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The paper presents the study of microstructure and corrosion resistance of composite coatings (Al+Al2O3 and Cu+Al2O3) deposited by Low Pressure Cold Spraying method (LPCS). The atmospheric corrosion resistance was examined by subjecting the samples to cyclic salt spray and Kesternich test chambers, with NaCl and SO2 atmospheres, respectively. The selected tests allowed reflecting the actual working conditions of the coatings. The analysis showed very satisfactory results for copper coatings. After eighteen cycles, with a total time of 432 hours, the samples show little signs of corrosion. Due to their greater susceptibility to chloride ions, aluminium coatings have significant corrosion losses.

Abstract There are available studies assessing the development of maxillary sinuses in relation to the viscerocranium. However, there are no publications analyzing the development of maxillary sinuses in relation to the development of the cranium, i.e. both the viscerocranium and the neurocranium. The aim of the study was to analyze the correlation between the dimensions of maxillary sinuses and anthropometric measurements of the cranium in children. The study was retrospective and was conducted at the based on the results of head computed tomography investigation. The study group included 180 girls and 180 boys, aged from birth to 18 years. To assess the correlation between the degree of development of the paranasal sinuses and the growth of the cranium, standard anthropometric points on the skull and strictly defined dimensions of the height, length, width, and volume of right and left maxillary sinuses were used. In the study group, both in girls and boys, a statistically significant positive correlation was found at the significance level of p

The paper deals with effect of working gas pressure and temperature on surface stereometry of coatings deposited by low-pressure cold spray method. Examinations were focused on aluminium coatings which are commonly used to protect substrate against corrosion. A commercial Al spherical feedstock powder with admixture of Al2O3 (Al + 60vol.-% Al2O3), granulation -50+10 µm, was used to coat steel, grade S235JR. Thedeposited coatings were studied to determine their stereometry, i.e. roughness, transverse and longitudinal waviness, topography of surface and thickness as the functions of gas pressure and temperature. A profilometer and focal microscope were used to evaluate the stereometric properties. In order to reduce the number of variables, the remaining process parameters, i.e. shape and size of de Laval nozzle, nozzle-to-substrate distance, powder mass flow rate, linear velocity of spraying gun, were kept unchanged. The investigation confirmed influence of temperature and pressure on coating thickness as well as on the surface seterometry.

Abstract Background Acute radiation syndrome (ARS) manifests after exposure to high doses of radiation in the instances of radiologic accidents or incidents. Facilitating regeneration of the bone marrow (BM), namely the hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs), is key in mitigating ARS and multi-organ failure. JNJ-26366821, a PEGylated thrombopoietin mimetic (TPOm) peptide, has been shown as an effective medical countermeasure (MCM) to treat hematopoietic-ARS (H-ARS) in mice. However, the activity of TPOm on regulating BM vascular and stromal niches to support HSPC regeneration has yet to be elucidated. Methods C57BL/6J mice (9–14 weeks old) received sublethal or lethal total body irradiation (TBI), a model for H-ARS, by 137Cs or X-rays. At 24 h post-irradiation, mice were subcutaneously injected with a single dose of TPOm (0.3 mg/kg or 1.0 mg/kg) or PBS (vehicle). At homeostasis and on days 4, 7, 10, 14, 18, and 21 post-TBI with and without TPOm treatment, BM was harvested for histology, BM flow cytometry of HSPCs, endothelial (EC) and mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC), and whole-mount confocal microscopy. For survival, irradiated mice were monitored and weighed for 30 days. Lastly, BM triple negative cells (TNC; CD45−, TER-119−, CD31−) were sorted for single-cell RNA-sequencing to examine transcriptomics after TBI with or without TPOm treatment. Results At homeostasis, TPOm expanded the number of circulating platelets and HSPCs, ECs, and MSCs in the BM. Following sublethal TBI, TPOm improved BM architecture and promoted recovery of HSPCs, ECs, and MSCs. Furthermore, TPOm elevated VEGF-C levels in normal and irradiated mice. Following lethal irradiation, mice improved body weight recovery and 30-day survival when treated with TPOm after 137Cs and X-ray exposure. Additionally, TPOm reduced vascular dilation and permeability. Finally, single-cell RNA-seq analysis indicated that TPOm increased the expression of collagens in MSCs to enhance their interaction with other progenitors in BM and upregulated the regeneration pathway in MSCs. Conclusions TPOm interacts with BM vascular and stromal niches to locally support hematopoietic reconstitution and systemically improve survival in mice after TBI. Therefore, this work warrants the development of TPOm as a potent radiation MCM for the treatment of ARS.

