bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Willingness to Pay (WTP) for Heat-Tolerant Maize Hybrids in the Mid-Western Terai Region of Nepal
Authors: Kulkarni Atul P. , Tripathi Mahendra P. , Gautam Damodar , Koirala Keshab B. , Kandel Manoj , Regmi Dhruba , Sapkota Sudha , Zaidi Pervez H.
Published: February 2023

High atmospheric temperatures can reduce maize production in different parts of Asia. Heat stress is the major driving force behind the need for varietal development that confers a heat tolerance trait (drought + heat tolerant) to maize hybrids. CIMMYT has developed heat-tolerant maize hybrids and deployed them in the market in collaboration with NARS partners. This study was conducted to estimate farmers’ willingness to pay for heat-tolerant maize hybrids in the Terai region of Nepal. A socioeconomic survey of 404 randomly selected maize-growing households was conducted to estimate farmers’ willingness to pay using the contingent valuation method. Given the economic importance of heat-tolerant maize hybrids in maize cultivation, the survey showed that the average WTP for heat-tolerant maize hybrids was 71% more than that for the current varieties in the market, including overall seed sources and subsidized seed. Without a subsidy, the farmers’ WTP price was at a 19% premium compared to the average price paid for conventional hybrids. Factors such as education, owning land, the interaction of hybrid adopters and owning land, soil depth, the number of goats/sheep, and the semi-pucca homes of households influenced the WTP for heat-tolerant maize hybrids. Heterogeneous demand was observed with respect to years of hybrid maize cultivation, farmers’ association with the network group, and the gender of the head of the household. In the context of climate change and global warming scenarios, Nepal’s agriculture policy should prioritize increasing domestic seed production and the distribution of heat-tolerant maize hybrids through a public–private partnership model.
The Economic Influence of Energy Storage Construction in the Context of New Power Systems
Authors: Sun Qiujie , Zhou Jingyu , Lan Zhou , Ma Xiangyang
Published: February 2023

The increase in the proportion of renewable energy in a new power system requires supporting the construction of energy storage to provide support for a safe and stable power supply. In this paper, the computable general equilibrium (CGE) quantitative assessment model is used coupled with a carbon emission module to comprehensively analyze the benefits and costs of energy storage construction from a macro perspective. Taking Zhejiang Province as an example, the investment in and construction of energy storage under the new power system of the 14th Five-Year Plan will slow down the economic growth of Zhejiang Province to a slight extent, but this investment and construction can improve the income level of residents and further redistribute the income structure. At the same time, energy storage investment and construction are conducive to building a clean, low-carbon, and efficient power system. The construction of energy storage can smooth out changes in electricity demand, while enhancing the electricity consumption of the residential sector, making the core sector’s electricity consumption more efficient. In addition, the construction of energy storage in the new power system has a positive effect on carbon emission reduction in Zhejiang Province, with the CO2 growth rate being significantly lower than the baseline scenario.
The Performance of the Construction of a Water Ecological Civilization City: International Assessment and Comparison
Authors: Yue Qimeng , Heal Kate , Yu Jingshan , Wang Qianyang , Zheng Yuexin , Zhu Zhanliang , Liu Yuan , Xu Shugao , Yao Xiaolei
Published: February 2023

The water ecological environment problems brought about by rapid urbanization have prompted the proposal and implementation of different approaches to urban water ecological construction, such as eco-cities, best management practices (BMPs), and low-impact development (LID). As one of the most representative urban water ecological management policies in China, the Water Ecological Civilization City (WECC) was proposed in 2013, and 105 cities were selected for pilot construction. Many studies have evaluated the effectiveness of WECC construction, but international quantitative comparison is lacking. To address this, an urban Water-Human-Health (WHH) Assessment Model, considering water resources, ecological environment, economic and social development level, and water resources utilization, was developed and applied to five WECC pilot cities in China and 10 other cities worldwide, in which mainstream urban water ecological construction modes have been used. Principal component analysis of the index values in the assessment system was used to evaluate the current status of water ecosystem health in the 15 cities, showing that Sydney, Cleveland, and Hamburg were the most advanced in urban water ecological management. The two cities with the best evaluation results (Sydney and Cleveland), and the WECC city with the highest score (Wuhan) were selected for documentary analysis of their water ecological construction documents to identify similarities and differences to inform best practice internationally for urban water ecological construction. The results showed that Sydney and Cleveland attach similar emphasis across most constituents of urban water ecological construction, while, for Wuhan, greater importance is attached to water resource management and water culture. The advantages and disadvantages of WECC construction and international experience are discussed. The WHH assessment model proposed in this study provides a new quantitative evaluation method for international urban water ecological health evaluation, which could be further improved by including an urban flood risk indicator.
Causes and Conditions for Reduced Cultivation and Consumption of Underutilized Crops: Is There a Solution?
Authors: Knez Marija , Ranic Marija , Gurinovic Mirjana , Glibetic Maria , Savic Jasna , Mattas Konstadinos , Yercan Murat
Published: February 2023

