bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Multisource Vegetation Inventory (MVI): A Satellite-Based Forest Inventory for the Northwest Territories Taiga Plains
Authors: Castilla Guillermo , Hall Ronald J. , Skakun Rob , Filiatrault Michelle , Beaudoin André , Gartrell Michael , Smith Lisa , Groenewegen Kathleen , Hopkinson Chris , van der Sluijs Jurjen
Published: February 2022

Sustainable forest management requires information on the spatial distribution, composition, and structure of forests. However, jurisdictions with large tracts of noncommercial forest, such as the Northwest Territories (NWT) of Canada, often lack detailed forest information across their land base. The goal of the Multisource Vegetation Inventory (MVI) project was to create a large area forest inventory (FI) map that could support strategic forest management in the NWT using optical, radar, and light detection and ranging (LiDAR) satellite remote sensing anchored on limited field plots and airborne LiDAR data. A new landcover map based on Landsat imagery was the first step to stratify forestland into broad forest types. A modelling chain linking FI plots to airborne and spaceborne LiDAR was then developed to circumvent the scarcity of field data in the region. The developed models allowed the estimation of forest attributes in thousands of surrogate FI plots corresponding to spaceborne LiDAR footprints distributed across the project area. The surrogate plots were used as a reference dataset for estimating each forest attribute in each 30 m forest cell within the project area. The estimation was based on the k-nearest neighbour (k-NN) algorithm, where the selection of the four most similar surrogate FI plots to each cell was based on satellite, topographic, and climatic data. Wall-to-wall 30 m raster maps of broad forest type, stand height, crown closure, stand volume, total volume, aboveground biomass, and stand age were created for a ~400,000 km2 area, validated with independent data, and generalized into a polygon GIS layer resembling a traditional FI map. The MVI project showed that a reasonably accurate FI map for large, remote, predominantly non-inventoried boreal regions can be obtained at a low cost by combining limited field data with remote sensing data from multiple sources.
A Novel Spectral Index for Automatic Canola Mapping by Using Sentinel-2 Imagery
Authors: Tian Haifeng , Chen Ting , Li Qiangzi , Mei Qiuyi , Wang Shuai , Yang Mengdan , Wang Yongjiu , Qin Yaochen
Published: February 2022

Because canola is a major oilseed crop, accurately determining its planting areas is crucial for ensuring food security and achieving UN 2030 sustainable development goals. However, when canola is extracted using remote-sensing data, winter wheat causes serious interference because it has a similar growth cycle and spectral reflectance characteristics. This interference seriously limits the classification accuracy of canola, especially in mixed planting areas. Here, a novel canola flower index (CFI) is proposed based on the red, green, blue, and near-infrared bands of Sentinel-2 images to improve the accuracy of canola mapping, based on the finding that spectral reflectance of canola on the red and green bands is higher than that of winter wheat during the canola flowering period. To investigate the potential of the CFI for extracting canola, the IsoData, support vector machine (SVM), and random forest (RF) classification methods were used to extract canola based on Sentinel-2 raw images and CFI images. The results show that the average overall accuracy and kappa coefficient based on CFI images were 94.77% and 0.89, respectively, which were 1.05% and 0.02, respectively, higher than those of the Sentinel-2 raw images. Then we found that a threshold of 0.14 on the CFI image could accurately distinguish canola from non-canola vegetation, which provides a solution for automatic mapping of canola. The overall classification accuracy and kappa coefficient of this threshold method were 96.02% and 0.92, which were very similar to those of the SVM and RF methods. Moreover, the advantage of the threshold classification method is that it reduces the dependence on training samples and has good robustness and high classification efficiency. Overall, this study shows that CFI and Sentinel-2 images provide a solution for automatic and accurate canola extraction.
Adaptive Feature Weights Based Double-Layer Multi-Objective Method for SAR Image Segmentation
Authors: Liu Ruochen , Xue Minlei , Lv Haoyuan
Published: February 2022

The recently proposed multi-objective clustering methods convert the segmentation problem to a multi-objective optimization problem by extracting multiple features from an image to be segmented as clustering data. However, most of these methods fail to consider the impacts of different features on segmentation results when calculating the similarity using the Euclidean distance. In this paper, feature domination is defined to segment the image efficiently, and then an adaptive feature weights based double-layer multi-objective method (AFWDLMO) for image segmentation is presented. The proposed method mainly contains two layers: a weight determination layer and a clustering layer. In the weight determination layer, AFWDLMO adaptively identifies the dominant feature of an image to be segmented and specifies its optimal weight through differential evolution. In the clustering layer, multi-objective clustering functions are established and optimized based on the acquired optimal weight, and a set of solutions with high segmentation accuracy is found. The segmentation results on several texture images and SAR images show that the proposed method is better than several existing state-of-the-art segmentation algorithms.
Analysis of the Periodic Component of Vertical Land Motion in the Po Delta (Northern Italy) by GNSS and Hydrological Data
Authors: Vitagliano Eleonora , Vitale Enza , Russo Giacomo , Piccinini Leonardo , Fabris Massimo , Calcaterra Domenico , Di Maio Rosa
Published: February 2022

