bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Means and Methods of Efficiency Estimation of Video Stream Transmission Based on GigE Vision Technology Using Application Processor
Authors: Kuzhylnyi Oleh V. , Kodniev Tymofii A. , Varfolomieiev Anton Yuriiovych , Mikhailenko Ihor Vsevolodovych
Published: December 2021

The paper investigates the possibility of efficient implementation of a GigE Vision compatible video stream source on a computing platform based on a system-on-a-chip with general-purpose ARM processor cores. In particular, to implement the aforementioned video source, a proprietary prototype of a GigE Vision compatible camera was developed based on the Raspberry Pi 4 single-board computer. This computing platform was chosen due to its widespread use and wide community support. The software part of the camera is implemented using the Video4Linux and Aravis libraries. The first library is used for the primary image capturing from a video sensor connected to a single board computer. The second library is intended for forming and transmission of video stream frames compatible with GigE Vision technology over the network. To estimate the delays in the transmission of a video stream over an Ethernet channel, a methodology based on the Precise Time Protocol (PTP) has been proposed and applied. During the experiments, it was found that the software implementation of a GigE Vision compatible camera on single-board computers with general-purpose processor cores is quite promising. Without additional optimization, such an implementation can be successfully used to transmit small frames (with a resolution of up to 640 × 480 pixels), giving a delay less than 10 ms. At the same time, some additional optimizations may be required to transmit larger frames. Namely, a MTU (maximum transmission unit) size value plays the crucial role in latency formation. Thus, to implement a faster camera, it is necessary to select a platform that supports the largest possible MTU (unfortunately, it turned out that it is not possible with Raspberry Pi 4, as it supports relatively small MTU size of up to 2000 bytes). In addition, the image format conversion procedure can noticeably affect the delay. Therefore, it is highly desirable to avoid any frame processing on the transmitter side and, if it is possible, to broadcast raw images. If the conversion of the frame format is necessary, the platform should be chosen so that there are free computing cores on it, which will permit to distribute all necessary frame conversions between these cores using parallelization techniques.
The Device for Houseplants Caring
Authors: Myroshnichenko Mykola Volodymyrovych
Published: December 2021

The article is devoted to the development of an automated device for plant care at home. The main factors influencing plant development are considered. A comparative analysis of existing devices was made. The growth of plants is influenced by many factors: the level of light, soil moisture, room temperature, carbon dioxide level. When plants are growing indoors, the most important thing is timely watering and access to light. The required amount of light for most plants is 12-18 hours per day. Our country is in the temperate climate zone, so we have 15 hours of light in summer, 13 hours in autumn and spring, and 9 hours in winter. The amount of light in summer is normal, in autumn and spring - within normal limits, but in winter there is a certain lack of light. The lack of natural insolation in winter leads to light starvation of houseplants and reduced intensity of photosynthesis. Therefore, the decrease of the amount of natural light is compensated by artificial light sources. Analysis of the devices on the market has shown that devices that can solve such problems exist, but there is no device with all functions simultaneously. Lighting devices illuminate on a timer, regardless of natural light. Irrigation devices are intended for industrial, not for domestic use. Existing technological solutions for home cultivation have only a warning function: sound or light, which can bring some inconvenience. Looking on these problems, a device is created to maintain the required soil moisture and the required amount of light. The control unit is based on a microcontroller that analyses the data obtained from the sensors and sends the appropriate signals to the climate control devices. The device is equipped with a soil moisture sensor, a light sensor, a real - time sensor, an LED lamp, a water pump, an LED lamp driver, and a control key of water pump. To control soil moisture, a capacitive humidity sensor is used, the advantages of it is the absence of corrosion of metal parts of the sensors that touch the ground. A light meter based on the BH1750 chip is used as a light sensor. This sensor has a wide measuring range, measuring accuracy - 1 lux, small dimensions and the ability to connect to a microcontroller via I2C interface. The DS3231 chip is used as a real-time clock that required to maintain a circadian rhythm close to the natural one for a given plant. An LED strip with red and blue LEDs is used for lighting. The ratio of blue / red LEDs depends on the stage of growth and the type of plant, but it is usually from 1/3 to 1/5. The key that controls the LED strip and the water pump are the MOS transistors. They are silent and allow you to adjust the brightness of the LED strip.
Investigation of the co-firing of natural gas and RDF in a model combustion chamber**
Authors: Kobzar Serhii , Topal Olexandr , Haponych Liudmyla , Golenko Iryna
Published: December 2021

The production and utilization of fuel derived from municipal solid waste (RDF/SFR) is an effective method for saving organic fuel and decreasing emissions of harmful substances and greenhouse gases at landfill and refuse dumps. Ukraine has a potential for the production of 1.5–2 million tons of RDF/SFR with a calorific value of 10–25 MJ/kg annually. In the case of involving these fuels to power sector, about 2500 GW-h of electricity and 4500 GW-h of heat can be produced annually. One of the promising variants to involve RDF/SFR to power sector is their combustion, including co-firing with natural gas, aimed at the production of heat and electricity, in particular, using the existing boilers of small and middle steam capacity in compliance with stringent ecological requirements (Directive 2010/75/EU etc.).

