bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attitudes and Behavior toward COVID-19 Vaccination in Japanese University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Okamoto Yuri , Hiyama Toru , Miyake Yoshie , Yoshino Atsuo , Miyauchi Shunsuke , Tanaka Junko
Published: May 2022

Background: It is said that safe and effective vaccination is an important tool to end the COVID-19 pandemic. However, recent studies have reported hesitation, especially in young adults. Promoting the vaccination of university students, who represent the young adults, will lead to infection prevention measures. The purpose of this study was to clarify to compare the vaccination rates, attitudes toward vaccines, and post-vaccination behavior of students and faculty members in order to understand the actual situation of young population. Methods: We conducted large-scale vaccination of Hiroshima University from 21 June to 18 September 2021. This cross-sectional survey was conducted via e-mail from 27 September to 3 October 2021. Results: The number of second inoculations was 10,833 /14,154 students (76.5%), and 2240/2583 staff members (86.7%). Regarding the impressions after vaccination, the most common answer was “I was able to prevent worsening of the disease even if I was infected”. Many students answered that their range of activities had expanded after vaccination. However, many students (n = 1799, 87.8%) answered as having “no change after vaccination” regarding infection prevention. Conclusion: The high vaccination rate in this survey was thought to be due to the increased sense of security and confidence in the vaccine. The fact that young adults who perform a wide range of activities are careful about infection prevention may be one of the factors that prevents the explosive spread of infection in Japan.
Public Perception towards the COVID-19 Vaccine in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Kurdee Zeyad , Al-Shouli Samia , AlAfaleq Nouf , Meo Sultan Ayoub , Alshahrani Alanoud , Alshehri Aseel , Alkathiri Noura , Bin Saiedan Shaden , Alzahrani Yara
Published: May 2022

The vaccination campaign against COVID-19 is an essential public health strategy to reach herd immunity, eradicate diseases, and prevent a pandemic. This study aimed to investigate the acceptance rate of the COVID-19 vaccine among people in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Out of the 922 participants involved, 294 (31.9%) were male and 628 (68.1%) were female, with a mean age of 30–49 years. A bilingual, self-administered, computer-based questionnaire was designed and distributed through social media platforms. In total, 900 participants (97.6%) showed a high acceptance rate of the vaccine. The vaccine acceptance rate was higher among people aged 60 years and above than in other age groups (p = 0.008) and single individuals compared to other groups (p = 0.003). The results reveal a relatively high acceptance level of the COVID-19 vaccine among study participants. Importantly, regression analysis results show that female gender and elderly participants are more likely to accept the COVID-19 vaccine than their counterparts. Moreover, the main factor that influenced the participants’ perception of the COVID-19 vaccine was the proper timely scientific recommendations.
Pulmonary Embolism after Moderna Vaccination in Kidney Transplant Patients: Two Case Reports and Literature Review
Authors: Chan Wai-Nga , Chen Chih-Shou , Ho Dong-Ru , Huang Yun-Ching , Lin Jian-Hui , Huang Kuo-Tsai , Liu Yu-Liang
Published: May 2022

Currently, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is still an ongoing and constant medical issue, and with upcoming new variants, vaccinations and boosters remain important. The safety of vaccines in patients after kidney transplantation is an essential problem, with thrombosis being one of the severe side effects and vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) revealed as the most commonly reported syndrome for thromboembolic events following COVID-19 vaccination. Here, we present two cases of kidney transplantation developing pulmonary embolism post-Moderna vaccination within 30 days without thrombocytopenia. The first case was a 52-year-old man with history of type II diabetes, hypertension and hyperlipidemia who had had cadaveric kidney transplantation in September 2008, where right leg swelling with claudication occurred 23 days after the second Moderna vaccination. The second case was a 57-year-old man with history of type II diabetes and glaucoma who had had living-related kidney transplantation in April 2013 and then complained of exertional dyspnea 26 days after administration of the third Moderna vaccine. The advantages of vaccination even in immunocompromised patients far outweigh the disadvantages, although clinicians must understand the risks of deep-vein thrombosis or even pulmonary embolism for such patients, which might not occur after just the first vaccination.
Immunogenicity and Reactogenicity of mRNA BNT162b2 COVID-19 Vaccine among Thai Adolescents with Chronic Diseases
Authors: Chantasrisawad Napaporn , Puthanakit Thanyawee , Tangsathapornpong Auchara , Techasaensiri Chonnamet , Phongsamart Wanatpreeya , Suwanpakdee Detchvijitr , Jaruampornpan Peera , Sophonphan Jiratchaya , Suntarattiwong Piyarat , Chotpitayasunondh Tawee
Published: May 2022

