bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustainable Agricultural Systems for Fruit Orchards: The Influence of Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria on the Soil Biodiversity and Nutrient Management
Authors: Freitas Jorge , Silva Pedro
Published: October 2022

Awareness towards the loss of soil quality as well as consumer perception about the environmental impact of agricultural activity have stimulated research and government activity toward the implementation of a sustainable agricultural system. The European Commission, in the next funding program, established specific objectives to promote the conversion towards a more environmentally sustainable agricultural system through its Green Deal Strategy. The demand for ecologically and sustainably cultivated fruits increases every year; however, suppressing such demand is necessary to improve the production performance of orchards. The sustainable management of orchard production requires combined knowledge from different fields. The key challenge is to design orchard systems that can integrate sustainable practices, nutrient cycle knowledge and promotion of soil biodiversity. Therefore, this review compiles works that address the challenges in the implementation of a sustainable agriculture system based on Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria (PGPB) and their impact on soil biodiversity as well as that of nutrient management on the development of fruit orchards.
A New Method to Improve the Environmental Sustainability of the Operating Room: Healthcare Sustainability Mode and Effect Analysis (HSMEA)
Authors: de Ridder Else F. , Friedericy Herman J. , van der Eijk Anne C. , Dankelman Jenny , Jansen Frank Willem
Published: October 2022

The purpose of this study was to describe a new method to effectively improve the environmental impact of operating rooms through a systematic approach. A proven successful prospective risk analysis tool to improve the safety of complex healthcare processes (Healthcare Failure Mode and Effect Analysis) was adapted to reduce the environmental impact of surgical waste. For this novel method, named the Healthcare Sustainability Mode and Effect Analysis (HSMEA), a multidisciplinary team, using a structured step-by-step approach, systematically inventories surgical waste, quantifies its environmental impacts, identifies hotspots, and provides solutions for improvement. The five steps of the HSMEA are described (definition of the topic, team assembly, flowchart creation, hazard analysis, actions and outcome measures) and the surgical procedure of a caesarean section was used as a case study to assess the applicability of this method to improve its environmental impact. Applying the HSMEA to caesarean sections resulted in a 22% volume reduction and a 22% carbon footprint reduction in surgical waste. This was achieved by revising the disposable custom pack in order to reduce the overage that was present, and by intensifying waste stream segregation for plastic and paper recycling. The HSMEA is a practical work floor tool to aid in the reduction of the environmental impact of surgical waste that is applicable to all types of operations. It is reproducible, and because it identifies carbon hotspots, it enables an efficient approach to the issue of operating room pollution.
The Influence of Large-Scale Agricultural Land Management on the Modernization of Agricultural Product Circulation: Based on Field Investigation and Empirical Study
Authors: Li Chaofan , Guo Guanqing
Published: October 2022

Large-scale agricultural land management has become the obvious development trend of China’s rural land management. This paper focuses on large-scale agricultural land management in China and analyzes the influence mechanism of large-scale agricultural land management on the circulation of agricultural products. We use the methods of field investigation and empirical research, put forward the theoretical hypothesis through field investigation, and empirically test it. It is found that the impact of large-scale agricultural land management on the circulation efficiency of the agricultural products under the “input-output” index has a lag and shows a U-shaped characteristic of decreasing first and then increasing. For the modernization of agricultural product circulation under the comprehensive index system, large-scale agricultural land management has a significant positive promoting effect. This reflects the potential of large-scale agricultural land management in promoting the development of rural agriculture and agricultural product circulation. This suggests that in the process of promoting the modernization of agricultural product circulation, the government should pay special attention to the modernization of upstream agricultural production, promote large-scale agricultural land management in a standardized and orderly way, and realize the coordinated reform of agriculture and the agricultural product circulation industry. In addition, the Chinese government also needs to make up for the shortcomings in the upstream organization, the construction of wholesale markets for the agricultural products, and rural logistics infrastructure.
Research on the Preparation and Application of Synthetic Leather from Coffee Grounds for Sustainable Development
Authors: Tian Yujing , Wang Jinyu , Zheng Sixian , He Xinyue , Liu Xiaogang
Published: October 2022

As the market demand for environmentally friendly synthetic leather products has increased, water-based synthetic leather manufacturing technology and product performance have made great progress. Along with the explosive growth of coffee grounds generated by urban consumers in their daily lives, research on the sustainable reuse of coffee grounds has gradually become a trend in the field. This study discusses the method of preparing environmentally friendly water-based synthetic leather that reuses coffee grounds and is assessed by standardized physical tests for friction color fastness, Martindale abrasion resistance, breathability and moisture permeability, softness, and peel strength. The results have indicated that sustainable coffee-ground synthetic leather fully meets the performance of aqueous synthetic leather for apparel and luggage, with even some performance indicators exceeding existing aqueous synthetic leather, which is an innovative and sustainable product that can be applied to the apparel industry in the future. Its development and application in the textile field will provide research ideas with the transformation of environmental problems into new opportunities.
The Spatial Disequilibrium and Dynamic Evolution of the Net Agriculture Carbon Effect in China
Authors: Huang Jie , Sun Zimin , Zhong Pengshu
Published: October 2022