Underutilized crops are described as plant species that were once popular but have since been neglected by mainstream agriculture for several reasons. A widespread monoculture agricultural revolution and a tendency toward more high-yielding varieties were the main reasons for the underutilization of certain crops. Remarkably, underutilized crops have endured even without formal support, which indicates that besides their exceptional nutritional value and beneficial effects on human health they contain desirable traits that could be useful for building resilience and adaptation to climate-changing environments. As such, the re-establishment of these plants to the global food system is desired. To find solutions for overcoming the obstacles for the reintroduction of these crops and to bring the neglected species back to cultivation and utilization, a comprehensive understanding of the potential reasons for the reduced cultivation of these crops is necessary. In this article, potential reasons, causes, and conditions for the decreased cultivation and consumption of certain crops are discussed with a presentation of case studies of the following species: buckwheat, lentils, green leafy vegetables, sow thistle, grass pea, cucumber melon, and eggplant. Finally, potential solutions for overcoming the identified obstacles associated with both the cultivation and consumption of certain underutilized crops and neglected species are provided. Documented benefits of the production of various crops in agricultural production systems and the beneficial effects of increased consumption of these crops for human health should stimulate and encourage people from various disciplines, i.e., farmers, researchers, agronomists, nutritionists, and policymakers to join the efforts to bring neglected species back to cultivation and consumption.
Three-Party Stochastic Evolutionary Game Analysis of Supply Chain Finance Based on Blockchain Technology
Authors: Zhu Qingfeng , Zong Rui , Xu Mengqi
Published: February 2023

In the process of accounts receivable financing under supply chain finance, the phenomenon of accounts receivable forgery and default have caused great pressure on the supervision of financial institutions. We consider the integration of blockchain technology with a supply chain finance platform around the fraudulent default phenomenon in supply chain finance receivables financing and construct a three-party stochastic evolutionary game model among financial institutions, core enterprises, and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Firstly, we use Ito^’s stochastic differential equation theory to analyze the conditions for the stability of the behavior of game subjects. Secondly, we use numerical simulations to quantitatively analyze the impact of the regulatory strength of financial institutions, the information sharing of the blockchain platform, and the change of incentive parameters on the strategy choice of game subjects. Through the above analysis, we conclude that the information-sharing incentive coefficient promotes financial institutions to choose to connect to the blockchain platform, and the information-sharing risk coefficient and the regulatory intensity have the opposite effect on the blockchain platform construction. Meanwhile, the allocation of incentive shares has a significant influence on the core enterprises. Finally, we give priorities and directions for adjusting the relevant parameters to provide recommendations for financial institutions to regulate the financing process more effectively.
The Future Is Hybrid: How Organisations Are Designing and Supporting Sustainable Hybrid Work Models in Post-Pandemic Australia
Authors: Hopkins John , Bardoel Anne
Published: February 2023

Hybrid work models have rapidly become the most common work arrangement for many knowledge workers, affording them with improved work–life balance and greater levels of job satisfaction, but little research has been conducted to identify the different hybrid work models that are emerging, and the appropriate supports needed to drive sustainable improvement. This paper utilises primary data from a series of semi-structured interviews with senior Australian human resource (HR) managers, to identify a range of different approaches to hybrid work design, applying the Conservation of Resources (COR) theory. Analyses of these findings have resulted in five key contributions: one being the identification of the most popular current hybrid work arrangements; the second being the key supporting pillars that are required to support successful hybrid work; the third identifies the infrastructure required to support these pillars; the fourth being a theoretic contribution that extends the existing academic literature in this field; and with the final contribution being an interpretation of the findings via COR theory. These contributions have significant implications for both scholars and human resource professionals, as organisations and academics strive to learn from the recent period of turbulence and develop sustainable improvements in performance and working conditions (SDG8), with improved support for employee health and wellbeing (SDG3), and gender equality (SDG5).
Quasi-Double Diagonally Dominant H-Tensors and the Estimation Inequalities for the Spectral Radius of Nonnegative Tensors
Authors: Wang Xincun , Lv Hongbin
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we study two classes of quasi-double diagonally dominant tensors and prove they are H-tensors. Numerical examples show that two classes of H-tensors are mutually exclusive. Thus, we extend the decision conditions of H-tensors. Based on these two classes of tensors, two estimation inequalities for the upper and lower bounds for the spectral radius of nonnegative tensors are obtained.
Atomic Solution for Certain Gardner Equation
Authors: Al-Khaleel Mohammad , Al-Sharif Sharifa , AlJarrah Ameerah
Published: February 2023

In this paper, a new technique using a tensor product is presented in order to provide exact solutions to some certain fractional differential equations. Particularly, the well-known third order Gardner’s equation, which is also known in some contexts as KdV-mKdV, of the fractional type. This type of equations plays an important role in modeling many symmetric and asymmetric problems. Moreover, the existence of an atomic solution using a tensor product technique for certain second order equations has been proved.
Nonextensive Footprints in Dissipative and Conservative Dynamical Systems
Authors: Rodríguez Antonio , Pluchino Alessandro , Tirnakli Ugur , Rapisarda Andrea , Tsallis Constantino
Published: February 2023

