bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chirality in Organic and Mineral Systems: A Review of Reactivity and Alteration Processes Relevant to Prebiotic Chemistry and Life Detection Missions
Authors: Lee Carina , Weber Jessica , Rodriguez Laura , Sheppard Rachel , Barge Laura , Berger Eve , Burton Aaron
Published: February 2022

Chirality is a central feature in the evolution of biological systems, but the reason for biology’s strong preference for specific chiralities of amino acids, sugars, and other molecules remains a controversial and unanswered question in origins of life research. Biological polymers tend toward homochiral systems, which favor the incorporation of a single enantiomer (molecules with a specific chiral configuration) over the other. There have been numerous investigations into the processes that preferentially enrich one enantiomer to understand the evolution of an early, racemic, prebiotic organic world. Chirality can also be a property of minerals; their interaction with chiral organics is important for assessing how post-depositional alteration processes could affect the stereochemical configuration of simple and complex organic molecules. In this paper, we review the properties of organic compounds and minerals as well as the physical, chemical, and geological processes that affect organic and mineral chirality during the preservation and detection of organic compounds. We provide perspectives and discussions on the reactions and analytical techniques that can be performed in the laboratory, and comment on the state of knowledge of flight-capable technologies in current and future planetary missions, with a focus on organics analysis and life detection.
Another Perspective on Automatic Construction of Integral Distinguishers for ARX Ciphers
Authors: Zhang Kai , Lai Xuejia
Published: February 2022

This paper introduces a method to construct integral distinguishers for ARX ciphers. The basic idea of this method is to utilize the symmetry between the zero-correlation linear distinguishers and integral distinguishers. Combined with an automatic searching method on zero-correlation linear distinguishers of ARX ciphers, a subspace for the distinguishers is constructed. This subspace can finally be turned into an integral distinguisher based on the symmetry between these two distinguishers. Three ARX block ciphers, HIGHT, LEA and SPECK, are used to validate the effectiveness of this method. For LEA, four nine-round integral distinguishers are constructed, which is one more round than the previous best result derived with division property. For SPECK32, two more six-round integral distinguishers are constructed, whose number of active bits is reduced by one bit.
Mycotoxins’ Toxicological Mechanisms Involving Humans, Livestock and Their Associated Health Concerns: A Review
Authors: Awuchi Chinaza Godseill , Ondari Erick Nyakundi , Nwozo Sarah , Odongo Grace Akinyi , Eseoghene Ifie Josiah , Twinomuhwezi Hannington , Ogbonna Chukwuka U. , Upadhyay Anjani K. , Adeleye Ademiku O. , Okpala Charles Odilichukwu R.
Published: February 2022

Mycotoxins are well established toxic metabolic entities produced when fungi invade agricultural/farm produce, and this happens especially when the conditions are favourable. Exposure to mycotoxins can directly take place via the consumption of infected foods and feeds; humans can also be indirectly exposed from consuming animals fed with infected feeds. Among the hundreds of mycotoxins known to humans, around a handful have drawn the most concern because of their occurrence in food and severe effects on human health. The increasing public health importance of mycotoxins across human and livestock environments mandates the continued review of the relevant literature, especially with regard to understanding their toxicological mechanisms. In particular, our analysis of recently conducted reviews showed that the toxicological mechanisms of mycotoxins deserve additional attention to help provide enhanced understanding regarding this subject matter. For this reason, this current work reviewed the mycotoxins’ toxicological mechanisms involving humans, livestock, and their associated health concerns. In particular, we have deepened our understanding about how the mycotoxins’ toxicological mechanisms impact on the human cellular genome. Along with the significance of mycotoxin toxicities and their toxicological mechanisms, there are associated health concerns arising from exposures to these toxins, including DNA damage, kidney damage, DNA/RNA mutations, growth impairment in children, gene modifications, and immune impairment. More needs to be done to enhance the understanding regards the mechanisms underscoring the environmental implications of mycotoxins, which can be actualized via risk assessment studies into the conditions/factors facilitating mycotoxins’ toxicities.
The Preclinical Evaluation of a Second-Generation Antivenom for Treating Snake Envenoming in India
Authors: Attarde Saurabh , Iyer Ashwin , Khochare Suyog , Shaligram Umesh , Vikharankar Mayur , Sunagar Kartik
Published: February 2022

Snake envenoming afflicts the Indian subcontinent with the highest rates of mortality (47,000) and morbidity globally. The only effective treatment for snakebites is the administration of antivenom, which is produced by the hyperimmunisation of equines. Commercial Indian antivenoms, however, have been shown to exhibit a poor preclinical performance in neutralising venom, as a result of inter- and intrapopulation snake venom variation. Additionally, their poor dose effectiveness necessitates the administration of larger volumes of antivenom for treatment, leading to several harmful side effects in snakebite victims, including serum sickness and fatal anaphylaxis. In this study, we employed chromatographic purification to enhance the dose efficacy of commercial Indian antivenoms. The efficacy of this ‘second-generation’ antivenom was comparatively evaluated against six other marketed antivenoms using a number of in vitro and in vivo preclinical assays, which revealed its superior venom recognition capability. Enhanced purity also resulted in significant improvements in dose effectiveness, as the ‘second-generation’ antivenom exhibited a 3 to 4.5 times increased venom neutralisation potential. Furthermore, preclinical assays revealed the increased effectiveness of the ‘second-generation’ antivenom in countering morbid effects inflicted by the ‘big four’ Indian snakes. Thus, we demonstrate the role of simpler purification steps in significantly enhancing the effectiveness of snakebite therapy in regions that are most affected by snakebites.
Development of a Novel UPLC-MS/MS Method for the Simultaneous Determination of 16 Mycotoxins in Different Tea Categories
Authors: Zhou Haiyan , Yan Zheng , Yu Song , Wu Aibo , Liu Na
Published: February 2022

