bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of the Comprehensive Rural Village Development Program on Farm Income in South Korea
Authors: Choi Eunji , Park Jonghoon , Lee Seongwoo
Published: August 2020

Faced with an aging and declining population, many governments around the world endeavor to revitalize their rural communities in a sustainable manner. In South Korea, the Comprehensive Rural Village Development Program (CRVDP) was carried out from 2004 to 2013 as a key strategy to reinvigorate rural areas. This study aims to conduct an ex-post quantitative evaluation of the effectiveness of the CRVDP in boosting rural households’ farm income. In doing so, the present study adopts quasi-experimental research design that is seldom utilized in assessing rural policies. As an alternative evaluation tool with flexibility for using readily available data, the study employed the combined application of the Heckman selection model and the Blinder–Oaxaca decomposition method. The study revealed a significant positive impact of the Program on farm income of rural households in the program-supported areas from both cross-sectional and longitudinal perspectives. A robust causal estimation of the impact of this bottom-up, multi-sectoral rural development program on farm income is achieved, which can be leveraged to widely promote similar type of rural development approach.
Testing the Reliability of Financial Sustainability. The Case of Spanish Local Governments
Authors: Pina Vicente , Bachiller Patricia , Ripoll Lara
Published: August 2020

Local Governments (LGs) have strengthened the financial control as a consequence of mandatory requirements to ensure financial sustainability in their management. The aim of this study is to determine whether financial indicators about financial conditions defined in Spanish regulation are backed by worldwide generally accepted financial benchmarking indicators. For this purpose, we analyze the relationship between Spanish indicators of financial sustainability based on European Union (EU) regulations and Financial Trends Monitoring System Indicators (FTMS) of the International City/County Management Association (ICMA). For this purpose, two methodologies are applied: discriminant analysis and logistic regression, where the dependent variables are each of the Spanish financial indicators and the independent variables are ICMA indicators. The evidence supports that variables that are related to the control of expenditures, debt and the revenues show a greater explanatory power of financial sustainability, being the most important elements which offer relevant information about the financial sustainability measurement of LGs.
Design of an IoT-Based Fuzzy Approximation Prediction Model for Early Fire Detection to Aid Public Safety and Control in the Local Urban Markets
Authors: Lule Emmanuel , Mikeka Chomora , Ngenzi Alexander , Mukanyiligira Didacienne
Published: August 2020

Fire monitoring in local urban markets within East Africa (EA) has been seriously neglected for a long time. This has culminated in a severe destruction of life and property worth millions. These rampant fires are attributed to electrical short circuits, fuel spillages, etc. Previous research proposes single smoke detectors. However, they are prone to false alarm rates and are inefficient. Also, satellite systems are expensive for developing countries. This paper presents a fuzzy model for early fire detection and control as symmetry’s core contribution to fuzzy systems design and application in computer and engineering sciences. We utilize a fuzzy logic technique to simulate the performance of the model using MATLAB, using six parameters: temperature, humidity, flame, CO, CO2 and O2 vis-à-vis the Estimated Fire Intensity Prediction (EFIP). Results show that, using fuzzy logic, a significant improvement in fire detection is observed with an overall accuracy rate of 95.83%. The paper further proposes an IoT-based fuzzy prediction model for early fire detection with a goal of minimizing extensive damage and promote intermediate fire suppression and control through true fire incidences. This solution provides for future public safety monitoring, and control of fire-related situations among the market community. Hence, fire safety monitoring is significant in providing future fire safety planning, control and management by putting in place appropriate fire safety laws, policies, bills and related fire safety practices or guidelines to be applied in public buildings, market centers and other public places.
Long-Range Quantum Gravity
Authors: Cadoni Mariano , Tuveri Matteo , Sanna Andrea P.
Published: August 2020

It is a tantalising possibility that quantum gravity (QG) states remaining coherent at astrophysical, galactic and cosmological scales could exist and that they could play a crucial role in understanding macroscopic gravitational effects. We explore, using only general principles of General Relativity, quantum and statistical mechanics, the possibility of using long-range QG states to describe black holes. In particular, we discuss in a critical way the interplay between various aspects of long-range quantum gravity, such as the holographic bound, classical and quantum criticality and the recently proposed quantum thermal generalisation of Einstein’s equivalence principle. We also show how black hole thermodynamics can be easily explained in this framework.
AOA-Based Three-Dimensional Positioning and Tracking Using the Factor Graph Technique
Authors: Zhang Haiyang , Zhang Zhiwei
Published: August 2020