Adolescents with underlying diseases are at risk of severe COVID-19. The immune response of BNT162b2 may be poor among immunocompromised adolescents. We aim to describe immunogenicity of mRNA BNT162b2 among adolescents who are immunocompromised or have chronic diseases. We recruited adolescents 12–18 years of age; group A impaired-immunity (post-transplantation, cancer, on immunosuppressive drugs) and group B chronic diseases. A two-dose regimen of BNT162b2 was given. Immunogenicity was determined by surrogate virus neutralization test (sVNT) and IgG against receptor-binding domain (RBD). From August to October 2021, 312 adolescents, with a median age (IQR) of 15 years (13.7–16.5), were enrolled (group A 100, group B 212). The geometric means (GMs) of sVNT (% inhibition) against Delta strain and anti-RBD IgG (BAU/mL) after the 2nd dose among group A were: post-transplantation recipients 52.9 (95% CI 37.7–74.2) and 233.6 (95% CI 79–690.6); adolescents with cancer 62.3 (95% CI 29.2–133.1) and 214.9(95% CI 34.2–1348.6); and adolescents with other immunosuppressive conditions 66.7 (95% CI 52.4–84.8) and 849.8 (95% CI 393.4–1835.8). In group B were: adolescents living with HIV 98 (95% CI 97.3–98.8) and 3240.3 (95% CI 2699–3890.2), and adolescents with other chronic disease 98.6 (95% CI 98.3–98.9) and 3818.5 (95% CI 3490.4–4177.4). At day 90, immunity declined; among impaired-immunity participants were 43.9 (95% CI 30.8–62.4) and 178.7 (95% CI 91.2–350.1) and adolescents with chronic diseases were 90.6 (95% CI 88.4–92.8) and 1037.1 (95% CI 933.3–1152.5). In conclusion, adolescents with impaired immunity had a poor response to 2-doses of BNT162b2, additional dose should be considered. Adolescents with chronic diseases had excellent response but immunity waned after 3 m, booster dose may be required.
Where Am I? SLAM for Mobile Machines on a Smart Working Site
Authors: Xiang Yusheng , Li Dianzhao , Su Tianqing , Zhou Quan , Brach Christine , Mao Samuel S. , Geimer Marcus
Published: May 2022

The current optimization approaches of construction machinery are mainly based on internal sensors. However, the decision of a reasonable strategy is not only determined by its intrinsic signals, but also very strongly by environmental information, especially the terrain. Due to the dynamic changing of the construction site and the consequent absence of a high definition map, the Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) offering the terrain information for construction machines is still challenging. Current SLAM technologies proposed for mobile machines are strongly dependent on costly or computationally expensive sensors, such as RTK GPS and cameras, so that commercial use is rare. In this study, we proposed an affordable SLAM method to create a multi-layer grid map for the construction site so that the machine can have the environmental information and be optimized accordingly. Concretely, after the machine passes by the grid, we can obtain the local information and record it. Combining with positioning technology, we then create a map of the interesting places of the construction site. As a result of our research gathered from Gazebo, we showed that a suitable layout is the combination of one IMU and two differential GPS antennas using the unscented Kalman filter, which keeps the average distance error lower than 2m and the mapping error lower than 1.3% in the harsh environment. As an outlook, our SLAM technology provides the cornerstone to activate many efficiency improvement approaches.
Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) Induces Redox Status Disruption in Swine Granulosa Cells
Authors: Basini Giuseppina , Bussolati Simona , Torcianti Veronica , Grasselli Francesca
Published: May 2022

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is employed in the production and processing of several plastic materials, mainly during the production of waterproof fabrics or nonstick cookware. PFOA is identified as a substance of very high concern, as it is classified as a persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic (PBT) substance because of its persistence in the environment and its potential accumulation in organisms. Thus, safe levels of exposure cannot be established, and PFOA emissions should be minimized. PFOA has recently been linked to several health concerns in humans. In particular, a disruptive effect on redox status homeostasis has been documented, with a potential impairment of normal reproductive function that requires adequate oxidative balance. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of PFOA (2, 20, and 200 ng/mL) on ovarian granulosa cells, a model of reproductive cells. The obtained results reveal that PFOA stimulated cell viability (p < 0.05). Regarding the effects on free radical production, O2−, NO, and H2O2 were significantly inhibited (p < 0.05), while the nonenzymatic antioxidant power was not significantly modified. Collectively, the present results deserve attention since free radical molecules play a crucial role in ovarian follicle development leading to a successful ovulation.
Bibliometric Analysis of Veterinary Communication Education Research over the Last Two Decades: Rare Yet Essential
Authors: Chen Zih-Fang , Hsu Yi-Hsin Elsa , Lee Jih-Jong , Chou Chung-Hsi
Published: May 2022

Research of veterinary communication education is a relatively rare but important field, and its importance has been increasingly noticed recently. This study aims to describe the existing veterinary education research literature by adopting the systematic bibliometric approach. We conducted a comprehensive literature exploration on worldwide veterinary education and veterinary communication education publications in the Web of Science Core Collection database from 1 January 2000 to 31 December 2021. VOSviewer and EXCEL were used to identify trends and patterns in characteristics of the publications, including author affiliations and countries, and the publishing journals. Based on our search criteria, in the past 22 years, there have been 6006 veterinary education publications with 101 publications in 2000, 684 publications in 2021 (577% increase), and 677 communication-related publications with 9 publications in 2000, 107 publications in 2021 (1189% increase). The VOSviewer results indicate that both the United States and England were the most vigorous countries with close collaboration. Our results show the publication quantity has been increasing at a sharp slope rate over the past twenty years, which indicates the importance and growth of veterinary education and the veterinary communication education research field, and identifies the international collaborations among countries and institutions.
The Equine Dental Pulp: Histomorphometric Analysis of the Equine Dental Pulp in Incisors and Cheek Teeth
Authors: Roßgardt Jessica , Heilen Laura Beate , Büttner Kathrin , Dern-Wieloch Jutta , Vogelsberg Jörg , Staszyk Carsten
Published: May 2022