The contamination of potential mycotoxins in tea production and consumption has always been a concern. However, the risk monitoring on multiple mycotoxins remains a challenge by existing methods due to the high cost and complex operation in tea matrices. This research has developed a simple ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry strategy based on our homemade purification column, which can be applied in the detections of mycotoxins in complex tea matrices with high-effectively purifying and removing pigment capacity for 16 mycotoxins. The limits of detection and the limits of quantification were in the ranges of 0.015~15.00 and 0.03~30.00 µg·kg−1 for 16 mycotoxins, respectively. Recoveries from mycotoxin-fortified tea samples (0.13~1200 µg·kg−1) in different tea matrices ranged from 61.27 to 118.46%, with their relative standard deviations below 20%. Moreover, this method has been successfully applied to the analysis and investigation of the levels of 16 mycotoxins in major categories of tea and the monitoring of multiple mycotoxins in processed samples of ripened Pu-erh. In conclusion, the proposed strategy is simple, effective, time-saving, and low-cost for the determination of a large number of tea samples.
Co-Infection of COVID-19 and Pneumocystosis Following Rituximab Infusion—A Case Report
Authors: Dakowitz Michelle , Korus Justyna , Mazanowska Oktawia , Krajewska Magdalena , Kamińska Dorota
Published: February 2022

Immunocompromised patients with respiratory viral infections are at increased risk of fungal superinfections, including Pneumocystosis. Within the scope of the COVID-19 pandemic, Pneumocystis jirovecii co-infections are being increasingly reported. Differential diagnosis often creates a dilemma, due to multiple overlapping clinical and radiographic features. Awareness of fungal co-infections in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic is crucial to initiate prophylactic measures, especially in high-risk individuals. We report the second case of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia and COVID-19 co-infection in a renal transplant recipient in Poland.
Depriving Out-of-School Children of Deworming Tablets for Soil-Transmitted Helminth Infection in Bangladesh: The Irony of a School-Based Deworming Programme
Authors: Saha Avijit , Chowdhury Srizan , Goswami Edwin Theophilus , Gop Konica , Alam Ariful , Rahman Asadur , Sarker Malabika
Published: February 2022

Since 2008, Bangladesh has had a school-based deworming programme to combat soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infection among school-aged children (SACs). Existing programmes have trouble reaching SACs, especially those out-of-school (OSCs). This study evaluated deworming coverage among school going children (SGCs) and OSCs in two Nilphamari sub-districts. It also evaluated community knowledge on STH control and deworming coverage in both areas for all SACs. Saidpur (intervention) and Kishoregonj (control) sub-districts, in Nilphamari, were surveyed in December 2019. The survey included SACs and their parents. Among SGCs, the intervention group (89.0%) had higher deworming coverage than the control group (75.5%). In the intervention group, 59.9% of OSCs received the deworming tablet versus 24.6% in the control group. Community involvement activities including door-to-door visits, courtyard gatherings, and miking benefited both SACs and their primary caregivers. SACs living in the intervention region, awareness of the last pill distribution date, and caregivers observing BRAC workers in action, were linked to SAC deworming coverage. Re-strategizing the deworming programme to include the OSCs is vital and suggests timely action. Building community awareness and periodic epidemiological assessment can further facilitate an improved drug intake.
Whole Genome Sequence Analysis of a Prototype Strain of the Novel Putative Rotavirus Species L
Authors: Johne Reimar , Schilling-Loeffler Katja , Ulrich Rainer G. , Tausch Simon H.
Published: February 2022

Rotaviruses infect humans and animals and are a main cause of diarrhea. They are non-enveloped viruses with a genome of 11 double-stranded RNA segments. Based on genome analysis and amino acid sequence identities of the capsid protein VP6, the rotavirus species A to J (RVA-RVJ) have been defined so far. In addition, rotaviruses putatively assigned to the novel rotavirus species K (RVK) and L (RVL) have been recently identified in common shrews (Sorex araneus), based on partial genome sequences. Here, the complete genome sequence of strain KS14/0241, a prototype strain of RVL, is presented. The deduced amino acid sequence for VP6 of this strain shows only up to 47% identity to that of RVA to RVJ reference strains. Phylogenetic analyses indicate a clustering separated from the established rotavirus species for all 11 genome segments of RVL, with the closest relationship to RVH and RVJ within the phylogenetic RVB-like clade. The non-coding genome segment termini of RVL showed conserved sequences at the 5′-end (positive-sense RNA strand), which are common to all rotaviruses, and those conserved among the RVB-like clade at the 3′-end. The results are consistent with a classification of the virus into a novel rotavirus species L.
New Insights from the High-Resolution Monitoring of Microalgae–Virus Infection Dynamics
Authors: Schiano di Visconte Gino , Allen Michael J. , Spicer Andrew
Published: February 2022