Despite its centennial successes in describing physical systems at thermal equilibrium, Boltzmann–Gibbs (BG) statistical mechanics have exhibited, in the last several decades, several flaws in addressing out-of-equilibrium dynamics of many nonlinear complex systems. In such circumstances, it has been shown that an appropriate generalization of the BG theory, known as nonextensive statistical mechanics and based on nonadditive entropies, is able to satisfactorily handle wide classes of anomalous emerging features and violations of standard equilibrium prescriptions, such as ergodicity, mixing, breakdown of the symmetry of homogeneous occupancy of phase space, and related features. In the present study, we review various important results of nonextensive statistical mechanics for dissipative and conservative dynamical systems. In particular, we discuss applications to both discrete-time systems with a few degrees of freedom and continuous-time ones with many degrees of freedom, as well as to asymptotically scale-free networks and systems with diverse dimensionalities and ranges of interactions, of either classical or quantum nature.
Robust Procedure for Change-Point Estimation Using Quantile Regression Model with Asymmetric Laplace Distribution
Authors: Yang Fengkai
Published: February 2023

The usual mean change-point detecting method based on normal linear regression is not robust to heavy-tailed data with potential outlying points. We propose a robust change-point estimation procedure based on a quantile regression model with asymmetric Laplace error distribution and develop a non-iterative sampling algorithm from a Bayesian perspective. The algorithm can generate independently and identically distributed samples approximately from the posterior distribution of the position of the change-point, which can be used for statistical inferences straightforwardly. The procedure combines the robustness of quantile regression and the computational efficiency of the non-iterative sampling algorithm. A simulation study is conducted to illustrate the performance of the procedure with satisfying findings, and finally, real data is analyzed to show the usefulness of the algorithm by comparison with the usual change-point detection method based on normal regression.
Application of Aboodh Homotopy Perturbation Transform Method for Fractional-Order Convection–Reaction–Diffusion Equation within Caputo and Atangana–Baleanu Operators
Authors: Yasmin Humaira
Published: February 2023

This article is an analysis of fractional nonlinear convection–reaction–diffusion equations involving the fractional Atangana–Baleanu and Caputo derivatives. An efficient Aboodh homotopy perturbation transform method, which combines the homotopy perturbation method with the Aboodh transformation, is applied to investigate this fractional-order proposed model, analytically. A modified technique known as the Aboodh homotopy perturbation transform method is formulated to approximate these derivatives. The analytical simulation is investigated graphically as well as in tabular form.
The Phenomenological Research on Higgs and Dark Matter in the Next-to-Minimal Supersymmetric Standard Model
Authors: Heng Zhaoxia , Yang Shenshen , Li Xingjuan , Shang Liangliang
Published: February 2023

The Z3-invariant next-to-minimal supersymmetric standard model (NMSSM) can provide a candidate for dark matter (DM). It can also be used to explain the hypothesis that the Higgs signal observed on the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) comes from the contribution of the two lightest CP-even Higgs bosons, whose masses are near 125 GeV. At present, XENON1T, LUX, and PandaX experiments have imposed very strict restrictions on direct collision cross sections of dark matter. In this paper, we consider a scenario that the observed Higgs signal is the superposition of two mass-degenerate Higgs in the Z3-invariant NMSSM and scan the seven-dimension parameter space composing of λ,κ,tanβ,μ,Ak,At,M1 via the Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) method. We find that the DM relic density, as well as the LHC searches for sparticles, especially the DM direct detections, has provided a strong limit on the parameter space. The allowed parameter space is featured by a relatively small μ≤300 GeV and about tanβ∈(10,20). In addition, the DM is Higgsino-dominated because of |2κλ|>1. Moreover, the co-annihilation between χ˜10 and χ˜1± must be taken into account to obtain the reasonable DM relic density.
An Information System for Infrastructure Asset Management Tailored to Portuguese Water Utilities: Platform Conceptualization and a Prototype Demonstration
Authors: Carriço Nelson , Ferreira Bruno , Antunes André , Grueau Cédric I. C. , Barreira Raquel , Mendes Ana , Covas Dídia I. C. , Monteiro Laura , Santos João Filipe , Brito Isabel Sofia
Published: February 2023

This paper describes a new information system developed as part of the Portuguese R&D project DECIdE. The project aimed at the development of a platform for infrastructure asset management tailored to Portuguese water utilities. The platform allows the integration of different data from several information systems of the water utilities and includes several tools for the performance assessment of the water supply systems in terms of water losses, energy efficiency and quality of service (i.e., water and energy balances and key performance indicators). The developed platform was tested with data from five small to medium size Portuguese water utilities with different maturity levels in terms of technological and human resources. The obtained results are very promising because the platform allows for periodic system performance assessment which constitutes an important part of the infrastructure asset management for small and medium-sized water utilities.
Assessment of Agricultural Practices for Controlling Fusarium and Mycotoxins Contamination on Maize Grains: Exploratory Study in Maize Farms
Authors: Simões Daniela , Carbas Bruna , Soares Andreia , Freitas Andreia , Silva Ana Sanches , Brites Carla , Andrade Eugénia de
Published: February 2023