Nowadays, several methodologies, implemented for satellite or terrestrial surveys, reveal that daily and weekly site-positioning time series can exhibit linear trends plus seasonal oscillations. Such periodic components affect the evaluation of subsidence rates and, thus, they must be recognized and properly modelled. In this work, the periodic component of vertical land motion in Po Delta (Northern Italy) is estimated by a multi-component and multi-source procedure recently proposed by some of the authors for studying land subsidence in delta areas. First, land vertical motion data, acquired in the central part of the Po Delta over a six-year time interval, were compared with hydro-meteorological and climate datasets collected from nineteen stations distributed over the entire Delta. Then, four physically based models of the test site were implemented to verify the water pressure- and water mass-dependent processes inferred from the analytical phase. Modelling results show that the annual ground oscillation is better explained by soil moisture change, although river water mass variation gives a relevant contribution to land deformation, especially in the wet periods. Finally, to account for intra-annual processes, the joint contributions of all the inferred sources were treated as a nonlinear problem and solved applying the generalized reduced gradient method. The obtained combination is well supported by statistical parameters and provides the best agreement with the geodetic observations.
Research and Application of In Situ Sample-Processing Methods for Rapid Simultaneous Detection of Pyrethroid Pesticides in Vegetables
Authors: Mei Bo , Zhang Weiyi , Chen Meilian , Wang Xia , Wang Min , Ma Yinqing , Zhu Chunyan , Deng Bo , Wang Hongkang , Shen Siwen , Tong Jinrong , Gao Mengfeng , Han Yiyi , Feng Dongsheng
Published: February 2022

A novel rapid and cost-effective pre-processing method for the simultaneous determination of pyrethroid pesticides in vegetables has been developed and validated. The process of pesticide extraction was carried out by the QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged and safe) method combined with filtration by filter paper, and cleanup was carried out by the multi-plug-filtration-cleanup (m-PFC) method with no centrifuge program during the whole process. The pre-processing method is optimized for gas chromatography (GC). The process is convenient and time saving, requiring just a few seconds per sample. The recovery rate (70–120%), limit of detection (0.0001–0.007 mg/kg), precision (0.2–9.3%) and accuracy for each analyte were determined in 10 representative vegetables with good results. Finally, the feasibility of the developed method was further confirmed by the successful determination of pyrethroid-pesticide residues in pyrethroid-containing practical samples within the processing method coupled with thin-layer chromatography and a colloidal-gold test strip.
The Complex Notion of the Capacity of a Child: Exploring the Term Capacity to Support the Meaningful Participation of Children in Family Law Proceedings
Authors: Henderson-Dekort Emmie , van Bakel Hedwig , Smits Veronica
Published: February 2022

This article aims to explore the concept of capacity as necessitated by provisions within the UNCRC such as articles 12 and 5, which emphasize participation, and the evolving capacities of children. In family law proceedings when children are involved, age and capacity are considered in order to assess if the meaningful participation of that child is accessible. There is limited literature to indicate how the capacity of a child is determined, especially for children who are younger than twelve. Rather than relying on age to gauge capacity levels, this paper provides a unique, interdisciplinary evaluation of capacity through a combination of both legal and child development perspectives. This article aims to use a critical lens and rights-based approach to analyze the current literature regarding the capacities of children and proposes that a deeper understanding of what capacity entails is required in order to ensure the meaningful participation of children.
Integration of Solar Photovoltaic Distributed Generators in Distribution Networks Based on Site’s Condition
Authors: Adeagbo Ayooluwa Peter , Ariyo Funso Kehinde , Makinde Kehinde Adeleye , Salimon Sunday Adeleke , Adewuyi Oludamilare Bode , Akinde Olusola Kunle
Published: February 2022

The significance of Distributed Generators (DGs) in the technical and economic operations of electric power distribution systems cannot be overemphasized in recent times. This is essential as a result of the incessant increase in electrical energy demand, which is becoming considerably difficult to meet with the conventional means of energy supply. Thus, DGs offer better alternatives for providing a quality supply of energy near the site of consumption. This type of energy supply is cleaner and cheaper most of the time due to the lessened transmission losses, which consequently reduced the cost of operation at the transmission and distribution levels of the power system. In this work, an approach for placement and sizing of solar PV DGs into radial distribution networks (RDN) based on the solar PV capacity factor of the site was analyzed using particle swarm optimization. The aim of this study is to analyze the effect of the approach on the real and reactive power losses within the network as well as the bus voltage profile. Constraints on credible system operation parameters, which includes bus voltage limits, power balance, and power flow limits, are considered in the formulation of the optimization problem. In order to verify the viability of the deployed approach, steady-state performance analyses were executed on IEEE 33-bus RDN; and the results obtained were compared with the results from other approaches reported in the literature.
Spatiotemporal Variation in Gross Primary Productivity and Their Responses to Climate in the Great Lakes Region of Sub-Saharan Africa during 2001–2020
Authors: Kayiranga Alphonse , Chen Baozhang , Wang Fei , Nthangeni Winny , Dilawar Adil , Hategekimana Yves , Zhang Huifang , Guo Lifeng
Published: February 2022

