bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advances in Amine-Surface Functionalization of Inorganic Adsorbents for Water Treatment and Antimicrobial Activities: A Review
Authors: Bouazizi Nabil , Vieillard Julien , Samir Brahim , Le Derf Franck
Published: January 2022

In the last decade, adsorption has exhibited promising and effective outcomes as a treatment technique for wastewater contaminated with many types of pollutants such as heavy metals, dyes, pharmaceuticals, and bacteria. To achieve such effectiveness, a number of potential adsorbents have been synthesized and applied for water remediation and antimicrobial activities. Among these inorganic adsorbents (INAD), activated carbon, silica, metal oxide, metal nanoparticles, metal–organic fibers, and graphene oxide have been evaluated. In recent years, significant efforts have been made in the development of highly efficient adsorbent materials for gas and liquid phases. For gas capture and water decontamination, the most popular and known functionalization strategy is the chemical grafting of amine, due to its low cost, ecofriendliness, and effectiveness. In this context, various amines such as 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES), diethanolamine (DEA), dendrimer-based polyamidoamine (PAMAM), branched polyethyleneimine (PEI), and others are employed for the surface modification of INADs to constitute a large panel of resource and low-cost materials usable as an alternative to conventional treatments aimed at removing organic and inorganic pollutants and pathogenic bacteria. Amine-grafted INAD has long been considered as a promising approach for the adsorption of both inorganic and organic pollutants. The goal of this review is to provide an overview of surface modifications through amine grafting and their adsorption behavior under diverse conditions. Amine grafting strategies are investigated in terms of the effects of the solvent, temperature, and the concentration precursor. The literature survey presented in this work provides evidence of the significant potential of amine-grafted INAD to remove not only various contaminants separately from polluted water, but also to remove pollutant mixtures and bacteria.
Development of High Temperature Resistant Stereocomplex PLA for Injection Moulding
Authors: Körber Sebastian , Moser Kevin , Diemert Jan
Published: January 2022

In this study, the production of stereocomplex PLA formulations (sc-PLA) by compounding and subsequent injection moulding at different mould temperatures was investigated. Several selective nucleating agents were identified and compounded with different poly(L-lactide)/poly(D-lactide) (PLLA/PDLA) ratios on a co-rotating twin screw extruder. The effect of nucleating agents (NA) on the crystallisation behaviour of the compound was systematically investigated by DSC analysis. The crystallisation behaviour of NA-21 (aluminium complex of a phosphoric ester), also in combination with talc, under cooling rates of up to 70 K/min was analysed. The wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD) results showed a complete stereocomplex (sc) crystal formation on all specimens containing NA-21 even at the highest cooling rates. The thermo-mechanical testing of sc-PLA shows a Young’s modulus of approx. 3 GPa, yield stress of 30–40 MPa, elongation of 1%, and a heat deflection temperature (HDT-B) up to 180 °C. Processing sc-PLA exclusively via the processing route of compounding and injection moulding will open new areas of application for PLA at higher temperatures.
Internal Geometric Quality Improvement of Optical Remote Sensing Satellite Images with Image Reorientation
Authors: Cao Jinshan , Zhou Nan , Shang Haixing , Ye Zhiwei , Zhang Zhiqi
Published: January 2022

When the in-orbit geometric calibration of optical satellite cameras is not performed in a precise or timely manner, optical remote sensing satellite images (ORSSIs) are produced with inaccurate camera parameters. The internal orientation (IO) biases of ORSSIs caused by inaccurate camera parameters show a discontinuous distorted characteristic and cannot be compensated by a simple orientation model. The internal geometric quality of ORSSIs will, therefore, be worse than expected. In this study, from the ORSSI users’ perspective, a feasible internal geometric quality improvement method is presented for ORSSIs with image reorientation. In the presented method, a sensor orientation model, an external orientation (EO) model, and an IO model are successively established. Then, the EO and IO model parameters are estimated with ground control points. Finally, the original image is reoriented with the estimated IO model parameters. Ten HaiYang-1C coastal zone imager (CZI) images, a ZiYuan-3 02 nadir image, a GaoFen-1B panchromatic image, and a GaoFen-1D panchromatic image, were tested. The experimental results showed that the IO biases of ORSSIs caused by inaccurate camera parameters could be effectively eliminated with the presented method. The IO accuracies of all the tested images were improved to better than 1.0 pixel.
Determination of Time Domain Reflectometry Surface Sensors Sensitivity Depending on Geometry and Material Moisture
Authors: Suchorab Zbigniew , Malec Agnieszka , Sobczuk Henryk , Łagód Grzegorz , Gorgol Izolda , Łazuka Ewa , Brzyski Przemysław , Trník Anton
Published: January 2022