Abstract Particle therapy and radiopharmaceuticals are emerging fields in the treatment of genitourinary cancers. With these novel techniques and the ever‐growing immunotherapy options, the combinations of these therapies have the potential to improve current cancer cure rates. However, the most effective sequence and combination of these therapies is unknown and is a question that is actively being explored in multiple ongoing clinical trials. Here, we review the immunological effects of particle therapy and the available radiopharmaceuticals and discuss how best to combine these therapies.

The aim of this 2022 study was to evaluate the effect of tree growth-limiting treatments on the tree yield and quality of ‘Mutsu’ apples. The experiment was established on 7-year-old trees on M.9 rootstock in a commercial orchard in Wilga near Warsaw. Growth-limiting treatments included unilateral root pruning, spraying the trees with Regalis Plus 10 WG at various times, and spraying with Flordimex 480 SL. Eight combinations were used, with four replicates of 20 trees per repetition. The measurements included fruit set, length of this year’s shoots, yield per tree, average fruit weight, and the size structure of the yield. The distinctive physiological status of the apples was assessed directly after harvest, directly after 8 months of storage under CA conditions (1.5% CO2, 1.5% O2, 1 °C, >92% RH) and after an additional 7 days of shelf-life. Spraying trees with Regalis Plus 10 WG from the balloon stage onwards, irrespective of the treatment with root pruning, was most effective in both inhibiting long-stem growth and increasing tree yield (by almost two times) by increasing the number of apples per tree. The growth response of long-stemmed apple trees to both unilateral root pruning and Ethephon spray was significantly lower than it was to Regalis Plus 10 WG spray and had relatively little effect on their yield. Regalis Plus 10 WG resulted in a clear reduction in average fruit weight (by about 100 g), which, in the case of the large-fruited cultivar ‘Mutsu’, should be seen as an advantage. Its application from the balloon stage onwards promoted higher apple firmness at harvest and after simulated handling preceded by long-term storage.

Metal 3D printing is a modern manufacturing process that allows the production of geometrically complex structures from metallic powders of varying chemical composition. This paper shows the results of testing the powder feeding and distribution system of the developed 3D printer. The device using the SLM method (Selected Laser Melting) was developed by research team of WroclawTech and used in this investigation. The powder feeding and distribution system was tested using a vision system integrated into the printer control system. Thousands of tests performed made it possible to identify the reasons corresponding to incorrect powder distribution on the working field. In addition, a quality control algorithm was developed and implemented in the MatLab environment. Algorithms based on image analysis automatically identifies powder distributed in an unacceptable way. An 88% accuracy rate was achieved for identifying defects in all images within a dataset of 600 pictures, classified into following categories OK and NOK consisting of: recoater streaking, recoater hopping, super-elevation. The strength of the algorithm developed lies in its utilization of variations in shades of gray, rather than solely relying on the actual gray values. This approach grants the algorithm a certain degree of adaptability to changing lighting conditions.

Summary: Hepcidin is the master hormone governing systemic iron homeostasis. Iron regulates hepcidin by activating bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)6 expression in liver endothelial cells (LECs), but the mechanisms are incompletely understood. To address this, we performed proteomics and RNA-sequencing on LECs from iron-adequate and iron-loaded mice. Gene set enrichment analysis identified transcription factors activated by high iron, including Nrf-2, which was previously reported to contribute to BMP6 regulation, and c-Jun. Jun (encoding c-Jun) knockdown blocked Bmp6 but not Nrf-2 pathway induction by iron in LEC cultures. Chromatin immunoprecipitation of mouse livers showed iron-dependent c-Jun binding to predicted sites in Bmp6 regulatory regions. Finally, c-Jun inhibitor blunted induction of Bmp6 and hepcidin, but not Nrf-2 activity, in iron-loaded mice. However, Bmp6 and iron parameters were unchanged in endothelial Jun knockout mice. Our data suggest that c-Jun participates in iron-mediated BMP6 regulation independent of Nrf-2, though the mechanisms may be redundant and/or multifactorial.