In this paper, an angle-of-arrival (AOA)-based algorithm is proposed for tracking the position of an anonymous target in three-dimensional (3D) space. Distributed sensors are deployed, which can measure both the azimuth and elevation angles of the AOAs. Assuming the target movement is non-linear, the extended Kalman filter (EKF) is applied, where the observation process is realized by a practical AOA-based position detector, to form a unified factor graph (FG) framework. Moreover, the variance of observation errors, which is needed by EKF, is estimated in real time by using both the AOA measurements and the predicted target state. Such a dynamic estimating approach exhibits higher performance robustness compared to the conventional method, especially when the sensing environment is unstable. Additionally, the predicted target state is also used as the a priori information of the system, in order to reduce the impacts of burst sensing errors. According to the simulations, the proposed system is shown to achieve less root mean squared errors (RMSE) in different evaluation scenarios, with fast convergence behavior.
International Comparative Pilot Study of Spatial Skill Development in Engineering Students through Autonomous Augmented Reality-Based Training
Authors: Gómez-Tone Hugo César , Martin-Gutierrez Jorge , Valencia Anci Lili , Mora Luis Carlos E.
Published: August 2020

Spatial ability is made up of several sub-components, such as the ability to perform mental rotation and object-based transformations. Together with each individual’s attitudes and general skill sets, this specific ability plays an important role in technical professions such as engineering. The components of spatial ability can be enhanced using targeted training or educational programs. This study analyses the levels of spatial skills in first-year engineering students at two universities, one in Spain and one in Peru. The purpose of the study is to establish the extent of symmetry between these study groups in terms of their spatial skills. Initial comparisons indicate that the Peruvian students have a lower level of spatial skill prior to training than their Spanish cohorts. AR-based training delivering representational system content was used with engineering students at both universities to boost spatial abilities. The results obtained indicate the training was effective, as both experimental groups made significant gains in their level of spatial ability. No difference was detected in either experimental group for the variable gender. The comparison of spatial ability gains between both countries is similar, although there is significant difference in the spatial ability component spatial visualization. In this instance, gains in this component were higher amongst the student population in Peru.
The Relationship of Symmetry, Complexity, and Shape in Mobile Interface Aesthetics, from an Emotional Perspective—A Case Study of the Smartwatch
Authors: Wang Jian , Hsu Yen
Published: August 2020

Products with interactive interfaces can be seen everywhere, and product interface design aesthetics is a topic that has begun to receive wide attention. Consumers’ perceptions of product interfaces come from their own emotions, and emotion plays a significant role in product interface design aesthetics. In other words, it must meet the users’ emotional and aesthetic requirements. Therefore, we need to better understand the aesthetic design criteria and how they stimulate specific emotional responses. This study takes the dial interface of smartwatches as its experimental sample and explores how the interaction effects of the screen shape (square and round) and the symmetry type and the complexity type of the interface design influence the users’ emotional arousal and valence. In addition, it analyzes the effects of the symmetry type, the complexity type, and the screen shape on the users’ arousal and valence. The results show that the attributes of interface design aesthetics (symmetry-asymmetry, complexity-simplicity, and square-round) affect the users’ emotional responses. Moreover, the interface shape is one of the important factors in the emotional response to an interface design. This paper, based on previous research, provides vital theoretical support for the relevant literature on interface design aesthetics and the users’ emotional state. In addition, it may provide a reference for designers and developers who wish to develop and implement emotional user interfaces that are designed to more effectively appeal to their emotions.
A Review: Sample Preparation and Chromatographic Technologies for Detection of Aflatoxins in Foods
Authors: Zhang Kai , Banerjee Kaushik
Published: August 2020

As a class of mycotoxins with regulatory and public health significance, aflatoxins (e.g., aflatoxin B1, B2, G1 and G2) have attracted unparalleled attention from government, academia and industry due to their chronic and acute toxicity. Aflatoxins are secondary metabolites of various Aspergillus species, which are ubiquitous in the environment and can grow on a variety of crops whereby accumulation is impacted by climate influences. Consumption of foods and feeds contaminated by aflatoxins are hazardous to human and animal health, hence the detection and quantification of aflatoxins in foods and feeds is a priority from the viewpoint of food safety. Since the first purification and identification of aflatoxins from feeds in the 1960s, there have been continuous efforts to develop sensitive and rapid methods for the determination of aflatoxins. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview on advances in aflatoxins analysis and highlights the importance of sample pretreatments, homogenization and various cleanup strategies used in the determination of aflatoxins. The use of liquid-liquid extraction (LLE), supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), solid phase extraction (SPE) and immunoaffinity column clean-up (IAC) and dilute and shoot for enhancing extraction efficiency and clean-up are discussed. Furthermore, the analytical techniques such as gas chromatography (GC), liquid chromatography (LC), mass spectrometry (MS), capillary electrophoresis (CE) and thin-layer chromatography (TLC) are compared in terms of identification, quantitation and throughput. Lastly, with the emergence of new techniques, the review culminates with prospects of promising technologies for aflatoxin analysis in the foreseeable future.
HSV-2 Infection as a Potential Cofactor for HIV Disease Progression and Selection of Drug Resistance Mutations in Adults under WHO-Recommended First-Line Antiretroviral Therapy: A Multicentric, Cross-Sectional Study in Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, and Gabon
Authors: Mihimit Abdoulaye , Adawaye Chatté , Péré Hélène , Costiniuk Cecilia , Koyalta Donato , Mbopi-Keou François-Xavier , Bouassa Ralph-Sydney Mboumba , Talla Frédéric , Moussa Sandrine , Longo Jean De Dieu , Tchombou Bertin Hig-Zounet , Grésenguet Gérard , Charpentier Charlotte , Bélec Laurent
Published: August 2020