For performing this investigation, we chose a GMP-16 gas-and-oil-fired burner, mounted into a cylindrical combustion chamber. The gas-and-oil-fired hot-water boilers of KVGM grade, designed for heating and hot water supply, are equipped with burners of this type. In computer modeling, we determined the influence of RDF additions on the co-firing with natural gas for a given geometry of the combustion chamber components (with a burner of 18.6 MW heat output). We obtained calculated dependences of temperatures, velocities, distributions of gas component concentrations, carbon remained in the solid phase, as well as the concentrations of nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide over the combustion chamber. According to preliminary assessments, we established that additions of up to 20% RDF/SFR (by heat at input) in their co-firing with natural gas will not change substantially the technical and ecological parameters in operation of the combustion chamber.
Genome-Wide Identification and Analysis of Cell Cycle Genes in Betula pendula
Authors: Li Yijie , Chen Song , Liu Yuhang , Huang Haijiao
Published: December 2021

Research Highlights: This study identified the cell cycle genes in birch that likely play important roles during plant growth and development. This analysis provides a basis for understanding the regulatory mechanism of various cell cycles in Betula pendula. Background and Objectives: The cell cycle factors not only influence cell cycle progression together, but also regulate accretion, division and differentiation of cells, and then regulate growth and development of plant. In this study, we identified the putative cell cycle genes in B. pendula genome, based on the annotated cell cycle genes in A. thaliana. It could serve as a foundation for further functional studies. Materials and Methods: The transcript abundance was determined for all the cell cycle genes in xylem, root, leaf and flower tissues using RNA-seq technology. Results: We identified 59 cell cycle gene models in the genome of B. pendula, 17 highly expression genes among them. These genes were BpCDKA.1, BpCDKB1.1, BpCDKB2.1, BpCKS1.2, BpCYCB1.1, BpCYCB1.2, BpCYCB2.1, BpCYCD3.1, BpCYCD3.5, BpDEL1, BpDpa2, BpE2Fa, BpE2Fb, BpKRP1, BpKRP2, BpRb1 and BpWEE1. Conclusions: We identified 17 core cell cycle genes in the genome of birch by combining phylogenetic analysis and tissue specific expression data.
Acetyltransferases GCN5 and PCAF are Required for B Lymphocyte Maturation in Mice
Authors: Oksenych Valentyn , Su Dan , Daniel Jeremy Austin
Published: December 2021

B lymphocyte development has two DNA recombination processes: V(D)J recombination of the immunoglobulin (Igh) gene variable region and class switching of the Igh constant regions from IgM to IgG, IgA, or IgE. V(D)J recombination is required for successful maturation of B cells from pro-B to pre-B to immature-B and then to mature B cells in the bone marrow. CSR occurs outside of the bone marrow when mature B cells migrate to peripheral lymphoid organs, such as spleen and lymph nodes. Both V(D)J recombination and CSR depend on an “open chromatin” state that makes DNA accessible to specific enzymes, recombination activating gene (RAG), and activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID). Acetyltransferases GCN5 and PCAF possess redundant functions acetylating histone H3 lysine 9 (H3K9). Here, we generated a mouse model that lacks both GCN5 and PCAF in B cells. We found that double-deficient mice possess low levels of mature B cells in the bone marrow and peripheral organs, an accumulation of pro-B cells in bone marrow, and reduced CSR levels. We conclude that both GCN5 and PCAF are required for B cell development in vivo.
Function and Plasticity of Electrical Synapses in the Mammalian Brain: Role of Non-Junctional Mechanisms
Authors: Curti Sebastian , Davoine Federico , Dapino Antonella
Published: December 2021

Electrical transmission between neurons is largely mediated by gap junctions. These junctions allow the direct flow of electric current between neurons, and in mammals are mostly composed of the protein connexin (Cx)36. Circuits of electrically coupled neurons are widespread in these animals, plus, experimental and theoretical evidence supports the notion that, beyond synchronicity, these circuits are able to perform sophisticated operations like lateral excitation and inhibition, noise reduction, as well as the ability to selectively respond upon coincident excitatory inputs. Although once considered stereotyped and unmodifiable, we now know that electrical synapses are subject to modulation and, by reconfiguring neural circuits, these modulations can alter relevant operations. The strength of electrical synapses depends on gap junction conductance, as well as on its functional interaction with the electrophysiological properties of coupled neurons. In particular, voltage dependent channels of the non-synaptic membrane critically determine the efficacy of transmission at these contacts. Consistently, modulatory actions on these channels have been shown to represent relevant mechanisms of plasticity of electrical synaptic transmission. Here we review recent evidence on the regulation of electrical synapses of mammals, the underlying molecular mechanisms, and the possible ways in which they affect circuit function.
Energy Performance Simulation in Buildings Composed of Natural and Organic Materials Within the Moroccan Rural Areas of the Atlas Mountains
Authors: Es-sebyty Hanane , Abbi Bouchra , Ferretti Elena , Igouzal Mohammed
Published: December 2021