The article concerns the electric techniques of moisture detection that are based on the evaluation of the apparent permittivity of the tested medium. The main goal of the research was to evaluate the non-invasive Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) sensors’ sensitivity by measuring the span of elements and material moisture. To that aim, two non-invasive sensor designs were investigated for their sensitivity in the evaluation of the apparent permittivity value of aerated concrete. Sensors A and B were characterized by the spacing between the measuring elements equal to 30 mm and 70 mm, respectively. The tested samples differed in moisture, ranging between 0 and 0.3 cm3/cm3 volumetric water content. Within the research, it was stated that in the case of the narrower sensor (A), the range of the sensor equals about 30 mm, and in the case of the wider design (B), it equals about 50 mm. Additionally, it was stated that material moisture influences the range of sensor influence. In the case of the dry and low-saturated material, it was not possible to evaluate the range of sensor sensitivity using the adopted method, whereas the range of sensor signal influence was visible for the moist material.
Advances in Therapeutic Monitoring of Lithium in the Management of Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Sheikh Mahsa , Qassem Meha , Triantis Iasonas F. , Kyriacou Panicos A.
Published: January 2022

Since the mid-20th century, lithium continues to be prescribed as a first-line mood stabilizer for the management of bipolar disorder (BD). However, lithium has a very narrow therapeutic index, and it is crucial to carefully monitor lithium plasma levels as concentrations greater than 1.2 mmol/L are potentially toxic and can be fatal. The quantification of lithium in clinical laboratories is performed by atomic absorption spectrometry, flame emission photometry, or conventional ion-selective electrodes. All these techniques are cumbersome and require frequent blood tests with consequent discomfort which results in patients evading treatment. Furthermore, the current techniques for lithium monitoring require highly qualified personnel and expensive equipment; hence, it is crucial to develop low-cost and easy-to-use devices for decentralized monitoring of lithium. The current paper seeks to review the pertinent literature rigorously and critically with a focus on different lithium-monitoring techniques which could lead towards the development of automatic and point-of-care analytical devices for lithium determination.
Development of an Innovative Mechatronic Binder Machine
Authors: Sousa João , Figueiredo Luis , Ventura Carlos , Mendonça João Pedro , Machado José
Published: January 2022

This paper describes the development of a mechatronic punch and bind office machine. Integrating smart technologies in the existing traditional business machines will ease the evolution of these systems, enabling productivity and efficiency. The development of an experimental platform that enables further advances in servitization is required. To increase the binding rate of the office document, as well as to reduce the likelihood of errors, efforts have been made to develop a measuring system that allows the document to be properly measured and specifies the appropriate binding spine at the same time. As a complement, developments have been conducted in a system that enables the verification of the inserted spine. In addition, a system for automated document binding along with an integrated platform that allows the communication between all systems is presented. In both its hardware design and its underlying sensors, the new system has several advantages, providing significant performance improvements and upgradability over existing systems. This alternative comprises a system that enables a variety of sheets of paper, plastic or other materials to be punched.
Open-Ended Transmission Coaxial Probes for Sarcopenia Assessment
Authors: Meaney Paul , Geimer Shireen D. , diFlorio-Alexander Roberta M. , Augustine Robin , Raynolds Timothy
Published: January 2022

We developed a handheld, side-by-side transmission-based probe for interrogating tissue to diagnose sarcopenia—a condition largely characterized by muscle loss and replacement by fat. While commercial microwave reflection-based probes exist, they can only be used in a lab for a variety of applications. The penetration depth of these probes is only in the order of 0.3 mm, which does not even traverse the skin layer, and minor motion of the coaxial feedlines can completely dismantle the calibration. Our device builds primarily on the transmission-based concept that allows for substantially greater signal penetration depth operating over a very broad bandwidth. Additional features were integrated to further improve the penetration, optimize the geometry for a more focused planar excitation, and juxtapose the coaxial apertures for more controlled interrogation. The larger coaxial apertures further increased the penetration depth while retaining the broadband performance. Three-dimensional printing technology made it possible for the apertures to be compressed into ellipses for interrogation in a near-planar geometry. Finally, fixed side-by-side positioning provided repeatable and reliable performance. The probes were also not susceptible to multipath signal corruption due to the close proximity of the transmitting and receiving apertures. The new concept worked from 100 MHz to over 8 GHz and could sense property changes as deep as 2–3 cm. While the signal changes due to deeper feature aberrations were more subtle than for signals emanating from the skin and subcutaneous fat layers, the large property contrast between muscle and fat is a sarcopenic indication that helps to distinguish even the deepest objects. This device has the potential to provide needed specificity information about the relevant underlying tissue.
Detection and Analysis of Corrosion and Contact Resistance Faults of TiN and CrN Coatings on 410 Stainless Steel as Bipolar Plates in PEM Fuel Cells
Authors: Forouzanmehr Mohsen , Reza Kashyzadeh Kazem , Borjali Amirhossein , Ivanov Anastas , Jafarnode Mosayeb , Gan Tat-Hean , Wang Bin , Chizari Mahmoud
Published: January 2022