Although herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2) infection is a known cofactor for HIV transmission in Central Africa, its role in HIV disease progression is unclear. The aim of this study was to examine the potential link between HSV-2 infection and HIV disease progression, in addition to identifying the presence of genes conferring HIV antiretroviral resistance mutations. This was a cross-sectional study involving 302 HIV-infected adults in Central Africa with virological failure (viral load >1000 copies/mL) on first-line antiretroviral therapy from four different countries. The seroprevalence of HSV-2 was 32% (96/302). Amongst the HIV-infected individuals who were HSV-2 seropositive, the mean HIV viral load and CD4 count were 4.82 ± 0.83 log copies/mL and 243 ± 144 cells/microliter, respectively. Among the HIV-infected individuals who were HSV-2-seronegative, the mean HIV viral load and CD4 count were 3.48 ± 0.44 log copies/mL and 646 ± 212 cells/microliter, respectively (p < 0.001). There was a statistically significant relationship (p < 0.001) between HSV-2 seropositivity and the presence of resistance mutations to antiretrovirals (ARV), non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTI), and nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTI) with odds ratios of 9.7, 10, and 11.9, respectively. There was no link between HSV-2 serostatus and protease inhibitor (PI) resistance mutations. There was a substantial accumulation of resistance mutations in HSV-2-seropositive compared to -seronegative patients. These findings support the link between HIV disease progression and HSV-2 infection. An association was observed between the presence of NNRTI and NRTI resistance mutations and HSV-2 seropositivity.
An SU(2) Gauge Principle for the Cosmic Microwave Background: Perspectives on the Dark Sector of the Cosmological Model
Authors: Hofmann Ralf
Published: August 2020

We review consequences for the radiation and dark sectors of the cosmological model arising from the postulate that the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) is governed by an SU(2) rather than a U(1) gauge principle. We also speculate on the possibility of actively assisted structure formation due to the de-percolation of lump-like configurations of condensed ultralight axions with a Peccei–Quinn scale comparable to the Planck mass. The chiral-anomaly induced potential of the axion condensate receives contributions from SU(2)/SU(3) Yang–Mills factors of hierarchically separated scales which act in a screened (reduced) way in confining phases.
Transportation Services for Older Adults and Preventive Healthcare Attainment
Authors: Kotval-K Zeenat , Keilman Linda , Wang Weijing
Published: August 2020

This study examines the impact of the provision of specialized transportation services for older adults on the attainment of preventive healthcare services in selected cities across Michigan. The main hypothesis is that transportation services are critical factors for older adults to not only attain preventive healthcare but also to maintain an active lifestyle that avoids the physical, mental and social isolation that they may face when advised to stop driving. Results indicate that provision of transit services and socio-economic characteristics have statistically significant effects on the attainment of preventive healthcare services. However, although transportation is a critical element for maintaining medical appointments, other factors need to be considered if we truly want to attain better health outcomes for all older adults. Qualitative analyses point to other logistical barriers and the need for more awareness of insurance plans and covered services in order to increase preventive healthcare attainment.
The Emergence of H7N7 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus from Low Pathogenicity Avian Influenza Virus Using an in ovo Embryo Culture Model
Authors: Seekings Amanda , Howard Wendy , Nuñéz Alejandro , Slomka Marek , Banyard Ashley , Hicks Daniel , Ellis Richard , Nuñéz-García Javier , Hartgroves Lorian , Barclay Wendy , Banks Jill , Brown Ian
Published: August 2020

Outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) often result in the infection of millions of poultry, causing up to 100% mortality. HPAIV has been shown to emerge from low pathogenicity avian influenza virus (LPAIV) in field outbreaks. Direct evidence for the emergence of H7N7 HPAIV from a LPAIV precursor with a rare di-basic cleavage site (DBCS) was identified in the UK in 2008. The DBCS contained an additional basic amino acid compared to commonly circulating LPAIVs that harbor a single-basic amino acid at the cleavage site (SBCS). Using reverse genetics, outbreak HPAIVs were rescued with a DBCS (H7N7DB), as seen in the LPAIV precursor or an SBCS representative of common H7 LPAIVs (H7N7SB). Passage of H7N7DB in chicken embryo tissues showed spontaneous evolution to a HPAIV. In contrast, deep sequencing of extracts from embryo tissues in which H7N7SB was serially passaged showed retention of the LPAIV genotype. Thus, in chicken embryos, an H7N7 virus containing a DBCS appears naturally unstable, enabling rapid evolution to HPAIV. Evaluation in embryo tissue presents a useful approach to study AIV evolution and allows a laboratory-based dissection of molecular mechanisms behind the emergence of HPAIV.
A Surrogate Animal Model for Screening of Ebola and Marburg Glycoprotein-Targeting Drugs Using Pseudotyped Vesicular Stomatitis Viruses
Authors: Saito Takeshi , Maruyama Junki , Nagata Noriyo , Isono Mao , Okuya Kosuke , Takadate Yoshihiro , Kida Yurie , Miyamoto Hiroko , Mori-Kajihara Akina , Hattori Takanari , Furuyama Wakako , Ogawa Shinya , Iida Shigeru , Takada Ayato
Published: August 2020

