bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermodynamics and Spectroscopy of Halogen- and Hydrogen-Bonded Complexes of Haloforms with Aromatic and Aliphatic Amines
Authors: Adeniyi Emmanuel , Grounds Olivia , Stephens Zachary , Zeller Matthias , Rosokha Sergiy V.
Published: September 2022

Similarities and differences of halogen and hydrogen bonding were explored via UV–Vis and 1H NMR measurements, X-ray crystallography and computational analysis of the associations of CHX3 (X=I, Br, Cl) with aromatic (tetramethyl-p-phenylenediamine) and aliphatic (4-diazabicyclo[2,2,2]octane) amines. When the polarization of haloforms was taken into account, the strengths of these complexes followed the same correlation with the electrostatic potentials on the surfaces of the interacting atoms. However, their spectral properties were quite distinct. While the halogen-bonded complexes showed new intense absorption bands in the UV–Vis spectra, the absorptions of their hydrogen-bonded analogues were close to the superposition of the absorption of reactants. Additionally, halogen bonding led to a shift in the NMR signal of haloform protons to lower ppm values compared with the individual haloforms, whereas hydrogen bonding of CHX3 with aliphatic amines resulted in a shift in the opposite direction. The effects of hydrogen bonding with aromatic amines on the NMR spectra of haloforms were ambivalent. Titration of all CHX3 with these nucleophiles produced consistent shifts in their protons’ signals to lower ppm values, whereas calculations of these pairs produced multiple hydrogen-bonded minima with similar structures and energies, but opposite directions of the NMR signals’ shifts. Experimental and computational data were used for the evaluation of formation constants of some halogen- and hydrogen-bonded complexes between haloforms and amines co-existing in solutions.
Novel 4-Azapregnene Derivatives as Potential Anticancer Agents: Synthesis, Antiproliferative Activity and Molecular Docking Studies
Authors: Brito Vanessa , Santos Adriana Oliveira , Alves Gilberto , Almeida Paulo , Silvestre Samuel
Published: September 2022

A series of novel 21E-arylidene-4-azapregn-5-ene steroids has been successfully designed, synthesized and structurally characterized, and their antiproliferative activity was evaluated in four different cell lines. Within this group, the 21E-(pyridin-3-yl)methylidene derivative exhibited significant cytotoxic activity in hormone-dependent cells LNCaP (IC50 = 10.20 µM) and T47-D cells (IC50 = 1.33 µM). In PC-3 androgen-independent cells, the steroid 21E-p-nitrophenylidene-4-azapregn-5-ene was the most potent of this series (IC50 = 3.29 µM). Considering these results, the 21E-(pyridin-3-yl)methylidene derivative was chosen for further biological studies on T47-D and LNCaP cells, and it was shown that this azasteroid seems to lead T47-D cells to apoptotic death. Finally, molecular docking studies were performed to explore the affinity of these 4-azapregnene derivatives to several steroid targets, namely 5α-reductase type 2, estrogen receptor α, androgen receptor and CYP17A1. In general, compounds presented higher affinity to 5α-reductase type 2 and estrogen receptor α.
An Experimental and Theoretical Study on Essential Oil of Aethionema sancakense: Characterization, Molecular Properties and RDG Analysis
Authors: Demirpolat Azize , Akman Feride , Kazachenko Aleksandr S.
Published: September 2022

This study aims to experimentally and theoretically examine the plant Aethionema sancakense, which was determined as a new species and whose essential oil and fatty acid compositions were characterized by GC/GC-MS technique. Linoleic acid (23.1%), α-humulene (19.8%), camphene (13.9%), and heptanal (9.7%) were found to be the major essential oil components of A. sancakense aerial part structures. The quantum chemical calculations of these four molecules that are very important to this plant were performed using the density functional method (DFT)/B3LYP with the 6-31 G (d, p) basis set in the ground state for the gas phase. The molecular structures, HOMO-LUMO energies, electronic properties, Fukui functions, and molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) surfaces of the major constituents of Aethionema sancakense essential oil were calculated and interpreted. Finally, the RDG-NCI analysis of these molecules was performed to determine the non-covalent interactions present within the molecules.
Design and Application of Electrochemical Sensors with Metal–Organic Frameworks as the Electrode Materials or Signal Tags
Authors: Chang Yong , Lou Jiaxin , Yang Luyao , Liu Miaomiao , Xia Ning , Liu Lin
Published: September 2022

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) with fascinating chemical and physical properties have attracted immense interest from researchers regarding the construction of electrochemical sensors. In this work, we review the most recent advancements of MOF−based electrochemical sensors for the detection of electroactive small molecules and biological macromolecules (e.g., DNA, proteins, and enzymes). The types and functions of MOF−based nanomaterials in terms of the design of electrochemical sensors are also discussed. Furthermore, the limitations and challenges of MOF−based electrochemical sensing devices are explored. This work should be invaluable for the development of MOF−based advanced sensing platforms.
High Linearity Synaptic Devices Using Ar Plasma Treatment on HfO2 Thin Film with Non-Identical Pulse Waveforms
Authors: Lee Ke-Jing , Weng Yu-Chuan , Wang Li-Wen , Lin Hsin-Ni , Pal Parthasarathi , Chu Sheng-Yuan , Lu Darsen , Wang Yeong-Her
Published: September 2022

