Effects of photosynthetic models on the calculation results of photosynthetic response parameters in young Larix principis-rupprechtii Mayr. plantation

Accurately predicting the crown photosynthesis of trees is necessary for better understanding the C circle in terrestrial ecosystem. However, modeling crown for individual tree is still challenging with the complex crown structure and changeable environmental conditions. This study was conducted to explore model in modeling the photosynthesis light response curve of the tree crown of young Larix principis-rupprechtii Mayr. Plantation. The rectangular hyperbolic model (RHM), non-rectangular hyperbolic model (NRHM), exponential model (EM) and modified rectangular hyperbolic model (MRHM) were used to model the photosynthetic light response curves. The fitting accuracy of these models was tested by comparing determinants coefficients (R2), mean square errors (MSE) and Akaike information criterion (AIC). The results showed that the mean value of R2 of MRHM (R2 = 0.9687) was the highest, whereas MSE value (MSE = 0.0748) and AIC value (AIC = -39.21) were the lowest. The order of fitting accuracy of the four models for Pn-PAR response curve was as follows: MRHM > EM > NRHM > RHM. In addition, the light saturation point (LSP) obtained by MRHM was slightly lower than the observed values, whereas the maximum net photosynthetic rates (Pmax) modeled by the four models were close to the measured values. Therefore, MRHM was superior to other three models in describing the photosynthetic response curve, the accurate values were that the quantum efficiency (α), maximum net photosynthetic rate (Pmax), light saturation point (LSP), light compensation point (LCP) and respiration rate (Rd) were 0.06, 6.06 μmol·m-2s-1, 802.68 μmol·m-2s-1, 10.76 μmol·m-2s-1 and 0.60 μmol·m-2s-1. Moreover, the photosynthetic response parameters values among different layers were also significant. Our findings have critical implications for parameter calibration of photosynthetic models and thus robust prediction of photosynthetic response in forests.

Convective boundary layer structure over the equatorial Indian oceanic region

Results of an investigation of the Convective Boundary Layer (CBL) structure over the oceanic region in the vicinity of the equator during the summer monsoon season are presented. The data were obtained from stationary research vessels viz., Shirshov, Okean, Shokalsky and Priboy during the MONSOON-77 Experiment. Variations in structure between convective boundary layers over the four ships with respect to their position about the equator have been studied. The technique of saturation point, mixing line and conserved variable diagrams has been used to bring out these differences. The CBL structure over the four ships showed that in the vicinity of the equator there are no marked differences. However, the analysis carried out for the period of study revealed that the ships situated south of the equator represented more convective activity, higher moisture content and deep layer clouds as compared to the ships which were located at the equator and north of equator. The two ships, located at the equator, showed approximately similar convective boundary layer structure.

Expectations and experiences of women regarding maternal healthcare services in Pakistan: challenges and lessons to be learnt

Background Access to maternal healthcare services is an essential pre-requisite for improving women’s health. However, due to poor access and underutilization, women in developing countries remain vulnerable to various complications. Evaluation of quality maternal healthcare services in any country must include the opinions of the women being as a key stakeholder utilizing maternal healthcare services. Aim The present study was designed to evaluate the experiences, perceptions and expectations of pre-birth and post-birth women regarding utilization and delivery of maternal healthcare services in Pakistan. Methodology A qualitative study design was used. Snow ball sampling technique was adopted to identify the respondents. Interviews were conducted using semi-structures interview guide till saturation point was achieved. The sample size at saturation point for different respondents was: pre-birth women (n = 9) and post-birth women (n = 9). All interviews were recorded after getting permission from the respondents. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and were then subjected to thematic analysis. Results The age group for the pre-birth respondents was 23–43 years while for post-birth group it was 23–32 years. Most of the respondents from both groups were from urban setting. Most of them were either first time pregnant or were having experience of one pregnancy. Thematic analysis of the interviews yielded different themes and sub-themes including birth experience, maternal treatment pathway, identified barriers for quality maternal care, involvement in healthcare decision-making, impact of Covid 19, payment dynamics, role of digital health and recommendations for improving maternal care services. Conclusion The results of the present study concluded that the overall quality of the maternal care services provided in Pakistan was not up to the mark. High rate of caesarian section was prevalent. Majority of the women were not involved in the decision-making process or provided with any birth plan or counselling regarding birth signs, family planning, danger and birth signs. The cost of maternal care was quite high and not affordable for all.