Introduction and objective CNS malignancies account for about 1.6% of all diseases today. In people diagnosed with a brain tumor with a poor prognosis, we often see disorders from the psychiatric spectrum, most often depressive disorders. In this paper, we want to focus on whether depression occurs as a sequel to cancer or perhaps is the first of the symptoms of a CNS tumor. Review methods For the analysis, the PubMed medical database was searched, and articles containing studies and case reports of people with CNS tumor and depressive disorders that occurred either before diagnosis or at any time during the course of the disease were selected Abbreviated description of the state of knowledge CNS tumors produce symptoms such as epilepsy, visual disturbances, paresis, but also behavioral disorders. This is determined by the location of the tumor. Depression is a mental disorder manifested mainly by lowered mood. This disorder can coexist with tumors occurring in the frontal lobe or be present regardless of the location of the tumor, in people diagnosed with a tumor with a poor prognosis. Summary Analyzing the selected articles, we see that in people who were diagnosed with a tumor located in the frontal lobe, often the first symptom was depressive disorders, which even preceded neurological symptoms. When depression is diagnosed, appearing suddenly and refractory to treatment, one should consider whether there is an underlying pathological lesion in the CNS. Unfortunately, there are no specific guidelines for imaging studies in depressive disorders. People who suffer from malignant tumors with a poor prognosis should be cared for by a psychologist, because as the disease progresses, the symptoms worsen, affecting the prognosis.

Introduction and aim of the study. Long-gap esophageal atresia (LGEA) is a congenital anomaly in which the gap between both ends of the esophagus exceeds three intervertebral spaces and is an esophageal atresia without air in the abdomen. The defect is both therapeutic and surgical challenge. This review aims at providing an overview of the most recent literature on the effective methods for treatment of LGEA, and the most frequent complications and experts’ recommendations on this subject. Material and methods. The systematic review was based on available data collected using PubMed database and the Google Scholar web search engine. Analysis of the literature. There is no consensus on the ideal technique for surgical treatment of LGEA. There are two possible approaches for opening the thorax – thoracotomy and thoracoscopy. The techniques stimulating esophageal elongation include external and internal traction techniques, magnetic compression anastomosis and intramural botulinum type A toxin injection. Replacement methods are a viable option when it is impossible to preserve the native esophagus. Decellularized matrices seem to be promising in developing an esophageal substitute. Regardless of the surgical approach a common complication of surgical treatment is anastomotic stenosis which requires further surgical interventions. Conclusion. Elongation techniques are effective in approximation of the proximal and distal esophagus. The future lies with tissue engineering and inventing an off-the-shelf esophageal substitute. The centralization of treatment is recommended. After discharge from hospital interdisciplinary outpatient assessment and care is required. Further prospective studies are needed to determine the optimal mode of treatment and prevent complications associated with LGEA.

Introduction and purpose: This article will discuss the relationship between nutrition deficiency, focusing on folic acid and vitamin D3 and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Research suggests that nutrient deficiencies play a role in the development and progression of autism. This article will investigate causes of nutrient deficiencies in ASD, like dietary constraints, food choice, and environment exposure, and their impact on ASD and related symptoms. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the research examining the relationship between folic acid and vitamin d3 supplementation and autism. Materials and methods: A broad search was conducted using the PubMed database in order to identify relevant studies published between 2010-2020 using keywords such as “folic acid”, “folinic acid”, "vitamin d3", "autism spectrum disorder". A brief description of the current state of knowledge: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that in recent years has been increasingly diagnosed among children. Only between 2016 and 2014 measured prevalence in the United States has increased by 10%. [1] The exact etiology of ASD in not known. In this review we will examine a role of folic acid and vitamin D3. Research suggests that folic acid supplements can help improve verbal skills in people with ASD. Research also shows decreased levels of vitamin d3 in ASD patients. Clinical trials involving vitamin d3 present inconclusive data but lean towards positive impact of supplementation. Both folic acid and vitamin d3 supplementation is safe. Dietary changes and oral supplementation may be beneficial for patients. Conclusions: Studies with larger participant numbers should be done to prove the significance of folic acid and vitamin D3 supplementation as it shows potential in being a safe and not expensive complementary therapeutic option.