Considering the comparative perspective of the net agricultural carbon effect in China’s three major functional grain production areas, the Dagum Gini coefficient, kernel density estimation and Markov chain analysis are used to investigate the spatial disequilibrium and dynamic evolution characteristics of the net agricultural carbon effect in China from 2000 to 2019. The results show that the overall net agricultural carbon sink in China is on a fluctuating upward trend, and the net agricultural carbon sink in the main production areas is higher than that in main marketing areas and balanced production and marketing areas. There are obvious differences in the net agricultural carbon sink between different areas, and the differences are expanding; inter-regional differences are the most significant, with the contribution of intra-regional differences second and the contribution of intensity of transvariation the least. The kernel density curve shows that the absolute differences are increasing and that there are gradients and multipolar differentiation within the area. The Markov transfer matrix reflects that the net agricultural carbon effect in China is highly volatile and has a strong internal mobility. The probability of upward shift in an area increases when it is adjacent to a high-level area, and the net carbon effect of agriculture in high-level areas has a strong stability. Based on this, each area should build on its own comparative advantages and explore targeted pathways to reducing emissions and increasing sinks in agriculture while strengthening inter-regional communication and cooperation. It is necessary to build a synergistic mechanism to enhance the net carbon effect of agriculture, which will ultimately help to achieve the “double carbon” target.
Digital and Territorial Trails System for Developing Sustainable Tourism and Enhancing Cultural Heritage in Rural Areas: The Case of San Giovanni Lipioni, Italy
Authors: Costantino Carlo , Mantini Nicola , Benedetti Anna Chiara , Bartolomei Cristiana , Predari Giorgia
Published: October 2022

Depopulation has become a significant issue for local culture and built heritage conservation of many European rural areas. In San Giovanni Lipioni, a province of Chieti (Italy), this phenomenon has increased to the point that, nowadays, there are only 150 inhabitants and no significant economic activities. In this regard, the present paper aims to describe the crucial role of nature-oriented tourism in an economic, social, and revitalization strategy; how digital tools can be used to map and create a territorial trail system between municipalities; and, finally, outline the operations necessary for reactivation. The proposed methodology consists of a first digital survey phase using GPS receivers and outdoor navigation apps. The second phase would create a web platform with a system of virtual itineraries between villages, named “The Golden Leaves Paths”. After that, the last phase concerns the creation of analysis factsheets to guide the maintenance of paths and the design of iconic signage with artistic illustrations based on the oak leaves leitmotif to be installed along the paths. A local social promotion association will employ the outcomes, technical drawings, and strategies to reactivate paths as an attractive element for nature-oriented tourism and create a digital platform to foster the village’s territorial and cultural heritage.
The Relationship between Physical Activity and Depressive Symptoms in Middle-Aged and Elderly People Controlling for Demographic and Health Status Variables
Authors: Zhang Yaqun , Tian Ying
Published: October 2022

Objective: To explore the relationship between physical activity intensity and depressive symptoms in Chinese middle-aged and elderly people, and to provide new evidence for the prevention and treatment of depression by physical activity. Methods: The data came from the 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. Using the PPS sampling method, a baseline survey was conducted among middle-aged and elderly people over the age of 45 across the country to investigate their demographics, health status, economic status, and other information. A total of 6128 people with complete information on depression and physical activity were included in the analysis. The Z-test, analysis of covariance, and logistic regression were performed on the data using SPSS 27.0 software. Results: In terms of depressive symptoms, the proportion of detected depressive symptoms was 33.6% and the proportion of no depressive symptoms was 69.4%, and the prevalence of males was higher than that of females. Participants with high physical activity accounted for 50.9%, participants with low physical activity accounted for 49.1%, and the physical activity of males was significantly higher than that of females. There was a significant relationship between physical activity and depressive symptoms in middle-aged and elderly people (p < 0.05), and after adjusting for demographic variables (location of residence, education level, gender, age, and widowed or not), health status characteristics and living habits (diabetes and disability), self-rated health status, hypertension, stroke, hyperlipidemia, arthritis, and walking 1 km, the association between physical activity and depressive symptoms remained statistically significant (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The proportion of Chinese middle-aged and elderly men suffering from depressive symptoms was slightly higher than that of women, and middle-aged and elderly people with high physical activity had a lower risk of developing depressive symptoms. Attention should be paid to middle-aged and elderly people who are older, have poor self-assessed health status, have disabilities, have high blood pressure, have arthritis, have low physical activity and cannot walk one kilometer, and have low physical activity. Scientific and effective exercise prescriptions should be explored to prevent and improve depressive symptoms in middle-aged and elderly people.
Black Soldier Fly Larvae (Hermetia illucens) for Biodiesel and/or Animal Feed as a Solution for Waste-Food-Energy Nexus: Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Mangindaan Dave , Kaburuan Emil Robert , Meindrawan Bayu
Published: October 2022