Investigation of virus-induced microalgal host lysis and the associated infection dynamics typically requires sampling of infected cultures at multiple timepoints, visually monitoring the state of infected cells, or determining virus titration within the culture media. Such approaches require intensive effort and are prone to low sensitivity and high error rates. Furthermore, natural physiological variations can become magnified by poor environmental control, which is often compounded by variability in virus stock efficacy and relatively long infection cycles. We introduce a new method that closely monitors host health and integrity to learn about the infection strategy of Chloroviruses. Our approach combines aspects of spectrometry, plaque assays, and infection dose assessment to monitor algal cells under conditions more representative of the natural environment. Our automated method exploits the continuous monitoring of infected microalgae cultures in highly controlled lab-scale photobioreactors that provide the opportunity for environmental control, technical replication, and intensive culture monitoring without external intervention or culture disruption. This approach has enabled the development of a protocol to investigate molecular signalling impacting the virus life cycle and particle release, accurate determination of virus lysis time under multiple environmental conditions, and assessment of the functional diversity of multiple virus isolates.
DEAD-Box RNA Helicase 21 (DDX21) Positively Regulates the Replication of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus via Multiple Mechanisms
Authors: Li Jia , Wang Dang , Fang Puxian , Pang Yu , Zhou Yanrong , Fang Liurong , Xiao Shaobo
Published: February 2022

The porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) remains a persistent hazard in the global pig industry. DEAD (Glu-Asp-Ala-Glu) box helicase 21 (DDX21) is a member of the DDX family. In addition to its function of regulating cellular RNA metabolism, DDX21 also regulates innate immunity and is involved in the replication cycle of some viruses. However, the relationship between DDX21 and PRRSV has not yet been explored. Here, we found that a DDX21 overexpression promoted PRRSV replication, whereas knockdown of DDX21 reduced PRRSV proliferation. Mechanistically, DDX21 promoted PRRSV replication independently of its ATPase, RNA helicase, and foldase activities. Furthermore, overexpression of DDX21 stabilized the expressions of PRRSV nsp1α, nsp1β, and nucleocapsid proteins, three known antagonists of interferon β (IFN-β). Knockdown of DDX21 activated the IFN-β signaling pathway in PRRSV-infected cells, suggesting that the effect of DDX21 on PRRSV-encoded IFN-β antagonists may be a driving factor for its contribution to viral proliferation. We also found that PRRSV infection enhanced DDX21 expression and promoted its nucleus-to-cytoplasm translocation. Screening PRRSV-encoded proteins showed that nsp1β interacted with the C-terminus of DDX21 and enhanced the expression of DDX21. Taken together, these findings reveal that DDX21 plays an important role in regulating PRRSV proliferation through multiple mechanisms.
Humoral and Cellular Immune Responses of Solid Organ Transplant Patients on Belatacept to Three Doses of mRNA-Based Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine
Authors: Abravanel Florence , Marion Olivier , Del Bello Arnaud , Beunon Thomas , Romieu-Mourez Raphaelle , Couat Chloé , Pucelle Mélanie , Staes Laetitia , Guitard Joelle , Esposito Laure , Faguer Stanislas , Kamar Nassim , Izopet Jacques
Published: February 2022

Background: Two doses of anti-SARS-CoV-2 mRNA-based vaccines are poorly immunogenic in solid organ transplant recipients (SOT). Methods: In total, 68 belatacept-treated SOT recipients followed at the Toulouse University Hospital were investigated. They were given three injections of the BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. Their humoral response was assessed by determining anti-spike antibodies and neutralizing antibodies. The T-cell responses were assessed using an enzyme-linked immunospot assay that measured the interferon-γ produced by specific SARS-CoV-2 T-cells in a subgroup of 17 patients. Results: Only 23.5% of these patients developed a detectable anti-spike response. Moreover, the cellular and the humoral responses were well correlated. Patients with no humoral response were also without a detectable cellular response. Those belatacept-treated patients who developed an Anti-SARS-CoV-2 humoral response were younger, had been transplanted for longer, and had a higher lymphocyte count and a better glomerular filtration rate than those with no response. Finally, patients on tacrolimus plus belatacept produced a lower immune response. Conclusions: Belatacept-treated SOT recipients have a reduced immune response to anti-SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination. The vaccine should be given quite separately from the belatacept infusion to improve immunogenicity. Studies to assess whether switching to another immunosuppressive regimen can improve the post-vaccination immune response would be useful.
Evaluation of Commercial Myxomatosis Vaccines against Recombinant Myxoma Virus (ha-MYXV) in Iberian Hare and Wild Rabbit
Authors: Abade dos Santos Fábio A. , Carvalho Carina L. , Valente Pâmela C. L. G. , Armés Henrique , Reemers Sylvia S. , Peleteiro Maria C. , Calonge Sanz Inés , Dalton Kevin P. , Parra Francisco , Duarte Margarida D.
Published: February 2022

