bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antimicrobial, Insecticidal and Cytotoxic Activity of Linear Venom Peptides from the Pseudoscorpion Chelifer cancroides
Authors: Krämer Jonas , Lüddecke Tim , Marner Michael , Maiworm Elena , Eichberg Johanna , Hardes Kornelia , Schäberle Till F. , Vilcinskas Andreas , Predel Reinhard
Published: January 2022

Linear cationic venom peptides are antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) that exert their effects by damaging cell membranes. These peptides can be highly specific, and for some, a significant therapeutic value was proposed, in particular for treatment of bacterial infections. A prolific source of novel AMPs are arthropod venoms, especially those of hitherto neglected groups such as pseudoscorpions. In this study, we describe for the first time pharmacological effects of AMPs discovered in pseudoscorpion venom. We examined the antimicrobial, cytotoxic, and insecticidal activity of full-length Checacin1, a major component of the Chelifer cancroides venom, and three truncated forms of this peptide. The antimicrobial tests revealed a potent inhibitory activity of Checacin1 against several bacteria and fungi, including methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and even Gram-negative pathogens. All peptides reduced survival rates of aphids, with Checacin1 and the C-terminally truncated Checacin11−21 exhibiting effects comparable to Spinosad, a commercially used pesticide. Cytotoxic effects on mammalian cells were observed mainly for the full-length Checacin1. All tested peptides might be potential candidates for developing lead structures for aphid pest treatment. However, as these peptides were not yet tested on other insects, aphid specificity has not been proven. The N- and C-terminal fragments of Checacin1 are less potent against aphids but exhibit no cytotoxicity on mammalian cells at the tested concentration of 100 µM.
Toxicity of the Diatom Genus Pseudo-nitzschia (Bacillariophyceae): Insights from Toxicity Tests and Genetic Screening in the Northern Adriatic Sea
Authors: Turk Dermastia Timotej , Dall’Ara Sonia , Dolenc Jožica , Mozetič Patricija
Published: January 2022

Diatoms of the genus Pseudo-nitzschia H.Peragallo are known to produce domoic acid (DA), a toxin involved in amnesic shellfish poisoning (ASP). Strains of the same species are often classified as both toxic and nontoxic, and it is largely unknown whether this difference is also genetic. In the Northern Adriatic Sea, there are virtually no cases of ASP, but DA occasionally occurs in shellfish samples. So far, three species—P. delicatissima (Cleve) Heiden, P. multistriata (H. Takano) H. Takano, and P. calliantha Lundholm, Moestrup, & Hasle—have been identified as producers of DA in the Adriatic Sea. By means of enzme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), high-performance liquid chromatography with UV and visible spectrum detection (HPLC-UV/VIS), and liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), we reconfirmed the presence of DA in P. multistriata and P. delicatissima and detect for the first time in the Adriatic Sea DA in P. galaxiae Lundholm, & Moestrup. Furthermore, we attempted to answer the question of the distribution of DA production among Pseudo-nitzschia species and strains by sequencing the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) phylogenetic marker and the dabA DA biosynthesis gene and coupling this with toxicity data. Results show that all subclades of the Pseudo-nitzschia genus contain toxic species and that toxicity appears to be strain dependent, often with geographic partitioning. Amplification of dabA was successful only in toxic strains of P. multistriata and the presence of the genetic architecture for DA production in non-toxic strains was thus not confirmed.
A Summer of Cyanobacterial Blooms in Belgian Waterbodies: Microcystin Quantification and Molecular Characterizations
Authors: Van Hassel Wannes Hugo R. , Andjelkovic Mirjana , Durieu Benoit , Marroquin Viviana Almanza , Masquelier Julien , Huybrechts Bart , Wilmotte Annick
Published: January 2022

In the context of increasing occurrences of toxic cyanobacterial blooms worldwide, their monitoring in Belgium is currently performed by regional environmental agencies (in two of three regions) using different protocols and is restricted to some selected recreational ponds and lakes. Therefore, a global assessment based on the comparison of existing datasets is not possible. For this study, 79 water samples from a monitoring of five lakes in Wallonia and occasional blooms in Flanders and Brussels, including a canal, were analyzed. A Liquid Chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method allowed to detect and quantify eight microcystin congeners. The mcyE gene was detected using PCR, while dominant cyanobacterial species were identified using 16S RNA amplification and direct sequencing. The cyanobacterial diversity for two water samples was characterized with amplicon sequencing. Microcystins were detected above limit of quantification (LOQ) in 68 water samples, and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended guideline value for microcystins in recreational water (24 µg L−1) was surpassed in 18 samples. The microcystin concentrations ranged from 0.11 µg L−1 to 2798.81 µg L−1 total microcystin. For 45 samples, the dominance of the genera Microcystis sp., Dolichospermum sp., Aphanizomenon sp., Cyanobium/Synechococcus sp., Planktothrix sp., Romeria sp., Cyanodictyon sp., and Phormidium sp. was shown. Moreover, the mcyE gene was detected in 75.71% of all the water samples.
AB5 Enterotoxin-Mediated Pathogenesis: Perspectives Gleaned from Shiga Toxins
Authors: Biernbaum Erika N. , Kudva Indira T.
Published: January 2022

