bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
γδ T Cells in Emerging Viral Infection: An Overview
Authors: Cimini Eleonora , Agrati Chiara
Published: May 2022

New emerging viruses belonging to the Coronaviridae, Flaviviridae, and Filoviridae families are serious threats to public health and represent a global concern. The surveillance to monitor the emergence of new viruses and their transmission is an important target for public health authorities. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is an excellent example of a pathogen able to cause a pandemic. In a few months, SARS-CoV-2 has spread globally from China, and it has become a world health problem. Gammadelta (γδ) T cell are sentinels of innate immunity and are able to protect the host from viral infections. They enrich many tissues, such as the skin, intestines, and lungs where they can sense and fight the microbes, thus contributing to the protective immune response. γδ T cells perform their direct antiviral activity by cytolytic and non-cytolytic mechanisms against a wide range of viruses, and they are able to orchestrate the cellular interplay between innate and acquired immunity. For their pleiotropic features, γδ T cells have been proposed as a target for immunotherapies in both cancer and viral infections. In this review, we analyzed the role of γδ T cells in emerging viral infections to define the profile of the response and to better depict their role in the host protection.
A Glycolipid α-GalCer Derivative, 7DW8-5 as a Novel Mucosal Adjuvant for the Split Inactivated Influenza Vaccine
Authors: Feng Huapeng , Sun Ruolin , Song Guanru , Zhu Shunfan , Nie Zhenyu , Lin Liming , Yi Ruonan , Wu Shixiang , Wang Genzhu , He Yulong , Wang Siquan , Wang Pei , Wu Li , Shu Jianhong
Published: May 2022

Influenza virus infects the host and transmits through the respiratory tract (i.e., the mouth and nose); therefore, the development of intranasal influenza vaccines that mimic the natural infection, coupled with an efficient mucosal adjuvant, is an attractive alternative to current parenteral vaccines. However, with the withdrawal of cholera toxin and Escherichia coli heat-labile endotoxin from clinical use due to side effects, there are no approved adjuvants for intranasal vaccines. Therefore, safe and effective mucosal adjuvants are urgently needed. Previously, we reported that one derivative of α-Galactosylceramide (α-GalCer), 7DW8-5, could enhance the protective efficacy of split influenza vaccine by injection administration. However, the mucosal adjuvanticity of 7DW8-5 is still unclear. In this study, we found that 7DW8-5 promotes the production of secret IgA antibodies and IgG antibodies and enhances the protective efficacy of the split influenza vaccine by intranasal administration. Furthermore, co-administration of 7DW8-5 with the split influenza vaccine significantly reduces the virus shedding in the upper and lower respiratory tract after lethal challenge. Our results demonstrate that 7DW8-5 is a novel mucosal adjuvant for the split influenza vaccine.
A Reduced Starch Level in Plants at Early Stages of Infection by Viruses Can Be Considered a Broad-Range Indicator of Virus Presence
Authors: Zhao Wanying , Wang Li , Liu Meizi , Zhang Dong , Andika Ida Bagus , Zhu Ying , Sun Liying
Published: May 2022

The diagnosis of virus infection can facilitate the effective control of plant viral diseases. To date, serological and molecular methods for the detection of virus infection have been widely used, but these methods have disadvantages if applied for broad-range and large-scale detection. Here, we investigated the effect of infection of several different plant RNA and DNA viruses such as cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), tobacco mosaic virus (TMV), potato virus X (PVX), potato virus Y (PVY) and apple geminivirus on starch content in leaves of Nicotiana benthamiana. Analysis showed that virus infection at an early stage was generally associated with a reduction in starch accumulation. Notably, a reduction in starch accumulation was readily apparent even with a very low virus accumulation detected by RT-PCR. Furthermore, we also observed that the infection of three latent viruses in propagative apple materials was associated with a reduction in starch accumulation levels. Analysis of transcriptional expression showed that some genes encoding enzymes involved in starch biosynthesis were downregulated at the early stage of CMV, TMV, PVX and PVY infections, suggesting that virus infection interferes with starch biosynthesis in plants. Our findings suggest that assessing starch accumulation levels potentially serve as a broad-range indicator for the presence of virus infection.
Infection Route Impacts the Pathogenesis of Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome Virus in Ferrets
Authors: Park Su-Jin , Kim Young-Il , Casel Mark Anthony , Kim Eun-Ha , Kim Se-Mi , Yu Kwang-Min , Rollon Rare , Jang Seung-Gyu , Jeong Hye Won , Choi Young Ki
Published: May 2022