Maize is a significant crop to the global economy and a key component of food and feed, although grains and whole plants can often be contaminated with mycotoxins resulting in a general exposure of the population and animals. To investigate strategies for mycotoxins control at the grain production level, a pilot study and exploratory research were conducted in 2019 and 2020 to compare levels of mycotoxins in grains of plants treated with two fertilizers, F-BAC and Nefusoil, under real agricultural environment. The 1650 grains selected from the 33 samples were assessed for the presence of both Fusarium species and mycotoxins. Only fumonisins and deoxynivalenol were detected. Fumonisin B1 ranged from 0 to 2808.4 µg/Kg, and fumonisin B2 from 0 to 1041.9 µg/Kg, while deoxynivalenol variated from 0 to 465.8 µg/Kg. Nefusoil showed to be promising in regard to fumonisin control. Concerning the control of fungal contamination rate and the diversity of Fusarium species, no significant differences were found between the two treatments in any of the years. However, a tendency for was observed Nefusoil of lower values, probably due to the guaranteed less stressful conditions to the Fusarium spp. present in the soil, which do not stimulate their fumonisins production.
Pet Rats as the Likely Reservoir for Human Seoul Orthohantavirus Infection
Authors: Heuser Elisa , Drewes Stephan , Trimpert Jakob , Kunec Dusan , Mehl Calvin , de Cock Marieke , de Vries Ankje , Klier Christiane , Oskamp Martin , Tenhaken Peter , Hashemi Fatima , Heinz Daniela , Nascimento Mariana , Boelhauve Marc , Petraityte-Burneikiene Rasa , Raafat Dina , Maas Miriam , Krüger Detlev , Latz Andreas , Hofmann Jörg , Heckel Gerald , Dreesman Johannes , Ulrich Rainer
Published: February 2023

Seoul orthohantavirus (SEOV) is a rat-associated zoonotic pathogen with an almost worldwide distribution. In 2019, the first autochthonous human case of SEOV-induced hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome was reported in Germany, and a pet rat was identified as the source of the zoonotic infection. To further investigate the SEOV reservoir, additional rats from the patient and another owner, all of which were purchased from the same vendor, were tested. SEOV RNA and anti-SEOV antibodies were found in both of the patient’s rats and in two of the three rats belonging to the other owner. The complete coding sequences of the small (S), medium (M), and large (L) segments obtained from one rat per owner exhibited a high sequence similarity to SEOV strains of breeder rat or human origin from the Netherlands, France, the USA, and Great Britain. Serological screening of 490 rats from breeding facilities and 563 wild rats from Germany (2007–2020) as well as 594 wild rats from the Netherlands (2013–2021) revealed 1 and 6 seropositive individuals, respectively. However, SEOV RNA was not detected in any of these animals. Increased surveillance of pet, breeder, and wild rats is needed to identify the origin of the SEOV strain in Europe and to develop measures to prevent transmission to the human population.
Targeting Aedes aegypti Metabolism with Next-Generation Insecticides
Authors: Conway Michael J. , Haslitt Douglas P. , Swarts Benjamin M.
Published: February 2023

Aedes aegypti is the primary vector of dengue virus (DENV), zika virus (ZIKV), and other emerging infectious diseases of concern. A key disease mitigation strategy is vector control, which relies heavily on the use of insecticides. The development of insecticide resistance poses a major threat to public health worldwide. Unfortunately, there is a limited number of chemical compounds available for vector control, and these chemicals can have off-target effects that harm invertebrate and vertebrate species. Fundamental basic science research is needed to identify novel molecular targets that can be exploited for vector control. Next-generation insecticides will have unique mechanisms of action that can be used in combination to limit selection of insecticide resistance. Further, molecular targets will be species-specific and limit off-target effects. Studies have shown that mosquitoes rely on key nutrients during multiple life cycle stages. Targeting metabolic pathways is a promising direction that can deprive mosquitoes of nutrition and interfere with development. Metabolic pathways are also important for the virus life cycle. Here, we review studies that reveal the importance of dietary and stored nutrients during mosquito development and infection and suggest strategies to identify next-generation insecticides with a focus on trehalase inhibitors.
The Quest for a Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccine for Older Adults: Thinking beyond the F Protein
Authors: Jenkins Victoria A. , Hoet Bernard , Hochrein Hubertus , De Moerlooze Laurence
Published: February 2023