We enhanced the device uniformity for reliable memory performances by increasing the device surface roughness by exposing the HfO2 thin film surface to argon (Ar) plasma. The results showed significant improvements in electrical and synaptic properties, including memory window, linearity, pattern recognition accuracy, and synaptic weight modulations. Furthermore, we proposed a non-identical pulse waveform for further improvement in linearity accuracy. From the simulation results, the Ar plasma processing device using the designed waveform as the input signals significantly improved the off-chip training and inference accuracy, achieving 96.3% training accuracy and 97.1% inference accuracy in only 10 training cycles.
Highly Luminescent and Photostable Core/Shell/Shell ZnSeS/Cu:ZnS/ZnS Quantum Dots Prepared via a Mild Aqueous Route
Authors: Mabrouk Salima , Rinnert Hervé , Balan Lavinia , Jasniewski Jordane , Blanchard Sébastien , Medjahdi Ghouti , Ben Chaabane Rafik , Schneider Raphaël
Published: September 2022

An aqueous-phase synthesis of 3-mercaptopropionic acid (3-MPA)-capped core/shell/shell ZnSeS/Cu:ZnS/ZnS QDs was developed. The influence of the Cu-dopant location on the photoluminescence (PL) emission intensity was investigated, and the results show that the introduction of the Cu dopant in the first ZnS shell leads to QDs exhibiting the highest PL quantum yield (25%). The influence of the Cu-loading in the dots on the PL emission was also studied, and a shift from blue–green to green was observed with the increase of the Cu doping from 1.25 to 7.5%. ZnSeS/Cu:ZnS/ZnS QDs exhibit an average diameter of 2.1 ± 0.3 nm and are stable for weeks in aqueous solution. Moreover, the dots were found to be photostable under the continuous illumination of an Hg–Xe lamp and in the presence of oxygen, indicating their high potential for applications such as sensing or bio-imaging.
On the Critical Heat Flux Assessment of Micro- and Nanoscale Roughened Surfaces
Authors: Sajjad Uzair , Hussain Imtiyaz , Raza Waseem , Sultan Muhammad , Alarifi Ibrahim M. , Wang Chi-Chuan
Published: September 2022

The boiling crisis or critical heat flux (CHF) is a very critical constraint for any heat-flux-controlled boiling system. The existing methods (physical models and empirical correlations) offer a specific interpretation of the boiling phenomenon, as many of these correlations are considerably influenced by operational variables and surface morphologies. A generalized correlation is virtually unavailable. In this study, more physical mechanisms are incorporated to assess CHF of surfaces with micro- and nano-scale roughness subject to a wide range of operating conditions and working fluids. The CHF data is also correlated by using the Pearson, Kendal, and Spearman correlations to evaluate the association of various surface morphological features and thermophysical properties of the working fluid. Feature engineering is performed to better correlate the inputs with the desired output parameter. The random forest optimization (RF) is used to provide the optimal hyper-parameters to the proposed interpretable correlation and experimental data. Unlike the existing methods, the proposed method is able to incorporate more physical mechanisms and relevant parametric influences, thereby offering a more generalized and accurate prediction of CHF (R2 = 0.971, mean squared error = 0.0541, and mean absolute error = 0.185).
Respiratory Commensal Bacteria Increase Protection against Hypermucoviscous Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae ST25 Infection
Authors: Dentice Maidana Stefania , Ortiz Moyano Ramiro , Vargas Juan , Fukuyama Kohtaro , Kurata Shoichiro , Melnikov Vyacheslav , Jure María , Kitazawa Haruki , Villena Julio
Published: September 2022

In a previous work, we demonstrated that nasally administered Corynebacterium pseudodiphtheriticum 090104 beneficially modulated the respiratory innate immune response and improved the protection against Respiratory Syncytial Virus and Streptococcus pneumoniae in mice. In this work, we aimed to evaluate whether the immunomodulatory 090104 strain was able to enhance the resistance against the respiratory infection induced by hypermucoviscous carbapenemase-producing (KPC-2) Klebsiella pneumoniae strains belonging to the sequence type (ST) 25. The nasal treatment of mice with C. pseudodiphtheriticum 090104 before the challenge with multiresistant K. pneumoniae ST25 strains significantly reduced lung bacterial cell counts and lung tissue damage. The protective effect of the 090104 strain was related to its ability to regulate the respiratory innate immune response triggered by K. pneumoniae challenge. C. pseudifteriticum 090104 differentially modulated the recruitment of leukocytes into the lung and the production of TNF-α, IFN-γ and IL-10 levels in the respiratory tract and serum. Our results make an advance in the positioning of C. pseudodiphtheriticum 090104 as a next-generation probiotic for the respiratory tract and encourage further research of this bacterium as a promising alternative to develop non-antibiotic therapeutical approaches to enhance the prevention of infections produced by microorganisms with multiple resistance to antimicrobials such as KPC-2-producing hypermucoviscous K. pneumoniae strains belonging to ST25.
Fluorescence Quenching of Carboxy-Substituted Phthalocyanines Conjugated with Nanoparticles under High Stoichiometric Ratios
Authors: Gvozdev Daniil A. , Solovchenko Alexei E. , Martynov Alexander G. , Yagodin Aleksei V. , Strakhovskaya Marina G. , Gorbunova Yulia G. , Maksimov Eugene G.
Published: September 2022