Foodborne diseases affect an estimated 600 million people worldwide annually, with the majority of these illnesses caused by Norovirus, Vibrio, Listeria, Campylobacter, Salmonella, and Escherichia coli. To elicit infections in humans, bacterial pathogens express a combination of virulence factors and toxins. AB5 toxins are an example of such toxins that can cause various clinical manifestations, including dehydration, diarrhea, kidney damage, hemorrhagic colitis, and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Treatment of most bacterial foodborne illnesses consists of fluid replacement and antibiotics. However, antibiotics are not recommended for infections caused by Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) because of the increased risk of HUS development, although there are conflicting views and results in this regard. Lack of effective treatment strategies for STEC infections pose a public health threat during outbreaks; therefore, the debate on antibiotic use for STEC infections could be further explored, along with investigations into antibiotic alternatives. The overall goal of this review is to provide a succinct summary on the mechanisms of action and the pathogenesis of AB5 and related toxins, as expressed by bacterial foodborne pathogens, with a primary focus on Shiga toxins (Stx). The role of Stx in human STEC disease, detection methodologies, and available treatment options are also briefly discussed.
Exploring the Role of Innate Lymphocytes in the Immune System of Bats and Virus-Host Interactions
Authors: Sia Wan Rong , Zheng Yichao , Han Fei , Chen Shiwei , Ma Shaohua , Wang Lin-Fa , Leeansyah Edwin
Published: January 2022

Bats are reservoirs of a large number of viruses of global public health significance, including the ancestral virus for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the causative agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Although bats are natural carriers of multiple pathogenic viruses, they rarely display signs of disease. Recent insights suggest that bats have a more balanced host defense and tolerance system to viral infections that may be linked to the evolutionary adaptation to powered flight. Therefore, a deeper understanding of bat immune system may provide intervention strategies to prevent zoonotic disease transmission and to identify new therapeutic targets. Similar to other eutherian mammals, bats have both innate and adaptive immune systems that have evolved to detect and respond to invading pathogens. Bridging these two systems are innate lymphocytes, which are highly abundant within circulation and barrier tissues. These cells share the characteristics of both innate and adaptive immune cells and are poised to mount rapid effector responses. They are ideally suited as the first line of defense against early stages of viral infections. Here, we will focus on the current knowledge of innate lymphocytes in bats, their function, and their potential role in host–pathogen interactions. Moreover, given that studies into bat immune systems are often hindered by a lack of bat-specific research tools, we will discuss strategies that may aid future research in bat immunity, including the potential use of organoid models to delineate the interplay between innate lymphocytes, bat viruses, and host tolerance.
Review of Oral Rabies Vaccination of Dogs and Its Application in India
Authors: Yale Gowri , Lopes Marwin , Isloor Shrikrishna , Head Jennifer R. , Mazeri Stella , Gamble Luke , Dukpa Kinzang , Gongal Gyanendra , Gibson Andrew D.
Published: January 2022

Oral rabies vaccines (ORVs) have been in use to successfully control rabies in wildlife since 1978 across Europe and the USA. This review focuses on the potential and need for the use of ORVs in free-roaming dogs to control dog-transmitted rabies in India. Iterative work to improve ORVs over the past four decades has resulted in vaccines that have high safety profiles whilst generating a consistent protective immune response to the rabies virus. The available evidence for safety and efficacy of modern ORVs in dogs and the broad and outspoken support from prominent global public health institutions for their use provides confidence to national authorities considering their use in rabies-endemic regions. India is estimated to have the largest rabies burden of any country and, whilst considerable progress has been made to increase access to human rabies prophylaxis, examples of high-output mass dog vaccination campaigns to eliminate the virus at the source remain limited. Efficiently accessing a large proportion of the dog population through parenteral methods is a considerable challenge due to the large, evasive stray dog population in many settings. Existing parenteral approaches require large skilled dog-catching teams to reach these dogs, which present financial, operational and logistical limitations to achieve 70% dog vaccination coverage in urban settings in a short duration. ORV presents the potential to accelerate the development of approaches to eliminate rabies across large areas of the South Asia region. Here we review the use of ORVs in wildlife and dogs, with specific consideration of the India setting. We also present the results of a risk analysis for a hypothetical campaign using ORV for the vaccination of dogs in an Indian state.
Porcine TRIM21 Enhances Porcine Circovirus 2 Infection and Host Immune Responses, But Inhibits Apoptosis of PCV2-Infected Cells
Authors: Yang Lin , Liu Xiaohua , Zhang Liying , Li Xue , Zhang Xinwei , Niu Guyu , Ji Weilong , Chen Si , Ouyang Hongsheng , Ren Linzhu
Published: January 2022