The construction field uses up over one-third of the global energy consumption and contribute to 40% of CO2 emissions according to the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the 2020 annual reporter of United Nation, Goal 11 (Make cities inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable) which discusses sustainable, safe and efficient buildings. Therefore, Morocco has a commitment to this program by publishing the law 47-09 of energy efficiency. This work aims to study the energy efficiency of two types of building, a conventional and a natural building. Conventional building is constructed using concrete, while the natural one uses sand clay and straws. As for the technique of making the natural building, it perpetually follows the same approach accustomed in rural zones of Atlas Mountains in Morocco. In this research we also simulate, temperature and humidity variation inside these buildings using TRNSYS software. Sketch Up software was employed to design these houses. The weather database is used for a typical meteorological year (TMY). In the case of natural building, many building configurations were simulated: roof insulation, floor insulation, different types of glazing and sun protection. What's more, the thermal comfort is revealed to be more conspicuous in the case of natural building.
Evaluating the Sensitivity of Forest Structural Diversity Characterization to LiDAR Point Density
Authors: La Rue Elizabeth , Fahey Robert , Fuson Tabatha , Foster Jane , Hatala Matthes Jaclyn , Hardiman Brady
Published: December 2021

Recent expansion in data sharing has created unprecedented opportunities to explore structure-function linkages in ecosystems across spatial and temporal scales. However, characteristics of the same data product, such as resolution, can change over time or spatial locations, as protocols are adapted to new technology or conditions, which may impact the data’s potential utility and accuracy for addressing end user scientific questions. The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) provides data products for users from 81 sites and over a planned 30-year time frame, including discrete return Light Detection and Range (LiDAR) from an airborne observatory platform. LiDAR is a well-established and increasingly available remote sensing technology for measuring three-dimensional (3D) characteristics of ecosystem and landscape structure, including forest structural diversity. The LiDAR product that NEON provides can vary in point density from 2 – 25+ points/m2 depending on instrument and acquisition date. We used NEON LiDAR from five forested sites to (1) identify the minimum point density at which structural diversity metrics can be robustly estimated across forested sites from different ecoclimatic zones in the USA and (2) to test the effects of variable point density on the estimation of a suite of structural diversity metrics and multivariate structural complexity types within and across forested sites. Twelve out of sixteen structural diversity metrics were sensitive to LiDAR point density in at least one of the five NEON forested sites. The minimum point density to reliably estimate the metrics ranged from 2.0 to 7.5 pt/m2, but our results indicate that point densities above 7-8 pt/m2 should provide robust measurements of structural diversity in forests for temporal or spatial comparisons. The delineation of multivariate structural complexity types from a suite of 16 structural diversity metrics was robust within sites and across forest types for a LiDAR point density of 4 pt/m2 and above. This study shows that different metrics of structural diversity can vary in their sensitivity to the resolution of LiDAR data and users of these open-source data products should consider the point density of their data and use caution in metric selection when making spatial or temporal comparisons from these datasets.
The Vulnerability of Women in Dealing with Covid-19 Pandemic: Feminist Legal Theory Approach
Authors: Sudiono Linda
Published: December 2021

Women are one of the community groups most affected by Covid-19 because most are workers with lower incomes and unprotected financial security. Moreover, most women occupy the informal sector, which is more vulnerable in accessing social security guarantees. In addition, domestic violence against women increases in several countries during the pandemic. This article aims to analyze the causes of the negative impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on Women and formulate the legal solution using the Feminist Legal Theory approach. The results show that there are broadly two causes of negative impacts for women dealing with Pandemic Covid-19. Firstly, due to the inequality in economic structure. Secondly is the gender stigmatized social structure. In this case, the feminist legal theory approach can be used to reconstruct and reform the negative impacts, as well as reanalysis the solutions in realizing women's legal justice due to the outbreak of the covid-19 pandemic. This study offers three solution methods. Firstly, analyzing the legal methods in giving gender implications and perpetuating women's subordination. Secondly, making gender the main category in conducting legal analysis. Thirdly, considering gender specificity in achieving legal equality for women.
Efficiency Measurement on the Effectiveness of Train and Wagon Maintenance: A Data Envelopment Analysis Perspective
Authors: Mustkim Ramdan , Hendarsjah Hidajat
Published: December 2021

"Research Aims: This research aimed to analyse the efficiency measurement on the effectiveness of train and wagon maintenance in three Decision Making Units (DMU) of Balai Yasa of Indonesian Railways Company (KAI). It focused on both output and input orientations and the effectiveness of production. Design: The research methodology was descriptive and quantitative, employing data envelopment analysis (DEA) and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). The input variables were maintenance costs, spare parts inventory and people operating hours, while the output variable was OEE. A stepwise approach with backward method steps was used to examine the relationship between effectiveness and efficiency. Findings: The results showed that DMU 2 was efficient, while DMUs 1 and 3 were not yet efficient. This indicated that the more effective an organisation is, the more efficient it is. DMU 2 has the highest effectiveness value at 86.19%, while DMUs 1 and 3 had values of less than 85%, indicating the need for improvement in their production departments. Theoretical Contribution: A stepwise approach uses a forward method, adding revenue variables that have not been implemented in previous studies. Managerial Implications in the Southeast Asian Context: Efficacy and revenue have a significant impact on organisational efficiency, which means that if the revenue is high and the organisation is effective, organisational efficiency will be high. Research Limitation and Implications: This research is limited to DMUs, and its focus is on improving the effectiveness and efficiency of the train and wagon maintenance program in Java. The scope can be expanded to Sumatra and/or a comparison with other Southeast Asian countries by considering the characteristic differences of their operations and economies."
Visual Packaging and Perceived Emotional Value: A Study on Islamic Branded Cosmetics
Authors: Prabowo Desny Sekartanti Putri , Aji Hendy Mustiko
Published: December 2021