Background: The search of the approaches towards a photosensitizer’s conjugation with multifunctional nanoparticles is an important step in the development of photodynamic therapy techniques. Association of photosensitizer molecules with nanoparticles that perform the delivery function can lead to a change in the functional state of the photosensitizer. Methods: We studied the effects observed upon incorporation of octa- and hexadeca-carboxyphthalocyanines of zinc(II) and aluminum(III) (Pcs) into the polymer shell of nanoparticles with a semiconductor CdSe/CdS/ZnS core with various spectral and optical methods. Results: First, the interaction of Pc with the polymer shell leads to a change in the spectral properties of Pc; the effect strongly depends on the structure of the Pc molecule (number of carboxyl groups as well as the nature of the central cation in the macrocycle). Secondly, upon incorporation of several Pc molecules, concentration effects become significant, leading to Pc aggregation and/or nonradiative energy transfer between neighboring Pc molecules within a single nanoparticle. Conclusions: These processes lead to the decrease of a number of the Pc molecules in an excited state. Such effects should be taken into account during the development of multifunctional platforms for the delivery of photosensitizers, including the use of nanoparticles as enhancers of photosensitizer activity by energy transfer.
Assessing Impacts of Transgenic Plants on Soil Using Functional Indicators: Twenty Years of Research and Perspectives
Authors: Lebedev Vadim , Lebedeva Tatyana , Tikhonova Elena , Shestibratov Konstantin
Published: September 2022

Assessment of the effects of transgenic plants on microbiota and soil fertility is an important part of the overall assessment of their biosafety. However, the environmental risk assessment of genetically modified plants has long been focused on the aboveground effects. In this review, we discuss the results of two decades of research on the impact of transgenic plants on the physicochemical properties of soil, its enzyme activities and microbial biomass. These indicators allow us to assess both the short-term effects and long-term effects of cultivating transgenic plants. Most studies have shown that the effect of transgenic plants on the soil is temporary and inconsistent. Moreover, many other factors, such as the site location, weather conditions, varietal differences and management system, have a greater impact on soil quality than the transgenic status of the plants. In addition to the effects of transgenic crop cultivation, the review also considers the effects of transgenic plant residues on soil processes, and discusses the future prospects for studying the impact of genetically modified plants on soil ecosystems.
Alpha-Mangostin as a New Therapeutic Candidate for Concanavalin A-Induced Autoimmune Hepatitis: Impact on the SIRT1/Nrf2 and NF-κB Crosstalk
Authors: Shehata Ahmed M. , Elbadawy Hossein M. , Ibrahim Sabrin R. M. , Mohamed Gamal A. , Elsaed Wael M. , Alhaddad Aisha A. , Ahmed Nishat , Abo-Haded Hany , El-Agamy Dina S.
Published: September 2022

Alpha-mangostin (α-MN) is a xanthone obtained from Garcinia mangostana that has diverse anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory potentials. However, its pharmacological activity against autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) has not been investigated before. Concanavalin A (Con A) was injected into mice to induce AIH and two doses of α-MN were tested for their protective effects against Con A-induced AIH. The results demonstrated the potent hepatoprotective activity of α-MN evidenced by a remarkable decrease of serum indices of the hepatic injury and amendment of the histological lesions. α-MN significantly attenuated the level and immuno-expression of myeloperoxidase (MPO) indicating a decrease in the neutrophil infiltration into the liver. Additionally, the recruitment of the CD4+ T cell was suppressed in the α-MN pre-treated animals. α-MN showed a potent ability to repress the Con A-induced oxidative stress evident by the reduced levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), and protein carbonyl (PC), as well as the enhanced levels of antioxidants as the reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). The ELISA, RT-PCR, and IHC analyses revealed that α-MN enhanced the sirtuin1/nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor-2 (SIRT1/Nrf2) signaling and its downstream cascade genes concurrently with the inhibition of the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and the inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukine-6) signaling. Taken together, these results inferred that the hepatoprotective activity of α-MN could prevent Con A-induced AIH through the modulation of the SIRT1/Nrf2/NF-κB signaling. Hence, α-MN may be considered as a promising candidate for AIH therapy.
Molecular and Morphological Investigations of Two Giant Diatom Cymbella Species from the Transbaikal Area (Russia, Siberia) with Comments on Their Distributions
Authors: Glushchenko Anton M. , Maltsev Yevhen I. , Kociolek John Patrick , Kuznetsova Irina V. , Kulikovskiy Maxim S.
Published: September 2022