Tripartite motif protein 21 (TRIM21) is an interferon-inducible E3 ligase, containing one RING finger domain, one B-box motif, one coiled-coil domain at the N-terminal, as well as one PRY domain and one SPRY domain at the C-terminal. TRIM21 is expressed in many tissues and plays an important role in systemic autoimmunity. However, TRIM21 plays different roles in different virus infections. In this study, we evaluate the relationship between porcine TRIM21 and PCV2 infection as well as host immune responses. We found that PCV2 infection modulated the expression of porcine TRIM21. TRIM21 can enhance interferons and proinflammatory factors and decrease cellular apoptosis in PCV2-infected cells. These results indicate that porcine TRIM21 plays a critical role in enhancing PCV2 infection, which is a promising target for controlling and developing the treatment of PCV2 infection.
Modeling the Transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 Delta Variant in a Partially Vaccinated Population
Authors: Avila-Ponce de León Ugo , Avila-Vales Eric , Huang Kuan-lin
Published: January 2022

In a population with ongoing vaccination, the trajectory of a pandemic is determined by how the virus spreads in unvaccinated and vaccinated individuals that exhibit distinct transmission dynamics based on different levels of natural and vaccine-induced immunity. We developed a mathematical model that considers both subpopulations and immunity parameters, including vaccination rates, vaccine effectiveness, and a gradual loss of protection. The model forecasted the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 delta variant in the US under varied transmission and vaccination rates. We further obtained the control reproduction number and conducted sensitivity analyses to determine how each parameter may affect virus transmission. Although our model has several limitations, the number of infected individuals was shown to be a magnitude greater (~10×) in the unvaccinated subpopulation compared to the vaccinated subpopulation. Our results show that a combination of strengthening vaccine-induced immunity and preventative behavioral measures like face mask-wearing and contact tracing will likely be required to deaccelerate the spread of infectious SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Development and Evaluation of a Molecular Hepatitis A Virus Assay for Serum and Stool Specimens
Authors: Kozak Robert A. , Rutherford Candace , Richard-Greenblatt Melissa , Chau N. Y. Elizabeth , Cabrera Ana , Biondi Mia , Borlang Jamie , Day Jaqueline , Osiowy Carla , Ramachandran Sumathi , Mayer Nancy , Glaser Laurel , Smieja Marek
Published: January 2022

Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is an emerging public health concern and there is an urgent need for ways to rapidly identify cases so that outbreaks can be managed effectively. Conventional testing for HAV relies on anti-HAV IgM seropositivity. However, studies estimate that 10–30% of patients may not be diagnosed by serology. Molecular assays that can directly detect viral nucleic acids have the potential to improve diagnosis, which is key to prevent the spread of infections. In this study, we developed a real-time PCR (RT-PCR) assay to detect HAV RNA for the identification of acute HAV infection. Primers were designed to target the conserved 5′-untranslated region (5′-UTR) of HAV, and the assay was optimized on both the Qiagen Rotor-Gene and the BD MAX. We successfully detected HAV from patient serum and stool samples with moderate differences in sensitivity and specificity depending on the platform used. Our results highlight the clinical utility of using a molecular assay to detect HAV from various specimen types that can be implemented in hospitals to assist with diagnostics, treatment and prevention.
Effects of a Single Opioid Dose on Gastrointestinal Motility in Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus): Comparisons among Morphine, Butorphanol, and Tramadol
Authors: Deflers Hélène , Gandar Frédéric , Bolen Géraldine , Detilleux Johann , Sandersen Charlotte , Marlier Didier
Published: January 2022

The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effects of single doses of butorphanol, morphine, and tramadol on gastrointestinal motility in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) using non-invasive imaging methods, such as radiographic barium follow through and ultrasonographic contraction counts. Time-lapse radiographic and ultrasound examinations were performed before and after a single intramuscular dose of 5 mg kg−1 butorphanol, 10 mg kg−1 morphine, or 10 mg kg−1 tramadol. Pyloric and duodenal contraction counts by ultrasonography and radiographic repletion scores for the stomach and caecum were analysed using a mixed linear model. No significant effect was noted on ultrasound examinations of pyloric and duodenal contractions after administration of an opioid treatment. Morphine had a significant effect on the stomach and the caecum repletion scores, whereas butorphanol had a significant effect only on the caecum repletion score. Tramadol had no significant effect on the stomach or caecum repletion scores. The present findings suggest that a single dose of 5 mg kg−1 butorphanol or 10 mg kg−1 morphine temporarily slows gastrointestinal transit in healthy rabbits, preventing physiological progression of the alimentary bolus without the induction of ileus. In contrast, a single dose of 10 mg kg−1 tramadol has no such effects.
Application of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) as a Healing Aid after Extraction of Incisors in the Equine Odontoclastic Tooth Resorption and Hypercementosis Syndrome
Authors: Górski Kamil , Stefanik Elżbieta , Bereznowski Andrzej , Polkowska Izabela , Turek Bernard
Published: January 2022