The threat of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) to public health has been increasing due to the rapid spread of the ticks that carry the causative viral agent. The SFTS virus (SFTSV) was first identified in China and subsequently detected in neighboring countries, including South Korea, Japan, and Vietnam. In addition to the tick-mediated infection, human-to-human transmission has been recently reported with a high mortality rate; however, differential study of the pathogen has been limited by the route of infection. In this study, we investigated the pathogenic potential of SFTSV based on the infection route in aged ferrets, which show clinical signs similar to that of human infections. Ferrets inoculated with SFTSV via the intramuscular and subcutaneous routes show clinical signs comparable to those of severe human infections, with a mortality rate of 100%. Contrastingly, intravascularly infected ferrets exhibit a comparatively lower mortality rate of 25%, although their early clinical signs are similar to those observed following infection via the other routes. These results indicate that the infection route could influence the onset of SFTS symptoms and the pathogenicity of SFTSV. Thus, infection route should be considered in future studies on the pathogenesis of SFTSV infection.
Minute Cellular Nodules as Early Lesions in Rats with Silica Exposure via Inhalation
Authors: Li Yaqian , Jin Fuyu , Li Tian , Yang Xinyu , Cai Wenchen , Li Shifeng , Gao Xuemin , Mao Na , Liu Heliang , Xu Hong , Yang Fang
Published: May 2022

Mechanisms of silicosis have yet to be clarified, and pathological conditions are inaccurately described in some experimental studies on silicosis. This study was aimed at describing initial lesions in silicosis, as observed in rats with silica exposure via inhalation, and major histopathologic alterations. Male Wistar rats were exposed to silica for 24 weeks. Hematoxylin and eosin staining indicated the presence of “cellular nodule+ macrophage alveolitis” in rats exposed to silica from the 2–16 weeks time points and “fibrotic cellular + cellular nodule” in rats exposed to silica via inhalation for 24 weeks. By immunohistochemistry, the following were noted: a continual increase in the positive expression of CD68 in macrophages in the lungs of rats exposed to silica; hyperplasia in alveolar type II cells (AT2); loss of original phenotypes in fibrotic cellular nodules, macrophages, and AT2 cells; loss of endothelial cells in silicotic nodules; and positive expression of α-smooth muscle actin in macrophages. Typical pathological changes in silicosis were also summarized. Among these changes were macrophage alveolitis, cellular nodules, and fibrotic cellular nodules, including an increase in minute cellular nodules in the early stages and the formation of fibrotic cellular nodules in the late stages.
Advantages and Challenges of Differential Immune Cell Count Determination in Blood and Milk for Monitoring the Health and Well-Being of Dairy Cows
Authors: Farschtschi Sabine , Mattes Martin , Pfaffl Michael W.
Published: May 2022

A key challenge of the 21st century will be to provide the growing world population with a sustainable and secure supply of food. Consequently, the dairy farming’s primary task is to lower milk losses and other inefficiencies associated with diseased cows. Moreover, a shift from curative to preventive health management would be desirable for mastitis and a wide variety of other infectious and non-infectious cattle diseases, some of which are known to have profound negative effects on the performance and well-being of cows. Differential cell counting (DCC), a procedure that aims to determine the proportions of different somatic cell types in raw milk samples, has not only the potential to optimize mastitis diagnostics, but it could furthermore serve as a diagnostic tool for monitoring the general and overall health status of dairy cows. Based on a broad search of the literature, the practical utility of various types of DCC is summarized and discussed in this review. Since it might be of advantage to interpret DCC with the aid of data from studies in humans, differences between the immune systems of humans and dairy cattle, with a special focus on surface marker expression profiles and γδ (gamma delta) T-cell characteristics, are also described.
Clinical and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Features, Tumour Localisation, and Survival of Dogs with Presumptive Brain Gliomas
Authors: Pons-Sorolla Marta , Dominguez Elisabet , Czopowicz Michał , Suñol Anna , Maeso Ordás Christian , Morales Moliner Carles , Pérez Soteras Marc , Montoliu Patrícia
Published: May 2022

Brain gliomas are common tumours diagnosed in dogs. However, limited information is available on the clinical features and overall survival time (OS) in dogs receiving palliative treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate possible associations between presenting complaint, tumour localisation, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) features, survival times, and reason for the death of dogs with suspected intracranial glioma treated palliatively. Sixty dogs from a single institution were retrospectively included (from September 2017 to December 2021). Dogs were included if a presumptive diagnosis of brain glioma was obtained based on an MRI scan and medical history. French Bulldogs were overrepresented (40/60); 46 out of 60 dogs (77%) presented due to epileptic seizures (ES) and in 25/60 dogs (42%), cluster seizures or status epilepticus were the first manifestation of the disease. Dogs with suspected gliomas located in the piriform lobe showed a higher probability of presenting due to epilepsy compared to dogs with glioma in other regions, and more frequently died or were euthanised because of increased ES. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) features differed between localisations. Fronto-olfactory tumours were more frequently, whereas piriform tumours were less frequently, classified as suspected high-grade glioma. The median survival time was 61 days. Dogs with contrast-enhancing suspected gliomas had significantly shorter OS. This study provides additional information on the clinical features and survival of dogs with suspected brain gliomas treated palliatively.
Evaluation of the Iatrogenic Sciatic Nerve Injury following Double Pelvic Osteotomy Performed with Piezoelectric Cutting Tool in Dogs
Authors: Properzi Roberto , Collivignarelli Francesco , Paolini Andrea , Bianchi Amanda , Vignoli Massimo , Falerno Ilaria , De Bonis Andrea , Tamburro Roberto
Published: May 2022