"Research Aims: This study aims to examine the effect of visual packaging and perceived emotional value on purchase intention of Islamic-branded cosmetics. Design/Methodology/Approach: The data were collected from an online survey of selected respondents. By using the purposive sampling technique, the respondents were limited to those who knew of or have used Islamic-branded cosmetics. The data were analysed using the PLS-SEM method. Research Findings: Altogether, this study's sample comprised 257 respondents and found that visual packaging of Islamic-branded cosmetics positively affects perceived emotional value and attitude. However, the results also indicate that visual packaging exerts no significant effect on purchase intention. Moreover, this study also found that perceived emotional value and attitude strongly affected consumers' purchase intention with Islamic-branded cosmetics. Theoretical Contribution/Originality: Most studies on halal or Islamic-branded cosmetics have focussed on religiosity, ingredients and safety, but little attention has been paid to packaging. Therefore, this study contributes to the literature by examining visual packaging's effect on perceived emotional value, attitudes and purchase intention. Managerial Implications in the Southeast Asian Context: Managers of Islamic-branded cosmetics in Indonesia should consider developing strategies to make their packaging visually attractive. The managers also are encouraged to focus on creating emotional value in Islamic-branded cosmetics packaging. Research Limitations and Implications: This study has a limitation in terms of questionnaire distribution. Most of the respondents in this study are students under 20 years old, and most are from Java island."
Export Performance of SMEs in Emerging Markets: The Role of Market Orientation, Learning and Trust
Authors: Ismail Md Daud , Isa Mohd. Aswardi Md.
Published: December 2021

"Research Aims: This study investigates the mediating role of trust in explaining the effect of learning orientation and market orientation on the export performance of small and medium enterprise (SME) exporters in emerging markets. Design/methodology/approach: Survey data from 193 Malaysian SME exporters were used to test a series of hypothesised relationships. The sample was derived from the directory of the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers, which consists of Malaysian wholly owned cross-industry manufacturing SMEs with 10-200 full-time employees. The instrument was developed using existing scales, and the research model was estimated using partial least square structural equation modelling. Research Findings: The findings reveal that trust is directly related to export performance. Learning creates dynamism in firms' processes and enables the utilisation of information in a way that allows firms to respond to the variability of customers' needs. Theoretical Contribution/Originality: This study contributes to theoretical development by highlighting the role of learning in the relationship between market orientation and trust between SME exporters and foreign importers. Managerial Implications in the Southeast Asian Context: Managers of small businesses in Southeast Asia should not be disconcerted by the smallness and limited resources of their firms. In an environment characterised by rapid market changes, SMEs must rely on dynamic capabilities to develop their competencies and leverage foreign partner resources. Research Limitations & Implications: First, the responses were mainly obtained from exporters. This is in contrast to a dyadic relationship, which concerns interactions between partners: exporters and importers. Second, this study is limited by its context, which is the manufacturing sector."
Entering the Global Market: The Role of Work Autonomy and Individual Global Mindset as Antecedents of Innovative Work Behavior in Defining Employee Task Performance
Authors: Pusparini Elok Savitri , Aryasa Komang Budi
Published: December 2021

"Research Aims: This study aims to highlights the role of innovative work behavior (IWB) in determining task performance. The main antecedents of IWB, namely work autonomy and individual global mindset, are discussed, as well as how these two key factors will detemine the degree of individual innovative behavior. Design/Methodology/Approach: This study uses a cross-sectional design with convenience sampling methods to collect primary data and Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) to test the hypothetical model and analyse the data. Research Findings: As many as 309 points of data were received; following screening and selection protocols, the final dataset consisted of 284 responses from employees in innovation center units of a leading ICT company in Indonesia. Findings of this study indicate a positive effect of work autonomy, individual global mindset, and task performance with regard to the mediating effect of IWB. Theoretical Contribution/Originality: This study contributes in defining the positive effects of work autonomy and individual global mindset on IWB and closing the gap regarding the role of IWB in mediating the effect of work autonomy and individual global mindset upon task performance. Managerial Implications in the Southeast Asian Context: As the local market is no longer sufficient to achieve further growth, competing firms need to enter the international or global market; this can be achieved through improved performance resulting from highly innovative behavior. Research Limitations & Implications: Limitations include the limited response rate due to the work-from-home policy during the pandemic, as well as generalizability issues. The current study invite further exploration in terms of the possibilities to elaborate more antecedents for innovative work behavior."
Анализ динамики эпидемического процесса COVID-19 в мире за неделю с 18.12.2021 г. по 24.12.2021 г.
Authors: Зимирова Анастасия , Поспелов Михаил , Иванова Александра , Дмитриева Людмила , Чумачкова Елена , Карнаухов Игорь , Щербакова Светлана , Кутырев Владимир
Published: December 2021