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a stress-free, relatively safe method supporting the treatment of many different diseases. Although it is widely used in human medicine (including dentistry), in veterinary medicine, especially in the treatment of horses, there are not many scientifically described and documented cases of its use. Equine Odontoclastic Tooth Resorption and Hypercementosis syndrome is a disease that affects older horses and significantly reduces their quality of life. The only effective treatment for this condition is extraction of the incisors. The described case compares the recovery process of the alveolar area after extraction of incisors during the course of EOTRH syndrome without and with the use of a chamber, in horses with the same clinical picture of the disease, of the same age, and living in the same conditions. According to the authors’ knowledge, the presented case describes the use of a chamber in equine dentistry for the first time.
Nonintrusive Nonlinear Reduced Order Models for Structures in Large Deformations: Validations to Atypical Structures and Basis Construction Aspects
Authors: Wang Xiaoquan , Perez Ricardo A. , Wainwright Bret , Wang Yuting , Mignolet Marc P.
Published: January 2022

The focus of this investigation is on reduced order models (ROMs) of the nonlinear geometric response of structures that are built nonintrusively, i.e., from standard outputs of commercial finite element codes. Several structures with atypical loading, boundary conditions, or geometry are considered to not only support the broad applicability of these ROMs but also to exemplify the different steps involved in determining an appropriate basis for the response. This basis is formed here as a combination of linear vibration modes and dual modes, and some of the steps involved follow prior work; others are novel aspects, all of which are covered in significant detail to minimize the expertise needed to develop these ROMs. The comparisons of the static and dynamic responses of these structures predicted by the ROMs and by the underlying finite element models demonstrate the high accuracy that can be achieved with the ROMs, even in the presence of significant nonlinearity.
Sensitivity and Efficiency of the Frequency Shift Coefficient Based on the Damage Identification Algorithm: Modeling Uncertainty on Natural Frequencies
Authors: Dubey Anurag , Denis Vivien , Serra Roger
Published: January 2022

Health surveillance in industries is an important prospect to ensure safety and prevent sudden collapses. Vibration Based Structure Health Monitoring (VBSHM) is being used continuously for structures and machine diagnostics in industry. Changes in natural frequencies are frequently used as an input parameter for VBSHM. In this paper, the frequency shift coefficient (FSC) is used for the assessment of various numerical damaged cases. An FSC-based algorithm is employed in order to estimate the positions and severity of damages using only the natural frequencies of healthy and unknown (damaged) structures. The study focuses on cantilever beams. By considering the minimization of FSC, damage positions and severity are obtained. Artificially damaged cases are assessed by changes in its positions, the number of damages and the size of damages along with the various parts of the cantilever beam. The study is further investigated by considering the effect of uncertainty on natural frequencies (0.1%, 0.2% and 0.3%) in damaged cases, and the algorithm is used to estimate the position and severity of the damage. The outcomes and efficiency of the proposed FSC based method are evaluated in order to locate and quantify damages. The efficiency of the algorithm is demonstrated by locating and quantifying double damages in a real cantilever steel beam using vibration measurements.
The Effects of Particle Gradation on Salinized Soil in Arid and Cold Regions
Authors: Huang Xuebang , Zhang Zizhao , Hao Ruihua , Guo Zezhou
Published: January 2022

Particle size grading impacts salt-frost heaving and dissolution collapse events of salinized soil on northwestern China’s arid and cold region highways. However, the influencing mechanisms remain unclear and the impact of varying particle size grading needs further investigation. Hence, this study focused on these effects and the number of freeze–thaw cycles on the characteristic changes in highway salinized soil in arid and cold regions. Three soil columns with different gradations were prepared to explore the gradation and the number of freeze–thaw cycle affects on salinized soil’s salt-frost heaving and dissolution collapse characteristics. The multi-functional physical simulation platform conducted multiple freeze–thaw cyclic tests in the laboratory. Test results confirmed significant and conclusive effects of gradation and the number of freeze–thaw cycles on salinized soil’s salt-frost heaving and dissolution collapse behaviors. Poorly graded salinized soil with high coarse particle content caused repeated freeze and thaw engineering hazards, significantly affecting salinized soil’s displacement and deformation behaviors during freezing. Contrarily, an increased range of fine particles more easily involved the characteristics of salinized soil during thawing. Therefore, the fourth freeze–thaw cycle was a crucial time node. After four freeze–thaw cycles, the displacement and deformation of original salinized soil and B-grade salinized soil samples (poorly graded with high fine particle content) tended to be stable. In contrast, the displacement and deformation of A-grade salinized soil samples (poorly graded with high coarse particle content) increased the growth rate. The present research results contribute to in-depth knowledge of the effects of gradation and freeze–thaw cycles on the characteristics of salinized soil in northwestern China, providing excellent referenced data support for the prevention and control of highway salinized soil failures and other engineering projects in arid and cold regions of northwest China.
The Effect of Trophic Modes on Biomass and Lipid Production of Five Microalgal Strains
Authors: Nicodemou Andonia , Kallis Michalis , Agapiou Anastasia , Markidou Androulla , Koutinas Michalis
Published: January 2022