Grey and Black Anti-Hail Nets Ameliorated Apple (Malus × domestica Borkh. cv. Golden Delicious) Physiology under Mediterranean Climate

The use of anti-hail nets on orchards changes the microclimate underneath the net. This might be of great importance in apple growing regions characterized by high radiation levels and hot and dry climates during the summer season. But, depending on the net colour and on the local climatic conditions, the shade promoted triggers different responses by the trees. Grey and black anti-hail nets were applied in an apple orchard (cv. ‘Golden Delicious’) located in Northeast Portugal. Under the nets a lower concentration of glomalin related-soil proteins was observed, along with an improvement on trees water status, stomatal conductance, net photosynthetic rate, total chlorophylls, N, Mg, Fe and Cu concentrations, as well as an increase in mean fruit weight. The major difference between nets was on the photosynthetic efficiency, being higher on black net in sunny days, while grey net performed better under cloudy conditions. The use of netting systems proved to be effective in improving “Golden Delicious” apple trees performance under a Mediterranean climate, mainly when the radiation reaching the plants surpass the tree saturation point for photosynthesis. Therefore, these findings anticipate solutions for current and forecasted negative effects of climate change.

Experimental analysis of moisture uptake and dry-out in CLT end-grain exposed to free water

This paper presents the results of a series of laboratory tests of CLT end-grain moisture uptake and dry-out. We put CLT test details (TDs) in direct water contact from the end-grain edge and then left the TDs to dry for two weeks in the laboratory and in an outside shelter. Half of the TDs had their wet sides attached to another CLT detail. Fibre saturation point was quickly reached in the bottom part of the TDs during the seven-day water contact. A tendency of increasing moisture content (MC) was up to 90 mm from the wet edges, but we did not record MC levels above the critical level at that height. However, MC exceeded critical levels at 60 mm from the water level. The measured water absorption coefficient Aw was 3.51×10−3 kg/m2-s0’5. Drying was negligible for the TDs which were in contact with another CLT detail. Thus, moisture dry-out is very complicated in joints where the CLT end-grain is covered, such as the exterior wall to foundation or intermediate ceiling connection. The dry-out of CLT is not expected in a cold and humid outdoor environment once the CLT end-grain has absorbed moisture even with wet edges exposed to air.

Effect of Laser Shock Peening Parameters on Residual Stresses and Corrosion Fatigue of AA5083

Aluminium alloy 5083 was subjected to Laser Shock Peening both with (LSP) and without protective coating (LPwC) at multiple pulse densities. A second LPwC treatment was conducted fully submersed under water, in addition to the standard laminar water flow condition. The results show that compressive residual stresses were generated in all cases, although their character varied depending on the peening strategy and method of confinement. In all cases, higher pulse density lead to an increase in compressive stresses with a saturation point of −325 MPa at 1089 p/cm2 for the LPwC treatments. Corrosion fatigue testing of sensitized samples then showed 59% and 69% improvement in fatigue strength after the LSP and LPwC treatments, respectively.

Treatment of Light-Induced Degradation for Solar Cells in a p-PERC Solar Module via Induction Heating

In the photovoltaic industry, there is great interest in increasing the power output of solar cells to achieve grid parity and to promote the widespread use of solar cells. However, despite many developments, a phenomenon called light-induced degradation causes the efficiency of solar cells to deteriorate over time. This study proposes a treatment that can be applied to cells within solar modules. It uses a half-bridge resonance circuit to induce a magnetic field and selectively heat Al electrodes in the solar cells. The electrical state of a solar module was measured in real time as it was being heated, and the results were combined with a kinetics simulation using a cyclic reaction. As the temperature of the solar module increased, the time taken to reach the saturation point and the recovery time decreased. Moreover, the value of the saturation point increased. The light-induced degradation activation energy was similar to results in the existing literature, suggesting that the kinetic model was valid and applicable even when 72 cells were connected in series. This demonstrates that an entire solar module can be treated when the cells are connected in series, and in future multiple modules, could be connected in series during treatment.