To maintain a healthy and functional status, equine hypsodont teeth have to produce lifelong large amounts of subocclusal dentin to prevent occlusal pulp exposure, which is caused by occlusal wear. To examine the cyto- and histological components that guarantee the lifelong high productivity of equine pulp, a limited number of ten incisors and ten cheek teeth from seven adult horses (aged 5 to 24 years) and five foals were sampled for preliminary histomorphometric and histomorphological evaluations. Independently of age, the equine dental pulp featured constant layers of predentin and odontoblastic cells, as well as soft connective tissue, composed of a cellular fibrous matrix, in which blood vessels and nerve fibers were embedded. As a result of the progressive deposition of newly formed dentin, the layer of dentin became thicker with age, and the size of the pulp chamber decreased. In contrast to the brachydont teeth, the morphological characteristics of the odontoblastic layer and the width of the predentin layer did not change with age. Therefore, it is assumed that the equine pulp tissue retained their juvenile status, which explains its unchanged ability to produce high amounts of subocclusal dentin. These preliminary, but clinically significant, findings are worthy of further investigation in order to identify strategies for equine-specific endodontic therapies.
Vulnerability Hotspots Mapping for Enhancing Sanitation Services Provision: A Case Study of Jordan
Authors: Hammouri Nezar , Talafha Mohammad , Hamarneh Qais , Annab Zeina , Al-Ruzouq Rami , Shanableh Abdallah
Published: May 2022

Enhancing sanitation services is a major challenge for sustainable development and plans. This work aims at developing a vulnerability hotspot mapping for improving sanitation services provision in Jordan based on a multi-weighted criteria model. Multiple spatial, physical, demographic, social, economic, and sanitation data were collected and compiled using GIS. We also considered experts’ and stakeholders’ opinions to determine the necessary indicators needed to develop Sanitation Hotspot Index (SHI). We used the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) analysis to assign the relative weights of ten criteria. We also checked the consistency of AHP results. We found that the sanitation and population density got the highest relative weights, while soil hydraulic conductivity got the lowest. Based on the results of AHP, we developed two SHI mapping for two administrative levels: district and neighborhood levels. The maps classified the sanitation vulnerability into five classes ranging from most vulnerable to least vulnerable. The developed SHI maps can be used as a decision support tool for decision-makers and planners to allocate the necessary funds and orient the aids from donors and international agencies to enhance sanitation services in the country’s most vulnerable areas.
Analysis and Forecasting of Wetness-Dryness Encountering of a Multi-Water System Based on a Vine Copula Function-Bayesian Network
Authors: Wang Sen , Zhong Ping-An , Zhu Feilin , Xu Chengjing , Wang Yiwen , Liu Wenjie
Published: May 2022

The analysis and forecasting of wetness-dryness encountering is the basis of joint operation of a multi-water system, which is important for water management of intake areas of water transfer projects. On the basis of a vine copula function-Bayesian network, this study developed an analysis and forecasting of a wetness-dryness encountering model. The model consists of two modules: firstly, the joint distribution among multi-inflows is established based on the vine copula function, and the obtained historical laws of wetness-dryness encountering; then, a Bayesian network is established in order to forecast wetness-dryness encountering in the future, using the forecasting information of some water systems. The model was applied to the water receiving areas inside Jiangsu Province of the South-to-North Water Transfer East Route Project in China. The results revealed the following: (1) Compared with conventional copulas, the probability values of wetness-dryness encountering obtained by the vine copula function were closer to the observed values. (2) The wetness-dryness encountering in 2017–2019 was forecasted, and the results were consistent with reality. These results demonstrate that the proposed model improves the accuracy of the obtained historical laws of wetness-dryness encountering, and that it can forecast wetness-dryness encountering in the future.
Assessing the Inclusion of Water Circularity Principles in Environment-Related City Concepts Using a Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Miranda Ana Catarina , Fidélis Teresa , Roebeling Peter , Meireles Inês
Published: May 2022

Cities face increasing water pressure and supply issues, jeopardizing the balance between growth and sustainable water resource use. Green, resilient, smart, circular, blue, water sensitive, or water-wise city concepts are increasingly part of the design of strategies to rethink cities. These concepts have motivated many studies, but little is known about their relative relevance among the scientific community and how they consider water circularity. The objective of this study is to assess how these city concepts incorporate water circularity principles. The assessment is based on a bibliometric analysis of scientific articles recently published. The findings show that despite the wide number of articles dedicated to the various city concepts, water circularity-related challenges are still a small niche of concern, strongly driven by European authors. Moreover, our study showed that water circularity principles are not equally considered among the different city concepts. This uneven assimilation of principles in influential city concepts unveiled gaps regarding water circularity. This brings a new perspective to the use of more integrated definitions, highlighting the importance of such principles in the future use of these concepts when envisioning roadmaps toward sustainable water use in cities.
Preparation and Modification of PVDF Membrane and Study on Its Anti-Fouling and Anti-Wetting Properties
Authors: Wang Yubo , Guo Qiang , Li Zhen , Li Jingfeng , He Ruimin , Xue Kaiyang , Liu Shuqin
Published: May 2022