Filoviruses, including Ebola virus (EBOV) and Marburg virus (MARV), cause severe hemorrhagic fever in humans and nonhuman primates with high mortality rates. There is no approved therapy against these deadly viruses. Antiviral drug development has been hampered by the requirement of a biosafety level (BSL)-4 facility to handle infectious EBOV and MARV because of their high pathogenicity to humans. In this study, we aimed to establish a surrogate animal model that can be used for anti-EBOV and -MARV drug screening under BSL-2 conditions by focusing on the replication-competent recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus (rVSV) pseudotyped with the envelope glycoprotein (GP) of EBOV (rVSV/EBOV) and MARV (rVSV/MARV), which has been investigated as vaccine candidates and thus widely used in BSL-2 laboratories. We first inoculated mice, rats, and hamsters intraperitoneally with rVSV/EBOV and found that only hamsters showed disease signs and succumbed within 4 days post-infection. Infection with rVSV/MARV also caused lethal infection in hamsters. Both rVSV/EBOV and rVSV/MARV were detected at high titers in multiple organs including the liver, spleen, kidney, and lungs of infected hamsters, indicating acute and systemic infection resulting in fatal outcomes. Therapeutic effects of passive immunization with an anti-EBOV neutralizing antibody were specifically observed in rVSV/EBOV-infected hamsters. Thus, this animal model is expected to be a useful tool to facilitate in vivo screening of anti-filovirus drugs targeting the GP molecule.
In Vitro Inhibition of Zika Virus Replication with Poly(Sodium 4-Styrenesulfonate)
Authors: Botwina Paweł , Obłoza Magdalena , Szczepański Artur , Szczubiałka Krzysztof , Nowakowska Maria , Pyrć Krzysztof
Published: August 2020

Zika virus (ZIKV) is an emerging mosquito-borne pathogen associated with microcephaly and other congenital abnormalities in newborns as well as neurologic complications in adults. The explosive transmission of the virus in the last ten years put it in the limelight and improved our understanding of its biology and pathology. Currently, no vaccine or drugs are available to prevent or treat ZIKV infections. Knowing the potential of flaviviruses to broaden their geographic distribution, as observed for the West Nile virus, it is of importance to develop novel antiviral strategies. In this work, we identified poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) (PSSNa) as a new polymeric ZIKV inhibitor. We demonstrated that PSSNa inhibits ZIKV replication in vitro both in animal and human cells, while no cytotoxicity is observed. Our mechanistic studies indicated that PSSNa acts mostly through direct binding to ZIKV particle and blocking its attachment to the host cells.
Viral Metagenomic Analysis of Aedes albopictus Mosquitos from Southern Switzerland
Authors: Kubacki Jakub , Flacio Eleonora , Qi Weihong , Guidi Valeria , Tonolla Mauro , Fraefel Cornel
Published: August 2020

A metagenomic study was performed on 498 female and 40 male Aedes albopictus mosquitos collected in August and September 2019 in Ticino, a region in southern Switzerland, to address the question regarding the risk of the local transmission of zoonotic viruses. A total of 13 viruses from seven different virus families and several unclassified viral taxa were identified. Reads of insect-specific flaviviruses were present in all pools, and a complete genome of aedes flavivirus was assembled and phylogenetically analysed. The most abundant virus was Wenzhou sobemo-like virus, assembled from 1.3 × 105 to 3.6 × 106 reads in each pool. In a pool of male mosquitos, a complete genome of aedes Iflavi-like virus was detected and phylogenetically analysed. Most importantly, genomes of human pathogenic viruses were not found. This is the first study to determine the virome of Ae. albopictus from Switzerland and forms a baseline for future longitudinal investigations concerning the potential role of Ae. albopictus as a vector of clinically relevant viruses.
Nutrient Release Dynamics Associated with Native and Invasive Leaf Litter Decomposition: A Mesocosm Experiment
Authors: Mutshekwa Thendo , Cuthbert Ross N. , Wasserman Ryan J. , Murungweni Florence M. , Dalu Tatenda
Published: August 2020

