and bacterial composition changed significantly across the life cycle of FAW. Most diversity was observed in eggs and males. Differences in gut microbiota diversity between CS and RS were minor. However, Leuconostoc, A2, Klebsiella, Lachnoclostridium, Spiroplasma, and Mucispirilum were mainly associated with RS and Colidextribacter, Pelomonas, Weissella, and Arsenophonus to CS, suggesting that FAW strains differ in several genera according to the host plant. Firmicutes and Proteobacteria were the dominant phyla during FAW metamorphosis. Illeobacterium, Ralstonia, and Burkholderia exhibited similar abundancies in both strains. Enterococcus was identified as a conserved taxon across the entire FAW life cycle. Microbiota core communities mainly consisted of Enterococcus and Illeobacterium. A positive correlation was found between Spiroplasma with RS (sampled from eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults) and Arsenophonus (sampled from eggs, larvae, and adults) with CS. Enterococcus mundtii was predominant in all developmental stages. Previous studies have suggested its importance in FAW response to B. thuringensis. Our results are relevant for the characterization of FAW corn and rice strains microbiota to develop new strategies for their control. Detection of Arsenophonus in CS and Spiroplasma in RS are promising for the improvement of this pest management, as these bacteria induce male killing and larvae fitness reduction in other Lepidoptera species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Life cycle diagrams communicate the developmental life stages of an organism. Design choices may inadvertently communicate additional information about survivorship rates, genetic variation, and microevolutionary change. In this controlled experiment, we randomly assigned one of three life cycle diagrams to 684 college students. Each figure included identical life stages of a fictitious organism's development but differed in (1) the number of offspring (single or multiple) and (2) layout (cyclical or linear). Each participant could reference the figure when answering questions about organism survival, variation among offspring, and variation between generations. Students scored 28–30% higher on questions about survivorship when the available diagram included multiple offspring. Students scored 19–30% higher on questions about microevolution when the diagram layout was linear. Overall, students who received the figure with a linear layout and multiple offspring earned the highest average score (54.5%, or 3.3 of six questions) on the assessment, while students with the traditional figure (cyclical layout with single offspring) scored the lowest average (26.1%, or 1.6 of six questions). These results suggest that figure design affects student interpretations and may assist student learning about ecology and evolution concepts and common misconceptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficiency and safety of civil aviation heavily depend on the robust performance of avionic systems, which provide essential communication, navigation, and surveillance capabilities for flight operations. To sustain the requisite level of reliability in these complex systems, a methodological foundation for their design and modernization is critical. This paper presents a comprehensive framework for the Avionics Management System, emphasizing systematic component analysis and developmental methodologies. This framework includes a multidisciplinary approach that integrates advanced principles, theories, models, and methods drawn from current achievements in information technology, artificial intelligence, mathematical statistics, and decision-making theory. It also considers societal needs, economic trends, and future developmental prospects. Proposed approach ensures that AMS not only addresses immediate operational requirements but is also adaptable to future technological evolutions, thus supporting the life cycle of avionic systems from conception through to utilization. The proposed framework is poised to guide the industry in achieving higher levels of system reliability and maintenance efficiency, with potential implications for the broader realm of civil aviation and its everadvancing technological landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oystershell scale (OSS; Lepidosaphes ulmi L.) is an invasive insect that threatens sustainability of aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) in the southwestern United States. OSS invasions have created challenges for land managers tasked with maintaining healthy aspen ecosystems for the ecological, economic, and aesthetic benefits they provide. Active management is required to suppress OSS populations and mitigate damage to aspen ecosystems, but before management strategies can be implemented, critical knowledge gaps about OSS biology and ecology must be filled.This study sought to fill these gaps by addressing 3 questions: (i) What is the short-term rate of aspen mortality in OSS-infested stands in northern Arizona, USA? (ii) What are the short-term rates of OSS population growth on trees and OSS spread among trees in aspen stands? (iii) What is the phenology of OSS on aspen and does climate influence phenology? We observed high levels of aspen mortality (annual mortality rate = 10.4%) and found that OSS spread rapidly within stands (annual spread rate = 10–12.3%). We found first, second, and young third instars throughout the year and observed 2 waves of first instars (i.e., crawlers), one throughout the summer and a second in mid-winter. The first wave appeared to be driven by warming seasonal temperatures, but the cause of the second wave is unknown and might represent a second generation. We provide recommendations for future OSS research, including suggestions for more precise quantification of OSS phenology, and discuss how our results can inform management of OSS and invaded aspen ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the era of the circular economy, solutions aimed at increasing the circularity of materials and products are highly welcome. Eco-design and waste management strategies are crucial for ensuring circularity and resource-saving. Strategies should be driven by assessing life cycle-based environmental performance. Tools to measure this performance should take into account two recycling-oriented parameters: recycled content and recycling rate. This paper presents the results of a life cycle assessment case study for a secondary fence board (baseline scenario). The circular footprint formula has been used to allocate burdens and credits between the supplier and the user of recycled materials. The potential environmental impact and the most significant issues have been calculated, identified, and presented. A general recommendation for further environmental development of the secondary fence board is to improve the production-related energy efficiency of recycling processes and increase the recycling rate of the board (to avoid landfilling). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Driven by the Industry 4.0 paradigm and the resulting demand for connectivity in industrial networking, there is a convergence of formerly isolated operational technology and information technology networks. This convergence leads to attack surfaces on industrial networks. Therefore, a holistic approach of countermeasures is needed to protect against cyber attacks. One element of these countermeasures is the use of certificate-based authentication for industrial components communicating on the field level. This in turn requires the management of certificates, private keys, and trust anchors in the communication endpoints. The work at hand surveys the topic of certificate management in industrial networking environments throughout their life cycle, from manufacturing until their disposal. To the best of the authors' knowledge, there is no work yet that surveys the topic of certificate management in industrial networking environments. The work at hand considers contributions from research papers, industrial communication standards, and contributions that originate from the IT domain. In total, 2042 results from IEEE Xplore, Science Direct, Scopus, and Springer Link were taken into account. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria and title, abstract, and full-text analysis, 20 contributions from research papers were selected. In addition to the presentation of their key contributions, the work at hand provides a synopsis that compares the overarching aspects. This comprises different proposed entity architectures, certificate management functions, involvement of different stakeholders, and consideration of life cycle stages. Finally, research gaps that are to be filled by further work are identified. While the topic of certificate management has already been addressed by the IT domain, its incorporation into industrial communication standards began significantly later and is still the subject of research work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrification is increasing in prevalence due to the importance placed on it for achieving global net zero targets. This has led to the proliferation of electrical mobility, including the wide-scale production of passenger vehicles, personal mobility devices and recent announcements regarding electrically powered aircraft, as well as in energy production. Electrical machines provide a cleaner source of energy during operation in comparison to their traditional fossil-based alternatives. The uncertainty and lack of transparency hanging over these green credentials can be attributed to how these products are manufactured and then disposed of at the end of their life. For them to be a truly sustainable solution, improvements need to be made across their entire life cycle. With the projected increase in their numbers due to the advancement of electrification, this current life cycle is not sustainable, directly opposing the intention of these products. This paper will introduce the current demand and challenges. It will also present these motors broken down into their constituent parts and follow each through their typical lifecycle. This paper presents the typical current life cycle of permanent magnet electrical machines, demonstrating the environmental issues associated with the current linear life cycle, and proposing alternative practices, to ease the environmental burden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract\nHighlightsMakhana is a popular popped snack in south-east Asia due to its high nutritional value. During storage of roasted makhana seeds, Rhyzopertha dominica found feeding which later found affecting significantly the popping quality. Detailed study elucidated that adults preferred 11 mm size seeds, average 2 grubs and 1 adult per seed was found feeding inside, wherein they bored ∼2 holes, apart from natural hole and caused 49.3% damage in 75 days storage. With an artificial infestation of 150 adults per kg of seed, recorded maximum damage (46.80%) with 4.77 mg of seed dust produced. Insect successfully completed its life cycle on roasted makhana seeds in 100-125 days. Female laid 242 ± 7 eggs at 28 °C, and 210 ± 11 eggs at 32 °C. The infestation led to significant change in seed quality like popping, moisture, ash and crude fibre. The commonly available management strategy like UV light trapping was done, and peak attraction was reported at 8 pm (27%). Study showed feed preference, biology and management option, which can be useful for devising the insect management in makhana storage.Study related to the speciality crop foxnut, commonly called makhana, Euryale ferox, which is having higher commercial importanceRhyzopertha dominica, a polyphagous insect successfully expanded its hosts, and completed its life cycle in 100-125 days on roasted Makhana seedsInsect preferred 11 mm size roasted seeds (49.3 ± 0.50% seeds damaged in 75 days) than those of 7 and 9 mm roasted seeds. Unlike other hosts, showed internal feeding behaviour, affected the quality and popping in a significant wayRhyzopertha dominica can be efficiently trapped using UV light traps (370 ± 10 nm wavelength) in roasted makhana seed storage, which is an effective and non-chemical management option [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bangiales represent an ancient lineage within red algae that are characterized by a life history featuring a special transitional stage from diploid to haploid known as the conchosporangia stage. However, the regulatory mechanisms governing the initiation of this stage by changes in environmental conditions are not well understood. This study analyzed the changes in phytohormones and H2O2 content during the development of conchosporangia. It also compared the gene expression changes in the early development of conchosporangia through transcriptome analysis. The findings revealed that H2O2 was shown to be the key signal initiating the transition from conchocelis to conchosporangia in Pyropia haitanensis. Phytohormone analysis showed a significant increase in 1- aminocylopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) levels during conchosporangia maturation, while changes in environmental conditions were found to promote the rapid release of H2O2. H2O2 induction led to conchosporangia development, and ACC enhanced both H2O2 production and conchosporangia development. This promotive effect was inhibited by the NADPH oxidase inhibitor diphenylene iodonium and the H2O2 scavenger N, N'-dimethylthiourea. The balance of