Membrane distillation (MD) has unique advantages in the treatment of high-salt wastewater because it can make full use of low-grade heat sources. The high salinity mine water in western mining areas of China is rich in Ca2+, Mg2+, SO42− and HCO3−. In the MD process, the inorganic substances in the feed will cause membrane fouling. At the same time, low surface tension organic substances which could be introduced in the mining process will cause irreversible membrane wetting. To improve the anti-fouling and anti-wetting properties of the membrane, the PVDF omniphobic membrane in this paper was prepared by electrospinning. The water contact angle (WCA) can reach 153°. Direct contact membrane distillation (DCMD) was then used for treating high-salinity mine water. The results show that, compared with the unmodified membranes, the flux reduction rate of the omniphobic membrane was reduced by 34% in 20 h, showing good anti-fouling property. More importantly, the omniphobic membrane cannot be wetted easily by the feed containing 0.3 mmol/L SDS. The extended Derjaguin–Landau–Verwey–Overbeek (XDLVO) theory was used to analyze the free energy of the interface interaction between the membrane and pollutants, aiming to show that the omniphobic membrane was more difficult to pollute. The result was consistent with the flux variation in the DCMD process, providing an effective basis for explaining the mechanism of membrane fouling and membrane wetting.
Moroccan Lagoon Microbiomes
Authors: Chaouni Bouchra , Idrissi Azami Abdellah , Essayeh Soumaya , Arrafiqui El Houcine , Bailal Abdelhakim , Raoui Sanae , Amzazi Saaïd , Twaddle Alan , El Hamouti Chahrazade , Boukhatem Noureddine , Timinouni Mohammed , El Otmani Fatima , Chahboune Rajaa , Barrijal Said , El Homani Abdellatif , Nejjari Chakib , Zaid El Houssine , Hamamouch Noureddine , Bakkali Fadil , Amaral-Zettler Linda , Ghazal Hassan
Published: May 2022

Lagoons are fragile marine ecosystems that are considerably affected by anthropogenic pollutants. We performed a spatiotemporal characterization of the microbiome of two Moroccan lagoons, Marchica and Oualidia, both classified as Ramsar sites, the former on the Mediterranean coast and the latter on the Atlantic coast. We investigated their microbial diversity and abundance using 16S rRNA amplicon- and shotgun-based metagenomics approaches during the summers of 2014 and 2015. The bacterial microbiome was composed primarily of Proteobacteria (25–53%, 29–29%), Cyanobacteria (34–12%, 11–0.53%), Bacteroidetes (24–16%, 23–43%), Actinobacteria (7–11%, 13–7%), and Verrucomicrobia (4–1%, 15–14%) in Marchica and Oualidia in 2014 and 2015, respectively. Interestingly, 48 strains were newly reported in lagoon ecosystems, while eight unknown viruses were detected in Mediterranean Marchica only. Statistical analysis showed higher microbial diversity in the Atlantic lagoon than in the Mediterranean lagoon and a robust relationship between alpha diversity and geographic sampling locations. This first-ever metagenomics study on Moroccan aquatic ecosystems enriched the national catalog of marine microorganisms. They will be investigated as candidates for bioindication properties, biomonitoring potential, biotechnology valorization, biodiversity protection, and lagoon health assessment.
Unusual Catalytic Effect of Fe3+ on 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid Degradation by Radio Frequency Discharge in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Liu Yongjun , Sun Bing
Published: May 2022

2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) is a widely used herbicide for controlling broad-leaved weeds. The development of an efficient process for treating the refractory 2,4-D wastewater is necessary. In this study, liquid-phase degradation of 2,4-D induced by radio frequency discharge (RFD) was studied. Experimental results showed that the degradation was more effective in acidic than in neutral or alkaline solutions. During the degradation, a large amount of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2, 1.2 mM/min, almost equal to that without 2,4-D) was simultaneously produced, and catalytic effects of both ferric (Fe3+) and ferrous (Fe2+) ions on the degradation were examined and compared. It was found that 2,4-D degraded more rapidly in the case of Fe3+ than the that of Fe2+. Such a scenario is explained that Fe3+ was successively reduced to Fe2+ by the atomic hydrogen (•H) and •OH-adducts of 2,4-D resulting from RFD, which in turn catalyzed the H2O2 to form more •OH radicals through Fenton’s reaction, indicating that Fe3+ not only accelerates the degradation rate but also increases the amount of •OH available for 2,4-D degradation by suppressing the back reaction between the •H and •OH. 2,4-dichlorophenol, 4,6-dichlororesorcinol, 2-hydroxy-4-chloro- and 2-chloro-4-hydroxy- phenoxyacetic acids, hydroxylated 2,4-Ds, and carboxylic acids (glycolic, formic and oxalic) were identified as the byproducts. Energy yields of RFD have been compared with those of other nonthermal plasma processes.
Determining Flood Zonation Maps, Using New Ensembles of Multi-Criteria Decision-Making, Bivariate Statistics, and Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Hadian Sanaz , Afzalimehr Hossein , Soltani Negar , Tabarestani Ehsan Shahiri , Karakouzian Moses , Nazari-Sharabian Mohammad
Published: May 2022