The recent emergence of a new myxoma virus capable of causing disease in the Iberian hare (Lepus granatensis) has resulted in numerous outbreaks with high mortality leading to the reduction, or even the disappearance, of many local populations of this wild species in the Iberian Peninsula. Currently, the available vaccines that prevent myxomatosis in domestic rabbits caused by classic strains of myxoma virus have not been assessed for use in Iberian hares. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of commercial rabbit vaccines in Iberian hares and wild rabbits against the natural recombinant myxoma virus (ha-MYXV), bearing in mind its application in specific scenarios where capture is possible, such as genetic reserves. The study used a limited number of animals (pilot study), 15 Iberian hares and 10 wild rabbits. Hares were vaccinated with Mixohipra-FSA vaccine (Hipra) and Mixohipra-H vaccine (Hipra) using two different doses, and rabbits were vaccinated with the Mixohipra-H vaccine or the Nobivac Myxo-RHD PLUS (MSD Animal Health) using the recommended doses for domestic rabbits. After the vaccination trials, the animals were challenged with a wild type strain of ha-MYXV. The results showed that no protection to ha-MYXV challenge was afforded when a commercial dose of Mixohipra-FSA or Mixohipra-H vaccine was used in hares. However, the application of a higher dose of Mixohipra-FSA vaccine may induce protection and could possibly be used to counteract the accelerated decrease of wild hare populations due to ha-MYXV emergence. The two commercial vaccines (Mixohipra-H and Nobivac Myxo-RHD PLUS) tested in wild rabbits were fully protective against ha-MYXV infection. This knowledge gives more insights into ha-MYXV management in hares and rabbits and emphasises the importance of developing a vaccine capable of protecting wild populations of Iberian hare and wild rabbit towards MYXV and ha-MYXV strains.
Duration of SARS-CoV-2 Immune Responses Up to Six Months Following Homologous or Heterologous Primary Immunization with ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 and BNT162b2 mRNA Vaccines
Authors: Marking Ulrika , Havervall Sebastian , Greilert-Norin Nina , Ng Henry , Blom Kim , Nilsson Peter , Phillipson Mia , Hober Sophia , Nilsson Charlotta , Mangsbo Sara , Christ Wanda , Klingström Jonas , Gordon Max , Åberg Mikael , Thålin Charlotte
Published: February 2022

Heterologous primary immunization against SARS-CoV-2 is part of applied recommendations. However, little is known about duration of immune responses after heterologous vaccine regimens. To evaluate duration of immune responses after primary vaccination with homologous adeno-vectored ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine (ChAd) or heterologous ChAd/BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine (BNT), anti-spike-IgG and SARS-CoV-2 VOC-neutralizing antibody responses were measured in 354 healthcare workers (HCW) at 2 weeks, 3 months, 5 months and 6 months after the second vaccine dose. T-cell responses were investigated using a whole blood interferon gamma (IFN-γ) release assay 2 weeks and 3 months post second vaccine dose. Two hundred and ten HCW immunized with homologous BNT were enrolled for comparison of antibody responses. In study participants naïve to SARS-CoV-2 prior to vaccination, heterologous ChAd/BNT resulted in 6-fold higher peak anti-spike IgG antibody titers compared to homologous ChAd vaccination. The half-life of antibody titers was 3.1 months (95% CI 2.8–3.6) following homologous ChAd vaccination and 1.9 months (95% CI 1.7–2.1) after heterologous vaccination, reducing the GMT difference between the groups to 3-fold 6 months post vaccination. Peak T-cell responses were stronger in ChAd/BNT vaccinees, but no significant difference was observed 3 months post vaccination. SARS-CoV-2 infection prior to vaccination resulted in substantially higher peak GMTs and IFN-γ levels and enhanced SARS-CoV-2 specific antibody and T cell responses over time. Heterologous primary SARS-CoV-2 immunization with ChAd and BNT elicits a stronger initial immune response compared to homologous vaccination with ChAd. However, although the differences in humoral responses remain over 6 months, the difference in SARS-CoV-2 specific T cell responses are no longer significant three months after vaccination.
Remote Real-Time Monitoring System for Mine Slope Based on Cloud Computing
Authors: Zhou Yijun , Li Yanlin , Chen Yulong
Published: February 2022

A remote real-time monitoring system was developed for the remote real-time monitoring of mine slope deformation and internal forces. The system is based on cloud-computing technology and a 5S multimedia streaming monitoring data transmission system. It has now been applied to an open-pit iron mine in Nanfen to monitor the horizontal displacement of potential sliding surfaces. Compared with geometric monitoring methods in traditional geodetic surveying, the results show that this monitoring system has higher accuracy (0.01 mm) and the ability to monitor in real time for 24 h. These features can realize early warnings of mine slopes from multiple dimensions, and provide a guarantee for safe, continuous and the efficient production of mines. In addition, it can provide a certain reference for the prevention and control of mine slope disasters, and is beneficial to the application of information-based early warning technology.
Morphology Recovery and Convergence of Topographic Evolution in the Natori River Mouth after the 2011 Tohoku Tsunami
Authors: Hiep Nguyen Trong , Tanaka Hitoshi , Tinh Nguyen Xuan
Published: February 2022