oxidative-antioxidative mechanisms was maintained by regulating the activities and transcriptional levels of enzymes involved in H2O2 production and scavenging. Transcriptome analysis in conjunction with evaluation of enzyme and transcription level changes revealed upregulation of protein and sugar synthesis along with modulation of energy supply under the conditions that induced maturation, and exogenous ACC was found to enhance the entire process. Overall, this study demonstrates that ACC enhances H2O2 promotion of the life cycle switch responsible for the transition from a vegetative conchocelis to a meiosispreceding conchosporangia stage in Bangiales species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The geographic distribution and host-parasite interaction networks of Sarcocystis spp. in small mammals in eastern Asia remain incompletely known. Methods: Experimental infections, morphological and molecular characterizations were used for discrimination of a new Sarcocystis species isolated from colubrid snakes and small mammals collected in Thailand, Borneo and China. Results: We identified a new species, Sarcocystis muricoelognathis sp. nov., that features a relatively wide geographic distribution and infects both commensal and forest-inhabiting intermediate hosts. Sarcocystis sporocysts collected from rat snakes (Coelognathus radiatus, C. flavolineatus) in Thailand induced development of sarcocysts in experimental SD rats showing a type 10a cyst wall ultrastructure that was identical with those found in Rattus norvegicus from China and the forest rat Maxomys whiteheadi in Borneo. Its cystozoites had equal sizes in all intermediate hosts and locations, while sporocysts and cystozoites were distinct from other Sarcocystis species. Partial 28S rRNA sequences of S. muricoelognathis from M. whiteheadi were largely identical to those from R. norvegicus in China but distinct from newly sequenced Sarcocystiszuoi. The phylogeny of the nuclear 18S rRNA gene placed S. muricoelognathis within the so-called S. zuoi complex, including Sarcocystisattenuati, S. kani, S. scandentiborneensis and S. zuoi, while the latter clustered with the new species. However, the phylogeny of the ITS1-region confirmed the distinction between S. muricoelognathis and S. zuoi. Moreover, all three gene trees suggested that an isolate previously addressed as S. zuoi from Thailand (KU341120) is conspecific with S. muricoelognathis. Partial mitochondrial cox1 sequences of S. muricoelognathis were almost identical with those from other members of the group suggesting a shared, recent ancestry. Additionally, we isolated two partial 28S rRNA Sarcocystis sequences from Low's squirrel Sundasciurus lowii that clustered with those of S. scandentiborneensis from treeshews. Conclusions: Our results provide strong evidence of broad geographic distributions of rodent-associated Sarcocystis and host shifts between commensal and forest small mammal species, even if the known host associations remain likely only snapshots of the true associations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate whether the dividend policies of privately held firms follow a predictable pattern that parallels their life cycles. Our analyses are based on a large sample of 113,599 Belgian privately held firms with 666,135 firm-year observations that cover the period from 2005 to 2018. We find that as the retained earnings of privately held firms increase, they are more likely to pay dividends and to pay higher amounts. We find a significant effect of retained earnings on dividend policy in a subsample of established firms, but not in a subsample of young firms. Firms are also more likely to initiate (omit) a dividend as their retained earnings increase (decrease) over time. Overall, our results support the life cycle theory in the context of privately held firms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Poriferans (sponges) are highly adaptable organisms that can thrive in diverse marine and freshwater environments due, in part, to their close associations with internal microbial communities. This sponge microbiome can be acquired from the surrounding environment (horizontal acquisition) or obtained from the parents during the reproductive process through a variety of mechanisms (vertical transfer), typically resulting in the presence of symbiotic microbes throughout all stages of sponge development. How and to what extent the different components of the microbiome are transferred to the developmental stages remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated the microbiome composition of a common, low-microbial-abundance, Atlantic-Mediterranean sponge, Crambe crambe, throughout its ontogeny, including adult individuals, brooded larvae, lecithotrophic free-swimming larvae, newly settled juveniles still lacking osculum, and juveniles with a functional osculum for filter feeding. Results: Using 16S rRNA gene analysis, we detected distinct microbiome compositions in each ontogenetic stage, with variations in composition, relative abundance, and diversity of microbial species. However, a particular dominant symbiont, Candidatus Beroebacter blanensis, previously described as the main symbiont of C. crambe, consistently occurred throughout all stages, an omnipresence that suggests vertical transmission from parents to offspring. This symbiont fluctuated in relative abundance across developmental stages, with pronounced prevalence in lecithotrophic stages. A major shift in microbial composition occurred as new settlers completed osculum formation and acquired filter-feeding capacity. Candidatus Beroebacter blanensis decreased significatively at this point. Microbial diversity peaked in filter-feeding stages, contrasting with the lower diversity of lecithotrophic stages. Furthermore, individual specific transmission patterns were detected, with greater microbial similarity between larvae and their respective parents compared to non-parental conspecifics. Conclusions: These findings suggest a putative vertical transmission of the dominant symbiont, which could provide some metabolic advantage to non-filtering developmental stages of C. crambe. The increase in microbiome diversity with the onset of filter-feeding stages likely reflects enhanced interaction with environmental microbes, facilitating horizontal transmission. Conversely, lower microbiome diversity in lecithotrophic stages, prior to filter feeding, suggests incomplete symbiont transfer or potential symbiont digestion. This research provides novel information on the dynamics of the microbiome through sponge ontogeny, on the strategies for symbiont acquisition at each ontogenetic stage, and on the potential importance of symbionts during larval development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton mealybug, Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley (Coccomorpha: Pseudococcidae) is an invasive sucking pest native to North America, has spread to Central America, and various Asian countries where it extensively damaging several agri-horticultural crops. Following invasion of this pest, several native as well as exotic natural enemies have been discovered and reported viz., Aenasius arizonensis (Girault), Allotropa phenacocca, Cheiloneurus sp., Bothriothorax sp., Marietta sp., and Chartocerus sp. etc., among which, A. phenacocca is one of such primary solitary endoparasitoid of P. solenopsis reported from China (Chen et al., Oriental Insects,45(2–3), 275–280, 2011). However, in the present study we report a morphologically similar species of Allotropa near phenacocca from India. The molecular analysis of the COI gene of this morphovariant (Accession number- OQ451869) showed 89.81% similarity with the closely allied A. phenacocca (Accession number- MT775809) from China. Morphometric and biological parameters of parasitoid revealed that the adult females were black in color and ranged in length from 0.74 to 1.17 mm. Antenna of female was 9 segmented; A7 and A8 extended and its average length was 0.45 ± 0.012 mm. Mesosoma is reticulate and densely setose. Adult males were also black in colour and measured 0.70 to 0.95 mm in length. During its lifespan, the female parasitized 26 to 113 mealybugs with a mean of 72 ± 8.51 and the average developmental period was 26.54 ± 0.67 days. This report document the newfound parasitoid of P. solenopsis, highlighting its potential for efficiently controlling cotton mealybug populations. Notably, this parasitoid exhibits a preference for targeting the early stages of mealybugs, thereby impeding their progression into the most destructive stages, namely the third instar and adult forms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strigea falconis is a common parasite of birds of prey and owls widely distributed in the Holarctic. We aimed to characterise S. falconis from Iceland via integrative taxonomic approach and to contribute to the understanding of its circulation in the Holarctic. We recovered adult S. falconis from two gyrfalcons (Falco rusticolus) collected in 2011 and 2012 in Iceland (Reykjanes Peninsula, Westfjords) and characterised them by morphological and molecular genetic (D2 of rDNA, cox1, ND1 of the mDNA) methods. We provide the first species record of S. falconis in Iceland which to the best of our knowledge is its northernmost distributional range. The presence of S. falconis in Iceland is surprising, as there are no suitable intermediate hosts allowing completion of its life cycle. Gyrfalcons are fully sedentary in Iceland; thus, the only plausible explanation is that they acquired their infection by preying upon migratory birds arriving from Europe. Our data indicate that the most likely candidates are Anseriformes and Charadriiformes. Also, we corroborate the wide geographical distribution of S. falconis, as we found a high degree of similarity between our haplotypes and sequences of mesocercariae from frogs in France and of a metacercaria from Turdus naumanni in Japan, and adults from Buteo buteo and Circus aeruginosus from the Czech Republic. The case of Strigea falconis shows the advantages of a complex life cycle and also depicts its pitfalls when a parasite is introduced to a new area with no suitable intermediate hosts. In Iceland, gyrfalcons are apparently dead-end hosts for S. falconis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parasitengona is a diverse group of Prostigmata, including mites with life cycles that include important morphological changes between larva and deutonymph, an evolutionary novelty not shared by its closely related taxa (Halacaridae, Pezidade or Anystidae). Allotanaupodoidea is a superfamily of Parasitengona, known solely by the post-larval instars, that differs from the remaining Parasitengona mainly due to the lack of trichobothria in the prodorsal shield. Allotanaupodoidea has a single family Allotanaupodidae with six species distributed in two subfamilies, Allotanaupodinae Zhang & Fan, 2007 and Paratanaupodinae Zhang & Fan, 2007, with one and two genera, respectively. In the present study, we describe the larva of Allotanaupodus winksiZhang & Fan, 2007 from New Zealand associated with the deutonymph by means of cytochrome oxidase I barcoding. The description reveals a remarkable resemblance between larval and post larval specimens of A. winksi, a condition approached among Parasitengona only by Calyptostomatidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitzschia soratensis and N. inconspicua are two small diatoms that are extremely similar in the light microscope though separable in subtle aspects of valve and girdle ultrastructure. They are not closely related in molecular phylogenies and differ in their ecological preferences, though they sometimes co-occur in the same communities. To test further their functional equivalence, we investigated the reproductive biology of N. soratensis, for comparison with a previously published account of N. inconspicua. Both species are automictic, lacking pairing between gametangia and gamete exchange. Nuclear staining shows the presence of two nuclei in some auxospores of N. soratensis, which are smaller than the nuclei of vegetative cells and appear to be haploid, indicating prior meiosis. These auxospores, surrounded by incunabula containing tangles of silica strips, give rise to uninucleate initial cells 18–21 µm long. Frequently, however, small N. soratensis cells produce two spherical 'pseudogametes', some of which abort while others expand and form initial valves shorter than those produced by binucleate auxospores (maximum length 14.5 µm). Similar uniparental auxosporulation, with silica strip formation, occurs in N. aff. hantzschiana, N. acidoclinata, N. fonticola and N. angustata, which are close relatives of N. soratensis according to morphological and/or molecular evidence. This group and the N. inconspicua complex may be the diatom equivalents of apomictic angiosperms, e.g. dandelions, and likely contain a multitude of microspecies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Erik Erikson gives us a comprehensive psychosocial schema encompassing the life cycle from birth to death. In elucidating key issues at each life stage—the epigenetic crises—he defines important parameters of development that distinguish between the normative and the pathologic. Individuals at any developmental stage can be evaluated with respect to these fundamental milestones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eutrophic freshwater ecosystems are vulnerable to toxin-producing cyanobacteria growth or harmful algal blooms. Cyanobacteria belonging