In this research, an emerging study of the utilization of black soldier fly (BSF, Hermetia illucens) larvae for the preparation of biodiesel (and organic waste treatment) and the generation of alternative feed for improved food production was mapped bibliometrically from the Scopus database. BSF is a promising biological agent for tackling the waste-food-energy (WFE) nexus, which is a problematic vicious cycle that may threaten Earth’s sustainability, hence its emergence. With its short life cycle, ability to consume organic waste equal to its own weight on a daily basis, and ability for conversion to larvae with a high protein and lipid content, BSF larvae is the perfect choice as a one-step solution of the WFE nexus. To further perfect the research of BSF for the WFE nexus, this bibliometric analysis, and the citation evolution profile, were carried out with the objectives of characterizing the progress of publications in the last 10 years (2011–2022) in order to determine future research directions in this field, identify the top publications for wider reach to the public, and identify productive authors and leading countries to visualize opportunities for future collaborations.
The Medium-Term Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Population Dynamics: The Case of Italy
Authors: Alaimo Leonardo Salvatore , Ciommi Mariateresa , Vardopoulos Ioannis , Nosova Bogdana , Salvati Luca
Published: October 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused an abrupt break in economic, demographic and social dynamics, both in developing countries and advanced economies, perhaps with a more significant impact in the latter, though further evidence is needed to support this assumption. Unfortunately, earlier research on medium- and long-term impacts of the pandemic on urban and regional systems—with particular reference to the demographic dimension—have not yet reached a consensus on methodological and operational approaches. In the present study, we have applied an interpretative framework to the analysis of the demographic balance in Italy, one of the most affected countries in the world, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, we have compared a wide set of demographic indicators at two time periods of equal duration (2002–2010 and 2011–2019) and in two subsequent years (2020 and 2021), controlling for the regional context. These periods were chosen as sufficiently long to be representative of differentiated economic dynamics (2002–2010: economic expansion and demographic recovery; 2011–2019: recession and consequent demographic decline). Years 2020 and 2021 were assumed to reflect the short- and medium-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The results of the statistical analysis highlight how the COVID-19 pandemic has exerted considerable pressure on population dynamics, determining short-term (mortality increase), medium-term (more volatile migration flows) and long-term (fertility decline) effects. Future studies should clarify the aggregate role of pandemics in population dynamics as a possible proxy of the decline of demographically fragile regions in advanced economies.
A Study on Community Public Safety Collaborative Governance Regime in the Background of COVID-19: Empirical Analysis Based on China and South Korea
Authors: Guo Xiaoqin , Li Xiang
Published: October 2022

Community public safety is facing great challenges in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. While helping communities identify crises and prevent risks, and improving community public safety governance, collaborative governance is changing the trends of a complex, uncertain, and ever-changing environment, and helping to drive communities toward higher levels of development and improved community sustainability. The purpose of this paper was to design a model of collaborative governance regime (CGR) that better fits the particular context of COVID-19 to enhance community safety and achieve sustainability of collaborative governance. This paper investigated and empirically analyzed the COVID-19 response in Chinese and Korean communities. It is found that collaborative dynamics can positively contribute to collaborative performance; collaborative dynamics can positively contribute to collaborative actions; collaborative actions can positively contribute to collaborative performance; collaborative actions play a partially mediating role between collaborative dynamics and collaborative performance; and there is heterogeneity in collaborative governance regimes in different system contexts. The paper suggests several insights: collaborative governance can deal with uncertainty and unpredictable turbulence; enhancing the capacity for joint action is more conducive to collaborative performance; and the role of government in collaborative governance is valued. Our study provides data support for validating the operating principles and internal logical relationships of collaborative governance and provides an empirical basis for responding to large-scale public crises in different contexts.
A Coupling Relationship between New-Type Urbanization and Tourism Resource Conversion Efficiency: A Case Study of the Yellow River Basin in China
Authors: Hao Ming , Li Gang , Chen Changyou , Liang Liutao
Published: October 2022