Leaf litter contributes to the functioning of aquatic ecosystems through allochthonous inputs of carbon, nitrogen, and other elements. Here, we examine leaf litter nutrient inputs and decomposition associated with four plant species using a mesocosm approach. Native sycamore fig Ficus sycomorus L., and silver cluster–leaf Terminalia sericea Burch. ex DC. decomposition dynamics were compared to invasive tickberry Lantana camara L. and guava Psidium guajava L., whereby phosphate, nitrate, nitrite, silicate, and ammonium releases were quantified over time. Leaf inputs significantly reduced pH, with reductions most marked by invasive L. camara. Conductivity was heightened by all leaf input treatments, except native T. sericea. Leaf inputs significantly affected all nutrient levels monitored in the water over time, except for silicate. In particular, leaf litter from invasive L. camara drove significantly increased nutrient concentrations compared to other native plant species, whilst effects of invasive P. guajava were less statistically clear. The end weights of the leaf litter demonstrated decomposition differences among the species types, following a decreasing order of P. guajava > T. sericea > F. sycomorus > L. camara, further suggesting high organic inputs from invasive L. camara. The study results highlight that differential leaf litter decomposition rates of four plant species can play a significant role in nutrient release, in turn altering aquatic ecosystem productivity. However, these effects likely depend on species-specific differences, rather than between invasive–native species generally. Shifting terrestrial plant communities may alter aquatic community composition, but specific effects are likely associated with leaf traits.
Hausdorff Fractal Derivative Model to Characterize Transport of Inorganic Arsenic in Porous Media
Authors: Hao Xiaoxiao , Sun HongGuang , Zhang Yong , Li Shiyin , Song Jia , Salsky Kate
Published: August 2020

The increasing severity of arsenic pollution has progressively threatened human life and attracted much attention. One of the important topics in environmental sciences is to accurately describe the inorganic arsenic transport in heterogeneous porous media, occurring anomalous diffusion phenomenon, which ultimately benefits the control of arsenic pollution. In this paper, we re-evaluate the dataset of the inorganic arsenic transport in porous media in previous work by using a time-Hausdorff fractal model (HADE). Transport experiments of arsenic-carrying (As(V)) ferric humate complex colloids through a quartz sand column were carried out under varying dissolved organic matter (humic acid) concentrations, pH values, ionic strengths, and ferric concentrations. The results show that under our experimental settings, arsenic migration is promoted with the increase of concentrations of HA, ferric ion and sodium ion, and pH to varying degrees. The intensity of arsenic sub-diffusion behavior is opposite to that of arsenic transport. The HADE model can describe the migration behavior of arsenic well, and the value of the time fractal derivative can reflect the diffusion intensity of arsenic migration to a certain extent. By comparing the HADE model, ADE model, and time-fractional model (fADE) to the experimental data, the HADE model can significantly improve all the simulation results of capturing As(V) breakthrough curves (BTCs).
Nitrogen Fertilization of Plants Irrigated with Desalinated Water: A Study of Interactions of Nitrogen with Chloride
Authors: Bar-Tal Asher , Kiwonde Escain , Kanner Beeri , Nitsan Ido , Shawahna Raneen , Kurtzman Daniel
Published: August 2020

The overall aim of this research was to optimize nitrogen (N) fertilization of plants under desalinated water and a wide range of chloride concentrations for high yield while minimizing downward leaching of nitrate and chloride. The response of two crops, lettuce and potato, to N concentration (CN) in the irrigating solution using desalinated and wide range of Cl concentrations (CCL) was evaluated. The yields of both crops increased with N up to optimal CN of the irrigating solution and decreased as CCL increased. Optimal CN in both crops was higher in the desalinated water than high CCL treatments. N uptake by plants increased with CN in the irrigating solution and the highest uptake was at low CCL. As expected, N fertilization suppressed Cl accumulation in plant tissues. Drainage of N and Cl increased with increase in CCL in the irrigating solution and N fertilization above optimal CN resulted in steep rise in downward N leaching. The overall conclusion is that as water quality is improved through desalination, higher N supply is required for high yields with less groundwater pollution by downward leaching of N and Cl.
Insights on Dissolved Organic Matter Production Revealed by Removal of Charge-Transfer Interactions in Senescent Leaf Leachates
Authors: Meingast Karl M. , Grunert Brice K. , Green Sarah A. , Kane Evan S. , Khademimoshgenani Nastaran
Published: August 2020

Dissolved organic matter (DOM) is a critical part of the global carbon cycle. Currently, it is understood that at least a portion of the chromophoric DOM (CDOM) character can be described through an electronic interaction of charge transfer (CT) complexes. While much work has been done to understand the influence of CT on soil and aquatic reference standard DOM, little is known about the influence of CT in fresh terrestrially derived DOM. In this study, leaf litter leachates from three tree species were treated (reduced) with sodium borohydride to determine the contribution of CT on a source of fresh terrestrial DOM. Leaf litter was sampled four times through decomposition under natural (field) conditions to determine the influence of degradation on response to borohydride treatment. Leaf litter CDOM displayed a unique loss of UVB absorption following borohydride treatment, as well as a homogenizing effect on fluorescence emission character. Humification index (HIX) differentiated Elliot Soil Humic Acid and Suwannee River Fulvic Acid from leaf litter leachates. However, biological index (BIX), and spectral slope metrics were not able to differentiate leaf leachates from these reference standards. Apparent quantum yields were similar in magnitude between leaf leachates and reference standards, although leaf leachate spectra displayed features not evident in reference standards. These results help understand the origins of DOM optical properties and associated quantitative indices in freshly sourced terrestrial material. Overall, these results suggest that even at the initial stages of decomposition, terrestrial CDOM exhibits optical characteristics and responses to removal of electron accepting ketones and aldehydes, through borohydride treatment, similar to more processed CDOM.
Natural Surface Hydrocarbons and Soil Faunal Biodiversity: A Bioremediation Perspective
Authors: Remelli Sara , Rizzo Pietro , Celico Fulvio , Menta Cristina
Published: August 2020