Golestan Province is one of the most vulnerable areas to catastrophic flood events in Iran. The flood severity in this region has grown dramatically during the last decades, demanding a major investigation. Accordingly, an authentic map providing detailed information on floods is required to reduce future flood disasters. Three ensemble models produced by the combination of Evaluation Based on Distance from Average Solution (EDAS) and Multilayer Perceptron Neural Network (MLP) with Frequency Ratio (FR), and Weights of Evidence (WOE) are used to quantify the map flood susceptibility in Golestan Province, in the north of Iran. Ten flood effective criteria, namely altitude, slope degree, slope aspect, plan curvature, distance from rivers, Topographic Wetness Index (TWI), rainfall, soil type, geology, and land use, are considered for the modeling process. The flood zonation maps are validated by the receiver operating curve (ROC). The results show that the most precise model is MLP-FR (AUROC = 0.912), followed by EDAS-FR-AHP (AUROC = 0.875), and EDAS-WOE-AHP (AUROC = 0.845). The high accuracies of all methods applied to illustrate their capability in predicting flood susceptibility in future studies.
Impact of Flooding on Shallow Groundwater Chemistry in the Taklamakan Desert Hinterland: Remote Sensing Inversion and Geochemical Methods
Authors: Peng Lei , Shi Qing-Dong , Wan Yan-Bo , Shi Hao-Bo , Kahaer Yasen-jiang , Abudu Anwaier
Published: May 2022

Understanding the effect of flooding on groundwater quality is imperative for oasis vegetation protection and local ecological environment development. We used geochemical and remote sensing inversion methods to evaluate the effects of flood recharge on the groundwater hydrochemical and geochemical processes in the Daliyaboy Oasis. Groundwater samples were collected from 30 ecological observation wells in the study area before (PRF) and after (POF) the flood. Except for small changes in HCO3− and K+ and a decrease in pH, ion levels were higher POF than PRF, and the water chemistry was essentially unchanged. In the POF groundwater, HCO3− was correlated with Cl−, Na+, Mg2+, total soluble solids (TDS), and electrical conductivity (EC), but not with SO42−, Ca2+, K+, or pH, and was positively correlated with all other variables, while the remaining variables, except for pH, were strongly positively correlated with each other. PRF water chemistry was controlled by silicate and evaporite mineral weathering and evaporation processes, resulting in high groundwater TDS, EC, and a major ion content, while POF major groundwater ions were regulated by mineral weathering and flood recharge. We demonstrated the high accuracy of remote sensing inversion, confirming this as a reliable method for evaluating groundwater chemistry. The results of the study help to reshape and predict the history of the regional hydrogeological environment and hydrogeochemical development, and provide a theoretical basis for assessing the rational use of local water resources and protecting the ecological environment.
Research on the Relationship between Stall Propagation and Flange Leakage of Mixed-Flow Pumps
Authors: Lu Dele , Li Wei , Li Shuo , Ji Leilei , Yang Yi
Published: May 2022

In order to explore the internal relationship between stall core propagation and flange leakage flow in the rotating stall of a mixed-flow pump, based on the k-ε turbulence model, a SIMPLEC algorithm and hexahedral structured grid are used to simulate the internal flow field of the mixed-flow pump. By setting the flange clearance as 0.2 mm, 0.5 mm and 0.8 mm, the propagation characteristics of the rotating stall and the unsteady characteristics of flange leakage flow of the mixed-flow pump under the condition of near stall are studied, and the influence of the flange clearance on the pressure fluctuation characteristics of the mixed-flow pump under the condition of near stall is analyzed. The results show that the stall core is located at the outlet of the impeller and propagates from the leading edge of the adjacent blade along the opposite direction of blade rotation to the next flow channel. The pressure gradient in the stall channel and the energy loss are large. When the flange clearance is 0.5 mm and 0.8 mm, the stall core changes from one to two, and the propagation mechanism of the stall core tends to be complex in the two adjacent flow channels. When the flange clearance is 0.8 mm, the propagation period decreases. The variation law of leakage flow is consistent with the propagation law of stall core. When the flow passage changes from stall state to non-stall state, the leakage flow also changes from one state to another, so the leakage flow can be used as a form of apparent stall. Under the condition of near stall, the pressure fluctuation curve of the adjacent monitoring points has a large phase difference consistent with the propagation period of the stall core, and has a strong pressure drop. When the flange clearance is 0.5 mm and 0.8 mm, the time domain curve of pressure fluctuation has two wave troughs in one cycle. In the near stall condition, the main frequency of the pressure fluctuation at the monitoring point is the stall frequency, and the amplitude of the main frequency at the middle of the outlet is the largest. The characteristics of flange leakage flow and pressure fluctuation can better reflect the flow situation in the pump when rotating stall occurs. The research results can provide a basis for judging whether stall occurs in the flow passage of the pump.
Machine Learning Algorithms for Biophysical Classification of Lithuanian Lakes Based on Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Grendaitė Dalia , Stonevičius Edvinas
Published: May 2022