(1) Background: The double pelvic osteotomy (DPO) is a prophylactic surgical procedure associated with 0.4% incidence of sciatic nerve injury. The piezoelectric cutting tool is a surgical device able to involve only mineralized tissue avoiding neurovascular tissue and other soft tissue. This study aimed to evaluate the sciatic nerve injury observed in dogs underwent iliac osteotomy performed using the piezoelectric cutting tool. (2) Methods: Dogs underwent DPO performed with piezoelectric cutting tool were included. Neurological assessment was performed 6 and 24 h after surgery and then repeated 12 days, 4 and 8 weeks after surgery. Temporary and or permanent sciatic nerve injury were recorded. (3) Results: 84 DPOs performed in fifty dogs were included. No temporary/permanent neurological disease associated with iatrogenic damage of the sciatic nerve were observed. (4) Conclusions: The iliac osteotomy performed with piezoelectric cutting tool was not associated to iatrogenic sciatic nerve injury.
Analysis of Uterine Blood Flow in Breeding Sows through the Estrus and Early Diestrus, and after Artificial Insemination
Authors: Ruiz Salvador , Gardón Juan Carlos , Hernández-Caravaca Iván , Luongo Chiara , García-Vázquez Francisco Alberto
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to determine uterine blood flow indices by transabdominal Doppler ultrasound in sows (n = 18) under different conditions: (i) sows after estrus detection (day 0, D0); (ii) sows 2 h after artificial insemination (AI), performed 24 h after detection of estrus (day 1, D1); (iii) sows in early diestrus (day 5, D5). Moreover, three different types of seminal doses were used for AI depending on the ejaculate fraction included (F1: doses containing only the rich fraction of the ejaculate; F2: F1 + the transition fraction between rich and poor fractions; F3: F2 and poor fraction). The statistical analysis revealed significant differences in some indices regarding the period of analysis (D0, D1, and D5). Diastolic velocity and mean velocity showed lower values at D5 in comparison with D0 and D1 (p < 0.01). On the other hand, the pulsatility index and the relationship systolic velocity/diastolic velocity indicated higher values at D5 in comparison with D0 and D1 (p < 0.01). No differences were observed regarding the type of seminal dose used in any of the time points analyzed (p > 0.05). Neither insemination per se nor the type of ejaculate fraction used immediately modified the uterine vascularity, but some indices are affected by the stage of the estrus cycle (estrus vs. early diestrus).
Overweight Management through Mild Caloric Restriction in Multigenerational Long-Tailed Macaque Breeding Groups
Authors: Zijlmans Dian G. M. , Maaskant Annemiek , Louwerse Annet L. , Sterck Elisabeth H. M. , Langermans Jan A. M.
Published: May 2022

Caloric restriction (CR) is an effective method to reduce overweight in captive non-human primates (NHPs). CR has been applied to individually- and pair-housed NHPs, but whether applying CR can be effective and safe in group-housed NHPs has not yet been assessed. This study investigates the effect of mild (20%) CR on adult overweight and biochemical parameters, immature growth, veterinary consultations, and reproductive success in multigenerational long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis) breeding groups. Data were derived from anthropometric measurements and blood samples during yearly health checks, complemented with retrospective data on veterinary consultations and reproductive success. Adult body measures decreased after CR, with heavier individuals and females losing more weight compared to leaner individuals and males. CR lowered cholesterol levels in adults but had no overall effect on other biochemical parameters. Yet, biochemical parameters of individuals with high baseline values were reduced more compared to individuals with low baseline values. Immature growth, veterinary consultations and reproductive success were not influenced by CR. Thus, CR targeted the right individuals, i.e., overweight adults, and had no adverse effects on the variables examined in this study. This implies that mild CR can be a valuable overweight management strategy in group-housed NHPs.
Comparative Study of Phenotypes and Genetics Related to the Growth Performance of Crossbred Thai Indigenous (KKU1 vs. KKU2) Chickens under Hot and Humid Conditions
Authors: Chomchuen Kitsadee , Tuntiyasawasdikul Veeraya , Chankitisakul Vibuntita , Boonkum Wuttigrai
Published: May 2022

To improve the body weight and growth performance traits of crossbred Thai indigenous chickens, phenotypic performance and genetic values were estimated. Crossbred Thai indigenous chickens, designated KKU1 and KKU2, were compared. The data included 1375 records of body weight (BW0, BW2, BW4, and BW16), breast circumference at 6 weeks of age (BrC6), and average daily gain (ADG0–2, ADG0–4, and ADG0–6). A multi-trait animal model with the average information-restricted maximum likelihood (AI-REML) was used to estimate the genetic parameters and breeding values. The results showed that the body weight and breast circumference traits (BW2, BW4, BW6, and BrC6) for the mixed sex KKU1 chickens were higher than for the KKU2 chickens (p < 0.05). For the growth performance traits, the KKU1 chickens had higher average daily gain and feed intake and a lower feed conversion ratio than the KKU2 chickens (p < 0.05). The survival rates were not different except at up to 6 weeks of age, when that of the KKU1 chickens was slightly lower. The specific combining ability, heritability, genetic and phenotypic correlations, and estimated breeding values showed that the KKU1 chickens had better genetics than the KKU2 chickens. In conclusion, KKU1 chickens are suitable for development as crossbred Thai indigenous chickens for enhanced growth performance and for commercial use.
Sustainable vs. Conventional Approach for Olive Oil Wastewater Management: A Review of the State of the Art
Authors: Al-Qodah Zakaria , Al-Zoubi Habis , Hudaib Banan , Omar Waid , Soleimani Maede , Abu-Romman Saeid , Frontistis Zacharias
Published: May 2022