For the first time, a giant diatom species of the genus Cymbella from Lake Baikal was studied using molecular methods. Molecular and morphological investigations allowed to us to described one new species, Cymbella baicalaspera Glushchenko, Kulikovskiy and Kociolek sp. nov. This species is both morphologically similar and phylogenetically close to a second giant Cymbella species that we investigated here, identified by us as Cymbella himalaspera Jüttner and Van de Vijver in Jüttner et al. 2010. This species was first described from Nepal on the basis of a morphological investigation. Small morphological differences exist between the type population and specimens from Lake Baikal, but otherwise the two are identical. These very interesting results show that some Baikalian diatoms can be distributed more widely and are not only endemic to this ancient lake. Similarity between Cymbella baicalaspera sp. nov. and Cymbella himalaspera on the basis of both morphological features and their close phylogenetic relationships suggested by molecular data indicate they are sister species and an example of sympatric speciation. These results also suggest an early development of a species flock. This species group warrants additional research in terms of. their diversification and biogeography.
Revision of the Original Material of Plagiothecium denticulatum var. obtusifolium (Turn.) Moore and New Synonyms for This Taxon
Authors: Wolski Grzegorz J. , Bożyk Daniel , Proćków Jarosław
Published: September 2022

Hypnum denticulatum var. obtusifolium was described by Turner in the early nineteenth century. This taxon, now known as Plagiothecium denticulatum var. obtusifolium, has not been studied in detail or received a detailed description. During the revision in the Natural History Museum (herbarium BM), a specimen described there as a type (BM000890810) was found, but a careful analysis showed that it is currently not a type specimen. On the other hand, the conducted research showed that the holotype of this taxon is the figure attached by Turner to the newly described taxon. However, because the holotype does not contain all taxonomically significant features, the specimen found was used to designate the epitype of this name (BM000890810). Therefore, this paper provides the first complete description of the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of this taxon, which is today known as P. denticulatum var. obtusifolium. Forty qualitative and quantitative characteristics analyzed made it possible to make redescription of the examined taxon. Moreover, analysis of two morphologically similar, currently distinct taxa, P. sandbergii and P. denticulatum var. auritum, revealed no differences between them. Therefore, these taxa were proposed as new synonyms of P. denticulatum var. obtusifolium. Additionally, for both taxa mentioned above, lectotypes were proposed for P. denticulatum var. auritum, specimen PC0132639, and for P. sandbergii, specimen PC0132604, both from the Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France (Herbarium PC).
Physiological and Metabolic Responses of Gac Leaf (Momordica cochinchinensis (Lour.) Spreng.) to Salinity Stress
Authors: Jumpa Thitiwan , Beckles Diane M. , Songsri Patcharin , Pattanagul Kunlaya , Pattanagul Wattana
Published: September 2022

Gac is a carotenoid-rich, healthful tropical fruit; however, its productivity is limited by soil salinity, a growing environmental stress. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of salinity stress on key physiological traits and metabolites in 30-day-old gac seedling leaves, treated with 0, 25-, 50-, 100-, and 150-mM sodium chloride (NaCl) for four weeks to identify potential alarm, acclimatory, and exhaustion responses. Electrolyte leakage increased with increasing NaCl concentrations (p < 0.05) indicating loss of membrane permeability and conditions that lead to reactive oxygen species production. At 25 and 50 mM NaCl, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, starch content, and total soluble sugar increased. Chlorophyll a, and total chlorophyll increased at 25 mM NaCl but decreased at higher NaCl concentrations indicating salinity-induced thylakoid membrane degradation and chlorophyllase activity. Catalase (CAT) activity decreased (p < 0.05) at all NaCl treatments, while ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and guaiacol peroxidase (GPX) activities were highest at 150 mM NaCl. GC-MS-metabolite profiling showed that 150 mM NaCl induced the largest changes in metabolites and was thus distinct. Thirteen pathways and 7.73% of metabolites differed between the control and all the salt-treated seedlings. Salinity decreased TCA cycle intermediates, and there were less sugars for growth but more for osmoprotection, with the latter augmented by increased amino acids. Although 150 mM NaCl level decreased SOD activity, the APX and GPX enzymes were still active, and some carbohydrates and metabolites also accumulated to promote salinity resistance via multiple mechanisms.
Priority Wise Electric Vehicle Charging for Grid Load Minimization
Authors: Jawale Sayali Ashok , Singh Sanjay Kumar , Singh Pushpendra , Kolhe Mohan Lal
Published: September 2022

The number of Electric vehicle (EV) users is expected to increase in the future. The driving profile of EV users is unpredictable, necessitating the design of charging scheduling protocols for EV charging stations servicing multiple EVs. A large EV charging load affects the grid in terms of peak load demand. Electric vehicle charging stations with solar panels can help to reduce the grid impact of EV charging events. With reference to the increasing number of EVs, new technology needs to be developed for charging station and management to create a stable system for users, and electric utilities. The load of a total EV charge can affect the grid, degrading quality and system stability. In this paper, a charging station scheduling strategy is proposed based on the game theoretic approach. In the proposed strategy, with respect to the grid load demand minimization, charging stations have scheduled EV charging times to prevent sudden peak load on the grid the proposed game theory strategy is sudden peak load on the grid. The proposed game theory strategy is defined on the basis of priority so that both grid operators and EV users can maximize their profit by setting priorities for charging and discharging. This work provides a strategy for grid peak load minimization.
Comparative Study of Manufacturing NdFeB Magnet Wastes Recycling: Oxidative Roasting-Selective Leaching and Whole Leaching Routes
Authors: Patcharawit Tapany , Kritsarikan Woranittha , Yingnakorn Tanongsak , Khumkoa Sakhob
Published: September 2022