The impacts of climate on spatiotemporal variations of eco-physiological and bio-physical factors have been widely explored in previous research, especially in dry areas. However, the understanding of gross primary productivity (GPP) variations and its interactions with climate in humid and semi-humid areas remains unclear. Based on hyperspectral satellite remotely sensed vegetation phenology processes and related indices and the re-analysed climate datasets, we investigated the seasonal and inter-annual variability of GPP by using different light-use efficiency (LUE) models including the Carnegie-Ames-Stanford Approaches (CASA) model, vegetation photosynthesis models (VPMChl and VPMCanopy) and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) GPP products (MOD17A2H) during 2001–2020 over the Great Lakes region of Sub-Saharan Africa (GLR-SSA). The models’ validation against the in situ GPP-based upscaled observations (GPP-EC) indicated that these three models can explain 82%, 79% and 80% of GPP variations with root mean square error (RMSE) values of 5.7, 8.82 and 10.12 g C·m−2·yr−1, respectively. The spatiotemporal variations of GPP showed that the GLR-SSA experienced: (i) high GPP values during December-May; (ii) high annual GPP increase during 2002–2003, 2011–2013 and 2015–2016 and annual decreasing with a marked alternation in other years; (iii) evergreen broadleaf forests having the highest GPP values while grasslands and croplands showing lower GPP values. The spatial correlation between GPP and climate factors indicated 60% relative correlation between precipitation and GPP and 65% correction between surface air temperature and GPP. The results also showed high GPP values under wet conditions (in rainy seasons and humid areas) that significantly fell by the rise of dry conditions (in long dry season and arid areas). Therefore, these results showed that climate factors have potential impact on GPP variability in this region. However, these findings may provide a better understanding of climate implications on GPP variability in the GLR-SSA and other tropical climate zones.
Development of Novel Rice Germplasm for Salt-Tolerance at Seedling Stage Using CRISPR-Cas9
Authors: Han Xiaoli , Chen Zhijun , Li Peide , Xu Huashan , Liu Kai , Zha Wenjun , Li Sanhe , Chen Junxiao , Yang Guocai , Huang Jianliang , You Aiqing , Zhou Lei
Published: February 2022

Saline-alkali tolerant rice, as the first selected grain crop for improving coastal tidal land and saline-alkali land, has great potential for comprehensive utilization. In this study, an elite three-line restorer in breeding, R192, was taken as the receptor, and CRISPR/Cas9 technology was used to perform the directional editing of OsRR22, the main effect gene, which controls salt tolerance in rice. Eight transgenic plants of the T0 generation with the OsRR22 gene knockout were obtained, and the transgenic seedlings were screened by using PCR amplification and sequence comparison. The homozygous mutant lines, M16 and M18, with OsRR22 knockout, which did not contain a transgenic vector skeleton, were identified in the T2 generation. There were +1 bp and −20 bp in the exon regions of M16 and M18, respectively. At the three-leaf and one-heart stage, the seedlings were treated with 0.4% and 0.8% NaCl solution, and then their salt tolerance during the seedling stage was identified. The results showed that, without the salt treatment, no significant differences were found in plant height, the number of green leaves, total dry weight, and total fresh weight between the mutant lines M16 and M18 and the wildtype (WT) R192. However, after treatment with two different salt concentrations, the M16 and M18 mutants showed extremely significant differences in comparison with WT in plant height, the number of green leaves, total dry weight, and total fresh weight; between mutants and WT, there were significant differences in the number of green leaves, total fresh weight, and total dry weight after two salt treatments. Our results indicate the new germplasm with the OsRR22 mutation induced by CRISPR/Cas9 technology could improve the salt tolerance of rice, providing a reference for the improvement of salt tolerance of rice.
Analytical Study of the Impact of Solidity, Chord Length, Number of Blades, Aspect Ratio and Airfoil Type on H-Rotor Darrieus Wind Turbine Performance at Low Reynolds Number
Authors: Ghiasi Pedram , Najafi Gholamhassan , Ghobadian Barat , Jafari Ali , Mazlan Mohamed
Published: February 2022

The use of wind energy can be traced back thousands of years to many ancient times. Among the tools used for converting wind energy was the vertical-axis wind turbine (vawt). Investigating the performance of this type of turbine is an interesting topic for researchers. The appropriate correlation between the Double Multiple Stream Tube (DMST) model and the experimental results has led researchers to pay distinct attention to this model for vawt simulation. In this study, using the aforementioned model, the appropriate range of important wind turbine design parameters was determined. First, the model outcome was validated based on experimental results and then, the performances of 144 different turbine types were simulated with respect to chord length, number of blades, H/D ratio and airfoil type. Chord length was evaluated at three levels, 0.1, 0.15 and 0.2 m, number of blades 2, 3 and 4, Height to Diameters (H/D) ratio of 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2, and four types of airfoils, NACA0012, NACA0018, NACA4412 and NACA4418. Simulation was performed at a low Reynolds number (Re ≤ 105) and at four TSRs, 1, 2, 3 and 4. The results show that wind turbines perform best at low TSRs when they have longer chords, more blades, and a higher H/D ratio, but this trend reverses at high TSRs. Among the four types of airfoils evaluated, the NACA4412 airfoils showed a better performance at TSRs 1 to 3.
Research on the Impact of Economic Policy Uncertainty on Enterprises’ Green Innovation—Based on the Perspective of Corporate Investment and Financing Decisions
Authors: Zhou Wenjun , Huang Xiaorong , Dai Hao , Xi Yuanmeng , Wang Zhansheng , Chen Long
Published: February 2022