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of paediatric respiratory tract infection and causes a significant health burden in older adults. Natural immunity to RSV is incomplete, permitting recurrent symptomatic infection over an individual’s lifespan. When combined with immunosenescence, this increases older adults’ susceptibility to more severe disease symptoms. As RSV prophylaxis is currently limited to infants, older adults represent an important target population for RSV vaccine development. The relationship between RSV and our immune systems is complex, and these interactions require deeper understanding to tailor an effective vaccine candidate towards older adults. To date, vaccine candidates targeting RSV antigens, including pre-F, F, G (A), G (B), M2-1, and N, have shown efficacy against RSV infection in older adults in clinical trial settings. Although vaccine candidates have demonstrated robust neutralising IgG and cellular responses, it is important that research continues to investigate the RSV immune response in order to further understand how the choice of antigenic target site may impact vaccine effectiveness. In this article, we discuss the Phase 3 vaccine candidates being tested in older adults and review the hurdles that must be overcome to achieve effective protection against RSV.
Determinants of Parents Taking Their Children for Scheduled Vaccinations during COVID-19 Pandemic in South Africa
Authors: Makoae Mokhantso , Mokhele Tholang , Naidoo Inbarani , Sifunda Sibusiso , Sewpaul Ronel
Published: February 2023

Scheduled or routine childhood vaccinations are known for their effectiveness in eradicating fear for many life-threatening and disabling diseases and saving lives globally. This paper is aimed at assessing determinants of parents taking their children for scheduled vaccinations during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa. Data used for this paper were obtained from the Human Sciences Research Council’s (HSRC) COVID-19 Online Survey titled “One Year Later Survey”, which was conducted between 25 June and 11 October 2021 in South Africa. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to achieve this study goal. Findings showed that just over half of parents (56.7%) reported taking their children for scheduled vaccinations across the country. Males were significantly less likely (aOR = 0.53 95% CI [0.45–0.61], p < 0.001) to have taken their children for scheduled vaccinations than females. Parents’ experiences and views were among key determinants of parents having taken their children for scheduled vaccinations in South Africa. Parents who had never taken influenza (flu) vaccines were significantly less likely (aOR = 0.33 [0.28–039], p < 0.001) to have taken their children for scheduled vaccinations than those who had taken flu vaccines. Parents who did not know anyone who had personally experienced serious side effects to any vaccine were significantly less likely (aOR = 0.77 [0.66–0.90], p = 0.001) to have taken their children for scheduled vaccinations than those who knew anyone who had experienced them. Parents who did not think vaccines were a good way to protect communities from disease were significantly less likely (aOR = 0.50 [0.33–0.77], p = 0.001) to have taken their children for scheduled vaccinations than those who thought vaccines were a good way to protect communities from disease. These findings are of significance especially during the time when the country is still struggling to reach a substantial proportion of its population vaccinated for COVID-19. Thus, these findings may be relevant in determining parents’ intentions to have their children receive the South African Department of Health recommended vaccines for their respective age group.
Application Progress of New Adsorption Materials for Removing Fluorine from Water
Authors: Zhao Ming−Ming , Wang Qiang , Krua Luke Saye Nenwon , Yi Rong−Nan , Zou Run−Jun , Li Xin−Yuan , Huang Peng
Published: February 2023

A large amount of fluorine−containing wastewater was produced with the rapid development of the industry. Excessive fluoride content in water will not only endanger ecological security but also pose threat to human health. In this study, common new adsorbents for defluorination, such as metal−based adsorbents, natural adsorbents, and nanomaterial adsorbents were reviewed for its physicochemical properties and fluorine removal efficiency. The fluorine removal mechanism of different adsorbents was introduced in detail, and the future work of the removal of fluorine using novel adsorbents was proposed. This research also introduces the application of the coupling of the adsorption method with the technology of chemical precipitation, filtration, and super−magnetic separation to treat high concentration of fluoride wastewater. A good selection of process combinations according to different needs can achieve high−efficiency defluorination in water. Finally, some existing problems of practical operation of fluorine using removal materials in the environment are summarized, hoping to contribute to the future research of fluorine removal materials.
Evaluation of Minimum and Suitable Ecological Flows of an Inland Basin in China Considering Hydrological Variation
Authors: Liu Saiyan , Zhang Qin , Xie Yangyang , Xu Pengcheng , Du Huihua
Published: February 2023

Ecological flows in rivers are critical to the health and stability of river ecosystems, especially for inland drylands where ecological conditions are rapidly deteriorating. Climate change and human activities lead to hydrological variation, which in turn alters the hydrological and ecological balance of local ecosystems. Therefore, it is important to study the ecological flow under hydrological variation. In this study, the second-largest inland river basin in China, the Hei River Basin, was selected as the case study. The heuristic segmentation method, monthly minimum average flow method, the Lyon method, the average flow in the driest month method, and the monthly frequency method were employed to calculate the minimum and suitable ecological flow considering hydrological variation. Then, the results of the minimum and suitable ecological flow were evaluated and compared by the Tennant method. Finally, the ecological flows were recommended for the Hei River Basin after comparison and evaluation. Results show that: (1) It is necessary and feasible to calculate ecological flow demand considering hydrological variation in the Hei River Basin. (2) The evaluation results of the minimum ecological flow are mostly at a good level or above, and those of the suitable ecological flows are mostly at the optimum range. (3) Three scenarios with different periods and frequencies were set up to obtain suitable ecological flow; and it shows that the suitable ecological flow of scenario 3 (50% frequency in all months) has the best ecological benefits, and scenario 2 (frequency is taken as 75% in spring and autumn, 50% in summer, and 80% in winter) has the best comprehensive benefits. This study can provide important reference for water resources development and utilization and ecological protection in the Hei River Basin.
A Non-Hydrostatic Model for Simulating Weakly Dispersive Landslide-Generated Waves
Authors: Tarwidi Dede , Pudjaprasetya Sri Redjeki , Tjandra Sugih Sudharma
Published: February 2023