Five microalgae strains, namely Isochrysis galbana, Microchloropsis gaditana, Scenedesmus obliquus, Nannochloropsis oculata and Tetraselmis suecica, were selected as potential candidates for polyunsaturated fatty acids’ production, evaluating biomass productivity and their capacity to accumulate high lipid contents under different trophic modes. Microalgae strains were cultivated in the presence of 1% glucose using mixotrophic and heterotrophic conditions, while autotrophic cultures served as control experiments. The results demonstrate that S. obliquus performed the highest biomass productivity that reached 0.13 and 0.14 g L−1 d−1 under mixotrophic and heterotrophic conditions, respectively. I. galbana and S. obliquus utilized elevated contents of glucose in mixotrophy, removing 55.9% and 95.6% of the initial concentration of the carbohydrate, respectively, while glucose consumption by the aforementioned strains also remained high under heterotrophic cultivation. The production of lipids was maximal for I. galbana in mixotrophy and S. obliquus in heterotrophy, performing lipid productivities of 24.85 and 22.77 mg L−1 d−1, respectively. The most abundant saturated acid detected for all microalgae strains evaluated was palmitic acid (C16:0), while oleic and linolenic acids (C18:1n9c/C18:3n3) comprised the most abundant unsaturated fatty acids. I. galbana performed the highest linoleic acid (C18:2n6c) content under heterotrophic nutrition, which reached 87.9 mg g−1 of ash-free dry weight. Among the microalgae strains compared, the biomass and lipid production monitored for I. galbana and S. obliquus confirm that both strains could serve as efficient bioproducers for application in algal biorefineries.
Sustainability Assessment for Wastewater Treatment Systems in Developing Countries
Authors: Starkl Markus , Brunner Norbert , Das Sukanya , Singh Anju
Published: January 2022

As the assessment of the economic, environmental, institutional, and social sustainability of wastewater treatment systems may have several conceivable goals and intended recipients, there are numerous different approaches. This paper surveys certain aspects of sustainability assessment that may be of interest to the planners of wastewater treatment systems. Here, the key criteria assess the system’s costs and financing, including its affordability for the users, the environmental impact, the benefits for health and hygiene, the cultural acceptance of the system and its recycled products, the technical functioning, and the administrative, political, and legal framework for its construction and operation. A multi-criteria approach may then be used to analyze possible trade-offs and identify the most suitable system for a certain location.
An Analysis of Household Perceptions of Water Costs across the United States: A Survey Based Approach
Authors: Medwid Laura , Mack Elizabeth A.
Published: January 2022

Research analyzing perceptions of water services has focused on water quality, water safety, and the propensity to consume water from different sources. It has not assessed perceptions of water costs. To address this knowledge gap, this study collected nationally representative survey data from households in the United States about water issues and incorporated these data into logistic regression models. In doing so, our study advances the water and public policy literature in three ways. One, it addresses the need for household resolution information about water issues given the absence of data at this scale in the United States. Two, it creates and utilizes one-of-a-kind survey data to understand the perceptions of household water bills and the drivers of these perceptions. Three, we assess the impact of proposed solutions to improve water affordability on household perceptions of water costs. Model results indicate low-income and households in underrepresented groups were more likely to perceive their water bills to be too high. The perception of water costs also varied geographically. From a policy perspective, model results indicate utilities can positively affect perceptions of water bills via the frequency of water billing and provision of payment assistance programs.
A Simulation Analysis of a Microalgal-Production Plant for the Transformation of Inland-Fisheries Wastewater in Sustainable Feed
Authors: García-Martínez Janet B. , Contreras-Ropero Jefferson E. , Urbina-Suarez Néstor A. , López-Barrera Germán L. , Barajas-Solano Andrés F. , Kafarov Viatcheslav , Barajas-Ferreira Crisóstomo , Ibarra-Mojica Diana M. , Zuorro Antonio
Published: January 2022

The present research evaluates the simulation of a system for transforming inland-fisheries wastewater into sustainable fish feed using Designer® software. The data required were obtained from the experimental cultivation of Chlorella sp. in wastewater supplemented with N and P. According to the results, it is possible to produce up to 11,875 kg/year (31.3 kg/d) with a production cost of up to 18 (USD/kg) for dry biomass and 0.19 (USD/bottle) for concentrated biomass. Similarly, it was possible to establish the kinetics of growth of substrate-dependent biomass with a maximum production of 1.25 g/L after 15 days and 98% removal of available N coupled with 20% of P. It is essential to note the final production efficiency may vary depending on uncontrollable variables such as climate and quality of wastewater, among others.
Responses of Bacterial Taxonomical Diversity Indicators to Pollutant Loadings in Experimental Wetland Microcosms
Authors: Ghosh Roy Subhomita , Wimpee Charles F. , McGuire S. Andrew , Ehlinger Timothy J.
Published: January 2022

Urbanization results in higher stormwater loadings of pollutants such as metals and nutrients into surface waters. This directly impacts organisms in aquatic ecosystems, including microbes. Sediment microbes are known for pollution reduction in the face of contamination, making bacterial communities an important area for bioindicator research. This study explores the pattern of bacterial responses to metal and nutrient pollution loading and seeks to evaluate whether bacterial indicators can be effective as a biomonitoring risk assessment tool for wetland ecosystems. Microcosms were built containing sediments collected from wetlands in the urbanizing Pike River watershed in southeastern Wisconsin, USA, with metals and nutrients added at 7 day intervals. Bacterial DNA was extracted from the microcosm sediments, and taxonomical profiles of bacterial communities were identified up to the genera level by sequencing 16S bacterial rRNA gene (V3–V4 region). Reduction of metals (example: 90% for Pb) and nutrients (example: 98% for NO3−) added in water were observed. The study found correlations between diversity indices of genera with metal and nutrient pollution as well as identified specific genera (including Fusibacter, Aeromonas, Arthrobacter, Bacillus, Bdellovibrio, and Chlorobium) as predictive bioindicators for ecological risk assessment for metal pollution.
Isotopic Composition of Glacier Ice and Meltwater in the Arid Parts of the Altai Mountains (Central Asia)
Authors: Bantcev Dmitriy , Ganyushkin Dmitriy , Terekhov Anton , Ekaykin Alexey , Tokarev Igor , Chistyakov Kirill
Published: January 2022