The integrated development of new-type urbanization and tourism is of great significance for social development. Based on panel data of nine provinces in the Yellow River Basin from 2010 to 2019, models such as entropy TOPSIS, the super-SBM model, the coupling coordination degree model, the GM (1,1) model, Tobit regression, and other methods were used to explore the spatiotemporal evolution characteristics and influencing factors of the coupling coordination degree (CCD) between new-type urbanization and tourism resource conversion efficiency (TRCE) in the Yellow River Basin. The results show that, during the research period: (1) The development index of new-type urbanization in the Yellow River Basin showed a steady upwards trend and TRCE was generally stable. (2) The CCD between new-type urbanization and TRCE in the Yellow River Basin fluctuated and rose with an average annual CCD of 0.716, indicating an intermediate coordination stage, and showed an overall spatial distribution pattern of “midstream region > downstream region > upstream region”. The center of gravity of the CCD shifted to the northwest and the type of CCD jumped rapidly to a better stage, especially in the midstream region. From the perspective of future trends, the coupling and coordination relationship between the two major systems will continue to be optimized from 2019 to 2025 and the midstream region will maintain a high growth level. (3) The industrial structure, cultural media investment, science and technology investment, and communication level are important factors that affect the CCD of new-type urbanization and TRCE in the Yellow River Basin. The CCD of new-type urbanization and TRCE in the Yellow River Basin tends to be better as a whole, but the regional differences are obvious. Therefore, in the process of policy implementation, special attention should be given to the understanding of regional differences to avoid policy failure. This is very important to the Yellow River Basin and equally important to other regions.
Sustainability Literacy and Financial Literacy of Young People in the Baltic States
Authors: Gedvilaitė Dainora , Gudaitis Tadas , Lapinskienė Giedrė , Brazaitis Justinas , Žižys Jurgis , Podviezko Askoldas
Published: October 2022

The stream of scientific articles on sustainability, financial literacy, and sustainability literacy shows their importance in the transformation process. New financial instruments with sustainable or green features have been introduced in the financial market. As a result, financial literacy is becoming more complex and the need for sustainability literacy is also increasing. Financial literacy now includes not only the knowledges, attitudes, and behavior of financial well-being but also positive impacts on environmental and social development. This article presupposes financial literacy and sustainability literacy are key instruments for the sustainable development of society. The aim of this article is to analyze the scientific literature on sustainability literacy and financial literacy and investigate the level of sustainability literacy and financial literacy among young people aged 15–30 years in the Baltic states. A systematic review of the literature was carried out followed by a survey, which revealed some differences between Estonia and Latvia and Lithuania in terms of sustainability and financial literacy levels.
Blood Lead Level and Handgrip Strength in Preadolescent Polish Schoolchildren
Authors: Nowak-Szczepanska Natalia , Gomula Aleksandra , Sebastjan Anna , Ignasiak Zofia , Malina Robert M. , Kozieł Sławomir
Published: October 2022

Environmental pollutions, particularly toxic elements such as lead, are among the most significant factors affecting the growth and functional development of children. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of blood lead levels on handgrip strength (HGS) in urban children resident in the Copper Basin of Lower Silesia, Poland, controlling for the effects of chronological age, body size and socioeconomic status. The study included 165 boys (9–11 years of age) and 79 girls (9–10 years of age) from Polkowice town. Anthropometric measurements involved height, body mass and grip strength of the left and right hands. Maternal education was a proxy for socioeconomic status. Based on the median value of blood lead level (3.10 µg/dL), the two groups-below and above/equal median value-were defined. Analysis of covariance revealed that age (all p < 0.001), sex (at least p < 0.01), BMI (all p < 0.001), and blood lead level (at least p < 0.05) had a significant effect on the three indicators of HGS (right hand, left hand, average), while the level of maternal education did not significantly affect HGS (p > 0.05). The results of this study indicate a potentially negative effect of elevated blood lead level on grip strength in preadolescent children, irrespective of sex.
Pion Productions with Isospin-Dependent In-Medium Cross Sections
Authors: Kim Myungkuk , Kim Youngman , Jeon Sangyong , Lee Chang-Hwan
Published: October 2022

Total pion yields and π−/π+ ratios in two Sn+Sn collision systems, 132Sn+124Sn (neutron rich) and 108Sn+112Sn (neutron poor) at E=270A MeV, are significant observables in SAMURAI Pion-Reconstruction and Ion-Tracker (SπRIT) experiments. Based on a recently developed transport model, DaeJeon Boltzmann–Uehling–Uhlenbeck (DJBUU), we investigate the isospin-dependent inmedium effects by including density- and isospin-dependent cross sections for Δ baryon productions. We compare our results with the SπRIT data by considering these effects. We find that the yields as well as the ratios strongly depend on the in-medium effect, especially isospin-dependent in-medium cross sections for Δ resonances.
Feasibility of Polyclonal Avian Immunoglobulins (IgY) as Prophylaxis against Human Norovirus Infection
Authors: Artman Chad , Idegwu Nnebuefe , Brumfield Kyle D. , Lai Ken , Hauta Shirley , Falzarano Darryl , Parreño Viviana , Yuan Lijuan , Geyer James D. , Goepp Julius G.
Published: October 2022