Bipolar Plates (BPPs) are the most crucial component of the Polymer Electrolyte Membrane (PEM) fuel cell system. To improve fuel cell stack performance and lifetime, corrosion resistance and Interfacial Contact Resistance (ICR) enhancement are two essential factors for metallic BPPs. One of the most effective methods to achieve this purpose is adding a thin solid film of conductive coating on the surfaces of these plates. In the present study, 410 Stainless Steel (SS) was selected as a metallic bipolar plate. The coating process was performed using titanium nitride and chromium nitride by the Cathodic Arc Evaporation (CAE) method. The main focus of this study was to select the best coating among CrN and TiN on the proposed alloy as a substrate of PEM fuel cells through the comparison technique with simultaneous consideration of corrosion resistance and ICR value. After verifying the TiN and CrN coating compound, the electrochemical assessment was conducted by the potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) tests. The results of PDP show that all coated samples have an increase in the polarization resistance (Rp) values (ranging from 410.2 to 690.6 Ω·cm2) compared to substrate 410 SS (230.1 Ω·cm2). Corrosion rate values for bare 410 SS, CrN, and TiN coatings were measured as 0.096, 0.032, and 0.060 mpy, respectively. Facilities for X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscope (FE-SEM, TeScan-Mira III model and made in the Czech Republic), and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDXS) were utilized to perform phase, corrosion behavior, and microstructure analysis. Furthermore, ICR tests were performed on both coated and uncoated specimens. However, the ICR of the coated samples increased slightly compared to uncoated samples. Finally, according to corrosion performance results and ICR values, it can be concluded that the CrN layer is a suitable choice for deposition on 410 SS with the aim of being used in a BPP fuel cell system.
A Systematic Review for Establishing Relevant Environmental Parameters for Urban Lighting: Translating Research into Practice
Authors: Pérez Vega Catherine , Zielinska-Dabkowska Karolina M. , Schroer Sibylle , Jechow Andreas , Hölker Franz
Published: January 2022

The application of lighting technologies developed in the 20th century has increased the brightness and changed the spectral composition of nocturnal night-time habitats and night skies across urban, peri-urban, rural, and pristine landscapes, and subsequently, researchers have observed the disturbance of biological rhythms of flora and fauna. To reduce these impacts, it is essential to translate relevant knowledge about the potential adverse effects of artificial light at night (ALAN) from research into applicable urban lighting practice. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to identify and report, via a systematic review, the effects of exposure to different physical properties of artificial light sources on various organism groups, including plants, arthropods, insects, spiders, fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and non-human mammals (including bats, rodents, and primates). PRISMA 2020 guidelines were used to identify a total of 1417 studies from Web of Science and PubMed. In 216 studies, diverse behavioral and physiological responses were observed across taxa when organisms were exposed to ALAN. The studies showed that the responses were dependent on high illuminance levels, duration of light exposure, and unnatural color spectra at night and also highlighted where research gaps remain in the domains of ALAN research and urban lighting practice. To avoid misinterpretation, and to define a common language, key terminologies and definitions connected to natural and artificial light have been provided. Furthermore, the adverse impacts of ALAN urgently need to be better researched, understood, and managed for the development of future lighting guidelines and standards to optimize sustainable design applications that preserve night-time environment(s) and their inhabiting flora and fauna.
Optically Modulated Passive Broadband Daytime Radiative Cooling Materials Can Cool Cities in Summer and Heat Cities in Winter
Authors: Khan Ansar , Carlosena Laura , Feng Jie , Khorat Samiran , Khatun Rupali , Doan Quang-Van , Santamouris Mattheos
Published: January 2022

Broadband passive daytime radiative cooling (PDRC) materials exhibit sub-ambient surface temperatures and contribute highly to mitigating extreme urban heat during the warm period. However, their application may cause undesired overcooling problems in winter. This study aims to assess, on a city scale, different solutions to overcome the winter overcooling penalty derived from using PDRC materials. Furthermore, a mesoscale urban modeling system assesses the potential of the optical modulation of reflectance (ρ) and emissivity (ε) to reduce, minimize, or reverse the overcooling penalty. The alteration of heat flux components, air temperature modification, ground and roof surface temperature, and the urban canopy temperature are assessed. The maximum decrease of the winter ambient temperature using standard PDRC materials is 1.1 °C and 0.8 °C for daytime and nighttime, respectively, while the ρ+ε-modulation can increase the ambient temperature up to 0.4 °C and 1.4 °C, respectively, compared to the use of conventional materials. Compared with the control case, the maximum decrease of net radiation inflow occurred at the peak hour, reducing by 192.7 Wm−2 for the PDRC materials, 5.4 Wm−2 for ρ-modulated PDRC materials, and 173.7 Wm−2 for ε-PDRC materials; nevertheless, the ρ+ε-modulated PDRC materials increased the maximum net radiation inflow by 51.5 Wm−2, leading to heating of the cities during the winter.
Particulate Pollution Capture by Seventeen Woody Species Growing in Parks or along Roads in Two European Cities
Authors: Vigevani Irene , Corsini Denise , Mori Jacopo , Pasquinelli Alice , Gibin Marco , Comin Sebastien , Szwałko Przemysław , Cagnolati Edoardo , Ferrini Francesco , Fini Alessio
Published: January 2022