Hydrocarbon pollution threatens aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems globally, but soil fauna in oil-polluted soils has been insufficiently studied. In this research, soil hydrocarbon toxicity was investigated in two natural oil seepage soils in Val D’Agri (Italy) using two different approaches: (i) toxicological tests with Folsomia candida (Collembola) and Eisenia fetida (Oligochaeta) and (ii) analysis of abundance and composition of micro- and meso-fauna. Soil sampling was done along 20 m-transepts starting from the natural oil seepages. Toxicological testing revealed that no exemplars of F. candida survived, whereas specimens of E. fetida not only survived but also increased in weight in soils with higher PAH concentrations, although no reproduction was observed. Analysis on microfauna showed that Nematoda was the most abundant group, with distance from seepages not affecting its abundance. Arthropoda results showed that Acarina, Collembola and Diptera larvae represented the most abundant taxa. The highest divergence in community composition was found between soils situated near seepages and at 5 m and 10 m distance. Arthropoda taxa numbers, total abundance and Acarina were lower in soils with high PAH concentration, while Diptera larvae were not significantly affected. Earthworms, together with Nematoda and Diptera larvae, could therefore represent ideal candidates in PAH degradation studies.
Actual Evapotranspiration and Biomass of Maize from a Red–Green-Near-Infrared (RGNIR) Sensor on Board an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)
Authors: Argolo dos Santos Robson , Chartuni Mantovani Everardo , Filgueiras Roberto , Inácio Fernandes-Filho Elpídio , Cristielle Barbosa da Silva Adelaide , Peroni Venancio Luan
Published: August 2020

Surface reflectance data acquisition by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are an important tool for assisting precision agriculture, mainly in medium and small agricultural properties. Vegetation indices, calculated from these data, allow one to estimate the water consumption of crops and predict dry biomass and crop yield, thereby enabling a priori decision-making. Thus, the present study aimed to estimate, using the vegetation indices, the evapotranspiration (ET) and aboveground dry biomass (AGB) of the maize crop using a red–green-near-infrared (RGNIR) sensor onboard a UAV. For this process, 15 sets of images were captured over 61 days of maize crop monitoring. The images of each set were mosaiced and subsequently subjected to geometric correction and conversion from a digital number to reflectance to compute the vegetation indices and basal crop coefficients (Kcb). To evaluate the models statistically, 54 plants were collected in the field and evaluated for their AGB values, which were compared through statistical metrics to the data estimated by the models. The Kcb values derived from the Soil-Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI) were higher than the Kcb values derived from the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), possibly due to the linearity of this model. A good agreement (R2 = 0.74) was observed between the actual transpiration of the crop estimated by the Kcb derived from SAVI and the observed AGB, while the transpiration derived from the NDVI had an R2 of 0.69. The AGB estimated using the evaporative fraction with the SAVI model showed, in relation to the observed AGB, an RMSE of 0.092 kg m−2 and an R2 of 0.76, whereas when using the evaporative fraction obtained through the NDVI, the RMSE was 0.104 kg m−2, and the R2 was 0.74. An RGNIR sensor onboard a UAV proved to be satisfactory to estimate the water demand and AGB of the maize crop by using empirical models of the Kcb derived from the vegetation indices, which are an important source of spatialized and low-cost information for decision-making related to water management in agriculture.
Dyscirculatory encephalopathy in nursing practice
Authors: Gavrilenko E. , Sultanova Yu. , Demyashchenkova A. , Skvortsov V.
Published: August 2020

Dyscirculatory encephalopathy (DE) is a condition in which the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the brain cells is impaired, and damage and impairment of the functions occur in these cells. It is worth noting that elderly people suffer from this disease more often, but there has been a disappointing tendency of early onset of the disease. Clinical picture of this syndrome is as follows: impaired memory, speech, hearing; function of maintaining balance and even gait suffer, in rare cases there are urinary disorders – all this inevitably leads to a decrease in the quality of human life.
Patient comfort and safety principles
Authors: Bogush Ekaterina
Published: August 2020