The aim of this study is to develop an efficient numerical scheme that is capable of simulating landslide-generated waves. The numerical scheme is based on the one-layer non-hydrostatic (NH-1L) model, a phase-solving model that can account for weakly dispersive waves. In this paper, the model is extended to include a time-varying solid bed. This NH-1L scheme is very efficient because, at each time step, only a tridiagonal Poisson pressure matrix needs to be solved. In this study, the capability of the NH-1L scheme to simulate landslide-generated waves is demonstrated by executing two types of landslide motion: constant speed and with acceleration and deceleration. Validation was performed using analytical solutions of the linear weakly dispersive (LWD) model, as well as experimental data. The NH-1L model was capable of describing the generation and propagation of water waves by a submarine landslide from relatively intermediate water to shallow water depths.
Treatment of Black-Odorous Water Using Submerged Plants: The Physiological Response of Vallisneria natans
Authors: Wu Mian , Hao Huijuan , Ge Yili , Pu Tong , He Ziyun , Ge Dabing , Rene Eldon R. , Huang Zhenrong
Published: February 2023

The main aim of this research was to determine the physiological response of the submerged macrophyte Vallisneria natans (V. natans) to black water with a foul odor. V. natans was chosen as the experimental plant species to investigate the morphological response and ecophysiological adaptation methods in response to varying light depths and black-odorous water. V. natans was planted in tap water (D), two types of black-odorous water (E and F), and under three distinct light conditions (low light, medium light, and high light). In the high-light condition with black-odorous water (E), the biomass content of V. natans declined from 1.78 g on the 14th day to 1.49 g on the 28th day, demonstrating that the black-odorous water inhibited the growth of V. natans. Under the stress of black-odorous water, the chlorophyll content of V. natans increased greatly in the early period but reduced during the latter experimental period. However, on the 21st day, maximum chlorophyll content of 1.30 mg/g (E) and 1.18 mg/g (F) was observed. In addition, the malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD) activity was monitored and reported under black-odorous water stress in V. natans. The experimental results of this work demonstrated conclusively that odorous black water exerts a certain stress on the physiological development of V. natans. Future research should incorporate the evaluation of several plant species and vary the process and environmental conditions to produce field-relevant, dependable results.
The Perturbation of Mangla Watershed Ecosystem in Pakistan Due to Hydrological Alteration
Authors: Rahim Akif , Wang Xander , Javed Neelam , Aziz Farhan , Jahangir Amina , Khurshid Tahira
Published: February 2023

Hydrological regimes influence an aquatic ecosystem’s biotic composition, structure, and functioning. But construction of dams or anthropogenic activities substantially alter the hydrologic regimes. In this study, we used a method named as the “Indicators of Hydrologic Alteration” to examine the degree of hydrologic alteration at seven flow gauge stations in the Mangla watershed. The assessment of alteration is carried out according to the Range of Variability (RVA). This method relies on analyzing hydrologic data obtained from existing measurement points (e.g., stream gauges) within an ecosystem or model-generated data. We used 33 parameters categorized into 5 groups based on magnitude, duration, frequency, timing, and rate of change to characterize hydrologic variation within a year statistically. We then examine the hydrologic perturbations by comparing the measure of central tendency and dispersion for each parameter between the “pre-impact (1967–1994)” and “post-impact (1995–2014)” periods. The results show that within the Mangla watershed, the high alteration was noted in the magnitude of monthly flows and extreme flows at Azad Pattan, Gari Habibullah, Palote and at Muzafarabad stations. The flow at Domel and Kohala stations are found in low hydrological alteration among all groups of indicators. The study indicates that Neelum Basin at Muzaffarabad has significantly high alteration with maximum negative values. On the other hand, a high frequency of alteration observed in the monthly flows and extreme water conditions. Overall, a moderate alteration is observed in the whole watershed, which may produce adverse effects on the aquatic ecosystem of the Mangla watershed.
Experimental and Numerical Study on Flow Control Using 3-Array Submerged Vane in Laboratory Channel Bend
Authors: Taşar Bestami , Üneş Fatih , Gemici Ercan , Zelenakova Martina
Published: February 2023