Background: Human norovirus (HuNoV) is the leading viral cause of diarrhea, with GII.4 as the predominant genotype of HuNoV outbreaks globally. However, new genogroup variants emerge periodically, complicating the development of anti-HuNoV vaccines; other prophylactic or therapeutic medications specifically for HuNoV disease are lacking. Passive immunization using oral anti-HuNoV antibodies may be a rational alternative. Here, we explore the feasibility of using avian immunoglobulins (IgY) for preventing HuNoV infection in vitro in a human intestinal enteroid (HIE) model. Methods: Hens were immunized with virus-like particles (VLP) of a GII.4 HuNoV strain (GII.4/CHDC2094/1974/US) by intramuscular injection. The resulting IgY was evaluated for inhibition of binding to histo-blood group antigens (HBGA) and viral neutralization against representative GII.4 and GII.6 clinical isolates, using an HIE model. Results: IgY titers were detected by three weeks following initial immunization, persisting at levels of 1:221 (1:2,097,152) from 9 weeks to 23 weeks. Anti-HuNoV IgY significantly (p < 0.05) blocked VLP adhesion to HBGA up to 1:12,048 dilution (0.005 mg/mL), and significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited replication of HuNoV GII.4[P16] Sydney 2012 in HIEs up to 1:128 dilution (0.08 mg/mL). Neutralization was not detected against genotype GII.6. Conclusions: We demonstrate the feasibility of IgY for preventing infection of HIE by HuNoV GII.4. Clinical preparations should cover multiple circulating HuNoV genotypes for comprehensive effects. Plans for animal studies are underway.
Carboxyl-Terminal Decoy Epitopes in the Capsid Protein of Porcine Circovirus Type 2 Are Immunogenicity-Enhancers That Elicit Predominantly Specific Antibodies in Non-Vaccinated Pigs
Authors: Hung Ling-Chu
Published: October 2022

In the context of the carboxyl-terminus (C-terminus) of the capsid protein of porcine circovirus type 2a (PCV2a) and PCV2a vaccines, this study aimed to explore its unrevealing cryptic epitope and its relation to PCV2-infected herd immunity. To discover the C-terminus of the capsid protein of PCV2a, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) were generated in this work. Two mAbs bound the two minimal linear epitopes (229PPLKP233 and 228DPPLNP233 (or 229PPLNP233)), which were located at the C-terminus of the capsid proteins of PCV2a and PCV2b, respectively. One mAb bound to the minimal linear epitope (220QFREFNLK227, peptide P82), but it neither bound the virus-like particle (VLP) of PCV2a nor produced positive staining in PCV2a-infected cells by immunofluorescence assay. Further, the residues 220–227 were not accessible on the surface of the VLP on the three-dimensional model, but the residues 228–231 extend toward the VLP exterior. Immunoassays were conducted in this study to screen anti-viral peptide-specific IgGs, which could differentiate vaccinated pigs from non-vaccinated ones. The data show two 220QFREFNLKDPPLKP233-containing peptides had a significantly higher binding reactivity with sera from PCV2-infected pigs in the control group than with sera from the VLP-vaccine group, particularly seen in sera from swine aged 15 weeks to 24 weeks. However, the peptide P82 had not this phenomenon in that test. This study confirmed that C-terminal epitopes play an important role in PCV2-induced decoy of swine humoral immunity.
Genomic Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 Alpha, Beta and Delta Variants of Concern Uncovers Signatures of Neutral and Non-Neutral Evolution
Authors: Kurpas Monika Klara , Jaksik Roman , Kuś Pawel , Kimmel Marek
Published: October 2022

Due to the emergence of new variants of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, the question of how the viral genomes evolved, leading to the formation of highly infectious strains, becomes particularly important. Three major emergent strains, Alpha, Beta and Delta, characterized by a significant number of missense mutations, provide a natural test field. We accumulated and aligned 4.7 million SARS-CoV-2 genomes from the GISAID database and carried out a comprehensive set of analyses. This collection covers the period until the end of October 2021, i.e., the beginnings of the Omicron variant. First, we explored combinatorial complexity of the genomic variants emerging and their timing, indicating very strong, albeit hidden, selection forces. Our analyses show that the mutations that define variants of concern did not arise gradually but rather co-evolved rapidly, leading to the emergence of the full variant strain. To explore in more detail the evolutionary forces at work, we developed time trajectories of mutations at all 29,903 sites of the SARS-CoV-2 genome, week by week, and stratified them into trends related to (i) point substitutions, (ii) deletions and (iii) non-sequenceable regions. We focused on classifying the genetic forces active at different ranges of the mutational spectrum. We observed the agreement of the lowest-frequency mutation spectrum with the Griffiths–Tavaré theory, under the Infinite Sites Model and neutrality. If we widen the frequency range, we observe the site frequency spectra much more consistently with the Tung–Durrett model assuming clone competition and selection. The coefficients of the fitting model indicate the possibility of selection acting to promote gradual growth slowdown, as observed in the history of the variants of concern. These results add up to a model of genomic evolution, which partly fits into the classical drift barrier ideas. Certain observations, such as mutation “bands” persistent over the epidemic history, suggest contribution of genetic forces different from mutation, drift and selection, including recombination or other genome transformations. In addition, we show that a “toy” mathematical model can qualitatively reproduce how new variants (clones) stem from rare advantageous driver mutations, and then acquire neutral or disadvantageous passenger mutations which gradually reduce their fitness so they can be then outcompeted by new variants due to other driver mutations.
Comparison of Analytical Values after Changing to the International Standardized Method for Lactate Dehydrogenase and Alkaline Phosphatase Measurements in Mouse and Rat
Authors: Furumoto Kayo , Fujitani Noboru , Nohara Masakatsu , Hata Akihisa
Published: October 2022