The objective of this study is to reveal the isotopic composition of ice and meltwater in glaciated regions of South-Eastern Altai. The paper depicts differences between the isotopic composition of glacier ice from several types of glaciers and from various locations. Detected differences between the isotopic composition of glacier ice in diversified parts of the study region are related to local climate patterns. Isotopic composition of meltwater and isotopic separation for glacier rivers runoff showed that in the Tavan-Bogd massif, seasonal snow participates more in the formation of glacier runoff due to better conditions for snow accumulation on the surface of glaciers. In other research areas pure glacier meltwater prevails in runoff.
Blade-Resolved CFD Simulations of a Periodic Array of NREL 5 MW Rotors with and without Towers
Authors: Ma Lun , Delafin Pierre-Luc , Tsoutsanis Panagiotis , Antoniadis Antonis , Nishino Takafumi
Published: January 2022

A fully resolved (FR) NREL 5 MW turbine model is employed in two unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (URANS) simulations (one with and one without the turbine tower) of a periodic atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) to study the performance of an infinitely large wind farm. The results show that the power reduction due to the tower drag is about 5% under the assumption that the driving force of the ABL is unchanged. Two additional simulations using an actuator disc (AD) model are also conducted. The AD and FR results show nearly identical tower-induced reductions of the wind speed above the wind farm, supporting the argument that the AD model is sufficient to predict the wind farm blockage effect. We also investigate the feasibility of performing delayed-detached-eddy simulations (DDES) using the same FR turbine model and periodic domain setup. The results show complex turbulent flow characteristics within the farm, such as the interaction of large-scale hairpin-like vortices with smaller-scale blade-tip vortices. The computational cost of the DDES required for a given number of rotor revolutions is found to be similar to the corresponding URANS simulation, but the sampling period required to obtain meaningful time-averaged results seems much longer due to the existence of long-timescale fluctuations.
Fifth generation (5G) telecommunication systems and human health
Authors:   FSAOU VO «Peoples' Friendship University of Russia», Yargin Sergey Vadimovich
Published: January 2022

Reviews of experimental and epidemiological studies on supposed damaging and carcinogenic effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic waves have been published recently. This review is focused on millimeter waves used in 5G communication systems. The literature on this topic is controversial; some reports are of questionable objectivity. Under these conditions, importance of theoretical argumentation increases. Millimeter waves have low penetration depth being absorbed by the skin and visible mucous membranes. It is concluded in this review that there is no convincing evidence of non-thermal mechanisms of tissue damage under the impact of millimeter waves. Theoretically, there is no reason to expect more damaging or carcinogenic effects from electromagnetic radiation per unit of absorbed energy than from infrared rays. Bias and systematic errors are possible in epidemiological studies. According to conclusions of international organizations, the incidence of brain tumors has generally not reacted to the global spread of mobile communications. The incidence increase in some regions and age groups can be explained by improvements of magnetic resonance and other diagnostic methods. In the recent past, cumulative time of mobile phone use was associated with personal incomes and, correspondingly, with diagnostic quality and frequency of examinations. This bias could explain some correlations between the mobile phone use and incidence of certain diseases. Reliable results can be obtained in animal experiments comparing the average life duration in experimental and control groups. To make results extrapolable to humans, exposure parameters in experiments must be comparable to those associated with professional activities or cell phone use.
Research on the importance of NMR technology in medicine and other fields
Authors:   RUDN,  Moscow, Elmanakhly Mohammed Imam , Rizk Marko George ,   RUDN,  Moscow, Eslam Shaaban Mohamed Ghazy Oreif ,   RUDN,  Moscow
Published: January 2022