The main goal of this review is to collect and analyze the recently published research concerning the conventional and sustainable treatment processes for olive mill wastewater (OMW). In the conventional treatment processes, it is noticed that the main objective is to meet the environmental regulations for remediated wastewater without considering the economical values of its valuable constituents such as polyphenols. These substances have many important environmental values and could be used in many vital applications. Conversely, sustainable treatment processes aim to recover the valuable constituents through different processes and then treat the residual wastewater. Both approaches’ operational and design parameters were analyzed to generalize their advantages and possible applications. A valorization-treatment approach for OMW is expected to make it a sustainable resource for ingredients of high economical value that could lead to a profitable business. In addition, inclusion of a recovery process will detoxify the residual OMW, simplify its management treatment, and allow the possible reuse of the vast amounts of processed water. In a nutshell, the proposed approach led to zero waste with a closed water cycle development.
Hydrologic and Thermal Performance of a Full-Scale Farmed Blue–Green Roof
Authors: Almaaitah Tamer , Joksimovic Darko
Published: May 2022

Conventional green roofs have been widely accepted as a climate change adaptation strategy. However, little is known about the potential of blue–green roofs and rooftop farms to control urban stormwater and improve microclimates. This study evaluates a farmed blue–green roof’s hydrologic and thermal performance over an entire growing season in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The runoff discharge from three plots planted with various crops was monitored. The substrate and air temperatures at two elevations of different cultivated and self-sowing plant species were collected and compared to a control roof. Results indicate that planting and harvesting activities impacted the hydrologic performance. Mean values for retention ranged from 85–88%, peak attenuation ranged from 82–85%, and peak delay ranged from 7.7 to 8 h. At the lower elevation, the mean air temperature difference above okra, tobacco, and beet was 2.5 °C, whereas, above squash, potato, and milkweed, it was 1.4 °C. Maximum and moderate air-cooling effects were observed in the afternoon and evening, but a warming effect was observed in the early morning. Farmed blue–green roof evaluated in this study provides a runoff control and microclimate improvement comparable to or better than conventional green roofs, in addition to other benefits such as improving food security.
Textural Characteristics of the Holocene Sandy Ridges in the Eastern Venetian Coastal Plain (North Adriatic Sea, Italy)
Authors: Rizzetto Federica
Published: May 2022

In the lower Piave river coastal plain (northeast of the Venice Lagoon, Italy), evidences of ancient sandy ridges testify to both the local coastline progradation and retrogradation that occurred during the Holocene. Their arrangement is recognizable in aerial photographs as they appear as groups of parallel sandy strips. The orientation of each group of ridges differs from the orientation of the others. Even if the ridges have not preserved their original relief and morphology, weak undulations are still locally present. Through the joint interpretation of textural parameters and geomorphological observations and measurements, an attempt has been made to define the depositional processes responsible for the formation of these sandy ridges. The results from grain-size analyses have given evidence of the foreshore and the backshore environments. They have confirmed the presence of both aeolian deposits in most of the sampled sandy ridges and fine-grained filling sediments containing organic matter in the old inter-ridge depressions. The investigations have also confirmed the existence of a well-preserved abandoned Piave river delta and four subsequent main stages of coastal progradation interrupted by episodes of coastal retreat. Therefore, this research has provided new insights into the evolution of the Holocene Venetian coastal plain by adding new information on the different coastal depositional environments and transporting agents.
Isolation of Bacteria Capable of Degrading Various AHLs for Biofouling Control in Membrane Bioreactors
Authors: Chien I-Chieh , Chu Chiao-Yun , Huang Chien-Yu
Published: May 2022

Membrane bioreactors (MBRs) are widely used to treat wastewater, mainly due to the production of high-quality effluent. However, biofilm forming on the surface of membranes can cause many problems, which remains one of the major limitations of this technique. Bacterial quorum quenching (QQ) has been proven to be a successful strategy to control biofouling in MBRs. However, for many QQ bacterial isolates, the detailed degradation rates of acyl homoserine lactones (AHLs) have rarely been reported. Therefore, this study aimed to isolate potential QQ bacteria and investigate their degradation rates against eight different AHLs. Results showed that four isolates (A9, A12, B11, and D3) exhibited consistent C8-HSL–(N-octanoyl-L-homoserine lactone) removal capabilities. These four isolates removed at least 70% of all AHLs tested within 180 min. They might have different QQ enzymes, based on our observation that the locations of enzyme activities differed. The bacteria most closely related to A9, A12, and B11 were Brucella anthropic, Bacillus cereus, and Bacillus toyonensis, respectively. Bacillus species have shown QQ activity in many studies, but AHL-reducing Brucella species have not been previously reported. Overall, this study extends our current knowledge of QQ bacteria that could be used to mitigate biofilm formation on MBR membranes.
A Rapid Bioassay Test for Assessing Environmental Contamination Using the Marine Sedentary Polychaete Hydroides elegans
Authors: Sivakumar Priya , Srinivasan Gomathi , Janardhanam Madhuvandhi , Sivakumar Rekha , Niranjani Marcus Priscilla , Balasubramaniam Sujatha , Singaram Gopalakrishnan , Harikrishnan Thilagam
Published: May 2022