The 2011 Great East Japan earthquake and tsunami caused significant damage along the coastal region in Miyagi Prefecture. In the Natori River of Miyagi Prefecture, the recovery process of the estuarine morphology has been observed since the tsunami arrived. In this study, detailed analyses of collected aerial photographs and beach topography in front of the river mouth were conducted to evaluate whether the river mouth has reached a new equilibrium. The shoreline analysis suggests that the river mouth has obtained an equilibrium state after 2014 in which the sediment volume can be preserved within the littoral system. In addition, the convergence process to the stable topography was detected by the first spatial and temporal eigenfunctions obtained from the empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis of the beach profiles. From the results, it can be concluded that the river mouth has obtained a new equilibrium of morphology after the tsunami. As the recurrence of the tsunami can be expected in the next several centuries, the findings of this study can be useful for long-term coastal and riverine management against future disasters in this river mouth, and other coastal regions that are prone to large-scale disasters in the near future.
The Effectiveness of Rainwater Harvesting Infrastructure in a Mediterranean Island
Authors: Kakoulas Dimitrios A. , Golfinopoulos Spyridon K. , Koumparou Dimitra , Alexakis Dimitrios E.
Published: February 2022

Rainwater Harvesting system (RWHs) can be considered as an alternative water resource in the era of the climate crisis. This research aims to study the effectiveness of a RWHs for domestic non-potable use and the water demand of the community in a Mediterranean site (Chios island, Greece). A water balance model is applied to simulate the behavior of a rainwater tank and calculate the daily water savings. The analysis correlates rainwater tank capacity, catchment area and population. The operation of the rainwater collection system has been calculated for seven years. In order to assess the investment risk regarding the application of the RWHs, the financial ratio of PayBack (PB) period was determined. The multifaceted character of Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) practice in the three-dimensional concept of sustainability is discussed. This study concludes that RWH contributes to the greening of society, dealing with water scarcity in urban areas.
Using the WWF Water Risk Filter to Screen Existing and Projected Hydropower Projects for Climate and Biodiversity Risks
Authors: Opperman Jeffrey J. , Camargo Rafael R. , Laporte-Bisquit Ariane , Zarfl Christiane , Morgan Alexis J.
Published: February 2022

Climate change is predicted to drive various changes in hydrology that can translate into risks for river ecosystems and for those who manage rivers, such as for hydropower. Here we use the WWF Water Risk Filter (WRF) and geospatial analysis to screen hydropower projects, both existing (2488 dams) and projected (3700 dams), for a variety of risks at a global scale, focusing on biodiversity risks, hydrological risks (water scarcity and flooding), and how those hydrological risks may shift with climate change, based on three scenarios. Approximately 26% of existing hydropower dams and 23% of projected dams are within river basins that currently have medium to very high risk of water scarcity; 32% and 20% of the existing and projected dams, respectively, are projected to have increased risk by 2050 due to climate change. For flood risk, 75% of existing dams and 83% of projected dams are within river basins with medium to very high risk, and the proportion of hydropower dams in basins with the highest levels of flood risk is projected to increase by nearly twenty times (e.g., from 2% to 36% of dams). In addition, a large proportion of existing (76%) and projected hydropower dams (93%) are located in river basins with high or very high freshwater biodiversity importance. This is a high-level screening, intended to elucidate broad patterns of risk to increase awareness, highlight trends, and guide more detailed studies.
Different Assembly Patterns of Planktonic and Sedimentary Bacterial Community in a Few Connected Eutrophic Lakes
Authors: Xia Ming , Xiong Fei , Li Xuemei , Li Dunhai , Wang Zhicong , Zhai Dongdong , Liu Hongyan , Chen Yuanyuan , Yu Jixin , Wang Ying
Published: February 2022

The mechanism of bacterial community assembly has been the hot spot in the field of microbial ecology and it is difficult to quantitatively estimate the influences of different ecological processes. Here, a total of 23 pairs of planktonic and sedimentary samples were collected from five lakes in Wuhan, China. significant higher α-diversity (p < 0.001) and β-diversity (p < 0.001) of bacterial communities were observed in sediment than those in water. Some phylum had linear relationships with the comprehensive TSI (TSIc) by regression analysis. Non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) and redundancy analysis (RDA) revealed that the depth of water, NO3−-N, NH4+-N, PO43−, and CODcr were the key environmental variables in planktonic bacterial communities, whereas in sediment they were the depth, NO3−-N, and NH4+-N. Furthermore, variation partitioning analysis (VPA) showed that spatial and environmental factors could only explain 40.2% and 27.9% of the variation in planktonic and sedimentary bacterial communities, respectively. More importantly, null model analysis suggested that different assembly mechanisms were found between in water and in sediment with the fact that planktonic bacterial community assembly was mainly driven by dispersal limitation process whereas variable selection process played a vital role in that of sediment.
Novel Magnetite Nanocomposites (Fe3O4/C) for Efficient Immobilization of Ciprofloxacin from Aqueous Solutions through Adsorption Pretreatment and Membrane Processes
Authors: Zahoor Muhammad , Ullah Azmat , Alam Sultan , Muhammad Mian , Hendroko Setyobudi Roy , Zekker Ivar , Sohail Amir
Published: February 2022