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy was invented and developed over six decades ago as an integral part of the chemical and structural analysis of small molecules, polymers, biomaterials and hybrids. High-resolution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy plays a special role. Nuclear magnetic resonance methods are mainly used for the structural analysis of synthetic and biosynthetic organic and organic compounds and natural products, as well as for the identification of one or more components in complex matrices. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy is also one of the most powerful analytical tools for the qualitative and quantitative analysis in biological fluids of low-molecular-weight autotrophic metabolites produced by medicines and narcotic drugs. There is a growing trend towards the use of high-resolution NMR spectroscopy in food science. In this context, we will focus on the importance of NMR spectroscopy for studying low-molecular-weight organic materials using selected examples. High-resolution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy plays a special role.
Analysis of adherence to medical recommendations in children with bronchial asthma
Authors:   Department of Public Health, Health and Hygiene, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia, Zastrozhina Anastasia Konstantinovna , Drozhzhina Natalia Agafonovna ,   Department of Public Health, Health and Hygiene, FSAOU VO «Peoples' Friendship University of Russia», Zaitseva Svetlana Vladimirovna ,   Department of Pediatrics, Moscow State Medical and Dental University named after A. I. Evdokimov, Ministry of Health of Russia, Galkina Maria Ilyinichna ,   Medical Institute, the Peoples' Friendship University of Russia, Chuksina Polina Sergeevna ,   Medical Institute, the Peoples' Friendship University of Russia, Kulmuradov Azat Babamuradovich ,   Medical Institute, the Peoples' Friendship University of Russia, Shirkovets Arina Alekseevna ,   Medical Institute, the Peoples' Friendship University of Russia
Published: January 2022

One of the factors reducing the effectiveness of therapeutic measures in clinical medicine is the lack of adherence to medical recommendations among the patients. This problem is especially relevant in the treatment of chronic diseases such as bronchial asthma. This article includes the analysis of adherence to the medical recommendations of an allergist among children with bronchial asthma under observation in an outpatient department. Identified factors of intentional and unintentional nature that can influence the compliance of patients. The necessity of educational activities for children with bronchial asthma and their parents is demonstrated, that will increase the adherence to therapy
The state of the respiratory system of students in conditions of high-altitude hypoxia
Authors:   Department of Physiology and Anatomy of Man and Animals, Faculty of Biology and Chemistry, Chechen State University named after A.A. Kadyrov, Anzorov V. A. , Moryakina Svetlana Vasilievna ,   Department of Physiology and Anatomy of Man and Animals, Faculty of Biology and Chemistry, Chechen State University named after A.A. Kadyrov
Published: January 2022

The article presents the results of studies on the influence of mountain hypoxia on the state of the students’ respiratory system. When exposed to oxygen deficiency, only the respiratory capacity of the lungs undergoes significant changes. For instance, the RC level in female students under the influence of hypoxia gradually increased in conditions of medium altitude, reaching the maximum value of 0.64 liters (P ˂ 0.05), and on the plain - 0.44 liters. The RC value in young men reached the highest value of 0.74 liters in mid-altitude conditions, and on the plains, it constitutes 0.56 liters. The highest respiration rate for young men of 18.2 movements per minute was noted at an altitude of 600 meters, and the lowest - 17.4 at an altitude of 170 m. The maximum level of respiratory capacity while inhaling in girls is 1.24 liters, detected at an altitude of 600 meters, and the minimum level of 1.18 liters is noted at 170 m. The value of respiratory capacity while exhaling among young men living in the Sharoi region increased to 2.32 liters, and for those from Grozny - 2.24 liters. The highest VC level in girls - 3.87 liters - was found in the middle mountains, and on the plains, it was 3.58 liters. The VC value in young men, gradually increasing, reaches the highest value under the conditions of the Sharoi region - 4.57 liters, and in Grozny it was 4.28.
Key problems of increasing Russia’s rating in the world economy
Authors:   Moscow State Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia (MGIMO University), Tebekin Aleksei Vasilyevich
Published: January 2022

The article presents the results of a comprehensive analysis of the key problems that prevent Russia from raising the rating in the world economy, affecting the problem of the Russian Federation joining the five largest economies in the world. When studying the problems of increasing Russia’s ranking in the world economy, based on data from the Humanitarian Portal, estimates were made of the relative (in world comparison) level of development of the Russian Federation in terms of demographic development, social development, institutional development, political development, economic development, scientific and technological development, communication development, reputation development, global development. A distinctive feature of the studies presented is the reliance not on the country’s rating itself in the international comparison system, but on the relative assessment of this rating, taking into account the total number of countries covered by the corresponding rating. The analysis of the relative ratings of the international competitiveness of the Russian Federation was carried out using the desirability function H. D. Harrington (also known as the universal verbal-numerical scale), which allows you to translate relative quantitative assessments into qualitative ones. Based on the analysis, it is shown that at present Russia does not have objective prerequisites for joining the fi ve largest economies in the world, since the Russian Federation does not have a very high level of assessment according to the Harrington method according to none of the groups of indicators of international competitiveness. Most of the assessment groups (level of demographic, social, institutional, economic and social development) have an average level. A number of assessment groups (the level of scientifi c and technical, reputation and global development) have an average level. And the group for assessing the level of political development has a low level. Analysis of the structure of «pain points» of international competitiveness of the Russian Federation, corresponding to a very low level on the Harrington universal verbal-digital scale, showed that most of them are associated with problems of social development (suicide rate, level of quality of life, level of alcohol consumption, number of prisoners, level of happiness), indicating an insuffi cient level of motivation of the population for development.
"Good" and "bad" billionaires in post-soviet Russia (1997–2020)
Authors:   Siberian Institute of Management — the branch of the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, Russia, Novosibirsk,, Khanin Grigorii Isaakovich
Published: January 2022