В обзоре представлен анализ эпидемиологической ситуации в странах мира по COVID-19, за неделю с 18.12.2021 г. по 24.12.2021 г.
An Investigation on the Process of Reimbibition of Oil and Its Impact on Oil Recovery in the Yates Field
Authors: Jin Xiao , Phatak Alhad , Sanders Aaron , Friesen Dawn , Lewis Ed , Valdez Raul
Published: December 2021

In mixed- to oil-wet reservoirs characterized by intense natural fracturing where the dominant displacement mechanism is gravity drainage, surfactant injection can lead to a shift in wettability and incremental oil production. In some cases, oil can also reimbibe back into the rock matrix after the oil saturation has been reduced upon initial exposure to surfactant, suggesting limited permanence in the wettability shift. The reimbibition phenomenon is investigated in this paper using Amott cells.

Three cationic surfactants (C12-, C12–16-, C16-based) with interfacial tensions (IFT) between 0.18 and 0.95 mN/m were preselected to be evaluated. Current application of the C12-based surfactant in the Yates field is considered successful based on incremental oil recovery seen during the treatment. Silurian dolomite (SD) rock samples were flooded with Yates crude oil before being aged at 60°C for 6 weeks. For the imbibition tests, the aqueous surfactant solution was set as the external phase within the Amott cell, and the recovery of oil was recorded periodically. After the imbibition tests ended, the rock samples were placed in an inverse Amott cell with the Yates oil as the external phase.

Baseline tests were first conducted to show that without a surfactant in the oil or brine, no imbibition occurred. With a surfactant concentration of 3,000 ppm, oil recovery at the end of the imbibition tests varied from 34 to 60% of the original oil volume in the core sample. During the reimbibition test, a large amount of oil was able to reimbibe into the rock, displacing the brine. Most of the displacement occurred within the first 2 weeks. The net oil recovery, taken as the final volume of oil recovered in the imbibition test minus the final volume of oil reimbibed into the rock, ranged from 0 to 18%. Given the possibility of surfactant dilution in field applications, another set of tests was conducted with 1,500 ppm. A reduction in oil recovery during imbibition was observed for all the tested surfactants. Partition coefficients were determined for each of the tested surfactants, and the ion-pair mechanism was used to explain the net oil recovery results. Lastly, the impact of rock permeability on reimbibition was investigated. Results show increasing permeability may lead to a linear response in oil reimbibition; therefore, minimizing the permeability range when selecting rock samples may be necessary when conducting the reimbibition test.

The importance of oil reimbibition is demonstrated in the experimental study, and we make an argument for conducting both the imbibition and reimbibition tests to better evaluate surfactant efficacy. The improved understanding of wettability alteration should lead to advancements in chemical enhanced oil recovery (EOR) designs for field treatments.
Innovation and selection of family farms’ marketing channels in Henan Province under the “Internet+” environment
Authors: Niu Lichen , Nazarenko Oleksandr , Chen Junmin , Hu Zetao
Published: December 2021

With the continuous improvement of China’s market economy and the intensification of global integration trends, the relationship between the supply and demand of China’s agricultural products has also undergone significant changes. From the previous short supply to the current oversupply, the sales of agricultural products have become a key factor restricting the development of the Chinese rural economy. Solving the problem of agricultural sales has become the internal driving force to promote the steady development of family farms, which is also the fundamental purpose of this paper. Therefore, this paper makes an empirical analysis of the factors influencing the choice of agricultural products’ sales channels among 170 family farms in Henan Province using a logistic regression model. The results show that selling agricultural products from family farms to consumers, enterprises, and large sales households are the main sales channels, accounting for 17.3%, 15.3%, and 15.2% respectively. The proportion of Internet sales ranks seventh among the eight channels, which has not been widely recognized. The regression results and assumptions are verified. The brand and certification of family farms’ agricultural products, business form of a farm, and understanding of the Internet have a significant impact on the choice of sales channels. According to the weight of influencing factors, the paper puts forward four suggestions for the selection and innovation in sales channels of family farms’ agricultural products.
AcknowledgmentThis study is funded by The National Social Science Fund of China (grant no: 19BJ1Y144).
Kritik Enerji Tesislerinin Deprem Risk Değerlendirmesinde Farklı Hasargörebilirlik Fonksiyonlarının İncelenmesi
Authors: ZÜLFİKAR Abdullah Can , OKUYAN AKCAN Seyhan , YEŞİLYURT Ali , ERÖZ Murat , CİMİLLİ Tolga
Published: December 2021