This research investigated recycling of manufacturing NdFeB magnet wastes in as-sintered and powder forms which contained high carbon via pyro-hydro metallurgy process. Effects of oxidative roasting on selective leaching of the magnet wastes were the main focus in comparison to recycling via whole leaching without oxidative roasting. The process started from oxidative roasting at 600 °C, sulfuric leaching, drying, roasting at 750 °C for powder and 800 °C for sintered wastes, water leaching, oxalic acid precipitation and calcination at 1000 °C to obtain neodymium oxides. Oxidative roasting was found to reduce carbon and resulted in neodymium and iron oxide formation with a minimum amount of neodymium iron oxide. This provided effective selective leaching of neodymium. For whole leaching, a significant loss of neodymium into leached residue was observed. Oxidative roasting-selective leaching provided significant recovery in the amount of 75.46% while whole leaching resulted in only 31.62 wt.% in the case of sintered waste. The final composition via oxidative roasting-selective leaching consisted of 68.11 wt.% neodymium, 19.83 wt.% praseodymium and 0.31 wt.% iron, while whole leaching resulted in a higher amount of iron at 1.20 wt.%. Similar results were obtained for powder magnet waste.
The Coronavirus Crisis in a Shiite Society: Faith and the Experience of a Pilgrimage Ban at Iran’s Central Shrine
Authors: Razavizadeh Neda , Di Giovine Michael A. , Varshovi Somayeh
Published: September 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic, which emerged in late 2019, brought about far-reaching changes in individual and social life. Governments adopted social distancing measures, to varying degrees, to reduce the burden of disease on the health care systems and its damage to the public health. In Iran, the shrine of Imam Reza, which is one of the most holy sites for Muslim Shiites worldwide and a popular pilgrimage destination, was closed along with three other holy shrines. Since faith in Imams, and visiting and expressing devotion to them, is of paramount importance in Shiite teachings, there were a mixture of stances regarding the shrines’ shutdown before and during the lockdown. Based on 14 in-depth interviews, this study examines how typical pilgrims have dealt with this ban. Although all interviewees experienced conflicting emotions, their responses centered on three perspectives. Those who advocated for the shrine’s shutdown adopted strategies to cope with cognitive dissonance and threats to their religious identity. The strategies were mainly based on the redefinition, accentuation, reinterpretation, and selection of some theological and jurisprudential readings so that they could address the above challenges to their religious beliefs. The anti-shutdown participants, with a fatalistic interpretation of contracting a disease, opposed the state’s stance, while the pro-shutdown participants accused the state of conservatism or political expediency rooted in an insincere devotion to the Imam. Moreover, some anti-shutdown respondents, despite their discontent, went along with this pragmatic strategy due to their belief in the importance of the image of Shiites in general, and the Shiite state in particular.
Challenges toward Sustainability? Experiences and Approaches to Literary Tourism from Iran
Authors: Asadi Alireza , Bayat Naser , Zanganeh Shahraki Saeed , Ahmadifard Narges , Poponi Stefano , Salvati Luca
Published: September 2022

Interdisciplinary narrative studies are of great importance in several disciplines, especially in the humanities and social sciences. Cultural tourism and its sub-disciplines, including the complex issue of ‘literary tourism’, is an interdisciplinary field of investigation, positioned in between geography and urban–rural studies. In Iran, this form of tourism has been neglected so far—with no distinction between urban and rural areas—despite a particularly rich literary heritage. The present study recognizes the challenge of literary tourism in Iran, delineating some possible actions to develop it as a future engine of economic growth, especially in rural districts. As a contribution to a refined comprehension of literary tourism development paths, a content analysis was run collecting views and textual data on literary tourism in Iran. The empirical results of this study indicate that the mentioned challenges can be classified into several main dimensions and a broader set of sub-themes. The possible actions responding to such challenges can be classified into more dimensions and a vast number of sub-themes. Actions reducing territorial disparities and fueling entrepreneurship in local communities are appropriate to stimulate the emergence (and, possibly, consolidation) of literary tourism districts in Iran, giving an original contribution to sustainable development especially—but not exclusively—in rural settlements.
Potential of Microwave Heating and Plasma for Biosecurity Applications
Authors: Taheri Saeedeh , McFarlane Dylan John , Mattner Scott William , Brodie Graham Ian
Published: September 2022