This research aims to extend the existing knowledge on air quality improvement by the arboreal–shrub heritage. The PM accumulation (PM10–100, PM2.5–10, and PM0.2–2.5 (µg·cm−2)) was measured with consolidated gravimetric techniques during spring, summer, and fall for 2160 leaf samples belonging to the basal, median, and apical part of the crown of 17 species located in the streets and parks of 2 European cities (Rimini and Krakow). On the same samples, the deposition (PM10 and PM2.5 (µg·cm−2·day−1)) was evaluated according to a model based on the wash-off rain effect. Quercus ilex accumulated more PMx than the other species in Rimini, while in Krakow, the highest accumulators were Pinus nigra for PM10–100, Tilia cordata for PM2.5–10, and Populus nigra for PM0.2–2.5. Only in Krakow was the capture capacity of some species affected by the street or park growing condition. The basal leaves showed greater PM10–100 accumulation than the median and apical ones. In Rimini, the total PM accumulation tended to increase throughout the year, while in Krakow, the opposite occurred. However, as the accumulation increased, the deposition decreased. The PM accumulation was reduced by rainfall and enhanced by the air PM concentration, while the wind speed effect was opposite, depending on the city. These findings are useful for directing decision makers in the design of greener, healthier, and sustainable cities.
NEV’s Supply Chain Coordination with Financial Constraint and Demand Uncertainty
Authors: Li Xin , Li Yongjian
Published: January 2022

Sustainable development coordination can facilitate the new energy vehicles (NEV) supply chain. By a coordinating supply contract, the operating costs can be reduced and supply chain competitiveness can be improved. We designed a revenue-sharing and buy-back (RSBB) contract to coordinate the supply chain with the cash-strapped retailer or manufacturer and analyzed the impact of the acceptable bankruptcy risk and own fund on the optimal order quantity, supply chain profits, and coordinating factors, including revenue share and buy-back price. Interestingly, the revenue share decreases in the acceptable bankruptcy risk, but the buy-back price increases in the acceptable bankruptcy risk when the retailer has financial constraints. However, when the manufacturer has financial constraints, the revenue share increases in the acceptable bankruptcy risk, but the buy-back price decreases in the acceptable bankruptcy risk.
Smart-Hydroponic-Based Framework for Saffron Cultivation: A Precision Smart Agriculture Perspective
Authors: Kour Kanwalpreet , Gupta Deepali , Gupta Kamali , Dhiman Gaurav , Juneja Sapna , Viriyasitavat Wattana , Mohafez Hamidreza , Islam Mohammad Aminul
Published: January 2022

Saffron, one of the most expensive crops on earth, having a vast domain of applications, has the potential to boost the economy of India. The cultivation of saffron has been immensely affected in the past few years due to the changing climate. Despite the use of different artificial methods for cultivation, hydroponic approaches using the IoT prove to give the best results. The presented study consists of potential artificial approaches used for cultivation and the selection of hydroponics as the best approach out of these based on different parameters. This paper also provides a comparative analysis of six present hydroponic approaches. The research work on different factors of saffron, such as the parameters responsible for growth, reasons for the decline in growth, and different agronomical variables, has been shown graphically. A smart hydroponic system for saffron cultivation has been proposed using the NFT (nutrient film technique) and renewable sources of energy.
Students’ Perceptions of the Actual Use of Mobile Learning during COVID-19 Pandemic in Higher Education
Authors: Alturki Uthman , Aldraiweesh Ahmed
Published: January 2022

Mobile learning (M-learning) has become a significant component of higher education technology. Moreover, M-learning allows students to study, collaborate, and exchange ideas while using the internet and technology. Furthermore, an acceptance of M-learning is necessary for students and educators when it comes to using M-learning systems. However, in Saudi Arabia, not enough studies have been conducted to address students’ perceptions of their actual use of mobile learning for the purpose of education during the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, the current research aims to examine students’ satisfaction with their behavioral intention to use mobile learning, as well as their perceptions of their actual use of mobile learning during the COVID-19 pandemic in higher education. The research is based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The satisfaction and behavioral intentions of students to utilize mobile learning to make real use of mobile education was measured using four separate variables. A TAM survey was used to collect the majority of the data, with questionnaires being randomly distributed to 300 students from King Saud University. SPSS and Smart-PLS3.3.3 were used to analyze the data. The results in terms of the students’ satisfaction and behavior in using M-learning show that M-learning has a good and constructive influence on the actual usage of M-learning during the COVID-19 pandemic in higher education. As a result, we encourage students to use M-learning in their classrooms and to collaborate with their peers at higher education institutions. The study’s empirical findings aid in the integration of the TAM model in order to increase students’ M-learning performance.
Assessing the Genetic Divergence of Onion (Allium Cepa L.) through Morpho-Physiological and Molecular Markers
Authors: Raj Akkabathula Chandini , Sharangi Amit Baran , Das Arpita , Pramanik Krishnendu , Upadhyay Tarun Kumar , Almutairi Malak , Khan Mohammad Idreesh , Ahmad Irfan , Kausar Mohd Adnan , Saeed Mohd
Published: January 2022