To investigate the impact of environmental contaminants on the early life stages of the marine polychaetae Hydroides elegans, a toxicity test was designed. In our previous study, we reported gametes and embryos of H. elegans were sensitive to heavy metal pollution and effluents. In continuation of this, we used H. elegans gametes to assess the water quality of samples taken along the southeast coast of India. The samples were collected from five different locations of the Chennai coast (Muttu Kadu, Neelangarai, Marina, Royapuram, and Ennore), and two different bioassay toxicity tests were performed. Sperm and eggs were pre-exposed to water samples taken from different locations to assess the water quality. Water samples collected from Ennore station and the Royapuram fish landing center were found to be more polluted than those collected from other locations. Sperm were shown to be more sensitive than eggs. The different morphological effects produced by water samples reflected the defects in the early differentiation of embryonic cells. Since fertilization can be inhibited in the presence of any xenobiotic, both fertilization and early development could be used as a biological indicator for a rapid bioassay to monitor marine pollution. The percentage of successful fertilization and early development was comparatively higher at the reference site (Neelangarai) and in the seawater samples collected from Marina. The physicochemical characteristics of the seawater from these sampling stations corroborated the findings of this investigation. Our results showed that H. elegans gametes were highly sensitive to any contaminant present in the seawater, and confirmed previous findings that this polychaetae can be routinely used as a test organism for ecotoxicological bioassays in tropical and subtropical regions.
Design Combination Optimized Approach for Urban Stormwater and Drainage Systems Using Copula-Based Method
Authors: Zhong Yixuan , Liao Xiaolong , Yi Ling , Wang Dagang , Wu Leping , Li Yuanyuan
Published: May 2022

Waterlogging disasters cause huge loss of life and property damage every year. In this research, a Copula-based optimization method is proposed to solve the problems in bivariate design of urban stormwater and drainage systems resulting from ignorance of precipitation temporal dependence and discrepancy between different design codes. Optimized design combinations of stormwater and drainage systems conditioned on given Kendall bivariate return periods or return periods of either system can be obtained using the optimization method for the case study of Zhongshan and Zhuhai. Results show that the temporal dependencies between precipitation series with different durations should be carefully considered, which can be sufficiently described by Copula functions. Based on the optimized design combinations, it is found that the planned return periods of stormwater systems in Sponge City Plans are underestimated for both Zhongshan and Zhuhai, which restricts the full use of the drainage systems. According to the optimized results, the planned return periods of stormwater systems in Zhongshan (Zhuhai) should be adjusted to 8.04 a (6.76 a) for the downtown area and 6.52 a (5.59 a) for other areas, conditioned on the planned return periods for P24 h in Sponge City Plans. The proposed optimization method provides a useful approach for the bivariate design of stormwater and drainage systems. The results of this research can give stakeholders references in compiling engineering plans for urban waterlogging prevention and help better balance the conflicts between waterlogging safety and economic efficiency.
Spatiotemporal Analysis of Climatic Extremes over the Upper Indus Basin, Pakistan
Authors: Abbas Sohail , Yaseen Muhammad , Latif Yasir , Waseem Muhammad , Muhammad Sher , Kebede Leta Megersa , Sher Sadaf , Ali Imran Muhammad , Adnan Muhammad , Khan Tallal Hassan
Published: May 2022

The Hindukush-Karakoram-Himalayan (HKH) ranges and their massive cryosphere extend over the Upper Indus Basin (UIB) and are prone to incapacitated water supply due to the proclivity of globally increased temperature. Due to excessive carbon emissions, frequent incursions including extreme climatic events, are likely to happen sooner than expected on a regional scale due to recent climate change. The present study examined the variability of climatic extremes (18 indices) during 1971 to2018 over the UIB. The Mann-Kendall (MK) test and Sen’s methods were applied for statistical analysis as the former deals with the magnitude of trends while the direction of observed trends was identified by the latter in climatological time-series data. The frequency and intensity of summer days (SU25 > 25 °C/year) at 13 out of 27 stations significantly increased, particularly in lower regions. The same warming proclivity was dominant in tropical nights (TR20 > 20 °C/year) at 20 stations including Astore, Bunji, Gilgit, Gupis, Murree and Skardu. Similarly, significant increases were observed in extremes of annual precipitation in western and high northern areas; however, significantly, the highest drops in R25 and R5day were exhibited in Chitral at the rates of 13 and 29 days, respectively. These findings tend to support the accelerated summer warming and a rather stable winter warming while stable winter warming showed that overall the UIB seems to be more sensitive towards warming.
Clustering for Regional Time Trend in the Nonstationary Extreme Distribution
Authors: Hong Sungchul , Jeon Jong-June , Kim Yongdai
Published: May 2022