to the Nostocales order form akinetes that are similar to the seeds of vascular plants, which are resting cells surrounded by a thick membrane. They overwinter in sediment and germinate when conditions become favorable, eventually developing into vegetative cells and causing blooms. This review covers the cyanobacterial akinete of the Nostocales order and summarizes the environmental triggers and cellular responses involved in akinete germination and formation based on data from the literature. It also emphasizes the intimate and dynamic relationship that exists between the germination and formation of akinete in the annual life cycle of cyanobacteria. After comparing many published data, it is found that the tolerance ranges for factors affecting both akinete germination and formation do not differ significantly and are broadly consistent with the tolerance ranges for vegetative cell growth. However, the optimal range varies with different species and strains of cyanobacteria. The life cycle of cyanobacteria, as a result of akinete germination and formation, has a seasonal periodicity and spatial connectivity between the water column and the sediment. However, during the summer growing season, intimate coupling between akinete formation and germination can occur in the water column, and this can contribute to high population densities being maintained in the water column. During this time, shallow sediment could also provide suitable conditions for akinete germination, thereby contributing to the establishment of water column populations. The information summarized in this review is expected to help improve our shared understanding of the life cycle of the Nostocales cyanobacteria while also providing insights into the monitoring and management of harmful algal blooms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Every year in the construction process new technologies are introduced, the use of new building materials increases, a large number of contractors are involved, with a significant increase in the scale of construction and the need to ensure the reliability of construction. There arises a necessity to forecast and correct activities of construction organizations, to give adequate assessments of the adopted organizational and technological solutions (OTS), which, as a rule, leads to a decrease in the prescriptive term of construction. Monolithic structure construction process design is closely connected with the necessity of clear and correct choice of the necessary organizationaltechnological solutions. Depending on the made decisions it is possible to estimate the reliability of monolithic works. This in its turn gives the possibility to forecast the terms of production, the cost of monolithic works on the stage of design of dwelling buildings and industrial objects directly. The article offers a methodology for calculating the evaluation of organizational and technical reliability of the process of monolithic structures. For the successful performance of monolithic works it is necessary to ensure the reliable functioning of all participants of the process from designers to construction teams. The article presents the calculation of organizational and technological reliability index (OTR) of monolithic works. To calculate the index the author proposed a model and introduced the concept of reliability of the considered process of monolithic works as a probability of achieving the final goal. At the same time, the process of monolithic works performance both for residential and civil objects is taken as a complex stochastic system, which includes a set of co-dependent relations. The application of the assumed approach for the calculation of organizational and technological reliability of monolithic works with small changes, refinements can be applied to the calculation of other works in the construction of buildings and structures throughout the life cycle of construction. At the same time, this methodology makes it possible to obtain a numerical value of reliability assessment, which is very relevant when choosing organizational and technological solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The linear economy model that is generally practised in the construction industry is one of the main reasons hindering the achievement of sustainability in construction. Alternatively, the Circular Economy (CE) model is becoming a promising approach to achieve sustainable construction, in which materials and products are circulated at their highest economic value and, thereby, contribute towards mitigating the negative economic, social, and environmental impacts of the construction industry. For a successful transition towards CE in the construction industry, it is important not only to understand CE practices that could be implemented across different stages of the life cycle of construction projects, but also to understand how a particular practice relates to another at those stages. Having limited studies identifying such relationships, this study aims to improve the successful implementation of CE practices in the construction industry by comprehending the practices, along with their relationships, throughout the project life cycle. A qualitative research method consisting of a systematic literature review was adopted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework to identify CE practices. Amongst the identified highly cited CE practices applicable to construction projects, design for disassembly, design for adaptability and flexibility, and design for manufacture and assembly ended up being the most significant ones. Consequently, a relationship matrix was developed, highlighting the relationships among the highly cited practices. The matrix emphasises that practices applied in the design stage relate frequently to ones at the following stages, necessitating projects to start with proper planning. This study ultimately assists construction industry stakeholders in successfully and rationally implementing CE practices throughout the project life cycle while enhancing the value addition on the economy, society, and environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prefabricated installation, a pivotal study in the realm of contemporary construction practices, delves into the utilization of prefabrication within mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems. Despite its ascending prominence, the domain grapples with ambiguities in application pathways, uncertain developmental trajectories, and the absence of a holistic technical paradigm. This research endeavors to bridge these gaps by conducting a thorough and multidimensional investigation into the current landscape of prefabricated MEP installation initiatives. This study meticulously dissects the paradigm from five critical vantage points: historical evolution, standards and regulations, life cycle analysis, technological applications, and corporate implementation strategies. At present, there is still a lack of standards and specifications specifically for the field of assembled MEP installation. The analysis reveals a trend towards intelligent and sustainable installation practices in prefabricated MEP projects. The research predominantly focuses on the design, production, and installation stages. Notably, building information modeling (BIM) emerges as the most prominent technology, followed by the Internet of Things (IoT) and 3D laser scanning, with extended reality (XR) technologies gaining traction. Large, state-owned construction firms are spearheading innovative applications in this realm. In summary, this paper provides an overview and outlook for the development direction and the application of cutting-edge technologies in prefabricated MEP installation projects, with the aim of supporting the industry's advancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Using molecular techniques, we have previously shown that carnivorous mammals of the family Mustelidae might be common definitive hosts for various protozoan Sarcocystis species. In the present study we aimed to unravel whether Sarcocystis species using ungulates as intermediate hosts and canids or felids as definitive hosts can be found in intestine of mustelids. Methods: Small intestine samples of 93 individual mustelids of five different species from Lithuania were examined. Sarcocystis species were identified based on species-specific PCR and subsequent cox1 sequencing. Results: Six Sarcocystis species (S. arieticanis, S. bertrami, S. capracanis, S. capreolicanis, S. linearis and S. morae) defined by ungulate-canid life cycle were detected for the first time in small intestines of mustelids. By contrast, the prevalence of Sarcocystis characterised by ungulate-felid life cycle was low (3.2%). Overall, 76% of the examined animals were positive for at least one of the studied Sarcocystis species. Four species, S. arieticanis, S. bertrami, S. capracanis and S. morae were most commonly found, with the detection rate of about 40%. Conclusions: The current finding, in addition to our previous studies, suggests that mustelids play an important role in the spread of various Sarcocystis species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Batteries have been integral components in modern vehicles, initially powering starter motors and ensuring stable electrical conditions in various vehicle systems and later in energy sources of drive electric motors. Over time, their significance has grown exponentially with the advent of features such as "Start & Stop" systems, micro hybridization, and kinetic energy regeneration. This trend culminated in the emergence of hybrid and electric vehicles, where batteries are the energy source of the electric traction motors. The evolution of storage for vehicles has been driven by the need for larger autonomy, a higher number of cycles, lower self-discharge rates, enhanced performance in extreme temperatures, and greater electrical power extraction capacity. As these technologies have advanced, so have they the methods for their disposal, recovery, and recycling. However, one critical aspect often overlooked is the potential for battery reuse once they reach the end of their useful life. For each battery technology, specific regeneration methods have been developed, aiming to restore the battery to its initial performance state or something very close to it. This focus on regeneration holds significant economic implications, particularly for vehicles where batteries represent a substantial share of the overall cost, such as hybrid and electric vehicles. This paper conducts a comprehensive review of battery technologies employed in vehicles from their inception to the present day. Special attention is given to identifying common failures within these technologies. Additionally, the scientific literature and existing patents addressing regeneration methods are explored, shedding light on the promising avenues for extending the life and performance of automotive batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The in-depth study of the theoretical and methodological foundations and socio-economic nature of human capital formed by the inhabitants of rural areas has allowed us to conceptually justify the allocation of its specific form – agrarian, formed under the influence of the agricultural sector and integrating the rural population into a single community. The objective condition for sustainable development of the latter is the amount of financial resources allocated for the development of social infrastructure of rural areas, provision of social sphere, ecology. Compiling the stated positions of investment with the amount of self-financing and corporate costs for the formation and accumulation of human capital in the agrarian sector, it becomes possible to study the indicators reflecting the stages of its life cycle in correlation with the amount of socio-environmental investment. These circumstances determine the relevance and purpose of the study, which is to develop a methodological toolkit for analyzing the effectiveness of investment support for the formation, development, accumulation and use of human capital in the territorial and sectoral projection. The proposed approach to the analysis of investments in the development of agrarian human capital is based on the study of detailed evaluation markers, focusing the sequential study of all stages of its life cycle, which allows for in-depth analysis and identification of specific aspects affecting the effectiveness of socio-environmental investments. The presented system of indicators takes into account the correlation between the designated markers and investment volumes. A single and reliable source of statistical information, as well as the openness of the data allow minimizing the error of the results obtained. The proposed methodological approach is characterized by accessibility, simplicity and systematic evaluation studies. Its use contributes to the formation of a scientifically sound understanding of the state and dynamics of changes in investment efficiency and allows making timely practice-oriented operational and strategic management decisions. Practical testing of the methodological approach to the analysis and assessment of socio-environmental investments has allowed us to prove empirically that low rates of financing the formation, development, accumulation and use of human capital in the agrarian sphere limit the possibilities of its sustainable increase. This circumstance has a negative impact on the intensity of functioning of the rural economy.