Introduction and purpose: Gluten-free diet have gained immense popularity in recent years, both as a treatment for coeliac disease and as a lifestyle choice for those who believe it is healthier. However, concerns have been raised about potential nutrient inadequacies resulting from the elimination of gluten-containing grains. The purpose of this review is to assess the state of knowledge regarding the impact of a gluten-free diet on nutritional status. Materials and methods: A comprehensive search was conducted using electronic database PubMed to identify relevant studies published between 1999 and 2022. Keywords such as "gluten-free diet" and "nutritional deficiencies" were used in combination with Boolean operators to refine the search. A brief description of the state of knowledge: Analysis of studies revealed that individuals adhering to a gluten-free diet may be at risk of nutritional deficiencies including micronutrients such as vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin B complex along with minerals, in particular iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium as well as fibre. Furthermore, higher levels of fat and sugar were observed in the composition of gluten-free products. Conclusions: Based on the current body of literature, it is evident that a gluten-free diet results in certain nutritional deficiencies. Individuals following gluten-free diet should be aware of potential risks and take appropriate measures to ensure a well-balanced and nutrient-rich diet. Nutritional guidance should be provided to individuals to address specific nutrient deficiencies associated with a gluten-free diet.

Introduction and purpose: Ischemic stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. There is an urgent need to develop new treatments and diagnosis. The aim of this review is to gather current knowledge on the potential use of exosomes in the diagnosis and treatment of ischemic stroke. This review was based on available data collected in the Pub Med database and Google Scholar web search engine, using the key words: „Exosomes”, „ischemic stroke” Description of the state of knowledge: Currently, thanks to the development of knowledge about molecular processes, many studies are conducted on drugs that could limit neurodegenerative processes and support repair processes. Many of the drugs that could be used in treatment show poor penetration through the blood-brain barrier. In studies, exosomes show good penetration through the blood-brain barrier, limit neurodegenerative processes and show neuroregenerative effects. Exosomes are characterized by low immunogenicity and toxicity, and the proteins contained in them are involved in neurogenesis, anti-apoptotic processes and synaptic transmission. In addition, studies have shown exosomes inhibit autophagocytosis and reduce neuronal damage. ​ Summary: Studies performed on animal models have shown the effectiveness of exosomes in the diagnosis and treatment of ischemic stroke. Further studies are needed to determine the efficacy and safety profile of exosomes in humans.

Opioid therapy plays a crucial role in the management of acute and chronic pain, with opioids being widely prescribed worldwide. However, alongside the analgesic benefits, the use of opioids is associated with a range of adverse effects, including opioid-induced bowel dysfunction. Opioid-induced bowel dysfunction refers to a constellation of gastrointestinal symptoms caused by the effects of opioids on the gastrointestinal tract. These symptoms primarily manifest as constipation, but can also include abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and vomiting. Opioid-induced bowel dysfunction poses a significant clinical challenge, as it can severely affect patients' quality of life. Non-pharmacological approaches alone are rarely sufficient to counteract the adverse effects of opioid therapy. The primary pharmacological agents used in opioid-induced bowel dysfunction management are laxatives, which should be chosen according to individual patient needs. Patients with poorly controlled symptoms can benefit from new pharmacological approaches, particularly peripheral mu-opioid receptor antagonists. By better understanding the underlying mechanisms, clinical manifestations, diagnostic criteria, and management strategies, healthcare professionals can optimize patient care, minimize complications, and improve patients' overall well-being.

Introduction and aim of the study: Osteoarthritis (OA) and depression are leading causes of disease burden worldwide and important public health problems. A number of recent studies reported depression as a comorbidity of OA and its impact on reduced quality of life and worse treatment outcome of OA patients. The clinical management strategies of those patients still haven’t been developed, which is a challenge of future research on this topic. The aim of this review is to shed a light on important aspects of depression relationship with OA including its prevalence among OA patients and its influence on course and treatment of OA with a purpose of increasing awareness of this problem among physicians which may subsequently lead to a better overall medical care of patients with OA and depression. Methods and materials: This literature review is based on articles published in the PubMed database, GoogleScholar, ScienceDirect, and available medical textbooks. Conclusions: Recent literature reports a higher prevalence of depression among OA patients when compared to general population and its impact on osteoarthritis course, both on psychological and biomolecular level. Future research may lead to a better understanding of molecular background of depression and OA interrelation and to more complex and individualized management strategies which may result in a better outcome of treatment and improved life quality of osteoarthritis patients. Therefore, in order to optimize management of OA patients, physicians should pay more attention to depression and use multidisciplinary approach including assessment of mental health status to develop a more effective strategies of medical care in osteoarthritis.