Inland waters are dynamic systems that are under pressure from anthropogenic activities, thus constant observation of these waters is essential. Remote sensing provides a great opportunity to have frequent observations of inland waters. The aim of this study was to create a data-driven model that uses a machine learning algorithm and Sentinel-2 data to classify lake observations into four biophysical classes: Clear, Moderate, Chla-dominated, and Turbid. We used biophysical variables such as water transparency, chlorophyll concentration, and suspended matter to define these classes. We tested six machine learning algorithms that use spectral features of lakes as input and chose random forest classifiers, which yielded the most accurate results. We applied our two-step model on 19,292 lake spectra for the years 2015–2020, from 226 lakes. The prevalent class in 67% of lakes was Clear, while 19% of lakes were likely affected by strong algal blooms (Chla-dominated class). The models created in this study can be applied to lakes in other regions where similar lake classes are found. Biophysical lake classification using Sentinel-2 MSI data can help to observe long-term and short-term changes in lakes, thus it can be a useful tool for water management experts and for the public.
Disaster-Resilient Communities on Flood Plains and Their Agricultural Regeneration: A Case Study in Meinong Plain, Taiwan
Authors: Tsai Shu-Chen , Lee Su-Hsin
Published: May 2022

Taiwan’s near-mountain alluvial plain is a high-risk area with frequent disasters, and residents have become more tolerant of the compound disasters that occur with overall environmental changes associated with the development of urbanization in recent years. This paper presents a case study of a near-mountainous alluvial plain in Southern Taiwan. The Hakka ethnic group is the main community in the study area and also the main research object. This case study illustrates the disaster resilience of the community to natural and artificial disasters. This study adopted two research approaches, namely historical geography and political economic geography, as well as community resilience theory. Research methods including case study, secondary literature analysis, fieldwork, and interviews were used. Through text analysis, it was found that (1) the community’s awareness of disaster avoidance was rooted in the experience of reclamation in the early 17th century; (2) communities have experienced artificial disasters caused by political and economic intervention, which have been transformed into disaster awareness and community resilience; (3) cumulative artificial disasters have a greater impact on communities than unpredictable natural disasters; and (4) the energy of community resilience and agricultural regeneration is based on the duality of disasters.
Virtuous Cycle: An Idea of Water Resources Management and Top-Level Planning
Authors: Liu Zhiwu , Sang Xuefeng , Zheng Yang , Yan Denghua , Zhang Wei
Published: May 2022

Facing the conflict between human activities and the ecological environment, this study proposes a “Virtuous Cycle” concept of water resource management and top-level planning. By analyzing and summarizing typical experiences from both macro-policy and micro-practice, the characteristics and mechanisms of the Virtuous Cycle are discussed. According to the analysis method of “Problem-Attribution-Goal-Task-Measures” (PAGTM), taking the “Five Water Governance” water management project in Zhejiang Province of China as a case study, the specific measures and technical framework of the Virtuous Cycle are explored. This study hopes to provide a reference for the top-level planning and path design of harmonious and sustainable natural-social water resources management.
Analysis of One-Dimensional Consolidation Considering Non-Darcian Flow Described by Non-Newtonian Index Incorporating Impeded Drainage Boundaries
Authors: Xu Zan , Cao Wengui , Cui Penglu , Li Huixin , Wei Yunbo
Published: May 2022

The nonlinear flow law and soil boundaries greatly affect the dissipation process of soil consolidation. Thus, to study the impact of nonlinear flow under impeded drainage boundaries, the classical non-Darcian flow model described by non-Newtonian index was introduced. The numerical solutions are derived in detail by the finite difference method (FDM) for one-dimensional (1-D) consolidation incorporating the impeded boundaries, and the computer program is compiled. Then, comparing two analytical solutions based on Darcy’s law and a numerical case of Forchheimeer’s flow, the validity of the present method was verified. The numerical results indicate that there is a critical depth phenomenon for the non-Darcian flow incorporating impeded drainage boundaries. The excess pore water pressure of the soil below the critical depth dissipates more slowly than that of Darcy’s law, whereas the pore pressure of the soil above the critical depth dissipates more quickly than that of Darcy’s law. Moreover, considering that the non-Darcian flow with the non-Newtonian index will still delay the overall consolidation rate of the soft ground, the greater the nondimensional parameter I0 is, the more obvious the lagging phenomenon of the overall dissipation of pore pressure is.
Nitrogen Addition Effects on Wetland Soils Depend on Environmental Factors and Nitrogen Addition Methods: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yin Zeyao , Yu Xiaofei , Zou Yuanchun , Ding Shanshan , Zhang Jingyao
Published: May 2022

Identifying the effects of nitrogen (N) addition under key environmental factors and N addition methods can aid in understanding the paradigm of N addition in wetland ecosystems. In this study, we conducted a meta-analysis of 30 field studies of wetland ecosystems and selected 14 indicators. We found that the changes in soil TN and SOC contributed significantly to the changes in microbial community structure under N additions. The environmental factors and N addition methods altered the direction or size of N addition effects on wetland soil properties, microbial diversity and key C and N cycling genes. N-limited conditions and climate conditions determined the N addition effect direction on SOC, and saline-alkali conditions determined the N addition effect direction on microbial diversity and AOB abundance. Environmental heterogeneity and N addition methods determine the response of wetland soil to nitrogen application. Therefore, it is crucial to study the effects of environmental factors and N addition methods on the N deposition of wetland soils.
Numerical Study on the Shear Stress Characteristics of Open-Channel Flow over Rough Beds
Authors: Wen Jiaqi , Chen Yongcan , Liu Zhaowei , Li Manjie
Published: May 2022