This study compares carbon emissions from last-mile fresh food delivery using traditional cold storage plates and a new photovoltaic (PV) direct-drive cooling model. A life cycle analysis shows that while the PV model has higher initial production emissions in six cities, it achieves a 97.95–98.78 % reduction in total emissions over 20 years compared to the traditional model. The cold storage plate model contributes the highest carbon footprint during the use stage, while the photovoltaic direct-drive cooling model has the highest carbon footprint during the production stage. The emission reduction benefits could be achieved during the disposal stage. As the design temperature inside the delivery box increases from -5 °C to 0 °C, the carbon emissions of the photovoltaic direct-drive cooling model decrease by 17.74 %–19.31 %, while those of the cold storage plate model decrease by 13.21 %–18.79 % for different cities. Further increasing the temperature to 5 °C results in a more reduction of 17.03 %–18.24 % for the photovoltaic direct-drive cooling model and 15.22 %–19.71 % for the old storage plate model. This indicates that even minor adjustments in temperature settings can have a substantial impact on reducing the carbon footprint of fresh food delivery.

Abstract Insects play a crucial role in all ecosystems, and are increasingly exposed to higher in temperature extremes under climate change, which can have substantial effects on their abundances. However, the effects of temperature on changes in abundances or population fitness are filtered through differential responses of life‐history components, such as survival, reproduction, and development, to their environment. Such differential responses, or trade‐offs, have been widely studied in birds and mammals, but comparative studies on insects are largely lacking, limiting our understanding of key mechanisms that may buffer or exacerbate climate‐change effects across insect species. Here, we performed a systematic literature review of the ecological studies of lacewings (Neuroptera), predatory insects that play a crucial role in ecosystem pest regulation, to investigate the impact of temperature on life cycle dynamics across species. We found quantitative information, linking stage‐specific survival, development, and reproduction to temperature variation, for 62 species from 39 locations. We then performed a metanalysis calculating sensitives to temperature across life‐history processes for all publications. We found that developmental times consistently decreased with temperature for all species. Survival and reproduction however showed a weaker response to temperature, and temperature sensitivities varied substantially among species. After controlling for the effect of temperature on life‐history processes, the latter covaried consistently across two main axes of variation related to instar and pupae development, suggesting the presence of life‐history trade‐offs. Our work provides new information that can help generalize life‐history responses of insects to temperature, which can then expand comparative demographic and climate‐change research. We also discuss important remaining knowledge gaps, such as a better assessment of adult survival and diapause.