Onion is one of the most widely cultivated high-value vegetables on the globe. The study of variability and genetic divergence in this crop will facilitate judicious parent selection for future breeding. The present study incorporated 20 onion genotypes to determine the genetic variability and diversity through morpho-physiological and molecular markers. The genotypes were tested for two consecutive years to determine the effects on yield-attributing and bulb-quality traits. Diversity at a molecular level with 31 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers was determined. Adequate genetic variability existed among the genotypes, with a predominance of additive gene action regarding the inheritance of most of the characteristics. Principal component (PC) analysis detected seven PCs contributing to more than 87% of the genetic diversity in the genotypes. Total yield (kg/plot), Grade ‘C’ bulb (equatorial diameter of the bulb between 3.5 and 4.5 cm), individual bulb weight (g) and phenol content were detected as characteristics positively associated with the first two PCs. A total of 16 primers were amplified, and they produced 32 alleles in the genotypes. Genetic diversity at the morphological and molecular levels indicated moderate diversity among the tested genotypes, with the dissolution of the genotypes into six and three clusters, respectively. The present study on onion facilitates the selection of diverse parents that can generate desirable segregants in future breeding programmes.
Sustainable Approach to Certification of Persons: Ensuring Reliability and Quality
Authors: Kavosa Maija , Lapina Inga , Kozlovskis Konstantins
Published: January 2022

Nowadays, sustainability issues are gaining more and more topicality in the context of improving organizational processes, including in the field of conformity assessment. In the field of certification of persons, competence assessment institutions have also become interested in using new approaches as the quality of assessment execution does not fully meet the requirements of stakeholders regarding the ability of a person to apply the acquired knowledge and skills in situations related to the professional activity. The aim of the research is to analyze the aspects of professional competence assessment related to the certification of persons and its performance according to the stakeholder requirements in order to develop a new sustainable approach to the process of certification of persons that would ensure the quality and reliability of its execution. Qualitative and quantitative research methods have been used to analyze the elements of the concept of certification of persons and the main elements of the concept of professional competence. As a result of the research, a new sustainable approach to certification of persons is offered, where certification of persons transforms from a conformity assessment procedure into a professional competence assessment process and ensures that a person’s ability is assessed not only in accordance with the industry requirements, but also with the stakeholder needs.
Assessment of Inter-Laboratory Differences in SARS-CoV-2 Consensus Genome Assemblies between Public Health Laboratories in Australia
Authors: Foster Charles S. P. , Stelzer-Braid Sacha , Deveson Ira W. , Bull Rowena A. , Yeang Malinna , Au Jane-Phan , Ruiz Silva Mariana , van Hal Sebastiaan J. , Rockett Rebecca J. , Sintchenko Vitali , Kim Ki Wook , Rawlinson William D.
Published: January 2022

Whole-genome sequencing of viral isolates is critical for informing transmission patterns and for the ongoing evolution of pathogens, especially during a pandemic. However, when genomes have low variability in the early stages of a pandemic, the impact of technical and/or sequencing errors increases. We quantitatively assessed inter-laboratory differences in consensus genome assemblies of 72 matched SARS-CoV-2-positive specimens sequenced at different laboratories in Sydney, Australia. Raw sequence data were assembled using two different bioinformatics pipelines in parallel, and resulting consensus genomes were compared to detect laboratory-specific differences. Matched genome sequences were predominantly concordant, with a median pairwise identity of 99.997%. Identified differences were predominantly driven by ambiguous site content. Ignoring these produced differences in only 2.3% (5/216) of pairwise comparisons, each differing by a single nucleotide. Matched samples were assigned the same Pango lineage in 98.2% (212/216) of pairwise comparisons, and were mostly assigned to the same phylogenetic clade. However, epidemiological inference based only on single nucleotide variant distances may lead to significant differences in the number of defined clusters if variant allele frequency thresholds for consensus genome generation differ between laboratories. These results underscore the need for a unified, best-practices approach to bioinformatics between laboratories working on a common outbreak problem.
Mucosal Vaccines, Sterilizing Immunity, and the Future of SARS-CoV-2 Virulence
Authors: Focosi Daniele , Maggi Fabrizio , Casadevall Arturo
Published: January 2022

Sterilizing immunity after vaccination is desirable to prevent the spread of infection from vaccinees, which can be especially dangerous in hospital settings while managing frail patients. Sterilizing immunity requires neutralizing antibodies at the site of infection, which for respiratory viruses such as SARS-CoV-2 implies the occurrence of neutralizing IgA in mucosal secretions. Systemic vaccination by intramuscular delivery induces no or low-titer neutralizing IgA against vaccine antigens. Mucosal priming or boosting, is needed to provide sterilizing immunity. On the other side of the coin, sterilizing immunity, by zeroing interhuman transmission, could confine SARS-CoV-2 in animal reservoirs, preventing spontaneous attenuation of virulence in humans as presumably happened with the endemic coronaviruses. We review here the pros and cons of each vaccination strategy, the current mucosal SARS-CoV-2 vaccines under development, and their implications for public health.
RNA-Binding Proteins as Regulators of Internal Initiation of Viral mRNA Translation
Authors: López-Ulloa Brenda , Fuentes Yazmín , Pizarro-Ortega Magdalena S. , López-Lastra Marcelo
Published: January 2022