Identifying social perceptions of people ignoring COVID-19 warnings: a qualitative study in Iran

Objective The COVID-19 pandemic has had various effects on the social life and daily activities of people in most countries in the world, including Iran. Hygienic precautions have been recommended, such as wearing masks and maintaining social distancing, to reduce the spread of the COVID-19. However, some people in society have not considered and ignored these health issues. This study aims to identify the sociological perceptions of people who ignore the COVID-19 warning. A qualitative study was carried out from May to July 2020. The interviewees were purposefully selected from people in Isfahan who avoided paying attention to the COVID-19 warnings. The saturation point was reached in 20 semi-structured interviews. The thematic analysis approach was used to analyze the transcribed documents using MAXQDA software (version 12). Results The results show 2 themes and 4 sub-themes related to the sociological perception of people who ignore the COVID-19 warning. The themes and sub-themes include: feelings of social anomie (disruption and social unrest, social distrust), unmet social relationship needs (intention to maintain social participation, Feeling of reduced social support). In order to tackle social perceptions contrary to health observance during the coronavirus pandemic, educational resources such as mass media, cyberspace and social programs on the necessity and importance of health observance need to be used. Policies should also be implemented in the social, cultural and legislative contexts to enhance the degree of individuals' social responsibility.

Testing of the fatigue strength along wood fibres at different moisture contents

Testing of the fatigue strength along wood fibres at different moisture contents. The paper determines the effect of wood moisture content on the fatigue strength in compression along fibres. The method of determining the maximum stress at the proportional limit was used for the measurements. Fatigue strength was investigated for three wood species: pedunculate oak (Quercus robur L.), bearded birch (Betula pendula Roth.) and Norway spruce (Picea abies L.), with two moisture contents: close to the absolutely dry state and above the fibre saturation point. The ratio of fatigue strength to short term strength depends on moisture content and is similar for birch (70.3% in the dry state and 72.1% in the wet state), for oak (67.4% and 69.5% in both states) and for spruce (66.6% in the dry state and 68.1% in the wet state). The moisture content of the wood clearly influences the fatigue strength of the wood. On average, the fatigue strength of wood with moisture contents above the fibre saturation point constitutes about 0.20 of the fatigue strength of wood with moisture contents close to 0%. This tendency was found regardless of the tested species. The simplified method for testing fatigue strength at the limit of proportionality has shown its limited usefulness, requiring further analysis and comparison with other methods in order to be thoroughly tested and possibly improved.

Factors Affecting Tendency and Adherence to Traditional Persian Medicine: A Qualitative Study

Background: Adherence to medications is crucial for them to be effective. Traditional Persian Medicine (TPM) is an ancient medical discipline originated from old Persia and is currently used along with modern medicine in Iran. Evaluating the factors affecting adherence to TPM can have far-reaching implications for policymakers to make informed decisions. Objectives: This qualitative study investigates the factors affecting tendency and adherence to TPM among Iranians. Methods: We collected data from stakeholders in TPM using a focus group involving 13 participants and by conducting four in-depth interviews. The saturation point was reached at the 4th interview. We recorded all the interviews and then transcribed them verbatim for thematic content analysis. Results: We obtained 297 codes and 29 sub-themes for the factors affecting adherence to TPM, including the factors affecting compliance and tendency. Then we extracted the main themes. People’s beliefs, the inherent characteristics of traditional medicine and its status quo, attempts to bring about positive changes to TPM, and the problems facing the modern health system were the main factors affecting adherence to TPM. Conclusions: Despite many strenuous efforts in Iran to study TPM along with the lines of evidence-based medicine, policymaking, financing, patients’ and healthcare providers’ education, popular beliefs, and administrative transparency are needed to be addressed more adequately to promote adherence to TPM and help build integrative medicine in Iran’s healthcare system.