Improving enterprises’ green innovation ability is beneficial to realize the “win–win” of economic development and environmental protection. As the global economic situation is complex and volatile, economic policies changed frequently. Will the rising uncertainty of economic policies affect enterprises’ green innovation? Taking China’s A-share-listed companies from 2008 to 2019 as the research sample, the Baker index based on news media and network information is used to measure the uncertainty of national economic policy, and the official exchange index based on the complex network is used to measure the uncertainty of economic policy in prefecture-level cities. It is found that there is an inverted U-shaped relationship between economic policy uncertainty and firms’ green innovation capability. Moreover, the uncertainty index of national macroeconomic policy is mostly on the left side of the inverted U shape, which can promote the improvement of enterprises’ green innovation ability. However, too frequent changes in regional economic policies will inhibit enterprises’ green innovation ability. This paper further analyzes the moderating effect of financialization of investment behavior and financing constraint on the impact of economic policy uncertainty on green innovation of enterprises from the perspective of investment and financing behavior choice. It is found that the impact of economic policy uncertainty on green innovation is more obvious for firms with low financing constraints and low financialization.
PERVAINCONSA Scale to Measure the Consumer Behavior of Online Stores of MSMEs Engaged in the Sale of Clothing
Authors: García-Salirrosas Elizabeth Emperatriz , Acevedo-Duque Ángel
Published: February 2022

The objective of the research was to validate an instrument designed to measure the variables value perception, purchase intention, trust, and satisfaction of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) dedicated to selling clothing. The PERVAINCONSA Scale (acrostic formed with the initial letters of the Spanish words “Percepción de Valor”, “Intención de Compra”, “Confianza” and “Satisfacción”) was constructed. A total of 238 questionnaires were collected from users of online clothing stores in Peru, Mexico, and Colombia (38.7% men and 61.3% women) with an average age of 24.29 years (SD = 8.04). The KMO and Barlett’s test was 0.958. Confirmatory factor analysis provided an excellent model (χ2 = 372.76, gl = 164; χ2/df = 2.27; CFI = 0.956; RMSEA = 0.073, SRMR = 0.035; and Pclose = 0.00). The model showed good scale reliability given that the composite reliability index (CFI), and all values exceeded the minimum threshold of 0.6. The results suggest that this first version of the PERVAINCONSA presents adequate psychometric evidence to measure value perception, purchase intention, trust and satisfaction in consumers of online stores in Peru, Mexico and Colombia. Thus, it seeks to contribute to the advancement of the scientific study of these important variables in the study of consumer behavior in Latin America.
Germination Performances of 14 Wildflowers Screened for Shaping Urban Landscapes in Mountain Areas
Authors: Caser Matteo , Demasi Sonia , Mozzanini Eric , Chiavazza Paola Maria , Scariot Valentina
Published: February 2022

Despite the high biodiversity in the Mediterranean region, the use of wildflowers from mountain areas in urban landscaping projects is hampered by the limited information on their seed germination performances. This research evaluated germination traits of 14 native herbaceous wildflower species from northern west Italian alpine and subalpine areas. Seed germination in Petri dishes at 25 °C was performed, applying two different photoperiod conditions (light/dark at 0/24 h or 12/12 h). A high rate and rapid germination are key features for seed and seedling nursery production; thus, the main germination indices were evaluated: the final germination percentage, the index of germination relative to light, the time of first germination, the time to reach 50% of germinated seeds, the germination period, and the mean germination time. Overall, Bellis perennis L., Leucanthemum vulgare Lam., and Taraxacum officinale Weber, from mesophilic mountainous hilly grasslands, and Dianthus carthusianorum L. and Lavandula angustifolia Mill. from higher altitudes, turned out to be interesting. Particular attention could be paid to D. carthusianorum for germination synchrony in both growth conditions, high speed, and short germination period (8.5 and 16.2 days in the dark and in the light, respectively).
An Exploratory Research on Blockchain in Aviation: The Case of Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) Organizations
Authors: Efthymiou Marina , McCarthy Katie , Markou Chris , O’Connell John F.
Published: February 2022

The aircraft maintenance sector has high complexity with many intermediaries, multiple actors sharing data and needs to ensure high data security. The implementation of Blockchain technology can significantly contribute to the aforementioned characteristics. This research explores the implementation of Blockchain technology in Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO). For this research, a mixed-method approach was followed to obtain a holistic view of the adoption of Blockchain technology in an aircraft maintenance facility. Semi-structured interviews and a case study were used. The interview findings related to the current status of maintenance records management. The findings also highlighted the value of data storage within MRO’s and the benefits of Blockchain. The paper also discusses the readiness/willingness of aircraft maintenance facilities to implement Blockchain and the barriers to implementation. Recommendations and areas for further research are identified.
Adsorption of Methylene Blue by Biosorption on Alkali-Treated Solanum incanum: Isotherms, Equilibrium and Mechanism
Authors: AL-Shehri Hamza S. , Alanazi Hamdah S. , Shaykhayn Areej Mohammed , ALharbi Lina Saad , Alnafaei Wedyan Saud , Alorabi Ali Q. , Alkorbi Ali S. , Alharthi Fahad A.
Published: February 2022