The essay begins with a reflection dedicated to social ageism. In particular, it seeks to show how policies aimed at active ageing, if understood only as strategies directed at the elderly, are not without a certain bias towards aging, aiming to bring the topic of active longevity back into the horizon of lifelong learning. All formal, informal, and non-formal contexts must take on the task of becoming promoters and developers of life skills, fulfilling the preventive role that lifelong learning and continuing education should have. In conclusion, the contribution, after identifying the contents of continuing education for active longevity, highlights the research projects dedicated to this topic within the Lilah research group at the University of Florence. Promuovere longevità attiva: la sfida dell’educazione continua per il benessere, al di là e oltre l’emergenza. Il saggio prende avvio con una riflessione dedicata all’ageismo sociale. In particolare, cerca di mostrare come le politiche dedicate all’invecchiamento attivo, se intese solo come strategie rivolte agli anziani, non siano prive di un certo pregiudizio nei confronti dell’invecchiamento, con l’obiettivo di riportare il tema della longevità attiva nell’orizzonte dell’apprendimento permanente. Tutti i contesti formali, informali e non formali devono assumersi il compito di diventare promotori e sviluppatori di competenze di vita, assolvendo al ruolo preventivo che dovrebbe avere l’apprendimento permanente. In conclusione, il contributo, dopo aver individuato i contenuti di una educazione continua alla longevità attiva, evidenzia i progetti di ricerca dedicati a questo tema all’interno del gruppo di ricerca Lilah dell’Università di Firenze.