Since April 2020, the method for lactate dehydrogenase (LD) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity measurements in Japan has been switched from the Japan Society of Clinical Chemistry (JSCC) reference method, which is only used in Japan, to the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC) reference method. However, in some species, the relationship between the blood values of both enzymes measured by the two methods remains unclear. Hence, values measured by these two methods cannot be used interchangeably. Therefore, this relationship was examined in ICR mice and Wistar/ST rats. The LD and ALP values obtained by both methods were plotted on scatter graphs, and regression equations were obtained. To compare the JSCC (x) and IFCC (y) methods, regression equations were generated for LD values in non-hemolytic samples as follows: y = 0.954x − 4.008 for ICR mice and y = 0.963x − 6.324 for Wistar/ST rats. The conversion factors from the JSCC to the IFCC methods were 0.954 (mice) and 0.963 (rats). The conversion coefficients from the IFCC to the JSCC methods were 1.048 (mice) and 1.088 (rats). For ALP values in fasted mouse and rat samples, the regression equations were y = 0.336x − 2.247 and y = 0.314x − 17.626, respectively. The conversion factors from the JSCC to the IFCC methods were 0.336 (mice) and 0.314 (rats). The conversion coefficients from the IFCC to the JSCC methods were 2.978 (mice) and 3.188 (rats). These conversion factors can be used for the mutual conversion of both measured values during the transition period from the JSCC to the IFCC method. However, it should be noted that the conversion coefficients for both LD and ALP were affected by isozyme composition.
Assessment of Trace and Rare Earth Elements Pollution in Water Bodies in the Area of Rare Metal Enterprise Influence: A Case Study—Kola Subarctic
Authors: Krasavtseva Eugenia , Sandimirov Sergey , Elizarova Irina , Makarov Dmitriy
Published: October 2022

An extended study of the chemical composition of surface waters and lakes bottom sediments, which are affected to varying degrees by an enterprise that mines and processes rare metal ores in the Lovozero tundra, was carried out. Using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, the content of trace elements and rare earth elements was established. Elevated concentrations of trace elements and rare earth elements were revealed in samples of water and bottom sediments of lakes receiving wastewater from the enterprise and polluted due to dusting in the tailings of the processing plant. Thus, the average content of the total REEs in the surface layers of the SR Ilma and Lovozero (at the mouth of the Sergevan River) reaches 561 and 736 mg/kg, respectively, while for the SR of Lake Krivoe this indicator was 74 mg/kg. The enrichment factor (EFi), geoaccumulation index (Igeo), potential ecological risk index factor (Eir) and potential ecological hazard index (RI) were calculated. Assessing the total pollution with trace elements and rare earth elements of bottom sediments of lakes Ilma and Lovozero at the mouth of the Sergevan River, the value of potential ecological risk reaches values corresponding to the level of moderate ecological risk pollution (RIlma = 174, RILovozero = 186). The conducted correlation analysis made it possible to establish some of the main phases containing trace elements and rare earth elements in the bottom sediments of lakes Ilma and Lovozero.
Seasonal Dynamics and Heavy Rain Effects on the Diversity of Microeukaryome in the Nakdonggang River
Authors: Bae Mi-Jung , Yang Taehui , Cho Ja-Young , Baek Kiwoon , Choi Ahyoung , Lee Chang Soo , Kim Eui-Jin
Published: October 2022

Rapid and cost-effective eDNA-based approaches are valuable for understanding biological communities and monitoring the biodiversity of inaccessible areas, such as large rivers and lakes. To determine temporal dynamics and precipitation effects on micro-eukaryotic assemblages, we monitored upstream (SJ) and downstream (MG) sites of the Nakdonggang River, monthly or bimonthly, from March 2019 to April 2021 using an eDNA metabarcoding technique. We observed 775 unique operational taxonomic units during the entire sampling period using the V4 region of the 18S rRNA gene as a marker. In the cluster analysis and non-metric multidimensional scaling analysis based on the relative abundance ratio of the micro-eukaryotic assemblages at the SJ and MG sites, respectively, both regions were classified by four seasons, with dominant taxa for each season being different. Whereas Chlorophyta was relatively abundant in the MG site during summer, diatoms were most abundant at the SJ site during winter. Further, metazoan taxa were relatively abundant at the MG site. Total detection of metazoa, protozoa, and microalgae taxa significantly increased with heavy rainfall. In addition, the indicator taxa representative for heavy rainfall and tolerance ranges of the amount of precipitation were predicted at both sites. As the frequency of drought and heavy rain is expected to increase owing to climate change, efforts to standardize the relation between precipitation and eDNA analysis are required.
Optimization of Ammonia Nitrogen and Phosphorus Removal Performance and Analysis of Microbial Community Structure in Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: Li Jiyuan , Zhou Jie , Cao Wenping , Zhang Ming , Wei Xueyu , Zhao Wei , Zhao Jingru , Wu Yu , Shi Taisen
Published: October 2022