The article shows the idea of American economist Ruchir Sharma about "good" and "bad" billion-aires in relation to modern Russia, indicates the criteria proposed by Ruchir Sharma for classifying billionaires as "good" and "bad". The ratio between "good" and "bad" billionaires in modern Russia is studied for the period from 1997 till 2020. To identify "good" billionaires, their list for 2008, 2015 and 2020 is given, indicating companies and industry. For the same years, the shares of "good" billionaires in the total amount of billionaires and their total property were calculated. Sig-nificant growth of a number of "good" billionaires and their share in their total amount and total property of billionaires has been found. The main factors that determined the dynamics and share of "good" billionaires are indicated: the dynamics of world oil prices and the maturity of the Russian bourgeoisie. The share of "good" billionaires in Russia is being compared with the remaining 19 countries analysed by Ruchir Sharma. It turns out that even in the best year of 2020 for Russia in terms of the share of "good" billionaires, it was far behind other countries. Objective and subjective reasons for Russia’s catastrophic lag in the share of "good" billionaires are shown. Objective reasons include the youth of Russian capitalism and the huge demographic losses of Russia in the XX century, especially among the creative part of the population. Subjective reasons include the vices of the carried out in post-Soviet Russia political and economic reforms and the resulting economic and political structure. The negative consequences of the small share of "good" billionaires are analysed. These include the economic crisis in Russia in 2008 and the unsatisfactory structure of the Russian economy, as well as a huge social differentiation. The author proposes measures for accelerated modernization of the Russian economy, creating the most favourable conditions for the growth of "good" billionaires.
USE OF LOCAL CLIMATE RESOURCES OF COLD IN COMBINED CYCLES OF VACUUM MICRO-GAS TURBINE PLATS FOR HEAT AND ELECTRICAL SUPPLY OF LOCAL OBJECTS
Authors: DOLOGLONYAN A.V. , STREBKOV D.S. , MATVIIENKO V.T. , STACENKO I.N.
Published: January 2022

The subject of consideration in the article are methods of complicating the cycles of vacuum micro-gas turbine plants (VMGTP) in order to further increase their efficiency. The direction of deeper utilization of the heat of exhaust gases of VMGTP was chosen, transforming it into work in the organic Rankine cycle (ORC) plant, as well as the use of local climatic resources of cold. It has been established that the use of an additional steam turbine as part of the ORC unit of the combined VMGTP allows to increase its efficiency from October to March by 1... 5%, depending on the configuration of the basic VMGTP, which ensures an increase in the average annual efficiency by 0.5... 2%. It is shown that the ORC plant on R-134a does not allow full use of the temperature potential of the VMGTP gases based on a gas turbine engine (GTE) of a simple cycle (SC), since the decomposition temperature of the working fluid is lower than the temperature of the gases of the base VMGTP, therefore, the efficiency of combined VMGTP based on GTE SC with the use of R-134a is lower than similar ones with the use of ammonia by 5... 6%.
MODELING OF THE CONTACT LAYER IN THE STUDY OF THE STEEL WIRE DRAWING PROCESS
Authors: LEONTYEV V.V. , KONDRATOVA E.V.
Published: January 2022

Using the COMSOL MULTIPHYSICS software, the problem of the stress-strain state of a steel wire during drawing is solved by the finite element method. A special contact layer is introduced to describe the contact between the wire and the matrix. It consists of a material whose modulus of longitudinal elasticity in the direction perpendicular to the contacting parts coincides with the modulus of longitudinal elasticity of the matrix or wire, and in the other direction is small, as is the shear modulus. During the calculation, the fields of radial stresses, axial stresses and equivalent stresses are obtained. The results of solving the problem allow us to proceed to the study of residual stresses after drawing, as well as to study the influence of various drawing parameters on the stressed state of the wire.
PENYELIDIKAN DAN PENYIDIKAN MENGGUNAKAN TEKNIK INTEROGASI REKAMAN AUDIO VISUAL DALAM PEMBERKASAN PERKARA TINDAK PIDANA PADA POLRESTABES MEDAN
Authors: M. Hamdan, Mahmud Mulyadi Damos Christian Aritonang, Syafrudin Kalo,
Published: January 2022

The filing of cases begins with the Minutes of Examination (BAP). In making the Minutes of Investigation, both Witnesses and Suspects, for Investigators it is often difficult because the number of cases handled makes the Investigator not focus on revealing and making light of a criminal act. Not to mention, in the interrogations (also called "Interrogations"), also misinterpreted by the Investigator. This makes the Integrated Criminal Justice System (ICJS) not work, because of the piling up of cases at the level of examination or investigation. The Minutes of Examination as the start of law enforcement, the concept of Minutes of Examination now is no longer feasible to be maintained. Advanced investigative and interrogation techniques are needed. In this case, using audio-visual recordings in examinations and investigations. Audio-visual recordings can be done in a room at the Police Station. So, both investigators and investigators can directly examine witnesses or suspects as freely as the questions asked. Likewise, with witnesses or suspects as being questioned, they can answer freely as far as they know, see, hear, or experience them themselves. Also, the investigator as an examiner can see playing back the audio-visual recording to be examined and displayed/exhibited at the case title conducted.