Elektrik enerji tesisleri, deprem tehlikesinden dolayı hasar görme olasılığı yüksek kritik altyapılardan bir tanesidir. Sanayileşmenin yoğun olduğu Marmara bölgesinde çok sayıda elektrik enerji tesisleri bulunmaktadır. Bu çalışma kapsamında açık kaynaklı OpenQuake yazılımı kullanılarak, Marmara bölgesi için olasılıksal deprem tehlike analizi gerçekleştirilmiştir. Deprem tehlike analizinde, SHARE projesi ,2013 Avrupa-Akdeniz sismik tehlike modelinde tanımlanan (ESHM13) kaynak ve yerel zemin etkileri mantık ağacı modelleri ile dikkate alınmıştır. Çalışma kapsamında, Marmara bölgesinde yer alan tipik bir enerji üretim tesisi olan Bandırma-I Doğalgaz kombine çevrim santrali deprem tehlikesi analizi gerçekleştirilmiştir. Elde edilen sonuçlar, 2018-TBDY ve 2007-DBYBHY yönetmeliklerinde bulunan tasarım spektrumları ile karşılaştırılmıştır. Söz konusu tesiste, kritik yapı olan santral kontrol binası için farklı zemin durumu ve farklı hasargörebilirlik fonksiyonlarının dikkate alındığı deprem risk değerlendirmesi yapılmıştır. Marmara bölgesinde meydana gelebilecek olası deprem yer hareketi sonucu, dikkate alınan tesisin maruz kalacağı risklerin tespiti ve bu risklerin azaltılmasına yönelik faaliyetlerin geliştirilebilmesi için son derece kullanışlı olan kayıp eğrileri elde edilmiştir.
Groundwater management zones and their groundwater level thresholds in the Tongliao Plain
Authors: Yan Lingjia , He Xin , Lu Chuiyu , Sun Qingyan , Wu Chu
Published: December 2021

The West Liao River (WLR) Basin located in Inner Mongolia, is an important food production area in China. In recent years, the problem of groundwater over-exploitation has become increasingly prominent in the Basin due to the expansion of agriculture. This paper developed adaptive management initiatives of the local groundwater resources using Tongliao, located in the east part of the WLR Basin, as a case study. Groundwater management zones were divided based on hydrogeology, precipitation, land use, the groundwater over-exploitation areas, groundwater depth, and the administrative units (Banners/Counties/Districts). The Tongliao Basin was divided into 21 management zones. Subsequently, assessment rules for determining groundwater level thresholds in each groundwater management zone were developed based on groundwater observation conditions and the current groundwater depth. Based on the assessment rules, in 2020 the management threshold of groundwater level for each zone were determined. The results provided a scientific basis for the ‘Water Availability Based Local Development Initiative’ in the Tongliao Plain.
An ultrasound/O3 and UV/O3 process for atrazine manufacturing wastewater treatment: a multiple scale experimental study
Authors: Wen Diya , Chen Bing , Liu Bo
Published: December 2021

An ultraviolet (UV) and ultrasound (US) enhanced ozonation method were developed to investigate their efficiency on the removal of atrazine and chemical oxygen demand (COD) in authentic atrazine manufacturing wastewater. The bench-scale tests suggested a positive effect of UV and US on the degradation of atrazine within a limited energy range. The pilot-scale flow-through system was further tested by using response surface methodology. The results showed that O3 and its interaction with UV promoted the degradation of both COD and atrazine while its interaction with US inhibited the removal of COD but promoted the removal of atrazine. The optimal removal rate of atrazine (96.9%) was achieved in the condition of 6.86 W/L UV, 1.96 g/L·h O3 and 294 W/L US. Chloride ions hindered the atrazine degradation, but the generated free chlorine radicals were still able to react with atrazine. In terms of energy-effectiveness, the configuration of 14.7 W/L UV and 1.96 g/L·h O3 is the best option, which have the electrical energy per order of 181.6 kWh/m3 for atrazine and 0.13 kWh/g COD. These method and findings could be helpful in the development of energy-efficient advanced oxidation processes in treating wastewater with high salinity and COD loadings.
Selenosemicarbazone Metal Complexes as Potential Metal-based
Drugs
Authors: Rostán Santiago , Mahler Graciela , Otero Lucía
Published: December 2021

The discovery of the anticancer activity of cisplatin has marked the emergence
of modern Inorganic Medicinal Chemistry. This field of research is concerned with the
application of inorganic compounds to therapy or diagnosis of disease. In particular, metal
coordination of bioactive ligands has gained recognition in drug design. The interaction
between transition metal ions and the organic drugs could enhance their diagnostic
and therapeutic potentials by improving the stability and/or bioavailability or by achieving
a metal-drug synergism through a dual or multiple mechanisms of action. The isosteric
replacement of sulfur by selenium in thiosemicarbazones leads to selenosemicarbazones.
This class of compounds exhibits numerous biological activities like antitumor, antimicrobial,
antiviral, etc. and, in most cases, they were more pronounced in comparison
to the sulfur analogues. On the other hand, while the effect of transition metal complexation
on the biological activity of thiosemicarbazones has been widely studied, the pharmacological
activity of the corresponding metal-selenosemicarbazone compounds has been
less explored. In this work, the most relevant results related to the selenosemicarbazone
metal complexes as potential metal-based drugs have been reviewed.
Sodium Tanshinone IIA Sulfonate Improves Adverse Ventricular Remodeling
Post-MI by Reducing Myocardial Necrosis, Modulating Inflammation, and Promoting
Angiogenesis
Authors: Zhang Baoli , Yu Peng , Su Enyong , Jia Jianguo , Zhang Chunyu , Xie Shiyao , Huang Zhenhui , Dong Ying , Ding Jinguo , Zou Yunzeng , Jiang Hong , Ge Junbo
Published: December 2021

Background and Objective:

Myocardial infarction (MI) leads to pathological cardiac remodeling
and heart failure. Sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate (STS) shows to possess therapeutic potential. The present
study aimed to explore the potential role of STS in ventricular remodeling post-MI.