This review explores the use of microwave heating and microwave-generated plasma for biosecurity applications. Microwave heating has been shown to rapidly heat and kill a wide range of pests and pathogens. Examples of microwave thermal disinfestation of soils, grains, hay, and timber are presented and discussed. Microwave energy can also ionize various gasses, including air, to create plasma. Plasmas are described by many characteristics, such as temperature, degree of ionization, and density. In the “after glow” (cold plasma) of a plasma discharge, there are sufficient charged particles and excited atoms to generate elevated UV levels and ionize the surfaces of objects. Examples of cold plasma and plasma-activated water disinfestation of grains and other commodities are also presented and discussed. Brief comments on the scale-up of this technology have also been presented.
Concurrent Assessment of Phthalates/HEXAMOLL® DINCH Exposure and Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children Performance in Three European Cohorts of the HBM4EU Aligned Studies
Authors: Rosolen Valentina , Giordani Elisa , Mariuz Marika , Parpinel Maria , Ronfani Luca , Vecchi Brumatti Liza , Bin Maura , Calamandrei Gemma , Mustieles Vicente , Gilles Liese , Govarts Eva , Baken Kirsten , Rodriguez Martin Laura , Schoeters Greet , Sepai Ovnair , Sovcikova Eva , Fabelova Lucia , Šidlovská Miroslava , Kolena Branislav , Kold Jensen Tina , Frederiksen Hanne , Kolossa-Gehring Marike , Lange Rosa , Apel Petra , Castano Argelia , Esteban López Marta , Jacobs Griet , Voorspoels Stefan , Jurdáková Helena , Górová Renáta , Barbone Fabio
Published: September 2022

Information about the effects of phthalates and non-phthalate substitute cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylic acid diisononyl ester (HEXAMOLL® DINCH) on children’s neurodevelopment is limited. The aim of the present research is to evaluate the association between phthalate/HEXAMOLL® DINCH exposure and child neurodevelopment in three European cohorts involved in HBM4EU Aligned Studies. Participating subjects were school-aged children belonging to the Northern Adriatic cohort II (NAC-II), Italy, Odense Child Cohort (OCC), Denmark, and PCB cohort, Slovakia. In each cohort, children’s neurodevelopment was assessed through the Full-Scale Intelligence Quotient score (FSIQ) of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale of Children test using three different editions. The children’s urine samples, collected for one point in time concurrently with the neurodevelopmental evaluation, were analyzed for several phthalates/HEXAMOLL® DINCH biomarkers. The relation between phthalates/HEXAMOLL® DINCH and FSIQ was explored by applying separate multiple linear regressions in each cohort. The means and standard deviations of FSIQ were 109 ± 11 (NAC-II), 98 ± 12 (OCC), and 81 ± 15 (PCB cohort). In NAC-II, direct associations between FSIQ and DEHP’s biomarkers were found: 5OH-MEHP+5oxo-MEHP (β = 2.56; 95% CI 0.58–4.55; N = 270), 5OH-MEHP+5cx-MEPP (β = 2.48; 95% CI 0.47–4.49; N = 270) and 5OH-MEHP (β = 2.58; 95% CI 0.65–4.51; N = 270). On the contrary, in the OCC the relation between DEHP’s biomarkers and FSIQ tended to be inverse but imprecise (p-value ≥ 0.10). No associations were found in the PCB cohort. FSIQ was not associated with HEXAMOLL® DINCH in any cohort. In conclusion, these results do not provide evidence of an association between concurrent phthalate/DINCHHEXAMOLLR DINCH exposure and IQ in children.
Homogeneous and Heterogeneous Photocatalysis for the Treatment of Pharmaceutical Industry Wastewaters: A Review
Authors: Antonopoulou Maria
Published: September 2022

Pharmaceuticals are biologically active compounds used for therapeutical purposes in humans and animals. Pharmaceuticals enter water bodies in various ways and are detected at concentrations of ng L−1–μg L−1. Their presence in the environment, and especially long-term pollution, can cause toxic effects on the aquatic ecosystems. The pharmaceutical industry is one of the main sources introducing these compounds in aquatic systems through the disposal of untreated or partially treated wastewaters produced during the different procedures in the manufacturing process. Pharmaceutical industry wastewaters contain numerous pharmaceutical compounds and other chemicals and are characterized by high levels of total dissolved solids (TDS), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD). The toxic and recalcitrant nature of this type of wastewater hinders conventional biological processes, leading to its ineffective treatment. Consequently, there is an urgent demand for the development and application of more efficient methods for the treatment of pharmaceutical industry wastewaters. In this context, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) have emerged as promising technologies for the treatment of pharmaceutical industry wastewaters through contaminant removal, toxicity reduction as well as biodegradability improvement. Therefore, a comprehensive literature study was conducted to review the recent published works dealing with the application of heterogeneous and homogeneous photocatalysis for pharmaceutical industry wastewater treatment as well as the advances in the field. The efficiency of the studied AOPs to treat the wastewaters is assessed. Special attention is also devoted to the coupling of these processes with other conventional methods. Simultaneously with their efficiency, the cost estimation of individual and integrated processes is discussed. Finally, the advantages and limitations of the processes, as well as their perspectives, are addressed.
Effects of Exposure Duration and Exposure Levels of Ambient Air Pollutants on the Risk of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A 2015–2019 Korean Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Kim Ju-Hee , Hong Se-Hwa , Moon Na-Lae , Kang Dae-Ryong
Published: September 2022