Viruses are obligate intracellular parasites that depend on the host’s protein synthesis machinery for translating their mRNAs. The viral mRNA (vRNA) competes with the host mRNA to recruit the translational machinery, including ribosomes, tRNAs, and the limited eukaryotic translation initiation factor (eIFs) pool. Many viruses utilize non-canonical strategies such as targeting host eIFs and RNA elements known as internal ribosome entry sites (IRESs) to reprogram cellular gene expression, ensuring preferential translation of vRNAs. In this review, we discuss vRNA IRES-mediated translation initiation, highlighting the role of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), other than the canonical translation initiation factors, in regulating their activity.
Herpes zoster: A Review of Clinical Manifestations and Management
Authors: Patil Anant , Goldust Mohamad , Wollina Uwe
Published: January 2022

The Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) or human herpes virus 3 is a neurotropic human alpha herpes virus responsible for chickenpox/varicella and shingles/Herpes zoster (HZ). This review will focus on HZ. Since HZ is secondary to varicella, its incidence increases with age. In children and youngsters, HZ is rare and associated to metabolic and neoplastic disorders. In adults, advanced age, distress, other infections (such as AIDS or COVID-19), and immunosuppression are the most common risk factors. HZ reactivation has recently been observed after COVID-19 vaccination. The disease shows different clinical stages of variable clinical manifestations. Some of the manifestations bear a higher risk of complications. Among the possible complications, postherpetic neuralgia, a chronic pain disease, is one of the most frequent. HZ vasculitis is associated with morbidity and mortality. Renal and gastrointestinal complications have been reported. The cornerstone of treatment is early intervention with acyclovir or brivudine. Second-line treatments are available. Pain management is essential. For (secondary) prophylaxis, currently two HZV vaccines are available for healthy older adults, a live attenuated VZV vaccine and a recombinant adjuvanted VZV glycoprotein E subunit vaccine. The latter allows vaccination also in severely immunosuppressed patients. This review focuses on manifestations of HZ and its management. Although several articles have been published on HZ, the literature continues to evolve, especially in regard to patients with comorbidities and immunocompromised patients. VZV reactivation has also emerged as an important point of discussion during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially after vaccination. The objective of this review is to discuss current updates related to clinical presentations, complications, and management of HZ.
Predicting Hydraulic Conductivity for Flexible Wall Conditions Using Rigid Wall Permeameter
Authors: Shaker Abdullah A. , Dafalla Muawia , Al-Mahbashi Ahmed M. , Al-Shamrani Mosleh A.
Published: January 2022

The hydraulic conductivity is known as the soil properties that mostly vary over an order of magnitude. There are many laboratory test methods to determine the hydraulic conductivity of the soil. Each test has its own merits, drawbacks and limitations. One of these methods is the measurement using a rigid wall permeameter (RWP), which is a common practice to obtain the fluid transmissibility characteristics of the soil matrix. This type of permeameter has the advantages of low cost, simplicity of test equipment, and adaptability to many different types of permeant liquids. Another method is the measurement through a flexible wall permeameter (FWP). The hydraulic conductivity measured using the FWP is conducted in a confined cylinder in which water flow is forced into one direction. The main disadvantage of this type is being relatively more expensive and needs more time to perform the test compared to the RWP. This study is aimed at comparing three testing conditions to obtain an adjustment factor for the hydraulic conductivity test normally carried out in practice in order to cut down the time needed to perform the test as well as its cost. Different mixtures of sand and expansive clay addition were considered to examine the effect of expansive clay content on the values of the hydraulic conductivity. Tests results revealed that the clay content had a significant effect on the swelling potential, which was attributed to structural changes in the mixtures. The hydraulic conductivity of mixtures decreases with the increase in clay content. The hydraulic conductivity of mixtures tested using FWP was observed to be lower than that of mixtures tested using RWP at similar clay contents. The tests conducted enabled establishing a correction factor to adjust the hydraulic conductivity normally obtained in practice using rigid wall cells.
Method Development for Low-Concentration PAHs Analysis in Seawater to Evaluate the Impact of Ship Scrubber Washwater Effluents
Authors: Chen Chih-Feng , Lim Yee Cheng , Ju Yun-Ru , Albarico Frank Paolo Jay B. , Cheng Jia-Wei , Chen Chiu-Wen , Dong Cheng-Di
Published: January 2022