The 1st Conference on Sustainable Health and Nutrition during the Life Cycle, held at Rio de Janeiro State University, was a great success, aiming to democratise knowledge and foster networking within the field. The conference featured diverse presentations, including keynote sessions highlighting critical issues such as childhood obesity prevention and the links between agroecology and nutrition. Discussions underscored the need for interventions targeting healthy-weight children and promoting sustainable food practices rooted in cultural heritage. The event embraced sustainability by adopting a paperless approach and incorporating community action initiatives promoting food sovereignty and security. The launch of a book on non-conventional edible plants further emphasised the importance of sustainable food systems. The coffee break sessions showcasing products from local farmers and nutritional education led by undergraduate students fostered active engagement with the audience. The success of this inaugural conference signals a promising future for international collaboration in sustainable health and nutrition. In conclusion, the conference provided a vital platform for dialogue, community engagement, and knowledge exchange, setting a high standard for future events in the field.

ABSTRACT Background: Pressatia choti is a common sand fly found in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil, which is suspected to be involved in the transmission of Leishmania braziliensis. Herein, we aimed to establish a Pr. choti laboratory colony. Methods: Wild-caught female sand flies were blood fed on hamsters and maintained under controlled conditions (temperature: 26 °C; relative humidity: 70%). Results: Of the 301 collected female sandflies, 288 were identified as Pr. choti. The life cycle duration ranged from 31 to 56 days. Conclusions: We successfully established a Pr. choti colony, whose biological parameters were similar to those of other neotropical sand flies.