Bed shear stress is an important measure of benthic habitats since it is related to many ecological processes. In this study, we focused on the fluctuating characteristics of shear stress in rough-bed open-channel flows. The roughness element method was adopted to mimic natural rough beds and the Improved Delayed Detached Eddy Simulation (IDDES) model was used to obtain comprehensive information about shear stress near the rough bed. Three arrangement patterns of the roughness elements were simulated to compare their effects on flow structure and shear stresses. The arrangements of the roughness elements altered the Reynold stress and turbulent kinetic energy characteristics, due to the variance of blockage in lateral directions that led to flow detachment and changes in the flow directions. Quadrant analysis revealed the spatial variations of the instantaneous shear stress burst events at different locations in the wake. By using spectrum analysis, the accumulation of shear-stress energy from small to large vortex scales was estimated, which revealed that the instantaneous effect of the shear stress was significantly stronger than the effect of the time-averaged shear stress, especially on small scales. The results of this study suggest the significance of the fluctuation part of shear stress in further studies on ecological processes.
Artificial and Natural Water Bodies Change in China, 2000–2020
Authors: Wang Yong , Lu Shanlong , Zi Feng , Tang Hailong , Li Mingyang , Li Xinru , Fang Chun , Ikhumhen Harrison Odion
Published: May 2022

Artificial and natural water bodies, such as reservoirs, ponds, rivers and lakes, are important components of water-related ecosystems; they are also important indicators of the impact of human activities and climate change on surface water resources. However, due to the global and regional lack of artificial and natural water bodies data sets, understanding of the changes in water-related ecosystems under the dual impact of human activities and climate change is limited and scientific and effective protection and restoration actions are restricted. In this paper, artificial and natural water bodies data sets for China are developed for the years 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015 and 2020 based on satellite remote sensing surface water and artificial water body location sample data sets. The characteristics and causes of the temporal and spatial distributions of the artificial and natural water bodies are also analyzed. The results revealed that the area of artificial and natural water bodies in China shows an overall increasing trend, with obvious differences in spatial distribution during the last 20 years, and that the fluctuation range of artificial water bodies is smaller than that of natural water bodies. This research is critical for understanding the composition and long-term changes in China’s surface water system and for supporting and formulating scientific and rational strategies for water-related ecosystem protection and restoration.
Integration of Electric Vehicles into Microgrids: Policy Implication for the Industrial Application of Carbon Neutralisation in China
Authors: Wu Yang (Andrew) , Lau Yui-Yip , Wu Ju-Ai
Published: May 2022

With the dynamic development of renewable energies, energy storage devices, and electric vehicles, microgrids have been playing an increasingly vital role in smart power grids. Under the recent development of carbon neutralisation, microgrid systems containing multiple clean energy sources have become significant modules for energy conservation and emission reduction. Considering technological and environmental elements, we investigated the economic operation of microgrids with the integration of electric vehicles. In this paper, carbon trading mechanisms and operation scheduling strategies are analysed in the simulation models. Then, transaction costs and power balance are discussed. Industrial applications and policy implications are also presented.
Optimization of the approach to the use of medical equipment in order to increase its economic efficiency
Authors:   Industry Solutions Development Department of Cloud Solutions LLC (Okdesk brand), Moscow, Nikolaev Dmitry Igorevich
Published: May 2022

It is important for medical organizations to avoid downtime of medical equipment. Service support of medical equipment is of great strategic importance for the country's healthcare and the financial performance of a medical organization. The author identifies four main ways to reduce the risks of downtime of medical equipment.
Experience of an alternative approach to the formation and improvement of practical skills and skills for students during the mastering of professional modules programs
Authors:   APOU UR «Republican Medical College named after the Hero of the Soviet Union F. A. Pushina of the Ministry of Health of the Udmurt Republic» (APOU UR «RMC MH UR»), Udmurt Republic, Izhevsk, Russia, Morozkova Olga Alexandrovna , Gorodilova Elena Vladimirovna ,   POU UR «Republican Medical College named after the Hero of the Soviet Union F. A. Pushina of the Ministry of Health of the Udmurt Republic» (APOU UR «RMC MH UR»),Udmurt Republic, Izhevs, Asulmardanova Liliya Imamovna ,   «Republican Medical College named after the Hero of the Soviet Union F. A. Pushina of the Ministry of Health of the Udmurt Republic» (APOU UR «RMC MH UR»), Udmurt Republic, Izhevsk
Published: May 2022