In this study, a new bio-adsorbent (NASIF) was successfully prepared via chemical activation of Solanum incanum (SI) with hydrogen peroxide and sodium hydroxide reagents as an inexpensive and effective adsorbent for the removal of methylene blue (MB) from aqueous media. The morphology of the NASIF adsorbent surface and the nature of the potential MB interactions were examined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrograph. FTIR results suggested that carboxyl, carbonyl, and hydroxyl groups were involved in MB adsorption on the NASIF surface. EDX analysis confirmed the successful increase of oxygen-containing functional groups during the chemical activation. The influence of important factors was studied using the batch method. The results revealed that the maximum removal efficiency was 98% at contact time: 120 min; pH: 6.5, adsorbent dose: 40 mg; and temperature-25 °C. Isothermal behavior was evaluated using three non-linear isotherm models, Langmuir, Freundlich, and D–R isotherm. MB adsorption onto NASIF adsorbent followed the Langmuir isotherm model with maximum monolayer capacity (mg/g) at 25 °C. Meanwhile, the PSO kinetics model was found to be better than PFO kinetic model for describing the adsorption process using kinetic models. Based on the D–R model, the free energy (E, kJ mol−1) values were in the range of 0.090–0.1812 kJ mol−1, which indicated that the MB adsorption onto NASIF may belong to physical adsorption. The adsorption mechanism of MB onto NASIF adsorbent mainly includes electrostatic attraction, π-π interaction, n-π interaction, and H-bonding. The thermodynamic parameters revealed that the adsorption process was a feasibility, spontaneous and exothermic process. Finally, the result of the present work could provide strong evidence of the potential of NASIF adsorbent for eliminating MB from aqueous media.
Potentially Postbiotic-Containing Preservative to Extend the Use-By Date of Raw Chicken Sausages and Semifinished Chicken Products
Authors: de Almeida Godoy Carolyne Luciane , Costa Lucas Marques , Guerra Carlos Alberto , de Oliveira Vanessa Sales , de Paula Breno Pereira , Lemos Junior Wilson José Fernandes , da Silva Duarte Vinícius , Luchese Rosa Helena , Bautitz Ivonete Rossi , Guerra André Fioravante
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the use of potentially postbiotic-containing preservative (PPCP), produced in a semiculture fermentation system with Lacticaseibacillus paracasei DTA 83 and Saccharomyces cerevisiae var. boulardii 17, to extend the use-by date of raw chicken sausages and semifinished chicken products. Microorganisms associated with the spoilage of chicken products were stimulated to grow by pair incubation of the products at two different temperatures and with collection at different times. The turbidity method was performed to evaluate the microbial susceptibility to PPCP. PPCP was added in chicken products to obtain an in situ partial inhibitory effect on spoilage microorganisms to extend the use-by date. The in vitro trial showed total inhibition of the microbial growth by adding above 3.0% of PPCP. Although this concentration showed a remarkable inhibitory potential, its addition can severely impact the formulation cost. Thus, the application of doses with partial microbial inhibition may be a suitable strategy for the use of PPCP in chicken products. The results revealed that cold chain management and couse of PPCP in chicken products extended the proposed use-by date, suggesting an alternative food preservation technology for the use of naturally derived compounds.
Identification and Characterization of Peruvian Native Bacterial Strains as Bioremediation of Hg-Polluted Water and Soils Due to Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining in the Secocha Annex, Arequipa
Authors: Fernandez-F Fernando , Lopez-C Patricia , Febres-Molina Camilo , Gamero-Begazo Pamela L. , Gómez Badhin , Bernabe-Ortiz Julio Cesar , Cáceres-Huambo Alberto , Aguilar-Pineda Jorge Alberto
Published: February 2022

The water and soils pollution due to mercury emissions from mining industries represents a serious environmental problem and continuous risk to human health. Although many strategies have been designed for the recovery or elimination of this metal from environmental sources, microbial bioremediation has proven to be the most effective and environmentally friendly strategy and thus control heavy metal contamination. The main objective of this work, using native bacterial strains obtained from contaminated soils of the Peruvian region of Secocha, was to identify which of these strains would have growth capacity on mercury substrates to evaluate their adsorption behavior and mercury removal capacity. Through a DNA analysis (99.78% similarity) and atomic absorption spectrometry, the Gram-positive bacterium Zhihengliuella alba sp. T2.2 was identified as the strain with the highest mercury removal capacity from culture solutions with an initial mercury concentration of 162 mg·L−1. The removal capacity reached values close to 39.5% in a period of incubation time of 45 days, with maximum elimination efficiency in the first 48 h. These results are encouraging and show that this native strain may be the key to the bioremediation of water and soils contaminated with mercury.
The Impact of University-Related Variables on Students’ Perceived Employability and Mental Well-Being: An Italian Longitudinal Study
Authors: Schettino Giovanni , Marino Leda , Capone Vincenza
Published: February 2022