Raccoon roundworm, Baylisascaris procyonis, is a zoonotic parasite of raccoons (Procyon lotor) that needs a One Health approach to better inform risks to human and animal health. The few studies on B. procyonis in wild rodents have primarily focused on white-footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus). This study aimed to determine the prevalence and rodent host range of B. procyonis in Georgia (USA) and investigate differences in prevalence at urban/fragmented sites and rural/agriculture sites. We sampled 99 rodents of five species. Larvae were recovered from seven of 78 (9.0%) white-footed mice with a mean of 4.4 larvae (range 1–12). One mouse had a single larva in the brain. Prevalence was not different between urban and rural sites. This report extends the geographic range of this parasite and confirms that rodents serve as paratenic hosts in the southern range. Therefore, baylisascariasis should be considered a differential for neurologic domestic animals, wildlife, or people in this region.

This research investigates the nexus between the corporate life cycle (CLC) and accrual-based earnings management (AEM) and real earnings management (REM) practices. Companies listed on the main segment of the Bucharest Stock Exchange between 2007 and 2021 are analyzed through fixed effects and random effects models. The regression analysis uncovers that earnings management practices vary based on the developmental stage of the company. In the introduction stage, Romanian companies tend to prefer AEM techniques, while in the growth and maturity phases, REM practices are more prevalent. The conditions in which firms operate, the pressure from the capital market and the discretion over costs characteristic of each stage of development explain the preference for a certain method of earnings management. Overall, this investigation helps clarify CLC's role in adopting earnings management techniques (AEM/REM) and signals the need to pay particular attention to the quality of financial reporting of companies in the early stages of development. The findings hold significance for auditors, financial analysts, investors, lenders, and regulators alike.

Introduction. There is no concept of “life cycle of a building structure (building material)” in the available regulatory and scientific and technical literature. Since the duration of the life cycle of a real estate object largely depends on the durability of building structures and materials, it is reasonable to study the changes in the strength parameters of building structures during their life cycle. Graphical modelling of the life cycle of a building structure (building material) reflects the strength parameters of the structure at all stages of operation.Materials and methods. The methodology of the work is based on graphical modelling of the life cycle of a building structure. The relative value of compressive strength coefficient was chosen as an indicator of the concrete structure durability. The change of the compressive strength of concrete building structures can be determined according to the logarithmic law. The mathematical operator of the Cauchy problem, which consists in finding a solution to an ordinary differential equation of the first order, can be used to establish the state of a concrete structure at any period of the life cycle.Results. Graphical models of compressive strength behavior in time of the life cycle of a structure (building) are presented, showing the periods of formation of the concrete structure. The graphical model is supplemented with the period of time up to the moment corresponding to the achievement of the critical value of concrete strength, at which the structure collapses. The variants of changing the life cycle of the structure under the influence of external and internal factors are graphically depicted.Conclusions. The definition of the life cycle of a building structure (material) is proposed. The expediency of introducing the concept of “life cycle of a building structure (building material)” into regulatory documentation and scientific and technical literature is substantiated.

As part of the study, a methodology was developed to assess the level of digitalization of the construction industry based on an analysis of the specifics of the functioning and process of introducing digital technologies into the work of construction organizations, as well as the existing methodological framework for assessing the level of use of digital technologies in various economic systems offered by international companies. The methodology is based on the current algorithm for introducing digital tools into the work of construction companies, which simultaneously reflects all stages of the life cycle of construction projects and the trend towards increasing the degree of digital interaction. The composition of the enlarged components of the digitalization level includes: the level of informatization of activities (the use of classical information systems and tools) of construction organizations, the level of digitalization of key management areas (design, construction of facilities, operation, control) of construction organizations and the level of digital interaction of construction organizations within the internal and external environment. The scientific novelty of the methodology lies in the adaptation of classical scientific approaches to the specifics of the construction complex with the simultaneous substantiation of the assessment system, which allows not only to establish the general level of digitalization, but also to identify the least digitalized areas, and also to determine at what stage of the transition to a digital model are individual construction organizations.

The main goal of the studies was to collect information on the impact of the identified risk factors on the amount of costs incurred in the life cycle of buildings. The own studies were focused especially on residential and non-residential buildings. The studies consisted in obtaining expert opinions on the subject of the research involves in the non-random (arbitrary) selection of a sample of respondents from among specialists corresponding to the industry purpose of the studies and the research material. The research used the expert questionnaire method. The studies were divided into three stages. In the first stage, the identification and division of risk factors in the life cycle of buildings was performed. Then, experts assessed 45 selected risk factors that may affect the amount of costs incurred in the life cycle of buildings. In the last step, the research results were developed in the form of a checklist knowledge base, containing information about the potential impact of the identified risk factors in the life cycle of buildings on the amount of the corresponding components of life cycle costs.