Regulation structures such as submerged vane are needed to reduce and eliminate environmental damage due to increased flooding in rivers. In particular, scours on the outer bank due to increased flow velocities cause the river bed to change and deteriorate. In this study, the effect on flow velocities was investigated experimentally by using 3-array submerged vane structures in areas close to the outer bank. The experimental vane results were performed in the open channel setup. The Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) results obtained with the numerical model were also verified and compared with experimental results. It has been observed that the CFD model gives results close to the real experimental results. The standard-based k-ε model was used as the turbulence model. In the outer meander, the 3-array submerged vane with a 3-vane structure was found to affect the flow velocity by 16–27% in the region behind the vane. The flow velocities were investigated along with depth using the CFD and found that the mean velocity was reduced by 14–21% along the depth. It is also recommended that submerged vane structures can be applied as an effective method in reducing flow velocities and directing flows.
Effects of Anthropogenic Activities on Water Quality within Ngong River Sub-Catchment, Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Ngatia Mary , Kithiia Shadrack M. , Voda Mihai
Published: February 2023

Anthropogenic activities often compromise the water quality of natural water systems, rendering it unfit for domestic and agricultural use. This paper evaluates the effects of anthropogenic activities on the water quality of Ngong River in Nairobi County, Kenya. It aimed to assess the river’s physico-chemical parameters, identify major anthropogenic activities that act as pollutant sources and establish the relationship between the anthropogenic activities and water quality along the Ngong River. Twelve water samples were systematically collected in each of the twelve study sites in April and August 2021 and analyzed in the laboratory for various water quality parameters. The accumulation factor (AF) indicated that E. coli, total coliforms, BOD and COD were found to significantly build up downstream of Ngong River. The ANOVA test results showed that all the physicochemical parameters studied (BOD, E. coli, pH, total suspended solids, total coliforms, turbidity, conductivity, nitrates, oil and grease and TDS), except COD, were not significantly different (p ≤ 0.05) for the different sites. Measured heavy metals, such as lead (Pb) levels at different sampled points, were all found to be below the detectable limit (0.001 ppm) for both seasons. Cadmium (Cd) was detectable during the dry season with the highest levels (0.113 ppm) being recorded at Ngong Forest Boundary. The findings of this study revealed that anthropogenic activities, such as raw sewage disposal, industrial activities, solid waste dumping and small-scale agriculture, had adverse effects on Ngong River’s water quality. The study recommends a need to closely monitor anthropogenic activities along Ngong River to reduce their probable pollution of the water in the River basin. This will ensure the sustainability of the water resources.
Quasi-Prototype Size Testing of Wedge-Shaped Block for Armoring Embankment Dams and Levees
Authors: Caballero Francisco Javier , Toledo Miguel Ángel , Moran Rafael , Peraita Javier
Published: February 2023

A series of tests of wedge-shaped blocks intended for armoring embankment dams and levees was carried out in a new experimental facility (‘Hydraulic Experimentation Facility—Luis Ruano’) under quasi-prototype conditions. This unique facility is located in the canal leading to the Laverné reservoir (Zaragoza, Spain) with a maximum vertical drop of 7 m and discharge up to 9 m3 s−1. The aim was to conduct experimental research on technologies to protect embankment dams and dikes against overflowing erosion under quasi-prototype conditions. The results of the tests demonstrate the ability of the WSBs to withstand high unit discharges under extremely negative conditions at the upstream and downstream ends of the armoring. The tests also helped to identify potential failure modes for the armoring blocks.
Clinical significance of glycated hemoglobin determination
Authors:   Infectious Diseases Hospital in Geoktepe etrap, Akhal velayat, Turkmenistan, Yusupova G. K.
Published: February 2023

Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is an indicator that reflects the level of glucose in the blood over the past 1-3 months. The main indications for its use are as follows: control of the course of diabetes mellitus (once in 3 months), control of the effectiveness of diabetes treatment, an indicator of the risk of developing complications of diabetes mellitus. The study of HbA1c allows evaluating the level of glycemia in a diabetes mellitus patient 60-90 days prior to the study. The study makes it possible to monitor the course of the disease and control the adequacy of the treatment. The study of HbA1c should be carried out to assess the risk of complications in a patient with diabetes mellitus.
Biological effects of low-intensity intravascular laser blood irradiation and mechanisms ensuring their clinical efficacy
Authors:   Medical Institute, Federal State Autonomous Educational Institution of Higher Education «Peoples' Friendship University of Russia», Gizinger O. A.
Published: February 2023

The article analyzes the role of intravascular laser blood irradiation (ILBI) in the complex therapy of chronic inflammatory diseases. ILBI is one of the methods of quantum physiotherapy. The method is based on irradiation of blood directly in the vascular bed through an optical light guide, which is usually inserted into any easily accessible vein. The radiation source is a laser therapeutic device that emits light with a wavelength of 630 nm (red).
Occupational and work-related lesions of the kidneys and urinary tract: diagnostic issues, assessment of the causal relationship between disease and occupation
Authors:   FSBEI HE Samara State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Babanov S. A. , Agarkova I. A. ,   FSBEI HE Samara State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Published: February 2023