A naval ship’s exhaust gas scrubber may discharge polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) into seawater. Due to the high lipophilicity and low water solubility of PAHs, their concentrations in seawater are extremely low, making them difficult to detect or accurately determine. To accurately assess the impact of scrubber washwater effluent on the PAHs concentration of seawater, appropriate analysis methods must be established. In this study, a large-volume pre-concentration water sampler was used onboard to concentrate PAHs in surface seawater (100 L) from four sites offshore of southern Taiwan. The quantitative and qualitative analysis of dissolved PAHs in seawater and quality control samples were implemented using a GC/MS system with the aid of internal and surrogate standards. Results showed that the field and equipment blank samples of quality control samples were lower than twice the detection limit. The detection limit of individual PAHs is between 0.001 (naphthalene, NA) and 0.014 ng/L (dibenzo[a,h]anthracene, DBA), which meets the requirements for evaluating PAHs in seawater (that is, less than the maximum permissible concentrations (MPCs)). The concentration of total PAHs (TPAHs) in the four seawater samples ranged from 2.297 to 4.001 ng/L and had an average concentration of 3.056 ± 0.727 ng/L. The concentrations of 16 PAHs were determined in each seawater sample, indicating that the analytical method in this study is suitable for the determination of low-concentration PAHs in seawater. Phenanthrene (PHE) is the most dominant compound in seawater samples accounting for 59.6 ± 12.6% of TPAHs, followed by fluorine (FL) accounting for 8.5 ± 3.7%. The contribution of high-ring PAHs to TPAHs is not high (0.5–9.2%), but the observed concentrations can cause a higher risk to aquatic organisms than low-ring PAHs. The diagnostic ratio showed that the sources of PAHs in the seawater collected offshore of southern Taiwan may include mixed sources such as petrogenic, petroleum combustion, and biomass combustion. The results can be used for regular monitoring, which contributes to pollution prevention and management of the marine environment.
Copper and Zinc as Roofing Materials—A Review on the Occurrence and Mitigation Measures of Runoff Pollution
Authors: Galster Susanne , Helmreich Brigitte
Published: January 2022

Stormwater runoff from metal roofs has been a significant subject of discussion, especially when it comes to its treatment and the target concentrations that need to be achieved prior to discharge into the aquatic environment. To raise further awareness on this issue, occurrence, characterization, and also mitigation measures for metal roof runoff were analyzed using the example of copper and zinc roofs. These stormwater runoffs were found to contain metals in significant concentrations, mainly due to the wash-off of corrosion products by precipitation. Factors influencing metal corrosion and runoff concentrations were compiled. As Cu and Zn mainly occur in dissolved and thus bioavailable forms in roof runoff, harmful effects on the environment were detected. Therefore, adequate treatment of the runoff before discharge to groundwater or surface water is necessary to protect the aquatic environment. Vegetated infiltration swales as an sustainable urban drainage system enable a reduction in pollution loads. However, especially in densely built-up urban areas, stormwater quality improvement devices (SQIDs) offer an attractive alternative for pre-treating metal roof runoff, as they are mostly located underground. There is not yet a uniform legal approval system for SQIDs in Germany, but the German state of Bavaria has approved four types of SQIDs according to its own developed test criteria.
Monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 Variants by Wastewater-Based Surveillance as a Sustainable and Pragmatic Approach—A Case Study of Jaipur (India)
Authors: Nag Aditi , Arora Sudipti , Sinha Vikky , Meena Ekta , Sutaria Devanshi , Gupta Akhilendra Bhushan , Medicherla Krishna Mohan
Published: January 2022

Wastewater-based surveillance has been emerging as an efficient and advantageous tool to predict COVID-19 prevalence in the population, much earlier (7–28 days) than reported clinical cases, thus providing sufficient time to organize resources and optimize their use in managing COVID-19. Since the commencement of the COVID-19 pandemic, SARS-CoV-2 genetic lineages have emerged and are circulating all over the world. The assessment of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) in wastewater has recently been proven to be successful. The present research demonstrates a case study utilizing an established approach to perform monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 variants from 11 distinct wastewater treatment plants across Jaipur (India) during the second peak period of COVID-19 (from 19 February 2021 to 8 June 2021). The sequences obtained were analyzed to detect lineage using the Pangolin tool and SNPs using the mpileup utility of Samtools, which reported high genome coverage. The mutation analyses successfully identified the penetration of the B.1. in the first two weeks of sampling (19–26 February), followed by the B.1.617.2 variant into Jaipur in the first week of March 2021. B.1.617.2 was initially discovered in India in October 2020; however, it was not reported until early April 2021.The present study identified the presence of B.1.617.2 in early March, which correlates well with the clinical patient’s data (290 cases were reported much later by the government on 10 May 2021). The average total genome coverage of the samples is 94.39% when mapped onto the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 isolate Wuhan-Hu-1; a complete genome (NC_045512.2) sequence and SNP analysis showed that 37–51 SNPs were identified in each sample. The current study demonstrates that sewage surveillance for variant characterization is a reliable and practical method for tracking the diversity of SARS-CoV-2 strains in the community that is considerably faster than clinical genomic surveillance. As a result, this method can predict the advent of epidemiologically or clinically important mutations/variants, which can help with public health decision making.
Sugar substitutes and sweeteners in food products
Authors:   Moscow State University of Technology and Management named after K.G. Razumovsky, Podgornova N.M. , Petrov S.M. ,   Moscow State University of Technology and Management named after K.G. Razumovsky
Published: January 2022

The article describes the functional and technological properties of sugar as the only 100% natural product. The technological functions of food additives are also considered and the features of the use of food additives permitted in Russia are analyzed: sugar substitutes and intense sweeteners. The estimates are presented for the profile of the manifestation of sweetness, safety, and permissible daily consumption.
Challenging aspects of international tequila trade
Authors:   Russian Customs Academy, Krishtafovich D.V. , Grebneva M.D. ,   Russian Customs Academy
Published: January 2022