Exposure to ambient air pollution is associated with an increased risk of menstrual disorders and infertility. This study examined the relationships between the levels and duration of air pollution exposure and the risk of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) using Korean population-based cohort data (2015–2019). Real-time data on PM10, PM2.5, O3, CO, SO2, and NO2 were provided by the Korean Ministry of Environment. The average monthly air pollutant concentration from 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2018 was analyzed. To assess individual-level exposure to air pollutants, a spatial prediction model and an area-averaging approach were used. In total, 237,582 PCOS cases were analyzed. The annual age-adjusted PCOS incidence was 6.70, 8.28, 9.73, 11.58, and 11.97% from 2015–2019, respectively. The PCOS risk increased 1.29–1.32, 1.43–1.52, and 1.32-fold following exposure to the 2-year and 3-year average levels of PM2.5, O3, and NO2, respectively, compared to their 1-year average levels. The PCOS risk increased 1.75-fold (95% confidence interval: 1.66–1.85) in the fourth-quartile for the NO2 level. Increased SO2 and CO levels in the second- and third-quartiles were also associated with an increased PCOS risk. Exposure to air pollutants thus increased the risk for PCOS in the Korean population.
The preliminary impact of sanctions on cooperation between Russia and the Republic of Korea
Authors:   Institute of Economics RAS, Moscow, Korgun I. A.
Published: September 2022

This paper analysis the preliminary impact of the international sanctions against Russia on economic cooperation between Russia and the Republic of Korea. The state of the Korean economy is considered as well. The emphasis is placed on challenges and opportunities that stem from the current international environment characterized by the restructuring of value-added chains, rising food and energy prices, growing geostrategic competition. Unfolding trends in the Russia-Korea trade are identified through the analysis of the trade data from KITA. The data show a sharp decline in Korea’s export to Russia while imports remained rather stable, however, this could be due to an inertia eff ect. Overall, trade is expected to fall through the rest of 2022 and remain low in 2023. On the investment front cooperation will remain limited due to fi nancial restrictions and Korea’s continuing strategic aligning with the West. Overall, Korea which is highly dependent on the state of the world economy will have to tackle infl ation and falling growth rates carefully otherwise it risks facing social and consumer debt issues domestically. At the same time, the Korean government will try to off set negative tendencies through a wider cooperation with Southeast Asian countries that so far are showing positive economic dynamics. Also, Korea will form closer technological cooperation with the US in an attempt to contain China technologically. Geopolitical repercussions of anti-Russian sanctions will likely lead to a strengthening regional role of Korea as it will foster cooperative ties with various strategic alliances including NATO. The country will have to keep a delicate balance to preserve its alliance commitments and no to antagonize China, its main economic partner.
European energy transition: what are the perspectives?
Authors:   Russian Foreign Trade Academy of Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation (RFTA), Moscow, Kravchenko Y. B.
Published: September 2022

The article analyzes the prerequisites and prospects of the energy transition in the EU. The author identifi es two key factors that dictate the need to transform the European energy system –requirement to reduce dependence on Russian fossil fuels and desire to tackle the climate crisis. Special attention is paid to the REPowerEU plan, which is a comprehensive response to the hardships and global energy market disruption caused by Russia’s special military operation in Ukraine. The main idea of the plan is that Europe potentially gets more opportunities to abandon Russian fuel faster by acting as a Union. It is found that the measures in the Plan can help to respond to this ambition, through energy savings, diversifi cation of energy supplies, and accelerated rollout of renewable energy to replace fossil fuels in homes, industry and power generation. The green transformation may not only strengthen economic growth and security in Europe and its partner countries, but also make a significant contribution to the fi ght against climate change. The ways of implementing the energy transition and scenarios for the development of European energy are considered in detail. It is concluded that regardless of the development scenario, the main need of the EU will be covered by renewable energy sources in a long-term perspective. Because they include biomass, biomethane, biofuels, wind, solar and geothermal energy, the demand will de facto be covered by diff erent sources. In practice, this means redefi ning the structure of the European energy market towards diversifi cation. Since there used to be a dominant energy carrier, it is a unique phenomenon in the history of the European energy industry.
Cink-oxid nanorészecskékkel adalékolt PLA/PBS keverékek termogravimetriai és dinamikus mechanikai tulajdonságainak vizsgálata
Authors: Virág Ábris Dávid , Molnár Kolos
Published: September 2022

Jelen munkában 80/20 tömegarányú PLA-PBS keverékeket adalékoltunk cink-oxidoddal (2,5; 5; 7,5 és 10 phr arányban), majd az így létrehozott keverékek folyási, termogravimetriai és termomechanikai viselkedését vizsgáltuk. Kapillárisképlékenység-mérés, termogravimetria (TGA) és dinamikus mechanikai analízis (DMA) segítségével megállapítottuk, hogy a cink-oxid-tartalom növelésének hatására a folyási mutatószámok (MFI, MVR), továbbá a tárolási és veszteségi modulusz értékei növekedtek, a termikus stabilitás és az üvegesedési átmeneti hőmérséklet csökkent.
MODELO DE REGRESIÓN LOGÍSTICA PARA LA ESTIMACIÓN DE LA DESERCIÓN ESCOLAR DEL POSGRADO EN LA UNIVERSIDAD TÉCNICA DE MANABÍ, ECUADOR
Authors: Solís Ventura Julio César , Quiroz Fernández Santiago , Fosado Téllez Osvaldo
Published: September 2022