In order to study the effects of operating conditions on the performance of a microbial fuel cell (MFC) for treating ammonia nitrogen (NH4+-N) and phosphate and the changes in the microbial community under optimized conditions, in this study, the response surface method (RSM) and central composite design (CCD) were used to carry out experiments and construct a model of the system to analyze the influence of the hydraulic retention time (HRT) and initial influent ammonia concentration on NH4+-N and the total phosphorus (TP) removal performance of the MFC, and the changes in the microbial community structure were analyzed. The results showed that: (1) the initial influent ammonia concentration had a greater impact than the HRT; (2) after optimizing the reaction conditions, the actual removal rates of NH4+-N and TP of the system were 94.88% and 59.39% (the predicted values were 90.18% and 56.25%), respectively; and (3) the total number of species in the optimization group decreased, and the richness of the microbial community decreased. The system conducted the orthoselection of the microbial community and optimized the structure of the microbial community. After the optimization, the dominant strains for ammonia and phosphorus removal on the cathode reactor of each system were strengthened at the phylum and genus levels. Under the coaction of the dominant strains, the efficiencies of nitrogen removal and phosphorus removal in the reactor were significantly improved. The performance optimization of and microbial community change in NH4+-N and TP removal in the MFC system were studied using RSM, which was helpful to improve the effect of nitrogen and phosphorus removal.
A Framework for Sustainable Groundwater Management
Authors: Anandhi Aavudai , Karunanidhi D. , Sankar G. Muthu , Panda Sudhanshu , Kannan Narayanan
Published: October 2022

This manuscript aims to present the framework for the development of a four-stage tool for sustainable groundwater management as one of the highly interactive three-day workshop products. The four stages in the tool are (1) representing the target system, (2) description of the target system using components of DPSIR framework (drivers, pressures, state, impact, responses), (3) development of causal chains/loops, and (4) identifying knowledge gaps and articulating next steps. The tool is an output from the two-day Indo-US bilateral workshop on "Integrated Hydrochemical Modeling for Sustainable Development and Management of Water Supply Aquifers”. Four case studies from the invited talks, panel discussions, and breakout sessions were selected to demonstrate the developed four-stage framework to a coastal aquifer (India) and in high plains in Floridian, Piedmont, and Blueridge aquifers (United States of America). The developed tool can be practically used in the development of strategies for the sustainable use of groundwater in various regions around the world (e.g., planning/building/maintaining groundwater recharging structures). Continued work can result in establishing a center for excellence as well as developing a network project. The recommendations from the workshop were: (1) developing vulnerability analysis models for groundwater managers; (2) treatment and new ways of using low-quality groundwater; (3) adopting groundwater recharge; (4) mitigating pollutants getting into the aquifer; and (5) reducing groundwater use. This study provides a framework for future researchers to study the groundwater table related to the effectiveness of water recharging structures, developing a quantitative model from the framework. Finally, recommendations for a future study are more data collection on groundwater quality/recharge as well as enhancing outreach activities for sustainable groundwater management.
Analytical Modeling with Laboratory Data and Observations of the Mechanisms of Backward Erosion Piping Development
Authors: Pan Hong , Rice John D. , Peng Sige , Cao Hong , Luo Guanyong
Published: October 2022

Backward erosion piping accounts for one of the leading threats to dams and levees throughout the world. A laboratory modeling program has been conducted to interpret pore pressure data and observations collected during backward erosion piping (BEP) initiation and progression in sandy soils. An analytical model has been applied to assess the development of BEP mechanisms as well as calculating the critical hydraulic conditions required for various BEP stages to initiate and progress. The results with the predicted model are produced by successively matching the hydraulic head regime surrounding the developing BEP stages based on observations and pore pressure measurements obtained from the laboratory models. Interpretation based on an analytical model allows assessment of the processes governing BEP initiation and progression, including: (1) substantial concentrations of seepage flow around the edge of the exit area resulting in increased gradients and BEP initiation (i.e., sand boiling); (2) soil particles collapsing leading to BEP progression (i.e., channel development). The findings of the study identified the criterion for governing channel progression that can be applied to the assessment of BEP mechanics.
Excess of Naturally Occurring Fluoride in Groundwater Discharge in Macaronesia: Brava Island, Cape Verde
Authors: Lopes Dilma , Barbosa Suely , Cruz-Pérez Noelia , García-Gil Alejandro , Marazuela Miguel Ángel , Rodríguez-Alcántara Joselin S. , Santamarta Juan C.
Published: October 2022