Methods:

Mice were randomly divided into sham, MI + normal saline (NS) and MI + STS (20.8 mg/kg/day intraperitoneally)
groups. MI was established following left anterior descending artery ligation. Cardiac function
was evaluated using echocardiography. Scar size and myocardial fibrosis-associated markers were detected using
Masson’s trichrome staining and western blot analysis (WB). Necrosis and inflammation were assessed using
H&E staining, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) detection, ELISA, immunohistochemical staining, and WB.
Furthermore, angiogenesis markers and associated proteins were detected using immunohistochemical staining
and WB.

Results:

Mice treated with STS exhibited significant improvements in cardiac function, smaller scar size, and
low expression levels of α-smooth muscle actin and collagen I and III at 28 days following surgery, compared
with the NS-treated group. Moreover, treatment with STS reduced eosinophil necrosis, the infiltration of inflammatory
cells, plasma levels of LDH, high mobility group protein B1, interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-
α, and protein expression of these cytokines at 3 days. Macrophage infiltration was also decreased in the
STS group in the early phase. Additionally, CD31+ vascular density, protein levels of hypoxia-inducible factor-
1α, and vascular endothelial growth factor were elevated in the STS-treated mice at 28 days.

Conclusion:

STS improved pathological remodeling post-MI, and the associated therapeutic effects may be a
result of a decrease in myocardial necrosis, modulation of inflammation, and an increase in angiogenesis.
Strategies Employed to Evade the Host Immune Response and the Mechanism of Drug Resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis: In Search of Finding New Targets
Authors: Ahmad Zahoor , Mir Manzoor A. , Sheikh Bashir A. , Bhat Basharat A.
Published: December 2021

:

The partial effectiveness of the host immune response to M. tuberculosis drives bacteria into a latent state, but it is difficult to eliminate the bacteria completely. Usually, this latent condition of M. tuberculosis is reversible, and reactivation of tuberculosis is the leading cause of the majority of transmission. A number of studies performed on animal models and humans have not yet provided a detailed understanding of the mechanisms or correlates of immunity of M. tuberculosis infection or why there is a significant immunity failure to remove the pathogen. Moreover, the mechanism of resistance involved in drug-resistant M. tuberculosis leads to the emergence of strains of bacteria that show significant resistance to the majority of anti-tuberculosis drugs. We have also provided the recent findings and trends regarding the development of new drug molecules to treat drug and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis and the advancements in immunotherapy in the treatment of drug-resistant tuberculosis. This article provides an in-depth and critical analysis of various strategies employed by the drug-resistant M. tuberculosis to escape the host immune response. This bacterium persists in the host for a longer period of time and leads to the development of tuberculosis infection. Furthermore, we also discussed the new targets for the effective treatment of drug-resistant tuberculosis.
Role of Cannabinoids in Various Diseases: A Review
Authors: Roy Arpita , Kaur Simran , Sharma Nikita
Published: December 2021

Background:

The plant, Cannabis sativa, is heavily explored and researched with many in-dustrial and pharmaceutical applications. The medicinal and therapeutic role of Cannabis sativa has been summarized in the paper, citing its mechanism of action and influence on the human body. Diseases like metabolic disorders, infectious diseases, and psychological disorders pose negative and long-term drastic effects on the body like neurodegeneration and other chronic system failures. Several existing studies have proved its effectiveness against such diseases.

Objectives:

This review aims to provide an overview of the role of cannabinoids in various diseases like metabolic disorders, infectious diseases, and psychological disorders.

Method:

Various e-resources like Pubmed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar were thoroughly searched and read to make an informative, comprehensive manuscript. Here we tried to summarize the therapeutic aspect of Cannabis sativa and its bioactive compound cannabinoids with respect to various diseases.

Result:

This review highlights the various constituents which are present in Cannabis sativa, the endo-cannabinoid system, and the role of cannabinoids in various diseases

Conclusion:

Recent research on Cannabis has suggested its role in neurodegenerative diseases, inflam-mation, sleep disorders, pediatric diseases, and their analgesic nature. Therefore, the authors majorly fo-cus on the therapeutic aspect of Cannabis sativa in various diseases. The focus is also on the endocanna-binoid system (ECS) and its role in fighting or preventing bacterial, parasitic, fungal, and viral infections
High Concentration of Dezocine Induces Immune Escape of Lung
Cancer and Promotes Glucose Metabolism through Up-Regulating
PD-L1 and Activating the NF-κB Pathway
Authors: Dong Weiping , Zhang Dong , Zhu Aiyun , Hu Yanli , Li Wei
Published: December 2021

Background:

Dezocine is an opioid analgesic that can affect the immune
system. Here, we explored the synergy of high concentration of Dezocine and
programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) with regards to immune escape and glucose
metabolism in lung cancer (LC).