The COVID-19 outbreak has had a disruptive impact on the academic context and labor market. Indeed, the pandemic shock in such fields has been related to several changes with implications for young people’s careers and well-being. This two-wave longitudinal study, conducted in Italy, aimed to explore the predictiveness of some individual and organizational factors on students’ perceived employability and well-being. A total of 301 Italian students, aged between 18 and 33 (M = 20.63, SD = 1.99), completed a self-report questionnaire measuring career ambition, university reputation, university commitment, technostress related to technology-enhanced learning, perceived employability, and mental well-being at both time points. A path analysis showed that career ambition, university reputation, and organizational commitment positively predicted employability, which, in addition to such variables, positively affected well-being. In contrast, technostress was identified as a risk factor both for students’ perceptions of finding a job and for their well-being. These findings provide a theoretical contribution to a better understanding of the factors involved in undergraduates’ perceived employability and well-being. Moreover, they suggest the need to improve academic-related variables to enhance individuals’ resources in coping with the pandemic challenges.
Yield Variability in Oil Palm Plantations in Tropical India Is Influenced by Surface and Sub-Surface Soil Fertility and Leaf Mineral Nutrient Contents
Authors: Behera Sanjib Kumar , Shukla Arvind Kumar , Suresh Kancherla , Manorama Kamireddy , Mathur Ravi Kumar , Majumdar Kaushik
Published: February 2022

Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.), an industrial oilseed crop, is the most prominent oil-producing crop in the world and one of the highest dry matter producers among C3 plants. It removes large amounts of soil nutrients to support its substantial biomass and oil production. Thus, maintaining adequate levels of limiting nutrients at favorable ratios in the soil is crucial to sustain the required palm nutritional status and oil production over extended periods. We evaluated the levels and ratios of the available soil and leaf nutrients in high-yielding (HYOPP) and low-yielding (LYOPP) oil palm plantations from two locations in southern India and assessed their relations to develop effective nutrient management for sustaining fresh fruit bunch (FFB) production. The FFB yield varied from 2.00 to 31.0 t ha−1 (location 1) and 6.84 to 30.9 t ha−1 (location 2), and the FFB yields of the high- and low-yield population at each location differed significantly. Wide ranges of soil properties, available nutrients, and leaf nutrients concentrations were observed at 0–20- and 20–40-cm soil depths at both locations. The soil nutrient ratios at both sampling depths of the HYOPP were significantly different than the LYOPP at location 1. The mean leaf N (2.09%) and K (0.68%) concentrations at location 2 were significantly higher than those in location 1 (1.85% and 0.54, respectively). The mean leaf concentrations at both locations followed the order N (1.85%, 2.09%) > Ca (1.65%, 1.36%) > K (0.54%, 0.68%) > Mg (0.49%, 0.47%) > S (0.16%, 0.18) > P (0.11%, 0.12%) > B (35.8 mg kg−1, 27.5 mg kg−1). We observed positive and significant correlations between the available N and P at 0–20 cm and between the available N and K as well as Ca and S at both soil depths for HYOPPs. In LYOPPs, the available N was significantly correlated with the available P, K, Ca, and Mg at both soil depths and with the available S at 0–20 cm. The FFB yield of LYOPPs was positively and significantly correlated with the available P and S at the 0–20-cm soil depth and with the available N and P at the 20–40-cm soil depth. Except for a negative correlation (p < 0.05) with exchangeable Ca at the 20–40-cm soil depth, the FFB yield in HYOPPs had no significant correlation with the available soil nutrients at both depths. The FFB yield of LYOPPs had a positive significant (p < 0.01) correlation with the leaf P and K concentrations, while the yield of HYOPPs had a negative correlation (p < 0.01) with the leaf P. Fertilizer accounts for a large part of the on-farm cost in oil palm plantations, and an evidenced approach for fertilizer management based on nutrient contents and ratios in the soil and in the plant is useful for sustainable and profitable production of palm oil.
Cerebral Arterial Asymmetries in the Neonate: Insight into the Pathogenesis of Stroke
Authors: van Vuuren Anica Jansen , Saling Michael , Rogerson Sheryle , Anderson Peter , Cheong Jeanie , Solms Mark
Published: February 2022

Neonatal and adult strokes are more common in the left than in the right cerebral hemisphere in the middle cerebral arterial territory, and adult extracranial and intracranial vessels are systematically left-dominant. The aim of the research reported here was to determine whether the asymmetric vascular ground plan found in adults was present in healthy term neonates (n = 97). A new transcranial Doppler ultrasonography dual-view scanning protocol, with concurrent B-flow and pulsed wave imaging, acquired multivariate data on the neonatal middle cerebral arterial structure and function. This study documents for the first-time systematic asymmetries in the middle cerebral artery origin and distal trunk of healthy term neonates and identifies commensurately asymmetric hemodynamic vulnerabilities. A systematic leftward arterial dominance was found in the arterial caliber and cortically directed blood flow. The endothelial wall shear stress was also asymmetric across the midline and varied according to vessels’ geometry. We conclude that the arterial structure and blood supply in the brain are laterally asymmetric in newborns. Unfavorable shearing forces, which are a by-product of the arterial asymmetries described here, might contribute to a greater risk of cerebrovascular pathology in the left hemisphere.
Perspective on the Use of Innovative Surveillance Strategies Implemented for COVID-19 to Prevent Mosquito-Borne Disease Emergence in French Polynesia
Authors: Aubry Maite , Cao-Lormeau Van-Mai
Published: February 2022