A high concentration of fluoride in groundwater poses a risk to human health. One of the best-known problems related to excess fluoride in drinking water is dental fluorosis. The characteristic composition of volcanic rocks in oceanic islands tends to present high concentrations of fluoride in groundwater discharge in springs. This study investigates fluoride content in two springs (Encontro and Ferreiros) on the island of Brava (Cape Verde), with the objective of monitoring the operational control production and distribution of drinking water. Using a spectrophotometric method, the level of fluoride found in the water discharged from the Encontro spring was found to be in the range of 4.8 to 6.5 mg/L, whereas at the Ferreiros spring, it was 5.8 to 6.2 mg/L. These results are far above the threshold limit established in the decree No. 5 of 2017 of the Cape Verdean legislation, whose legal threshold value for fluoride is 1.5 mg/L, the same value established by the World Health Organization (WHO). Due to geological conditions and consequences for the health of the population, the water is not adequate for consumption without proper treatment.
A Literature Survey on Vaccine Supply Chain Management Amidst COVID-19: Literature Developments, Future Directions and Open Challenges for Public Health
Authors: Joshi Sudhanshu , Sharma Manu
Published: October 2022

This review aims to evaluate the existing literature on Vaccine Supply Chain Management (VSCM). All relevant articles between 2002 and 2022 were systematically collected. The retrieved articles were further analyzed using bibliometric data analysis techniques. The unit of analysis is research papers published from 2002 to 2022. Vaccine Supply Chain Management (VSCM) literature has gained prominence since early 2000 and has now become voluminous. A review is the first endeavor to provide a unified body of literature. This study contributes to the existing research through insights from the bibliometric analysis and critical measurement of the literature. The results show 4288 papers on VSCM in the last 20 years. The top five countries contributing to VSCM literature are the USA, France, China, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland. Supply chain, vaccine, immunization, and Vaccine Supply Chain Management are the high-frequency keywords in the area of VSCM. The research hotspots mainly focus on healthcare, drugs, and manufacturers. In light of the COVID-19 era, this review paper indicates the area of VSCM is diversified. This study is useful for policymakers and other stakeholders to understand the existing issues in VSCM. The research trends and patterns from the literature review of VSCM will help in designing AAA (agile, adaptive, and aligned) VSCM in the future from the viewpoint of public health. This study attempts to analyze existing works, trends, developments, and potential research directions.
THE IMPACT OF THE COST AND QUALITY OF TECHNICAL SERVICE ON THE PERFORMANCE OF CITY BUSES
Authors:   State Technical University, DENISOV A.S. , FEKLIN E.V. ,   State Technical University
Published: October 2022

The article deals with the impact of the organization of maintenance and repair of buses on the safety and efficiency of their operation. A mathematical model for calculating the total cost of repairs is presented. The dependences of changes in repair costs on the quality of maintenance are revealed. Differentiation of spare parts and maintenance materials into groups taking into account the characteristics of the volume of consumption is made. The dependences of the average volume of consumption of units/units/parts on their cost for the period under consideration, equal to one month, have been obtained.
CREATION OF AN OPTIMIZED DYNAMIC TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
Authors:   Moscow Automobile and Road Construction State Tech-nical University (MADI), ASOYAN A.R. , FILATOV V.V. ,   Moscow Automobile and Road Construction State Tech-nical University (MADI), AKULOV A.A. ,   Moscow Automobile and Road Construction State Tech-nical University (MADI), GAEVSKIY V.V. ,   Moscow Automobile and Road Construction State Tech-nical University (MADI)
Published: October 2022

This article defines the main tasks of the management of the transport system. The main criteria for the quality of road transport management have been identified. The generalized control scheme for the transportation of goods and passengers is analyzed. On its basis, three types of a dynamic transit management system have been compiled, which in turn differ in the presence of initial information. An analysis of the main problems that arise during the development of these systems is made and methods for their solution are proposed. In the course of the research, a conclusion was formed that, based on the rational operation of vehicles, will increase the level of efficiency of transportation of goods and passengers.
SMART CITIES TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTERE FUNCTIONING PRINCIPALS
Authors:   Don State Technical University, BULATOVA O.YU.
Published: October 2022

The article discusses the main factors necessary for the development of «smart» mobility in cities. The most popular projects in the transport industry implemented in Smart Cities are also considered.
MANAGEMENT OF THE VEHICLE BRANDED SERVICE SYSTEM IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF DEFECTIVE PARTS’ RECYCLING
Authors:   Naberezhnye Chelny Institute of Kazan Federal University, BUYVOL P.A.
Published: October 2022

The increase in the environmental burden from the modern technosphere against the background of increased consumption has actualized the task of expanding the “reuse” concept. An analysis of studies on reverse logistics systems revealed the limitations of existing approaches: consideration of only end-of-life vehicles and poor consideration of the stochastic nature of the processes occurring in the system. In this regard, we have compiled mathematical model of a branded reverse logistics network. It considers income from the sale of repairable defective units that are formed when a vehicle is sent to a service center for repair. On its basis, we have developed a simulation model of a service center, in which the storage and restoration of defective parts is organized. This model can be used as a decision-making tool to manage branded service systems when automotive manufacturers introduce recycling.