bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DNA Conformational Changes Induced by Its Interaction with Binuclear Platinum Complexes in Solution Indicate the Molecular Mechanism of Platinum Binding
Authors: Kasyanenko Nina , Qiushi Zhang , Bakulev Vladimir , Sokolov Petr , Yakovlev Konstantin
Published: May 2022

Platinum anticancer drugs inhibit the division of cancer cells through a DNA binding mechanism. The bimetallic platinum compounds have a possibility for blocking DNA replication via the cross-linking of DNA functional groups at different distances. Many compounds with metals of the platinum group have been tested for possible antitumor activity. The main target of their biological action is a DNA molecule. A combined approach to the study of the interaction of DNA with biologically active compounds of this type is proposed. The capabilities of various methods (hydrodynamic, spectral, microscopy) in obtaining information on the type of binding of coordination compounds to DNA are compared. The analysis of DNA binding with platinum binuclear compounds containing pyrazine, tetrazole, 5- methyltetrazole, 3-propanediamine as bridging ligands in a solution was carried out with the methods of circular dichroism (CD), luminescent spectroscopy (LS), low gradient viscometry (LGV), flow birefringence (FB) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The competitive binding of different platinum compounds to DNA and the analysis of platinum attachment to DNA after protonation of its nitrogen bases simply indicates the involvement of N7 guanine in binding. Fluorescent dye DAPI was also used to recognize the location of platinum compounds in DNA grooves. DNA conformational changes recorded by variations in persistent length, polyelectrolyte swelling, DNA secondary structure, and its stability clarify the molecular mechanism of the biological activity of platinum compounds.
Exploration of Effects of Graduated Compression Stocking Structures on Performance Properties Using Principal Component Analysis: A Promising Method for Simultaneous Optimization of Properties
Authors: Jamshaid Hafsa , Mishra Rajesh Kumar , Ahmad Naseer , Nadeem Muhammad , Muller Miroslav , Kolar Viktor
Published: May 2022

This paper focuses on the comfort properties of graduated and preventive compression stockings for people who work long hours in standing postures and for athletes for proper blood circulation. The present study was conducted in order to investigate the effects of the yarn insertion density and inlaid stitches on the performance of the compression stockings. The effects of these parameters on the thermo-physiological comfort properties were tested with standard and developed methods of testing. All compression stockings were maintained with class 1 pressure as per German standards. The structural parameters of the knitted fabric structures were investigated. The stretching and recovery properties were also investigated to determine the performance properties. The theoretical pressure was predicated using the Laplace’s law by testing the stockings’ tensile properties. The compression interface pressures of all stockings were also investigated using a medical stocking tester (MST) from Salzmann AG, St. Gallen, Switzerland. Correlation between the theoretical pressures and pressures measured using the MST system were also assessed. The current research used a multi-response optimization technique, i.e., principal component analysis (PCA), to identify the best structure based on the optimalization of the above-mentioned properties. The results also revealed that samples with higher insertion density levels exhibit better comfort properties. The results showed that sample R1 was the best sample, followed by R2 and P. In addition, all developed stocking samples exhibited better comfort properties than the control sample from the market.
Flow Modeling in a Vortex Chamber of a Liquid–Steam Jet Apparatus
Authors: Merzliakov Iurii , Pavlenko Ivan , Ochowiak Marek , Ivanov Vitalii , Agarwal Praveen
Published: May 2022

The article investigated the flow of boiling streams through a nozzle with an oblique cut. Due to this flow organization, deviation from the nozzle axis at the vortex chamber inlet occurred. The study of flow modeling in the inlet section was carried out. The flow design and the calculation scheme of the vortex liquid–steam jet apparatus were proposed. Analytical expressions between the main operating parameters were obtained according to the developed mathematical model. A recommended oblique-cut angle for the active-flow nozzle was evaluated considering the transition through the first critical section based on the tangential velocity flow model. Validation of the mathematical model in the inlet section of the vortex chamber was provided based on the comparison with available experimental data. Flow visualization in the inlet section of the vortex chamber was obtained. The assumption of uneven flow distribution was confirmed experimentally. Overall, the boiling liquid flow was implemented in the active flow nozzle. The obtained scientific and practical results help to determine geometric parameters and physical characteristics of the vortex-type liquid–steam jet apparatus at the design stage. The obtained results were implemented to modernize vacuum units based on vortex type liquid–steam jet apparatuses.
Intelligent Assistive Technology Ethics for Aging Adults: Spiritual Impacts as a Necessary Consideration
Authors: Trothen Tracy J.
Published: May 2022