In French Polynesia, following the emergence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in March 2020, several control measures were implemented to prevent virus spread, including a population lockdown and the interruption of international air traffic. SARS-CoV-2 local transmission rapidly stopped, and circulation of dengue virus serotypes 1 and 2, the only arboviruses being detected at that time, decreased. After the borders re-opened, a surveillance strategy consisting of the testing by SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR of travelers entering French Polynesia, and isolating those with ongoing infection, was implemented. This strategy proved efficient to limit the introduction of SARS-CoV-2, and should be considered to prevent the importation of other pathogens, including mosquito-borne viruses, in geographically isolated areas such as French Polynesia.
In Vitro Analysis of TGF-β Signaling Modulation of Porcine Alveolar Macrophages in Porcine Circovirus Type 2b Infection
Authors: Yang Shunli , Zafar Khan Muhammad Umar , Liu Baohong , Humza Muhammad , Yin Shuanghui , Cai Jianping
Published: February 2022

Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) has been recognized as an immunosuppressive pathogen. However, the crosstalk between this virus and its host cells in related signaling pathways remains poorly understood. In this study, the expression profiles of 84 genes involved in transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling pathway were probed in PCV2b-infected primary porcine alveolar macrophages (PAMs) by using an RT2 profiler PCR array system. The protein expression levels of cytokines involved in the TGF-β signaling pathway were determined with a RayBiotech fluorescent Quantibody® porcine cytokine array system. Results showed that 48, 30, and 42 genes were differentially expressed at 1, 24, and 48 h after infection, respectively. A large number of genes analyzed by a co-expression network and implicated in transcriptional regulation and apoptosis were differentially expressed in PCV2b-infected PAMs. Among these genes, TGF-β, interleukin-10, CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein beta (C/EBPB), growth arrest, and DNA-damage-inducible 45 beta (GADD45B), and BCL2 were upregulated. By contrast, SMAD family member 1 (smad1) and smad3 were downregulated. These results suggested that the TGF-β signaling pathway was repressed in PAMs at the early onset of PCV2 infection. The inhibited apoptosis was indicated by the upregulated C/EBPB, GADD45B, and BCL2, and by the downregulated smad1 and smad3, which possibly increased the duration of PCV2 replication-permissive conditions and caused a persistent infection. Our study may provide insights into the underlying antiviral functional changes in the immune system of PCV2-infected pigs.
Application of BiVO4–Microalgae Combined Treatment to Remove High Concentration Mixture of Sulfamethazine and Sulfadiazine
Authors: Liu Wan , Chen Shan , Zhou Han , Wang Xianyun , Xu Houtao , Wang Liqing , Zhang Wei , Chen Lijing
Published: February 2022

Sulfonamides (SAs) are the most common and bio-refractory antibiotics detected in surface water systems, which cause long-term toxic effects on aquatic organisms. This study used the combination of a BiVO4 photocatalyst and freshwater micro-green alga (Dictyosphaerium sp.) to remove sulfadiazine (SD) and sulfamethazine (SM2) at an initial concentration of 5 mg/L (1:1 v/v) for 7 days. We set up three gradient concentrations of BiVO4 (0.5, 1 and 2 g/L) combined with the same concentration (80 mg/L) of Dictyosphaerium sp. and then prepared corresponding concentrations of pure BiVO4 and pure microalgae as controls. We evaluated the ability of BiVO4 and Dictyosphaerium sp. combined technology to remove SAs by observing the removal efficiency of antibiotics and explained the degradation mechanism of antibiotics and the key role of microalgae by studying the changes of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inorganic ions (nitrogen, sulfur). The results showed that the degradation rate of these two SAs in the 0.5 g/L BiVO4–algae group could reach >96% within 7 d, which was higher than that in the 2 g/L BiVO4 group (93%) and the algae group (28%). The increased degradation efficiency of SAs in BiVO4 and microalgae systems was mainly due to the increased amount of ROS. Meanwhile, more SAs were degraded to inorganic compounds such as NH4+-N, NO3−-N and SO42−-S under ROS stress. It was found that microalgae can absorb the degradation products of antibiotics such as NH4+-N for their own growth, thereby reducing the toxicity of antibiotic by-products. In addition, BiVO4 had no damaging effect on the autofluorescence intensity of the microalgae. Our study provides an efficient and eco-economic approach to remove antibiotics using visible-light irradiation in aquatic environments and provides new insights into the biological removal of other antibiotic contaminants in aquatic environments.
Efficacies of Nitrogen Removal and Comparisons of Microbial Communities in Full-Scale (Pre-Anoxic Systems) Municipal Water Resource Recovery Facilities at Low and High COD:TN Ratios
Authors: Phanwilai Supaporn , Noophan Pongsak (Lek) , Li Chi-Wang , Choo Kwang-Ho
Published: February 2022