The release of antibiotics into the aquatic environment enhances the drug resistance capabilities of microorganisms, as in large water reservoirs, their concentrations are lesser than their minimum bactericidal concentration, and microorganisms living there become resistant to such antibiotics. Therefore, robust hybrid technologies, comprising of efficient conventional adsorption processes and modern membranes processes, are needed to effectively remove such pollutants from industrial effluents. The present study is an attempt where iron-based magnetic carbon nanocomposites (Fe3O4/C) were prepared from mango biomass precursors and utilized as an adsorbent for the removal ciprofloxacin from wastewater in combination with three types of membranes that are robust but fouled by organic matter. The Fe3O4/C composite was characterized using energy dispersive X-Ray (EDX) technique, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Brunauer Emmett Teller (BET), Barrett–Joyner-Halenda (BJH) surface area, Thermogravimetric (TG)/Thermal differential analysis (DTA) and point of zero charge pH analyses. Initially, batch adsorption experiments were used to determine adsorption parameters. Then the adsorption unit was coupled with membrane pilot plant where the adsorption role was to adsorb CIPRO before entering into the membrane unit to control fouling caused by selected antibiotic. In batch experiments, the equilibrium time was found as 60 min and kinetics data were more favorably accommodated with the pseudo-2nd-order model (R2 = 0.99). Langmuir model (R2 = 0.997) more favorably accommodated the equilibrium data in comparison to other models used such as the Freundlich (R2 = 0.86), Temkin (R2 = 0.91) and Jovanovich (R2 = 0.95) models. The thermodynamic aspects of the adsorption process were also evaluated and the process was found to be spontaneous, feasible and exothermic. The influence of adsorbent dosage and pH, were also investigated, where the optimal adsorption conditions were: optimum pH = 7 and optimum Fe3O4/C dosage = 0.04 g. The CIPRO-loaded nanocomposite was regenerated with NaOH, CH3OH and distilled water several times. Improved percent rejections of CIPRO and permeate fluxes with the membrane/adsorption operation were observed as compared to naked membrane operations. Magnetic adsorbent was found as a best solution of foul control; a defect in the modern robust technology of membranes. However, further experimentation is needed to validate the present findings.
Wastewater Treatment in Mineral Processing of Non-Ferrous Metal Resources: A Review
Authors: Meng Shengbing , Wen Shuming , Han Guang , Wang Xiao , Feng Qicheng
Published: February 2022

Water used by mining enterprises needs to be comprehensively recovered and utilized to achieve clean production. This requires the effective treatment of mineral processing wastewater. Wastewater produced during non-ferrous metal mineral processing contains a complex mixture of pollutants at high concentrations, making comprehensive treatment difficult. Here, the sources of and hazards posed by wastewater produced during non-ferrous metal mineral processing are introduced and the techniques for removing heavy metal ions and organic chemicals are reviewed. Chemical precipitation and adsorption methods are often used to remove heavy metal ions. Chemical precipitation methods can be divided into hydroxide and sulfide precipitation methods. Organic chemicals are mainly removed using oxidation methods, including electrochemical oxidation, photocatalytic oxidation, and ultrasonic synergistic oxidation. External and internal cyclic utilization methods for treating wastewater produced by mineral processing plants are introduced, and a feasibility analysis is performed.
A Machine-Learning Approach for Prediction of Water Contamination Using Latitude, Longitude, and Elevation
Authors: Banerjee Kakoli , Bali Vikram , Nawaz Nishad , Bali Shivani , Mathur Sonali , Mishra Ram Krishn , Rani Sita
Published: February 2022

One of the significant issues that the world has faced in recent decades has been the estimation of water quality and location where safe drinking water is available. Due to the unexpected nature of the mode of water contamination, it is not easy to analyze the quality and maintain it. Some machine-learning techniques are used for predicting contaminating factors but there is no technique that can predict the contamination using latitude, longitude, and elevation. The main aim of this paper is to put factors such as water body location and elevation, which are used as inputs, into the different machine-learning techniques that predict the contamination. The results are reviewed and analyzed according to groundwater contamination and the chemical composition of the groundwater location. Non-changeable factors such as latitude, longitude, and elevation are used to predict pH, temperature, turbidity, dissolved oxygen hardness, chlorides, alkalinity, and chemical oxygen demand. Such a study has not been conducted in the past where location-based factors are used to predict the water contamination of any area. This research focuses on creating a relationship between the location base factors affecting the water contamination in a given area.
Impact of Climate Change on Hydrometeorology and Droughts in the Bilate Watershed, Ethiopia
Authors: Orke Yoseph Arba , Li Ming-Hsu
Published: February 2022

This study aims to assess the potential impacts of climate change on hydrometeorological variables and drought characteristics in the Ethiopian Bilate watershed. Climate projections under two Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5) were obtained from the Coordinated Regional Downscaling Experiment (CORDEX) Africa for the near future (2021–2050) and far future (2071–2100) periods. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model was applied to assess changes in watershed hydrology with the CORDEX-Africa data. The Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI), Streamflow Drought Index (SDI), and Reconnaissance Drought Index (RDI) were calculated to identify the characteristics of meteorological, hydrological, and agricultural droughts, respectively. Due to a significant rise in temperature, evapotranspiration will increase by up to 16.8% by the end of the 21st century. Under the RCP8.5 scenario, the annual average rainfall is estimated to decrease by 38.3% in the far future period, inducing a reduction of streamflow of up to 37.5%. Projections in reduced diurnal temperature range might benefit crop growth but suggest elevated heat stress. Probabilities of drought occurrence are expected to be doubled in the far future period, with increased intensities for all three types of droughts. These projected impacts will exacerbate water scarcity and threaten food securities in the study area. The study findings provide forward-looking quantitative information for water management authorities and decision-makers to develop adaptive measures to cope with the changing climate.
Versions of digital production safety training systems
Authors:   TECHINTELL, Khalin E.V.
Published: February 2022