This paper presents a detailed analysis of aluminium-doped zinc oxide (AZO) thin films and considers them a promising alternative to indium tin oxide in transparent electrodes. The study focusses on critical properties of AZO, including optical, electrical, and mechanical properties, with potential applications in displays, photovoltaic cells, and protective coatings. The deposited AZO thin films are characterised by excellent optical and electrical parameters, with transparency in the visible light range exceeding 80% and resistivity of 10−3 Ω·cm, which gives a high value of figure of merit of 63. Structural analysis confirms the nanocrystalline nature of as-deposited AZO thin films, featuring hexagonal ZnO, orthorhombic Al2O3, and cubic Al2ZnO4 phases. The study includes nanoindentation measurements, which reveal exceptional hardness (11.4 GPa) and reduced elastic modulus (98 GPa), exceeding typical values reported in the literature, highlighting their protective potential. Abrasion tests have shown extraordinary scratch resistance due to the lack of impact on topography and surface roughness up to 10,000 cycles. This comprehensive study demonstrated that as-deposited AZO thin films are multifunctional materials with exceptional optical, electrical, and mechanical properties. The findings open up possibilities for a variety of applications, especially in protective coatings, where the combination of hardness, scratch resistance, and transparency is both rare and valuable.

The aim of this 2022 study was to evaluate the effect of tree growth-limiting treatments on the tree yield and quality of 'Mutsu' apples. The experiment was established on 7-year-old trees on M.9 rootstock in a commercial orchard in Wilga near Warsaw. Growth-limiting treatments included unilateral root pruning, spraying the trees with Regalis Plus 10 WG at various times, and spraying with Flordimex 480 SL. Eight combinations were used, with four replicates of 20 trees per repetition. The measurements included fruit set, length of this year's shoots, yield per tree, average fruit weight, and the size structure of the yield. The distinctive physiological status of the apples was assessed directly after harvest, directly after 8 months of storage under CA conditions (1.5% CO2, 1.5% O2, 1 °C, >92% RH) and after an additional 7 days of shelf-life. Spraying trees with Regalis Plus 10 WG from the balloon stage onwards, irrespective of the treatment with root pruning, was most effective in both inhibiting long-stem growth and increasing tree yield (by almost two times) by increasing the number of apples per tree. The growth response of long-stemmed apple trees to both unilateral root pruning and Ethephon spray was significantly lower than it was to Regalis Plus 10 WG spray and had relatively little effect on their yield. Regalis Plus 10 WG resulted in a clear reduction in average fruit weight (by about 100 g), which, in the case of the large-fruited cultivar 'Mutsu', should be seen as an advantage. Its application from the balloon stage onwards promoted higher apple firmness at harvest and after simulated handling preceded by long-term storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the high production of apples in Poland, the priority actions include increasing their export volume. The main objective of the presented research was to maintain sufficient firmness in the apple cultivar Gala Schniga® SchniCo Red(s) transported to distant markets immediately after harvest or after long-term storage under ULO conditions (1.2% CO2 and 1.2% O2). In the study conducted during the 2021/2022 storage season on apples from the experimental orchard of the Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW-WULS; Warsaw-52°14′ N, 21°1′ E), the effect of the pre- and post-harvest application of 1-MCP, harvest date, and simulated transport duration on the quality of apples in target retail trading conditions was evaluated. Apples collected on a given harvest date were divided into four samples: control (without the use of 1-MCP), Harvista™-sprayed, SmartFresh™-treated, and Harvista™-sprayed + SmartFresh™-treated. Immediately after harvest and after 9 months of storage, the apples were packed in boxes and stored at 1 °C for 6 and 8 weeks (simulated transport conditions). Directly after the simulated transport and after an additional 7 and 14 days at 25 °C (handling conditions in hot countries), the following parameters were determined: firmness, SSC, TA, and ethylene production. The study noted a significant effect of the use of 1-MCP, harvest time, and simulated transport period on all tested parameters. Apples from trees sprayed with Harvista™ maintained a firmness of >55 N for 14 days of shelf-life only if they were harvested at the optimal date and transported immediately after harvest, and if their shipping lasted 6 weeks. Such firmness could be preserved after 8 weeks of the transport of SmartFresh™-treated apples harvested at the optimal date, and of Harvista™-sprayed + SmartFresh™-treated apples harvested at a delayed date. In the latter combination, apples also maintained the desired firmness after 9 months of storage + 6 weeks of transport regardless of the harvest date.