Since the estimation of tail properties requires a stationarity of observations, it is necessary to develop a de-trending method not dependent on underlying distributions for nonstationary hydrological processes. Moreover, de-trending has been independently applied to hydrological processes, even though the processes are observed in geometrically adjacent sites. This paper presents a distribution-free de-trending method for nonstationary hydrological processes. Our method also provides clustered regional trends obtained by sparse regularization in a general distribution. It aggregates the parameter estimation and clustering within a unified framework. In the simulation study, our proposed method has superiority over other compared methods with respect to MSE and variance of coefficients. In real data analysis, the clustered trends of the annual maximum precipitation in the South Korean peninsula are reported, and the patterns of the estimated trends are visualized.
An Integrated Approach for Investigating the Salinity Evolution in a Mediterranean Coastal Karst Aquifer
Authors: Frollini Eleonora , Parrone Daniele , Ghergo Stefano , Masciale Rita , Passarella Giuseppe , Pennisi Maddalena , Salvadori Matteo , Preziosi Elisabetta
Published: May 2022

Coastal areas are characterized by considerable demographic pressure that generally leads to groundwater overexploitation. In the Mediterranean region, this situation is exacerbated by a recharge reduction enhanced by climate change. The consequence is water table drawdown that alters the freshwater/seawater interface facilitating seawater intrusion. However, the groundwater salinity may also be affected by other natural/anthropogenic sources. In this paper, water quality data gathered at 47 private and public wells in a coastal karst aquifer in Apulia (southern Italy), were interpreted by applying disparate methods to reveal the different sources of groundwater salinity. Chemical characterization, multivariate statistical analysis, and mixing calculations supplied the groundwater salinization degree. Characteristic ion ratios, strontium isotope (87Sr/86Sr), and pure mixing modelling identified the current seawater intrusion as a main salinity source, also highlighting the contribution of water–rock interaction to groundwater composition and excluding influence from Cretaceous paleo-seawater. Only the combined approach of all the methodologies allowed a clear identification of the main sources of salinization, excluding other less probable ones (e.g., paleo-seawater). The proposed approach enables effective investigation of processes governing salinity changes in coastal aquifers, to support more informed management.
Effect of Fe(II)-Activated Peroxymonosulfate (PMS) on the Performance of Ultrafiltration (UF) Process for Secondary Effluent Treatment and Reuse
Authors: Liu Xiao , Chen Renglu , Wang Zijing , Lin Wei , Zhang Rourou , Yu Shengping , Ding An
Published: May 2022

The secondary effluent of the wastewater treatment plant is considered as one of the reused water sources and needs advanced treatment to meet increasingly stringent water treatment standards. Ultrafiltration, as one of the most widely used advanced treatment technologies, is limited due to membrane fouling, and coagulation and pre-oxidation have received extensive attention as pretreatment methods to alleviate membrane fouling. This research proposes a new method of Fe(II)-activated peroxymonosulfate (PMS) coagulation and a pre-oxidation system coupled with ultrafiltration (UF) to treat secondary effluent from sewage plants, separately evaluating the treatment effect under different molar ratios of Fe(II)/PMS. The Fe(II)/PMS decontamination mechanism and membrane fouling control effect were elucidated through pollutant removal efficiency, membrane morphology, membrane flux trend, and membrane fouling resistance distribution. According to the experimental results, the optimal effect of organic matter removal and membrane fouling mitigation was achieved at the Fe(II)/PMS dosage of 60/60 μM/μM (molar ratio 1:1). The efficiency of pretreatment methods in removing organics and fluorescent components and mitigating membrane fouling followed the order of Fe(II)/PMS > Fe(III) > inactivated PMS. Fe(II)/PMS could produce a synergistic effect in a high concentration state (60 μM), relying on the dual effects of coagulation and oxidation to alleviate membrane fouling. Coagulation and pre-oxidation by Fe(II)/PMS significantly reduced the clogging of membrane pores and the proportion of irreversible resistance, effectively controlling membrane fouling and improving effluent quality. SEM images further confirmed its effectiveness, and EPR results unequivocally indicated that its synergistic mechanism was mediated by •OH and SO4•−. The research results can provide ideas for advanced wastewater treatment and secondary effluent reuse.
Integration of Electrical Resistivity and Modified DRASTIC Model to Assess Groundwater Vulnerability in the Surrounding Area of Hulene-B Waste Dump, Maputo, Mozambique
Authors: Bernardo Bernardino , Candeias Carla , Rocha Fernando
Published: May 2022

In this study, electrical resistivity was applied in six 400 m profiles around the Hulene-B waste dump (Mozambique). Afterwards, an inversion was performed by RES2Dinv. The use of the electrical resistivity method allowed us to characterize in detail some underlying aspects of the DRASTIC index by identifying anomalous zones considered to be permeable and prone to leachate migration. The modified DRASTIC index revealed high values in areas near contaminated surface groundwater and surface layers of the vadose zone, characterized by low resistivities. Areas with lower index results were characterized by high resistivity on surface layers and high depth at which groundwater was detected. The overall modified DRASTIC index result revealed medium vulnerability. However, high vulnerability index values were detected in areas with higher surface elevation, suggesting groundwater contamination by horizontal dilution of leachates from the surrounding area of the Hulene-B waste dump.
Groundwater Hydrochemical and Isotopic Evolution from High Atlas Jurassic Limestones to Errachidia Cretaceous Basin (Southeastern Morocco)
Authors: Roubil Allal , El Ouali Anas , Bülbül Ali , Lahrach Abderrahim , Mudry Jacques , Mamouch Younes , Essahlaoui Ali , El Hmaidi Abdellah , El Ouali Abdelhadi
Published: May 2022