This article defines the importance of international goods trade and the role of regulatory documents in the import of goods. The paper also identifies problematic aspects of tequila regulation and proposes measures to eliminate them. The article demonstrates the need to add the concept of tequila to the EAEU TR and establish requirements for it that meet the standards of the country of its production, but at the same time do not contradict Russian safety standards, as well as agree on the edition with the Mexican side. English version of the article is available at URL: https://panor.ru/articles/problemic-aspects-of-international-tequila-trade/77075.html
Nanostructured vitamin C: its properties and application in functional foods
Authors:   Laboratory of Synthesis of Micro- and Nanostructures, Regional Open Social Institute, Krolevets A.A. , Myachikova N.I. ,   Department of Food Technology, Belgorod State National Research University, Binkovskaya O.V. ,   Department of Food Technology, Belgorod State National Research University, Glotova S.G. ,   Regional Open Social Institute, Semichev K.M. ,   Belgorod State National Research University, E.M. Mamaeva E.M. Mamaeva ,   Regional Open Social Institute, Golubkova K.V. ,   Regional Open Social Institute
Published: January 2022

The paper presents the properties of nanostructured vitamin C and its use in functional food by the example of marmalade and the production of bakery products. It is shown that the size of vitamin C nanocapsules depends significantly on the nature of the shell. So, in konjac-gum, the average size is 93 nm, and in xanthan gum, 338 nm. Moreover, in carrageenan it is 113 nm, and in gellan gum it is 238 nm.
Nanostructured magnesium salts: properties and applications in functional foods
Authors:   Laboratory of Synthesis of Micro- and Nanostructures, Regional Open Social Institute, Krolevets A.A. , Binkovskaya O.V. ,   Belgorod State National Research University, Glotova S.G. ,   Regional Open Social Institute, Mamaeva E.M. ,   Regional Open Social Instit, Nabokova O.A. ,   Belgorod State National Research Universit
Published: January 2022

The paper presents the properties of nanostructured magnesium salts and its application for the production of functional food for preventive purposes using the example of marmalade, yogurt, kefir and bakery products. The sizes of nanostructured folic acid were determined by the NTA method. As it turned out, the size of nanoparticles does not significantly depend on the nature of the shell and ranges from 188 to 303 nm, which makes it possible to use this product for its functional purpose.
New legal regulations in the field of healthy nutrition
Authors:   Higher School of Corporate Governance, RANEPA, Nikolaeva M.A. , Buyanova A.B. ,   Russian Academy of National Economy and Public Administration under the President of the Russian Federation
Published: January 2022

The article presents the results of the comparative analysis of the main provisions of the Federal Law “On the quality and safety of food products” in the editions of 2000 and 2020. The commonality and differences of these provisions are revealed. Critical remarks were made on a number of terms and their definitions in the field of healthy nutrition. It was found that the amendments and additions made to the edition of the Federal Law “On the quality and safety of food products” contribute to the improvement of legal regulation in the field of healthy nutrition.
Abundance of low profitable agricultural lands in Non-Black Earth Region and possibilities for their use
Authors:   FSBI FNCC VNIIESH, Alakoz V.V.
Published: January 2022

The development of agriculture, the economic efficiency of agricultural activities and the level of rural life arrangement are the main factors for the formation of settlement in rural areas. The key to a systemic, comprehensive approach to providing sustainable rural development in regions remote from urban agglomerations and large cities is the sustainable development of the agricultural sector, ensuring the employment and high salary of rural residents. In the Russian agroclimatic conditions, agricultural production is only possible with non-normalized family labor, cheap hired labor and state support. The existence of a sociooriented, small-scale, mostly natural agricultural sector has a positive effect on employment and solving social problems in rural areas. The inflow of rural residents into the cities, where it is easier to find a job and better living conditions, and reduction the number of rural settlements are still strong. The main questions: how to improve life in small villages with few residents where the wearing of the preserved residential buildings exceeds 80-90% and what to do with such degraded settlements in rural areas, the maintenance of which local self-government can’t afford. To solve these issues in the process of development of rural areas, it is necessary to create land management and development schemes of the agro-industrial complex in the Non-Black Earth Region of the Russian Federation taking into account the subjects of the Russian Federation relating to territories with low and high population density, studying the structure of employment of the population, including employment in agriculture and other industries, and types of economic land use of these rural territories. The development of regional and municipal land management and development schemes of the agro-industrial complex will allow to identify forecast of the spatial development of agricultural land use, to determine the geographical boundaries and areas of arable lands, their expansion, compression or stabilization in bioclimatic limits to meet consumer demand in agricultural products, due to the level of development of the regional economy, interregional and export trade or import of agricultural production. Research and systematic analysis of the entire set of production-economic, socio-economic and natural-ecological factors in the development of the rural economy, its main sectors – agricultural and forestry, and the state of rural infrastructure – engineering (technical) and social (first-aid posts, schools, kindergartens) makes it possible to identify all interconnections between them and make reasonable management decisions.