The role of childhood food experiences (CFEs) in determining future eating behaviors remains unclear. The aim of the study was to examine the link between CFEs and selected eating styles (ESs), i.e., intuitive (IE), restrained (ResEat) and external (ExtEat) eating, among 708 Polish adults aged 18–65 (477 women and 231 men). CFEs were measured with the Adults’ Memories of Feeding in Childhood questionnaire. Polish versions of the Intuitive Eating Scale-2 and Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire were used to assess ESs. Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare ESs scores between those with lower and higher CFEs. In the total sample, “Restrictions” and “Pressure and Food Reward” parental feeding practices favored lower IE, while “Healthy Eating Guidance” and “Monitoring” practices predisposed higher levels of IE in adulthood. “Restrictions” were found to correlate with greater chances of ResEat, whereas “Healthy Eating Guidance” was linked with lower probability of ResEat. “Pressure and Food Reward” and “Monitoring” were associated with higher score for ExtEat. “Restrictions”, “Child Control”, “Monitoring” and “Healthy Eating Guidance” practices were differently linked to ESs in women and men. The findings suggest that education programs for parents should focus on the long-term consequences of feeding practices.

Psychological support might be perceived as one of the most important factors in the treatment of people suffering from type 1 diabetes, particularly among vulnerable groups such as adolescents and young people. Problems arising from extreme pressure put on young patients, high expectations, and specific limitations associated with diabetes often reflect in negative wellbeing and affect patients' behavior, resulting in lower self-esteem, mood swings, depression, or even eating disorders. Therefore, the need for a more holistic approach to the treatment of diabetes and caring about psychological support can be observed, which may contribute to better functioning and management of the disease. Differentiation of certain approach methods such as the positive approach (PA) discussed in the text may help young patients in motivation and coping with their disease as well as accepting limitations caused by type 1 diabetes. This would decrease the risk of potential revolt against medical recommendations, common for patients at the mentioned age, and help raise awareness of the problem. Maintaining life balance through undertaking regular physical activities and being open to new strategies such as telenursing can also result in the improvement of glycemic control. The studies presented have proven the great effectiveness of personalized care adjusted to the patient with psychological support, as well as the invaluable role of education in diabetes, which includes not only standard procedures such as calculating an appropriate insulin dose but also the invention of effective coping mechanisms, which influence patients' performance and wellbeing.

The analyzes of cellulosic fibers and properties of cellulosic pulps are extremely important in the process of paper production. If the set point is known, we can predict fairly accurately the effects of fiber dimensions and pulp properties on the final product, which would consequently help in the precise selection of fibrous raw material types suitable for specific recipes and paper applications. In this study, the correlations between the dimensions of cellulosic fibers of alternative fibrous raw materials, pulp properties, and paper were investigated to predict paper strength based on the parameters characterizing the pulp.

Abstract Paper degradation menaces the useful lifetime of books, manuscripts, and works on paper during storage, circulation, and display in libraries, archives, and museums. Severe damages such as embrittlement, decay, and mold often occur to the paper that might threaten to lose cultural heritage. However, the shelf life of papers stored in suitable conditions can be extended by hundreds of years. The most important external factors affecting the deterioration of paper-based materials include, in particular, changes in temperature and air humidity. In this study, the effects of accelerated aging under different conditions, including substantially different relative humidity, were considered relative to the strength properties of the paper sheets. These include the mechanical strength, such as breaking length, tear resistance, and bursting strength of the paper samples before and after dry heat aging and hydrothermal aging. Samples with various content of lignin produced in neutral pH were examined to exclude the adverse influence of acidity on paper properties. The results indicate that impact of moisture on tensile properties and pH-value of paper is much greater than the effect of increased temperature. The results of this work are intended to consolidate and expand the theoretical foundation and provide technical support for the conservators and library staff on the storage of paper cultural relics.