The purpose of the work is to identify important directions for restoration and/or maintenance of the quality of life of the patient of oncological profile. At different stages of disease development, importance of nursing care, priority of care measures will change. The nurse needs to identify in a timely manner the problems of the patient suffering from malignant tumor and find ways to solve them.
Analysis of risk factors for coronary heart disease on the basis of a formalized assessment by an admitting paramedic
Authors: Burlova Natalya
Published: August 2020

Model of personalized analysis of risk factors for ischemic heart disease has been justified on the basis of formalized assessment. Results of social hygiene screening assessing level of risk for ischemic heart disease in the examined group of patients have been evaluated. Based on the analysis of risk factors for ischemic heart disease using formalized assessment method, admitting paramedic has possibility to build individual (personalized) program to prevent development of ischemic heart disease. Further study on the use of formalized assessment in the analysis of risk factors for coronary heart disease is required.
Future graduates - future young professionals
Authors: Borovich Natalya , Maksimova Lyudmila
Published: August 2020

The article presents results of a sociological study (questionnaire) conducted among medical college graduates to study their opinion on expectations from the future profession. The need to clarify the attitude of students towards their future profession is related to the human resource planning for specialists with secondary medical education for outpatient and polyclinic service.
From scientific data to evidence-based nursing practice
Authors: Kropotova Svetlana , Shitova Anastasiya , Karaseva Larisa
Published: August 2020

Development of domestic health care, introduction of innovative technologies is impossible without scientific basis, experimental measures, modeling and other research methods. All this is related to the development of innovative technologies in nursing practice, justification of which requires a scientific-based approach.
Model of organization of nursing care for a patient after appendectomy
Authors: Burlova Natalia
Published: August 2020

The aim of the study was to determine the relevant aspects of the organization of nursing care for the patient after appendectomy based on an analysis of its problems, using a formalized assessment method. The existing problems of patients caused by the operational intervention were analysed. Results. Based on analysis of existing problems of patients caused by operative intervention for removal of worm-like process using formalized assessment method, nurse of surgical department has possibility to build individual (personal) program of patient care. Conclusion. Further study is needed on the use of formalized assessment of the existing problem of patients who are involved in the operational intervention in order to identify and treat possible complications in a timely manner and to draw up an individual care plan.
Recommendations for nursing staff on the organization activity of the methodical office
Authors: Inozemtseva Svetlana , Karaseva Larisa
Published: August 2020

In modern conditions, nursing is seen as an essential part of the health care system. The range of functions of nursing personnel is now significantly expanded, the degree of responsibility of nurses for the patient and the quality of services provided has increased. In this situation, the need for the creation of teaching rooms for nursing staff of medical organizations is growing.
Contents of a standard operating procedure «Disinfection of Disposable Tableware after Patients with Coronaviral Infection (COVID-19)»
Authors: Votinova K.
Published: August 2020

This standard operating procedure (SOP) defines the procedure for the disinfection of disposable tableware after patients with coronaviral infection (COVID-19), SOP is introduced into the practice of medical workers in the clinical departments of the hospital.
Role of a nurse in organizing and carrying out ole of a nurse in organizing and carrying out rehabilitation of patients
Authors: Novikova Svetlana
Published: August 2020

The author presents the professional activities of a physiotherapeutic nurse in the process of introducing new techniques in the rehabilitation of patients. The opinion of nursing staff on the introduction of standards for patient admission, the work of a nurse, quality control and examination in the physiotherapy department is analyzed.
Study of dietary supplements containing hawthorn extracts
Authors: Kurkin Vladimir , Shaykhutdinov Ilnur , Pravivtseva Olga , Kurkina Anna , Egorov Maxim
Published: August 2020

In the Russian Federation, dietary supplements with hawthorn flowers (Crataegi flores) and berries (Crataegi fructus) are used as recommended supplements for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. We have conducted a study of the content of flavonoid amounts in popular dietary supplements containing hawthorn extracts. It has been found that total flavonoid content in medications is comparable to the therapeutic dosages in some cases.
Medicines for pediatric use: problems and research
Authors: Shestakov V. , Polyakov S. , Persanova L. , Andreevicheva T. , Veretennikova M. , Ulianov A. , Skupchenko V. , Lobov A. , Mamedova D. , Miranian K. , Dzhafarova T.
Published: August 2020

The prescription of drugs in pediatrics is currently associated with problems. Therapists are often faced with "off-label drug use", the lack of drugs in appropriate doses for children and, the need to develop appropriate dosage forms.
Safety assessment of biological raw materials in the system of medicines quality assurance
Authors: Olefir Yu. , Sakanyan E. , Osipova I. , Dobrynin V. , Smirnova M. , Marakhova A.
Published: August 2020

The entry of a wide range of biotechnological products into the pharmaceutical market calls for rein-forcement of the quality, efficacy and safety standards at the state level. The following general monographs have been elaborated for the first time to be included into the State Pharmacopoeia of the Russian Federation, XIV edition: "Viral safety" and "Reduction of the risk of transmitting animal spongiform encephalopathy via medicinal products". These general monographs were elaborated taking into account the requirements of foreign pharmacopoeias and the WHO recommendations. The present paper summarises the key aspects of the monographs.
Using mathematical modeling to optimize secondary drying stage of lyophilization technology
Authors: Alekseyev Konstantin , Blynskaya Evgeniya , Tishkov Sergey
Published: August 2020