The causes of occupational nephropathy can be production factors of both chemical and physical nature. Thus, occupational toxic nephropathy can be caused by heavy metals and their compounds (mercury, lead, cadmium, lithium, bismuth, gold, etc.), arsenic compounds, organic solvents (carbon tetrachloride, dichloroethane, ethylene glycol, etc.), various pesticides (organomercury, organochlorine and phosphorus compounds), beta-naphthol, etc. Occupational nephropathies are caused by such physical factors as radiation damage, exposure to high and low temperatures of the industrial environment, hypothermia. In addition, malignant neoplasms of the bladder (bladder cancer) take a significant place among the occupational lesions of the kidneys and urinary tract. Chemicals with proven carcinogenic effects include aromatic amino compounds (benzidine, dianisidine, 2‑naphthylamine) used in the manufacture of dyes.
Peritonsillar abscesses in children with non-angina form of chronic tonsillitis
Authors:   FSBEI HE Rostov State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Rostov-on-Don, Russia, Boiko N. V. , Letifov G. M. ,   FSBEI HE Rostov State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Rostov-on-Don, Russia
Published: February 2023

In recent years, there has been a marked increase in the number of peritonsillar abscesses not only in adults, but also in children. The aim of the work was to study the frequency of PA in non-angina form of chronic tonsillitis in children. We observed 116 children with chronic tonsillitis who underwent tonsillectomy in the period from September 30, 2017 to September 8, 2020. A peritonsillar abscess was observed in 19 % of children subjected to tonsillectomy, and in 8 of 22 patients (36 %) there were no indications of anamnesis of acute tonsillitis, although histological signs of chronic inflammation were found in the removed tonsils, which makes it possible to characterize the existing pathology as a non-angina form of chronic tonsillitis.
Efficacy of dry salt baths and low-frequency magnetotherapy in patients with psoriasis
Authors:   Bashkir State Medical University, Research Institute of Restorative Medicine and Balneology, Ufa, Giniyatova I. V. , Amerkhanova A. V. ,   Bashkir State Medical University, Research Institute of Restorative Medicine and Balneology, Ufa, Khismatullina Z. R. ,   Bashkir State Medical University, Research Institute of Restorative Medicine and Balneology, Ufa, Iseeva D. R. ,   Bashkir State Medical University, Research Institute of Restorative Medicine and Balneology, Ufa, Gilmutdinov B. R. ,   Bashkir State Medical University, Research Institute of Restorative Medicine and Balneology, Ufa, Gabdelkhakova A. A. ,   Bashkir State Medical University, Research Institute of Restorative Medicine and Balneology, Ufa
Published: February 2023

The results of evaluating the effectiveness of dry salt baths and low-frequency magnetotherapy in the medical rehabilitation of 66 patients with psoriasis are presented. The purpose of the study: to evaluate the efficacy of dry salt baths and low-frequency magnetotherapy in the rehabilitation of patients with psoriasis. It was found that against the background of the developed rehabilitation complex with the combined effect of common dry salt baths and low-frequency magnetotherapy in 22 patients, there was a significant decrease and regression of psoriatic elements on the skin, improvement of peripheral blood flow, metabolic parameters, psycho-emotional status, and quality of life of patients in 81.8 % of cases, compared to the control group in 45.5 % cases.
Personalized physiotherapy for patients with late complications after lip fillers administration
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Continuous Professional Education ", Aksenenko I.P. ,   Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education",   of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Gerasimenko M.Yu. ,   Federal State Autonomous Educational Institution of Higher Education "N.I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University" of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Published: February 2023

Lip contouring with preparations based on synthetic hyaluronic acid is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures. However, in recent years, there has been an explosive increase in the number of complications. There are many physiotherapeutic methods for the treatment of late complications of lip contouring. Nevertheless, currently there are no differentiated approaches to the choice of physiotherapy techniques and their combination, depending on the filler and the clinical and functional picture of the complication. Objective: to develop and evaluate the use of personalized physiotherapy in patients with complications after the administration of lip fillers, taking into account patients’ genetic predisposition. Material and methods. The study involved 51 patients aged 30-42 years with a diagnosis of L57.4 - cutis laxa senilis, who received late complications (local swelling, dry and pale lip skin, filler contouring, soreness, sensitivity change) at the filler injection site. All patients underwent genetic testing on the Cosmetology panel before the start of treatment. There were 3 groups that received physico-pharmacological methods: longidase laserophoresis, collagenase diadinamophoresis, or their combination in the lip area at the filler injection site. Result. When analyzing the data after the course of treatment, the patients with the combined protocol showed a significant improvement in the quality of life, both in the near and long-term research period. This was expressed in a statistically significant decrease in intradermal edema, rapid regression of pain syndrome, and more accelerated biodegradation of the superficially injected filler in the main group compared to other study groups. Conclusion. In patients with late local complications after the injection of hyaluronic acid fillers, the combined protocol with the inclusion of longidase laserophoresis and collagenase diadinamophoresis significantly shortens the recovery period, contributes to a faster reduction of local edema, pain, neuropathy phenomena, and to accelerated biodegradation of the superficially injected filler, as well as ensures a stable clinical result. Personalized physiotherapy is an effective factor in relieving complications after lip contouring.