The development of software complexes designed to train and control the knowledge of workers on industrial safety and labor protection has been conducted by TECHINTELL for the last three decades. The latest versions of digital production safety training systems provide automation of essentially all tasks related to personnel training, including distance learning with unambiguous identification of the real trainee.
Local Atomic Configuration in Pristine and A-Site Doped Silver Niobate Perovskite Antiferroelectrics
Authors: Gao Jing , Li Wei , Liu Jue , Li Qian , Li Jing-Feng
Published: February 2022

Antiferroelectrics have attracted increasing research interests in recent years due to both their great potential in energy storage applications and intriguing structural characteristics. However, the links between the electrical properties and structural characteristics of distorted perovskite antiferroelectrics are yet to be fully deciphered. Here, we adopt local-structure methods to elucidate the nanoscale atomic structure of AgNbO
3
-based antiferroelectrics and their structural evolution upon La doping. The local structural features including interatomic distance distributions and atomic displacements have been analyzed using neutron small-box pair distribution function (PDF) refinement in conjunction with large-box Reverse Monte Carlo modelling. Our results highlight the correlation of cation displacements in AgNbO
3
and its disruption by the incorporation of La, apparently in corroboration with the observed anomalous dielectric properties. Spatial ordering of cation vacancies is observed in La-doped AgNbO
3
samples, which coordinates with oxygen octahedral tilting to relieve lattice strain. These results provide renewed insights into the atomic structure and antiferroelectric phase instabilities of AgNbO
3
and relevant perovskite materials, further lending versatile opportunities for enhancing their functionalities.
PROGRAM AND TARGET MANAGEMENT OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE REGION’S POTENTIAL
Authors: Kulik O. , Bezrukova Tatyana , Ilunina Anna
Published: February 2022

The relevance of the research topic is due to the increasing degree of need to solve the problem of regional development in program-targeted management. The article considers the approaches to the economic assessment of the development of the region, the definition of the program-target management of the development of the region is proposed. Conclusions are drawn about the need to form a new paradigm of managing the development of the region on the basis of program-targeted management
CHINESE GRAIN MARKET
Authors: Maklakova Elena , Yang Mingue
Published: February 2022

Based on the differences in the degree of marketization of different varieties, the objects of research for comparative analysis were selected rice and imported soybeans. The asymmetric ARCH model was used to compare and analyze the response of rice purchase prices and wholesale rice prices to impacts in different directions. Based on this, the differences in the degree of market integration between rice and soy were identified and the reasons for this were explained. The use of price theory to analyze the inefficient transmission of vertical prices affects the stable and balanced development of the entire grain market.
NIETZSCHE – A LIFE FULL OF SURPRISES AND CONTRADICTIONS
Authors: Grachev D. , Ermakov S.
Published: February 2022

Friedrich Nietzsche is fundamentally incomparable, the status of a supporter of a philosophy that placed his evolution, sharp mind and reflection on power and freedom as the most important. The real biography of the philosopher is full of controversial and very ambiguous facts. The genius of which was recognized by society and an excellent philosopher, a real “giant of thought” in the real world was a man of small stature, visually impaired, subject to constant headaches and many other diseases. Friedrich Nietzsche regularly faced ridiculous situations and on the other hand he did not look much like a great man who received worldwide fame
ENTWICKLUNG VON AUTOMOBILSYSTEMEN
Authors: Popova N. , Tatarincev V.
Published: February 2022

In diesem Artikel werden die wichtigsten Phasen der Entwicklung von Automobilsystemen analysiert. Seit der Erfindung des ersten patentierten Automobils im Jahr 1886 haben Hersteller und Entwickler stets daran gearbeitet, das Auto komfortabler und sicherer zu machen. Zum Beispiel durch Erfindungen wie Tempomat, Airbag, ABS, neue Motorisierungsformen oder das Navigationssystem, um nur einige der vielleicht wichtigsten Errungenschaften bei der Entwicklung des Autos zu nennen.
FEATURES OF THE METHODOLOGY FOR ANALYZING ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE AND ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AT ENTERPRISES
Authors: Proskurina M. , Bezrukova Tatyana
Published: February 2022

One of the main and essential approaches to the control of the financial condition of any enterprise (economic entity) is the regulation and management of the state of settlements and their dynamics of development, namely the state of such types of debts as accounts receivable and accounts payable. These types of debts are present in any enterprise and are the result of contractual relations between the customer and the contractor. This study reveals the need for analysis and control of receivables and payables, as well as a set of measures for their accounting.
FORMATION OF AN ALGORITHM FOR CONTROL OF ACCOUNTING OF CALCULATIONS OF INSURANCE PREMIUMS
Authors: Sibiryatkina Irina , Ryzhova P.
Published: February 2022