During lyophilization frozen water and moisture associated with dissolved substances are removed, desorption occurs in the process of secondary drying. This stage is one of the main stages of the technological process in terms of duration comparable with primary freeze drying and is of paramount importance for the further storage of lyophilisates. Mathematical modeling of secondary drying and the use of these methods in calculating design space of the process are described in the presented article. The equations for calculating the rate of secondary drying, residual moisture, and other conditions on the basis of values of the temperature of the heat-transfer fluid and pressure in the freezedrying chamber are shown. Possibilities for determining design space boundaries on the basis of the composition of lyophilisate, required values of residual moisture and drying kinetics are demonstrated. The proposed mathematical model makes it possible to estimate the duration of the secondary drying process for various values of temperature and pressure in the chamber within the design space.
Possibility of using thermal water from the Nizhne-Paratunskiye springs of Kamchatka to create pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical compositions
Authors: Lokarev Aleksandr , Stepanova Eleonora , Ogay Marina , Kovtun Elena , Morozov Yuriy , Makiyeva Marina , Nam Nataliya
Published: August 2020

The purpose was to determine content of the main active components — macro- and microelements — in thermal water, in the intermediate product (concentrate) and in the dosage form (spray). Determining the saturation of the dosage form with active components was the purpose as well. Materials and methods. Thermal water from the Nizhne-Paratunskiye springs of Kamchatka, concentrate from this water, composition with a concentrate of thermal water in the form of spray were used. Determination of the content of calcium and magnesium ions was carried out by titrimetric method on the basis of forming a complex compound with Trilon B. Validation of the used methods was carried out. Its repeatability was evaluated within one day to determine the precision of the technique. The intra- and inter-assay precision of the validated method was also evaluated. Solutions containing calcium and magnesium ions in concentrations of 80–120 % from the declared amount were prepared to determine linearity of the methods. Results. The content of magnesium and calcium ions in the raw material (3.63 and 284.41 mg/l, respectively), the intermediate product — concentrate (35.38 and 2723.00 mg/l) and the finished form — spray (11 and 778 mg/l) was determined. Conclusion. As a result of studies based on the determination of the content of macro- and microelements in the spray, concentrate, dosage form, it was found that it is possible to achieve an increase in the content of the trace elements in thermal water, thanks to its 10-fold concentration, which will reduce the cost of transportation. Using the concentrate it is possible to achieve the required salt concentration in the finished product. The developed spray has a complex of auxiliary substances that provide the required consistency of the composition, easily releases hydrothermal water, is chemically indifferent, compatible with salts, absorbs liquid well, is easily removed from the application site, leaves no traces.
Use of bee products in medical practice
Authors: Udyanskaya Irina , Yankova Victoriya
Published: August 2020

Bee products have been used by humans for a long time. They are accepted by conventional medicine as alternative and additional remedies. Bee products are included in healthy diets and clinical nutrition. The article describes general properties of different bee products and their use in pharmacy and medical practice.
Fisheries assessment spring zooplankton of some lakes in the semi-desert zone of Kazakhstan
Authors: Sharapova L. , Abilov B. , Minat A.
Published: August 2020

The zooplankton survey of four lakes in the semidesert zone in the spring of 2019 showed the following. Small-sized lakes were characterized by shallowness, overgrowth, and a relatively safe water environment. With similar part of planktonts in lakes Kanaevskoe, Derevyannoe, Tumash-Nogas revealed a very low biomass. In oz. Telibai, with a minimum amount of vegetation, a sufficient layer of water column, the productivity of invertebrates was middle-class trophic, optimal for fish. Reclamation of lakes to reduce overgrowth and improve stable water availability will help to improve the composition, increase the productivity of zooplankton and use of reservoirs of the reserve Fund in the fisheries plan.
Results of a comparative study of the use of fodder worms of two breeds for pool growing of young tilapy and clary catfish in the conditions of the Almaty
Authors: Bolatbekova Z. , Assylbekova S. , Kulatayev B. , Koishybayeva S. , Bulavina N.
Published: August 2020

The aryicle presents the results of a comparative study of the biochemical composition of earthworms of dendrobene and prospector rocks, the peculiarities of their cultivation and their use for feeding when growing juvenile tilapia and clary catfish. The experience of cultivating earthworms of two breeds using the improved methods of foreign authors is described. The results of a study of the biochemical composition of cultivated objects that determine their nutritional value for feeding fish are presented. The fish-breeding and biological indicators of juvenile tilapia and clary catfish, obtained during the cultivation of dendrobene and prospector in fish farming in the Almaty region (VI fish-breeding zone) during worm feeding, are analyzed. A comprehensive analysis of the studied indicators made it possible to assign a certain rating place to each worm breed in relation to its use as fish feed.