Summary: Background: The COVID-19 pandemic and associated policy responses have interrupted services, increased financial stress, and driven social isolation, with acute impacts for adolescents. This study explores relationships between gender, COVID-19 vulnerability, social protection, and adolescent wellbeing in three diverse contexts: Ethiopia, Jordan, and Palestine. Methods: This study presents findings from a quantitative phone survey with adolescents in Ethiopia, Jordan, and Palestine (n = 5752) on household-level vulnerability to COVID-19-related shocks, household-level social protection (cash transfers or food aid), and locally adapted outcome measures designed to capture the gendered impacts of COVID-19 (collected between November 22, 2020 and February 25, 2021). We examine the relationship between each outcome and household-level COVID-19 vulnerability and social protection (and their interaction) using multivariate regressions, adjusting for adolescent and household characteristics. Findings: For all adolescents, increased vulnerability to COVID-19-related shocks is associated with worse outcomes for resilient coping and time spent on domestic tasks and care work. Across samples, girls spent over two additional hours on domestic and care work compared to boys. Girls in more vulnerable households experienced greater gendered constraints on behaviour. We find no association between receipt of social protection and adolescent wellbeing, and find that it only moderates the effect of COVID-19 vulnerability for less vulnerable households. Disability status, being out of school, and experiencing child marriage are also associated with adverse outcomes. Interpretation: Our study highlights that the pandemic has exacerbated underlying gender inequalities across adolescents in three very different settings, and that existing social safety nets are not adequate to fully address these impacts, particularly for the most vulnerable. Funding: This work was supported by UK aid through a grant from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office to the Gender and Adolescence: Global Evidence (GAGE) longitudinal research study; the EMERGE project (Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation grants: OPP1163682 and INV018007; PI Anita Raj) and the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean.

Changing the harvesting time of apples from the optimum harvest window to delayed harvesting may be applied if it is impossible to harvest apples at the optimal time, but it requires changing other factors, as they influence the quality of fruits and shelf life. The aim of the study was to assess the quality of ‘Red Jonaprince’ apples during storage after delayed harvesting and 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) preharvest and postharvest treatment for various storage times. Apples were studied within four groups subjected to preharvest and postharvest treatments, as follows: Group 0—no 1-MCP treatment; Group 1—1-MCP preharvest treatment; Group 2—1-MCP postharvest treatment; and Group 3—1-MCP preharvest and postharvest treatment. All apples were subjected to ultra-low oxygen (ULO) storage conducted for 3, 5 or 6 months, while the analyses were conducted directly after ULO storage (simulated shelf life—0 days) and after simulated shelf life (7 days). For firmness, in the case of 1-MCP applied only preharvest (Group 1) and only postharvest (Group 2), before shelf life, the longer ULO storage resulted in obtaining lower values of firmness (p < 0.0001). If 1-MCP was not applied postharvest (Group 0 and Group 1), and short ULO storage was applied (3 and 5 months for Group 0; 3 months for Group 1), after shelf-life lower values of firmness were observed (p < 0.0001). For soluble solids content (SSC), in the case of 1-MCP not applied preharvest (Group 0 and Group 2), before shelf life, and for 1-MCP applied postharvest (Group 2) after shelf life, the longer ULO storage resulted in obtaining lower values of SCC (p < 0.0001). For titratable acidity (TA), in the case of all the studied groups after shelf life, as well as in case of 1-MCP applied only preharvest (Group 1) also before shelf life, the longer ULO storage resulted in obtaining lower values of TA (p < 0.0001). Except for the 1-MCP applied only postharvest (Group 2), in the case of short ULO storage applied (3 and 5 months for Group 0; 5 months for Group 1; 5 months for Group 3), after shelf-life lower values of TA were observed (p < 0.0001). If delayed harvesting must be conducted, applying 1-MCP not only postharvest, but also preharvest, allows obtaining the most stable firmness and SSC, which do not decrease during storage and shelf life. Taking this into account, it may be concluded, that in the case of delayed harvesting, combining 1-MCP applied preharvest and postharvest should be recommended to keep the quality parameters stable during storage and shelf life.