En el presente trabajo se ofrece un modelo de regresión logística binaria para la predicción de la deserción estudiantil de posgrado en la Universidad Técnica de Manabí, Portoviejo, Ecuador. Se obtuvieron registros de variables predictoras disponibles en el Sistema de Gestión Académica, detectándose, a través de las pruebas de Wald, como altamente significativas el estado civil, situación laboral, edad y salario. El modelo fue probado desde el punto de vista analítico a través de las pruebas Chi cuadrado,  de Nagelkerke y Hosmer-Lemeshow alcanzando resultados significativos en todas ellas. Posteriormente se realizó una clasificación de los resultados de una muestra piloto con el modelo estimado, obteniéndose el 98,6% de respuestas correctas. Se concluyó evaluando el modelo con una muestra de validación (30% de los datos) alcanzándose el 99,06% de aciertos.
Is there "Latin American" approach to migration governance?
Authors: Margheritis Ana , Pedroza Luicy
Published: September 2022

Innovative migration governance mechanisms have been rapidly evolving in Latin America in the last two decades. More recently, new policies have emerged to address both longstanding and unexpected pressing issues, such as the vast and sudden flows from Venezuela and Central America. Focusing on two main sub-regions (Central and South America) and five main areas of state involvement (irregular immigration, border control, diaspora engagement policies, multilateral management of intra-regional mobility, and forced migration), we revisit the argument that a distinctive Latin American approach emerged at the turn of the century. We document growing policy divergence across countries and subregions, which is rendering the region increasingly in line with global trends.
Condiciones del aislamiento por el COVID-19 en la Comunicación virtual entre estudiantes universitarios
Authors: Berrio-Quispe Margoth Luliana , Chavez-Bellido Dina Emeteria , Chaccara-Contreras Vidalina
Published: September 2022

La aparición del COVID-19 estableció la suspensión de las clases presenciales en las universidades, debiendo realizarse de forma virtual. La pandemia provocó que los estudiantes universitarios migraran forzosamente a esta nueva modalidad educativa, cuyo objetivo fue analizar el efecto de las condiciones de aislamiento generadas por el COVID-19 en la comunicación virtual entre estudiantes. El método empleado fue de enfoque cualitativo de tipo fenomenológico. Para obtener la información se utilizó la técnica de entrevista semi estructurada que se aplicó de forma sincrónica mediante videoconferencias a cinco estudiantes universitarios. Los resultados permitieron encontrar coincidencias, como las afecciones psicológicas, estrés, dificultades financieras, acceso a recursos y carencias de habilidades digitales. Los resultados indicaron que, desde la percepción de los estudiantes, efectivamente, las condiciones de aislamiento develan la pérdida de interés en la comunicación virtual entre estudiantes universitarios.
Competencias digitales: Percepciones de los directivos de instituciones educativas en tiempos de pandemia
Authors: Ascencio Gonzáles Joel Alberto , Velásquez Arriola Francisca Mercedes , Bocanegra Vilcamango Beder , Tello Flores Raquel Yovana , Palacios Garay de Rodríguez Jessica Paola
Published: September 2022

La competencia digital del directivo es un constructo de gran demanda en los contextos de una pandemia y la digitalización de la educación en general. El estudio tiene como objetivo caracterizar las perspectivas de los directivos de instituciones educativas sobre las competencias digitales, en una muestra de directores (n=46), y las percepciones que estas tienen en su quehacer educativo. El estudio es de carácter cuantitativo a nivel descriptivo, se ha empleado la encuesta basada en 26 preguntas. Se resalta que la percepción es favorable hacia las competencias digitales. Los directivos que lideran escuelas rurales y urbanas han desarrollado una gestión eficiente. En tal sentido, se puede afirmar que la percepción al desarrollo de las competencias digitales, en el contexto de la pandemia, es una fortaleza que garantiza la calidad del servicio educativo.
Task-specific walking training improves walking ability in an individual with vitamin B12 deficiency peripheral neuropathy: a case report
Authors: Horiquini-Barbosa Everton , Cristina Brandini da Silva Fabíola , Sarri Almir
Published: September 2022

Introduction. A 32-year-old man, diagnosed with vitamin B12 deficiency neuropathy by means of laboratory parameters and electroneuromiography, and presented 3 month history of mild weakness of both lower limbs, associated with gait disturbances, fall history and fatigue. Method. After the pre-treatment evaluate, he started the exercise therapy program. To elucidate the therapeutic effects of exercise therapy program, the TUG, 10MWT and 6MWT was performed to evaluate the fall risk, gait speed, gait endurance and ability to walk over longer distances and functionality at the pre-treatment baseline, 90 days and 180 days of exercise therapy program. Results. After 180-days of intervention, he showed an improvement on TUG test, totalizing an improvement of 31% when compared to the baseline time (5.1 seconds faster). On the 10MWT, the gait speed improvement presented an increased of 50% compared to the baseline speed. On the last walking distance assessment, at 180-days of intervention, the participant also showed an improvement of endurance, reaching 284 meters in 6 minutes of confortable walking. Conclusion. The described exercise therapy program for this patient resulted in improved walk ability after 180-days of intervention, including gait speed, gait endurance, ability to walk over longer distances and fall risk.