The objective of this research was to determine the recharge of the Cretaceous aquifers by the High Atlas, as well as the interaction and possible mixing phenomena between the waters of the different aquifers, by investigating the hydrochemical and isotopic evolution of groundwater flow paths from the limestone karst systems of the High Atlas to the Cretaceous basin of Errachidia. Geological techniques were used to investigate and confirm the chemical and isotopic characteristics of the waters. Although the Gibbs diagram shows that water–rock interaction is the dominant hydrochemical process, some water samples in the Cretaceous basin are influenced by both evaporation and water–rock interaction, indicating a mixture of rainfall and deep waters. A saturation index study indicated that limestone minerals were supersaturated in parts of the groundwater samples (calcite and dolomite). This result was confirmed by isotope data. Indeed, some Cretaceous basin samples show isotopic similarities to those from the Jurassic High Atlas. The geological cross-sections illustrate that the High Atlas Jurassic limestones are in direct contact with the Cretaceous basin’s permeable rocks, allowing groundwater to circulate from the High Atlas to Errachidia’s Cretaceous basin.
Water Balance of a Small Island Experiencing Climate Change
Authors: Hughes Justin , Petheram Cuan , Taylor Andrew , Raiber Matthias , Davies Phil , Levick Shaun
Published: May 2022

Small islands provide challenges to hydrological investigation, both in terms of the physical environment and available resources for hydrological monitoring. Furthermore, small islands are generally more vulnerable to natural disasters and water shortages for resident populations. Norfolk Island in the South–west Pacific, is typical in these respects, and recent water shortages have highlighted the lack of hydrological knowledge required to make informed decisions regarding water supply. Accordingly, a campaign of field measurements and analysis was conducted on Norfolk Island in the 2019–2020 period and these were compared to data from the 1970’s and 1980’s along with climate records to provide some insight into the behaviour and changes to the hydrology of the island over the last 50 years. Data indicates that a decline in rainfall across the 50 year water balance period (13%) combined with increased potential evapo-transpiration and changes to land cover have reduced recharge by 27%. Reduced recharge resulted in a significant decline in the groundwater potentiometric surface and runoff (reduced by around 57%). Examination of the water balance indicates that the majority (70–80%) of recharge across the 50 year period discharges to the ocean via cliff or submarine discharge.
Possibilies of multi–level cervical fusion in degenerative cervical pathology
Authors:   Cost Accounting Department, National Center for Rehabilitation and Prosthetics of the Disabled, Specialized Scientific and Practical Medical Center for Traumatology and Orthopedics of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Sattarov Alisher Rakhimovich , Shodmonov Bakhtiyor Rustamovich ,   National Center for Rehabilitation and Prosthetics of the Disabled, Specialized Scientific and Practical Medical Center for Traumatology and Orthopedics of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Saidov Sohib Saidmurodovich ,   National Center for Rehabilitation and Prosthetics of the Disabled, Specialized Scientific and Practical Medical Center for Traumatology and Orthopedics of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Boimurodov Gulomjon Abdugaffarovich ,   National Center for Rehabilitation and Prosthetics of the Disabled, Specialized Scientific and Practical Medical Center for Traumatology and Orthopedics of the Republic of Uzbekistan
Published: May 2022

The aim of this study was to improve the results of surgical treatment of patients with cervical hernias who underwent cervical fusion using improved cylindrical cages from the left anterior parapharyngeal access. The study included 12 patients with degenerative disease of cervical spine who were implanted 16 titanium cages after microdiscectomy. The assessment of the results was performed by neurologic examination, neurovisualization data, and visual analogue pain scale. Mean duration of surgery was 45–90 min, blood loss — 30–60 ml, length of hospital stay — 4–6 days. Substantial decrease of frequency and intensity of neck and arm pain was observed in 89 % of patients after surgery. When properly performed, anterior cervical interbody fusion applying cylindrical cage is a simple and effective method.
Сhronic bronchitis: news of 2021
Authors:   Department of Internal Diseases, FSBEI of HE «Volgograd State Medical University» of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russia, Volgograd, Skvortsov Vsevolod Vladimirovich
Published: May 2022

This article discusses the clinical manifestations of chronic bronchitis, approaches to diagnosis and treatment according to the clinical recommendations adopted by the Russian Respiratory Society in 2021.
Strategy for a safe environment. Prevention fallsin a multidisciplinary medical organization
Authors:   SBHI City Clinical Hospital named after S. I. Spasokukotsky of the Moscow Healthcare Department, Besedina Olga Anatolievna , Karaseva Larisa Arkadievna ,   Institute of Nursing Education, head of the Department of Nursing, FSBEI HE Samara State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia
Published: May 2022