Methods:

PD-L1 level in human LC cell lines was determined and the influence of
Dezocine at different concentrations for the proliferation of LC cells was identified. Next,
LC cells were transfected to alter PD-L1 level, and exposed to Dezocine at 8 μg/mL to
explore their effects on cell proliferation, production of interferon-γ (IFN-γ), contents of
glucose, lactate, and NADPH/NADP+, and activation of the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)
pathway.

Results:

PD-L1 level was increased in LC cells and Dezocine (8 μg/mL) impaired the
proliferation of LC cells. Down-regulating PD-L1 inhibited cell proliferation, enhanced
production of IFN-γ, and reduced the contents of glucose, lactate, and NADPH/NADP+,
while up-regulating PD-L1 caused the opposite results. Dezocine (8 μg/mL) induced
immune escape and glucose metabolism in LC, and Dezocine-induced effects were
reversed by down-regulating PD-L1. Dezocine (8 μg/mL) up-regulated PD-L1 by
activating the NF-κB pathway.

Conclusion:

Dezocine at 8 μg/mL promotes immune escape and glucose metabolism in
LC through up-regulating PD-L1 and activating the NF-κB pathway.
Effects of the Co-occurrence of Diabetes Mellitus and Tooth Loss on Cognitive
Function
Authors: Luo Huabin , Tan Chenxin , Adhikari Samrachana , Plassman Brenda L. , Kamer Angela R. , Sloan Frank A. , Schwartz Mark D. , Qi Xiang , Wu Bei
Published: December 2021

Objective:

Both diabetes mellitus (DM) and poor oral health are common chronic conditions and risk factors of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia among older adults. This study
assessed the effects of DM and complete tooth loss (TL) on cognitive function, accounting for their
interactions.

Methods:

Longitudinal data were obtained from the 2006, 2012, and 2018 waves of the Health and
Retirement Study. This cohort study included 7,805 respondents aged 65 years or older with
18,331 person-year observations. DM and complete TL were self-reported. Cognitive function was
measured by the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status. Random-effect regressions were used
to test the associations, overall and stratified by sex.

Results:

Compared with older adults without neither DM nor complete TL, those with both conditions (b = -1.35, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -1.68, -1.02), with complete TL alone (b = -0.67,
95% CI: -0.88, -0.45), or with DM alone (b = -0.40, 95% CI: -0.59, -0.22), had lower cognitive
scores. The impact of having both conditions was significantly greater than that of having DM
alone (p <.001) or complete TL alone (p = 0.001). Sex-stratified analyses showed the effects were
similar in males and females, except having DM alone was not significant in males.

Conclusion:

The co-occurrence of DM and complete TL poses an additive risk for cognition.
Healthcare and family-care providers should pay attention to the cognitive health of patients with
both DM and complete TL. Continued efforts are needed to improve older adults’ access to dental
care, especially for individuals with DM.
Antibody-drug Conjugate PCMC1D3-Duocarmycin SA as a Novel Therapeutic
Entity for Targeted Treatment of Cancers Aberrantly Expressing
MET Receptor Tyrosine Kinase
Authors: Hudson Rachel , Yao Hang-Ping , Suthe Sreedhar Reddy , Patel Dhavalkumar , Wang Ming-Hai
Published: December 2021

Background:

Aberrant expression of the MET receptor tyrosine kinase is an oncogenic
determinant and a drug target for cancer therapy. Currently, antibody-based biotherapeutics targeting
MET are under clinical trials.

Objective:

Here, we report the preclinical and therapeutic evaluation of a novel anti-MET antibody-
drug conjugate PCMC1D3-duocarmycin SA (PCMC1D3-DCM) for targeted cancer therapy.

Methods:

The monoclonal antibody PCMC1D3 (IgG1a/κ), generated by a hybridoma technique
and specific to one of the MET extracellular domains, was selected based on its high specificity to
human MET with a binding affinity of 1.60 nM. PCMC1D3 was conjugated to DCM via a cleavable
valine-citrulline dipeptide linker to form an antibody-drug conjugate with a drug-to-antibody
ratio of 3.6:1. PCMC1D3-DCM in vitro rapidly induced MET internalization with an internalization
efficacy ranging from 6.5 to 17.2h dependent on individual cell lines.

Results:

Studies using different types of cancer cell lines showed that PCMC1D3-DCM disrupted
the cell cycle, reduced cell viability, and caused massive cell death within 96h after treatment initiation.
The calculated IC50 values for cell viability reduction were 1.5 to 15.3 nM. Results from
mouse xenograft tumor models demonstrated that PCMC1D3-DCM in a single dose injection at 10
mg/kg body weight effectively delayed xenograft tumor growth up to two weeks without signs of
tumor regrowth. The calculated tumoristatic concentration, a minimal dose required to balance tumor
growth and inhibition, was around 2 mg/kg body weight. Taken together, PCMC1D3-DCM
was effective in targeting the inhibition of tumor growth in xenograft models.

Conclusion:

This work provides the basis for the development of humanized PCMC1D3-DCM for
MET-targeted cancer therapy in the future.