The result of mastering the programs of professional modules in the training of mid-level healthcare professionals is the ability to independently carry out a certain type of professional activity, which includes practical experience, skills and knowledge. To improve the efficiency of mastering professional competencies, a reasonable combination of techniques and methods of educational technologies is necessary. The article presents the experience of the combined application of specific methodological techniques, depending on the form, type and purpose of training.
Motivation of professional activities medium staff
Authors:   FSBEI of HE «Samara State Medical University» of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russia, Rechkin Alexander Viktorovich , Kropotova Svetlana Vladimirovna ,   FSBEI of HE «Samara State Medical University» of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation
Published: May 2022

The purpose of the study is to increase the motivation of nursing staff as a guarantor of the quality of medical care. Results. The literature on motivational management was studied, patients’ opinion was analyzed as a factor influencing the motivation of the work of medical personnel, the role and influence of motivation on the professional activities of nursing staff, the opinion of managers about specific means of influencing the motivation of employees, the role and influence of motivation on the work of the head of the service. Conclusion. Important factors for improving the quality of medical care are: addressing the issues of holding general polyclinic conferences using modern technical means (slide shows, using a video projector), improving the equipment of workplaces (equipment, devices and medical supplies, overalls), organizing for medical of the staff of the room of emotional unloading, systematization of the work of the receptionist by equipping it with information guides and office equipment, on the use of moral rewards (thank you, a diploma, a board of honor, etc.), periodic personnel surveys in order to identify priority motivating factors in labor activity.
Land consolidation and spatial development of rural areas
Authors:   State University of Land Management, Moscow, Sagaidak A. E. , Sagaidak A. A. ,   State University of Land Management, Moscow
Published: May 2022

The article analyzes the impact of the consolidation of agricultural land on the spatial development of rural areas on the basis of rent regulation of the agrarian sector of the national economy.
Protection of the humus layer of soils. The economic, legal and practical aspects
Authors:   Peoples' Friendship University of Russia, Moscow, Bondarev B.E. , Ginzburg M.E. ,   LLC "Giprosemecology", Moscow, Nosov S.I. ,   Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Moscow, Sapozhnikov P.M. ,   Faculty of Soil Science, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow
Published: May 2022

The preservation of the most fertile soil layer is the most important task in any state. The Russian Federation has developed and operates a number of regulatory and legal documents for the protection of the fertile soil layer. Despite this, according to experts, 1.5 billion tons of fertile soil are lost annually in Russia. In this article, the authors provide an analysis of some of the causes of this process and suggest specific ways to solve this problem.
The combined method of the topographic survey by example of an infrastructure facility in Korenovsk city
Authors:   Kuban State Technological University, Krasnodar, Kiryunikova N.M. , Lesovaya E.D. ,   Kuban State Technological University, Krasnodar, Pobozhensky E.A. ,   Kuban State Technological University, Krasnodar, Oleynikova L.A. ,   Kuban State Technological University, Krasnodar
Published: May 2022

The topographic survey using in the preparation of maps and terrain plans gives a complete picture of the site, indicates the levels (relief differences), the location of water sources, utilities and green spaces. Such data is required by architectural and engineering companies when planning new infrastructure facilities. The article discusses the main stages of geodetic works, the stages of creating topographic plans, and also describes the methodology for performing topography by a combined method using geodetic and satellite equipment.
Some aspects of fuel and energy complex rational development in terms of energy security
Authors: Koriakina Liudmila , Novikova Olga
Published: May 2022

The article has examined specifics and threats to the energy security of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). The fuel and energy balance of the region has been analyzed. Evaluation of the region`s energy security using an indicative method has been carried out. The possibility of energy security optimization and increase for the region`s fuel and energy complex has been analyzed.
Logistic and mathematical model of the effectiveness of liquefied natural gas use
Authors: Medvedeva O. , Perevalov Sergei
Published: May 2022

As a rule, when selecting natural gas transportation mode to various consumer categories one considers several variants in relation to the distance between the source and consumer – gas pipeline construction or building infrastructure for liquefied gas. The paper suggests the solution of the specific task to supply consumers with liquefied natural gas (LNG), development of the logistic model of system`s optimal functioning within the complex: LNG production plant – the consumer. Based on the calculation results for the Republic of Karelia conditions, the recommendations have been suggested for optimal source location and transport component optimization.
Use of heat pumps in CHP with cross-connections in a context of waste heat deficit
Authors: Anikina Irina , Kalmykov Konstantin
Published: May 2022

The article presents the enlarged calculation and analysis of typical solutions of cogeneration plant`s heat network of CHP with cross-connections using the first phase of Avtovo CHP in Saint Petersburg as an example. As a way of CHP-15 cogeneration plant scheme optimization use of vapor compression heat pumps has been chosen and also lithium bromide absorption heat pumps to decrease the heat load of boilers in the deaeration plant. As a source of low-grade heat, a return heating water has been considered, and as a consumer – feed water of heating network.
Electromagnetic compatibility in electric power production industry: educational research of isolation transformers in the frequency domain
Authors: Eliseev Artem
Published: May 2022

The methodology is presented for educational research of wideband single-phase isolation transformer which is designed for circuit's galvanic isolation and protection of signal receiver from the common mode in a form of voltage and utilized in the technique of electromagnetic compatibility of different information-measuring electrical equipment at electric power facilities. The methodology has been introduced to the laboratory-based practical for bachelor`s program in the area of «Electric power industry and electrical engineering» in the discipline «Electromagnetic compatibility».