The aim of the study is the professional activity of a nurse in the prevention of falls in patients in a multidisciplinary hospital. Results. Literature sources on the problem of falls in a multidisciplinary hospital are analyzed; a practical study was conducted on the organization of the activities of nursing staff, aimed at preventing falls in patients in a multidisciplinary hospital; systematized a set of preventive measures to prevent falls in patients in a multidisciplinary hospital. Conclusion. The paper systematizes information on preventive measures taken by nursing staff in order to prevent falls and injuries of patients in a multidisciplinary hospital.
Role of the head of nursing service in improvement of work of treatment room nurses
Authors:   Institute of Nursing Education of the Samara State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, Nikishina Yuliya Yuryevna , Dvoynikov Sergey Ivanovich ,   Samara State Medical University of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russia
Published: May 2022

The purpose of the study is to determine the role of the head nurse in improving the professional activities of treatment room nurses. Results. The role and functions of the head of nursing service has been studied; the qualitative characteristics of treatment room nurses have been investigated and the factors influencing their work have been identified; the patients’ opinion on the quality of service has been studied; the recommendations have been developed to improve the work of a treatment room nurse. Conclusion. The head of nursing service plays an important role in the work of the treatment room nurse. The involvement of the head of nursing service, who has psychological knowledge, patience, perseverance and exactingness, and is aware of modern leadership theories, will eliminate the reasons that affect the quality of work of treatment room nurses and institution as a whole.
Land resources as the foundation of economic and social transformations in Russia
Authors:   State University of Land Management, Moscow, Komov N.V. , Nikitina V.M. ,   State University of Land Management, Moscow
Published: May 2022

The article deals with the organization of rational and efficient use of land resources, which are the main wealth and the foundation of economic and social transformations in the country. The organization of rational and effective land use is one of the most important tasks of the state. Under market conditions, the basic tool for the rational land use is land use planning based on integrated territorial land management, which is carried out throughout the country, regions, municipalities and for each land user. These land documents have to be the basis for the master plans of territory development, planning projects, integrated development of river and lake basins, projects for environmental and economic protection of land, land cadastral and other works.
Spatial development (human geography) of agricultural land use in Russia
Authors:   FSBI FNC VNIIESH, Alakoz V.V.
Published: May 2022

The article discusses the strategies and models of intra-country spatial development of agricultural land use with a focus on the development of export-oriented agricultural production; production designed to satisfy the internal demand of the entire population for healthy nutrition; production that provides the existing domestic demand of the population and satisfaction of export demand through surplus in agricultural production, the development of agricultural production with the active participation of medium and small businesses - the basis of the local rural economy, ensuring the profitability of rural households, the population of rural areas, and the sustainability of rural life.
The Brahmagupta formula for calculation the maximum possible area of a four-corner land plot for a judicial land management examination
Authors:   State University of Land Management, Moscow, Salov S.M. , Kochiev A.A. ,   State University of Land Management, Moscow, Ananicheva E.P. ,   State University of Land Management, Moscow, Samoylenko D.V. ,   State University of Land Management, Moscow
Published: May 2022

The article discusses the legal aspects of the «land plot» concept. The problem of relations between the linear dimensions and the area of the land plots in process of the judicial land management expertise is discussed in this paper. The use of Brahmagupta’s formula for calculating the area of a quadrilateral by length of its sides is substantiated for the cases when a quadrilateral is not necessarily inscribed in a circle. The author calculates a maximum possible quadrilateral area without quadrilateral inscribition in a circle.
Integrated systems in the world aquaculture: the experience of millennia for the benefit of the whole world
Authors:   Russian Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography, Moscow State Institute of International Relations (University) Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Russia, Nikiforov Andrey I.
Published: May 2022

The article reveals the meaning and essence of the concept of multitrophic systems in aquaculture; provides an overview of historical information on ancient integrated agro-aquatic systems; considers examples of multitrophic agro-aquatic systems in the UNESCO World Heritage List and in the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS). Current issues and current ways of preserving unique agro-aquatic systems in different regions of the world are discussed; the main principles and current options of polyculture application in hydrobionts breeding, as well as the importance of multitrophic technologies in world aquaculture are discussed. It is concluded that the development of multitrophic agro-aquatic systems is one of the most promising options for the interaction of water management and the agricultural sector. At the same time, the implementation of this concept of environmental management is fully consistent with the international principles of the green economy, the tasks of resource conservation, ensuring stable growth of food production and creating conditions for sustainable development. In general, this direction ensures the achievement of at least nine of the seventeen UN declared Sustainable Development Goals, in particular, such SDGs as: hunger eradication, good health and well-being, affordable and clean energy, decent work and economic growth, industrialization, innovation and infrastructure, responsible consumption and production, conservation of marine ecosystems, conservation of terrestrial ecosystems, partnership for sustainable development [16]. The support and development of multitrophic agro-aquatic systems affect not only the overall efficiency of environmental management, but also have an impact on the socio-economic sphere — in particular, through the activation of international tourism. In turn, tourism, in addition to expanding the service sector, ensures the preservation of accumulated knowledge about unique technologies of environmental management and makes a significant contribution to the preservation of these systems by increasing people’s awareness of the traditions of various cultures.