The article substantiates the necessity to control the mechanism of formation of calculations, payment and reporting of insurance premiums for each business entity that carries out its activities with the involvement of employees. The formed algorithm, directed on control of calculations of the organization of formation and accounting of insurance premiums, has been offered. A variant of this algorithm in practice is offered.
ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF DOING BUSINESS IN OFFSHORE ZONES
Authors: Zinoveva Irina , Zastrogina M.
Published: February 2022

the article discusses the concept of an offshore zone, highlights the differences between an offshore zone and a free economic zone. The most popular offshore zones in the world are considered; the advantages and disadvantages of doing business in an offshore zone have been identified. The NBER expert rating of countries by the share of GDP located in offshore zones has been analyzed. In conclusion, the reasons for the use of offshore zones by Russian entrepreneurs are given.
CHEMICAL MODIFICATION OF WOOD
Authors: Ivakin N. , Ermakov S.
Published: February 2022

All types of wood raw materials, especially from low-value species, need additional processing before being used for their intended purpose. Processing is necessary not only to maintain its original appearance, but also to preserve various properties and change them for the better. Various manufacturers working with wood often use one of the ways to improve it is the modification of wood. In this article, we will talk about one of the varieties – chemical modification of wood.
EFFICIENCY OF STATE SUPPORT MEASURES OF POPULATION INCOME DURING THE PERIOD OF CONSTRAINTS: A COUNTRY APPROACH
Authors: Ivanova Anna , Popova Svetlana
Published: February 2022

This article is devoted to the research of the COVID-19 pandemic affected the economy of the Russian Federation and other countries of the world and its consequences on society. Today, the social policy of the Russian Federation and the whole world is experiencing great stress. The crisis, which arose due to the imposed restrictive measures to ensure the isolation regime in order to prevent the spread of COVID-2019 by foreign governments, revealed previously existing gaps in the provisions of social protection. The ways of formation and improvement of state support of incomes of the population during a crisis situation all over the world are considered. In the conditions of the crisis, the load on the social system has increased many times over, due to the increase in the number of poor citizens. Funding has been introduced for various measures, methods and ways to improve livelihoods and prevent the closure of Micro-Enterprises, SMEs of all types, self-employed and workers, in order to prevent unemployment caused by the global situation. The analysis of the gross domestic product and the effectiveness of the implemented additional measures of state support of the population’s income has been carried out. For example, the leading countries of the world were considered, such as: Russia, Austria, Canada, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Japan, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom, USA.
An Alternative Early Field Experience for Physical Education Teacher Preparation
Authors: Chen YuChun
Published: February 2022

Implementation of early field experiences is a required component in nearly all teacher education programs because of the first-hand training in real-world situations that complement classroom learning. It is through the experiences that pre-service teachers have the platform to develop and demonstrate their competency in content knowledge, pedagogical skills, and professional dispositions. However, the onset of COVID-19 pandemic made it impossible to set up in-person early field experiences. The purpose of this study was to (a) describe an alternative early field experience planned and implemented to accommodate COVID-19 restrictions, (b) document what the participants learned throughout the experience, and (c) provided university faculty with suggestions for virtual early field experiences. Nineteen students enrolled in a 200-level physical education teacher education activity class in the Spring of 2021 submitted 10 weekly reports after watching self-selected videos that were related to soccer and volleyball. The duration of each video submission was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Data analyzed using the standard interpretive methods revealed three main themes. To identify their content knowledge acquisition, the participants described historical facts, abridged rules and regulations, sport-specific skills, strength and conditioning exercises, and tactical moves and team strategies. They also made game-related observations on the players, teams, and officials. Lastly, entertainment value was highlighted as a result of the freedom to choose the videos they were interested in. Suggestions for incorporating this early field experience and future research directions were discussed.
Analisis Algoritma Bubble Sort Secara Ascending Dan Descending Serta Implementasinya Dengan Menggunakan Bahasa Pemrograman Java
Authors: Sari Nila , Gunawan Welnaldo Abdi , Sari Putri Khofipah , Zikri Ismal , Syahputra Andrian
Published: February 2022

Banyaknya algoritma pengurutan data pada pemrograman tentu saja menjadi hal yang membingungkan bagi sebagian orang untuk menentukan algoritma pengurutan data mana yang cocok dipakai dalam membuat programnya terutama bagi yang baru memasuki ranah dunia pemrograman. Dengan begitu maka diperlukannya informasi setiap algoritma yang ada. Pada pembahasan ini, penulis memilih algoritma Bubble Sort sebagai objek bahasan. Tujuan dari penelitian ini untuk mengetahui efesiensi dari algoritma Bubble Sort dalam men-sorting data sehingga diharapkan dapat menjadi sumber informasi untuk umum maupun penulis mengenai algoritma Bubble Sort sehingga kita mampu menyesuaikan saat apa algoritma ini dipakai. Menggunakan metode algoritma Bubble Sort dengan dua varian pengurutan data yaitu Ascending dan Descending, proses sorting algoritma Bubble Sort tidak memiliki banyak perbedaan yang spesifik.