The aim of this study was to investigate the age structure and reproductive strategy of the lesser white-toothed shrew (Crocidura suaveolens Pallas 1811) population in the Askania-Nova Biosphere Reserve, Ukraine. The age structure of the population of this shrew species was studied in the protected steppe based on specimens collected in 1980–1986. The lesser white-toothed shrew is one of the most abundant species of small mammals in the reserve and a key species of the family Soricidae, which is the main consumer of the local mesofauna. In some periods, its population reaches an abundance of 200–300 individuals per hectare. To determine the age of individuals, we used the degree of tooth wear. The first multicusped tooth of the upper jaw (Pm4) was chosen for age estimation. The ratio of the height of the paracone to its width was used to level out individual variability. An attempt was made to find a correspondence between the relative value of the dental index and the absolute age of the individuals. This was based on the assumption that individuals with the weakest tooth wear (mean index 0.92) correspond to the age of early independent life, i.e. one month. Based on the analysis of the available data, it was found that the rate of decrease in the dental index was 0.026 per 10 days. Pregnant animals were found at the age of 45 days or less, which corresponds to the data of other authors. Based on the data obtained, individuals older than nine months were not captured (dental index mostly 0.26). In the Askania-Nova steppe, the breeding season of the lesser white-toothed shrew mostly begins in April and ends by the first half of October. However, single cases of breeding were recorded beyond this period. In early January, a one-month-old individual was caught. In May, catches of lesser white-toothed shrews aged about five months were recorded. In early July, two individuals aged 6.5 and 7 months were caught. In May, young animals accounted for about half of the captures. By mid-summer, overwintered animals were no longer found. The last cases of catching old animals were noted in the second half of June and early July. The study shows a distinct age structure dynamics of the population of the lesser white-toothed shrew during the year, which is determined by seasonal changes in the reproduction of the population under the conditions of the Askania-Nova protected steppe.

Sustainable development stands as the principal paradigm for global economic progress in the 21st century. However, the challenge of measuring the sustainability of economic systems across various types and levels persists. This study introduces a novel methodological approach to assessing the sustainability levels of production systems. The objective is to substantiate a method for quantifying the sustainability of production systems. Building upon a previously devised graphical model depicting the life cycle of technological development in production, the proposed method involves scoring the sustainability of production systems at different hierarchy levels (manufacturers, industries, production types). The resulting sustainability index enables making comparisons across different periods and entities. Practical implementation of the proposed method is demonstrated through a twelve-year analysis of three major companies operating in the North and the Arctic (Alrosa, Novatek, and Norilsk Nickel) and the Kola Mining and Metallurgical Company, a subsidiary of Norilsk Nickel. Additionally, a fifteen-year analysis of industrial production by type in four Russian Arctic regions is presented. Calculations reveal a generally low level of sustainability across all analyzed entities. The study identifies the cyclical nature of technological development in manufacturing enterprises as a significant influence on sustainability levels. Accounting for this factor in sustainability assessments will equip authorities and corporate managers in the Arctic regions to make more informed strategic decisions.

Mass rearing techniques for the production of Spodoptera frugiperda larvae in large quantities as research materials is important to be developed. Baby corn has the potential to be observed as alternative feed for mass rearing of fall armyworms. However, the biology and life table of S. frugiperda feeding on baby corn has not been studied. This research aims to study the morphology, biology, and life table of S. frugiperda fed on baby corn. Larvae of F1 fall armyworm were reared singly and fed with baby corn, after pupation it was moved to containers. Thirty pairs of adults were reared in a cage filled maize plant. Observations conducted daily from the eggs until the adult died. Results showed variations in the color and size of the eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults. Developmental periods of eggs, larvae, and pre-pupae were 2.47, 14.96, and 1.83l days. Pupal period was 9.75 days (male) and 8.81 days (female). The life cycle were 37.69 days (male), and 37.7 days (female). Duration of pre-oviposition, oviposition, post-oviposition were 1.60, 7.90, and 2.26 days. Adult longevity was 11.34 days (male) and 11.76 days (female). The average number of eggs laid was 1.365,86/female with a hatch rate of 94,68%. Survival curve of S. frugiperda was type I, with GRR of 1.442,49 individuals/generations, and the Ro was 1.342,77 individuals/females/generation. Ther was 0.23 individual/female/day, the T was 31.23 days, and the DT was 3.01 days. This result showed that baby corn can be an alternative feed for mass rearing of S. frugiperda.

The risk factor of the receiving water body is one of the important factors that affect the self-purification ability of the water body. Analyzing the concentration and removal rate of the target substances such as suspended solid (SS), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorus (TP) in the receiving water body during the life cycle can trace the risk factor. Based on this, this article takes a sewage treatment plant and its receiving water body in Nanjing as the research object, sets up five sampling points, and calculates the target concentration and removal rate using the cellular automata-Markov chain Monte Carlo method. Thus, risk assessment of water bodies can be achieved. The results show that: (1) the concentration of the target substance in each process stage has obviously decreased during the life cycle, with an average concentration of 3–18 mg/L; (2) in the life cycle, the highest removal rate of target concentration in each process section can reach 85%; (3) the concentration of target substances SS, COD, TN, TN, TP, and TP at the outlet of the sewage treatment plant is relatively high. Practice has proven that this research method can assess the risk factors of receiving water bodies, so as to improve the scientific, refined and standardized environmental management.

This study explored elementary students’ reasoning about the life cycles of various organisms, including insects and amphibians. The study took place in a private school in Lebanon with 24 fifth-grade students. Students participated in a life cycle unit with pre and post-written assessments about what they learned and interviews to help determine their reasoning about life cycles. Using our findings, we suggest a learning progression (LP) approach to guide students over time in their learning about life cycles and their importance for species persistence within an ecosystem. Two LPs were developed from this study: Reasoning about the cyclic nature of life and comparison of life cycle stages. Overall, students improved their understanding of the cyclical nature of life, but comparing organisms’ structures, stages, and life cycles proved to be more challenging. These LPs have direct implications for elementary instruction about life cycles, organisms, and species.