At a low COD:TN ratio (≤5) in influent, maintaining a longer HRT (≥9 h) and longer SRT (≥30 d) are suggested to improve higher N removal efficiency in case of operation at low DO (Dissolved oxygen) level (0.9 ± 0.2 mg-O2/L). However, in case of operation at high DO level (4.0 ± 0.5 mg-O2/L), short HRT (1 h) and typical SRT (17 d) make it possible to achieve nitrogen removal. On the other hand, at a high COD:TN ratio (≥8.4), a typical HRT (9–15 h), SRT (12–19 d), and DO level (1.3–2.6 mg-O2/L) would be applied. Microbial distribution analysis showed an abundance of AOA (Ammonia-oxidizing archaea) under conditions of low DO (≤0.9 mg-O2/L). Nitrosomonas sp. are mostly found in the all investigated water resource recovery facilities (WRRFs). Nitrosospira sp. are only found under operating conditions of longer SRT for WRRFs with a low COD:TN ratio. In comparison between abundances of Nitrobacter sp. and Nitrospira sp., abundances of Nitrobacter sp. are proportional to low DO concentration rather than abundance of Nitrospira sp. A predominance of nosZ-type denitrifiers were found at low DO level. Abundance of denitrifiers by using nirS genes showed an over-abundance of denitrifiers by using nirK genes at low and high COD:TN ratios.
Using modern technologies and artificial intelligence when working with human resources
Authors:   Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Moscow, Ryabchina D.A. , Akulinin F.V. ,   Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Moscow
Published: February 2022

The article analyzes the latest trends in the development of human resources management system using information technology. The main problems associated with the work and implementation of artificial intelligence technologies in the field of human resource management are identified.
THE ECONOMIC CONSEQUENCES OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL ACCIDENT ON NORILSK-TAIMYR ENERGY COMPANY JSC
Authors: Barrukhu S. , Pecherskaya Olga
Published: February 2022

The article discusses the economic consequences of a diesel fuel spill at the Russian group of companies Nornikel in the Arctic zone. A list of possible measures to prevent such events in the future, based on the expert opinions of environmentalists, is also proposed.
SOME WAYS TO INVEST MONEY AND GET INCOME
Authors: Litvinova Yuliya , Berezhnaya A.
Published: February 2022

The article informs us about the necessity of investing money. This will allow you to enjoy a secure future. Investing can bestow you with several sources of income that can help support your retirement or get you out of a financial crisis. The analysis of different ways of investment has shown that it is the best way to multiply your wealth. Not only can you hit your financial targets with ease, but also, you increase your financial ability over the years. As a result a lot of ways to invest your money that will help you to find great investment options have been revealed.
RICHARD THE LIONHEART, THE ENGLISH KING
Authors: Loboda M. , Litvinova L.
Published: February 2022

The article is dedicated to the English King Richard the Lionheart. The authors explore the reasons for the popularity of this king with the English, they made Richard the hero of countless English medieval ballads and songs. The article provides general biographical information on Richard the Lionheart, examining the dynastic grounds for his ascension to the English throne. Opposite to other English kings, Richard received his second noble name “Lionheart” as a result of the Crusade. His amazing courage and even rage for the Holy Sepulchre struggle, sacrifice, energy, commitment to the holy ideals, the talent of a warrior, human kindness are considered the undoubted positive qualities of the king. As the British think these are the basis for this English king to become famous in the history of the country and in the memory of the people. But some historical sources are rather critical towards well-established opinion about Richard the Lionheart, however, the fact of popular recognition of him as a real king, warrior and defender remains unquestionable.
BANGLADESH ECONOMY
Authors: Maklakova Elena , Timashinova A. , Nusrat Faria
Published: February 2022

The article is about overall history of Bangladesh Economy, how Bangladeshi Economy work, which sector playing important role in Bangladesh and what problem facing in Bangladesh Economy. Bangladesh is land of opportunities. There are lots of sectors in Bangladesh which are playing a significant role in the Economy. But there is also some factor which is the reason for not good economics especially the Political reason. There have lots of political problems in Bangladesh. If economy can growth but political leaders can’t give to growth nicely.
COMPARISON OF VIEWS OF ADAM SMITH, ALFRED MARSHALL, DAVID RICARDO
Authors: Maklakova Elena , Sysoev M.
Published: February 2022

The article presents the theoretical views of the founders of theoretical economics A. Smith, A. Marshall and D. Ricardo on basic economic concepts. These eminent scientists also laid the foundation for political economics and had a tremendous impact on the main directions of the further development of economic science. The economic ideas of the classical school have not lost their significance to this day. The doctrines of surplus value, profit, taxes, land rent are still relevant today. The study and analysis of this historical heritage is necessary not only for obtaining fundamental knowledge in the field of economic science, but also for its further development.
THE GLOBAL TRADE IMBALANCE
Authors: Maklakova Elena , Chzhan Yuy
Published: February 2022

The article is devoted to the global trade that integrates trade in intangibles and trade in goods and services. Global trade in intangibles still lacks a comprehensive framework that integrates international trade in goods, services and intangibles and the difficulties in data collection. Many trade-related theories have been developed and applied in the context of international trade of goods, with services considered as intermediary inputs, while intangibles have not been systematically analyzed and integrated into the measurement of trade balance.
MULTIPLE MEANINGS OF ECOLOGICAL ECONOMICS
Authors: Maklakova Elena , Chen' Min'
Published: February 2022

The ultimate goal of the ecological economy is the sustainable well-being of people. It is inextricably linked to such important issues as the protection and restoration of nature, the evolution towards social and intergenerational justice, the stabilization of the population and the recognition of the contribution of human and natural capital to human well-being, as well as the more effective development of human well-being. Discussions about the possible choice of an environmental strategy are still not clearly defined. The authors highlight various approaches to solving this problem.