Potential spiritual impacts of Artificial Intelligence (AI) driven Assistive Technologies (AT) for older adults are absent in most ethics conversations. Intelligent Assistive Technology (IAT) is the term used to describe the spectrum of Assistive Technologies that use AI. In this theoretical essay, I begin by introducing examples of AT and IAT for older adults with age-related disabilities. I argue that spirituality is a marginalized value in ethics that must be considered if IAT ethics is to address the whole person. Some of the potential spiritual impacts of IATs will be suggested through engagement with three core spiritual needs. I ask how IAT might impact these three core spiritual needs. This is not meant to be an exhaustive study of the spiritual impacts of AT. Through the engagement of one approach to spiritual needs, this article proposes that IAT ethics issues intersect with the spiritual needs of aging adults and, therefore, that potential spiritual impacts ought to be addressed as part of IAT ethics for older adults.
Khadi: A Narrative of Lived Theology
Authors: Bhattacharyya Swasti
Published: May 2022

While other authors in this special issue analyze the nature of narrative theology, I highlight the narratives of the sisters of the Brahma Vidya Mandir ashram, a group of women followers of M. K. Gandhi (1869–1948) and his disciple, friend, and spiritual successor Vinoba Bhave (1895–1982), who came together in 1959 to form an intentional community with a spiritual purpose. One of the central practices of this community is spinning cotton that is then woven into khadi (hand-spun, handwoven cloth). From this khadi, they make their own clothing. Through a brief discussion of their use of khadi, I demonstrate how the theology of the sisters of this ashram is not a separate entity for them, rather it is the warp of the narratives of their lives; their choice of khadi is an example of the seamlessness between their theology and their narratives. As we examine their choice to use khadi, we can isolate and name some of their theological commitments. We can also identify important elements from their narratives that are applicable in multiple contexts. To this end, I conclude this article by imagining how the lives of the sisters of the Brahma Vidya Mandir might serve as a catalyst for change and engagement for us all.
Novel Soft Haptic Biofeedback—Pilot Study on Postural Balance and Proprioception
Authors: Aydin Mert , Mutlu Rahim , Singh Dilpreet , Sariyildiz Emre , Coman Robyn , Mayland Elizabeth , Shemmell Jonathan , Lee Winson
Published: May 2022

Sensory feedback is critical in proprioception and balance to orchestrate muscles to perform targeted motion(s). Biofeedback plays a significant role in substituting such sensory data when sensory functions of an individual are reduced or lost such as neurological disorders including stroke causing loss of sensory and motor functions requires compensation of both motor and sensory functions. Biofeedback substitution can be in the form of several means: mechanical, electrical, chemical and/or combination. This study proposes a soft monolithic haptic biofeedback device prototyped and pilot tests were conducted with healthy participants that balance and proprioception of the wearer were improved with applied mechanical stimuli on the lower limb(s). The soft monolithic haptic biofeedback device has been developed and manufactured using fused deposition modelling (FDM) that employs soft and flexible materials with low elastic moduli. Experimental results of the pilot tests show that the soft haptic device can effectively improve the balance of the wearer as much as can provide substitute proprioceptive feedback which are critical elements in robotic rehabilitation.
Smartphone as a Disease Screening Tool: A Systematic Review
Authors: Moses Jeban Chandir , Adibi Sasan , Wickramasinghe Nilmini , Nguyen Lemai , Angelova Maia , Islam Sheikh Mohammed Shariful
Published: May 2022

Disease screening identifies a disease in an individual/community early to effectively prevent or treat the condition. COVID-19 has restricted hospital visits for screening and other healthcare services resulting in the disruption of screening for cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Smartphone technologies, coupled with built-in sensors and wireless technologies, enable the smartphone to function as a disease-screening and monitoring device with negligible additional costs and potentially higher quality results. Thus, we sought to evaluate the use of smartphone applications for disease screening and the acceptability of this technology in the medical and healthcare sectors. We followed a systematic review process using four databases, including Medline Complete, Web of Science, Embase, and Proquest. We included articles published in English examining smartphone application utilisation in disease screening. Further, we presented and discussed the primary outcomes of the research articles and their statistically significant value. The initial search yielded 1046 studies for the initial title and abstract screening. Of the 105 articles eligible for full-text screening, we selected nine studies and discussed them in detail under four main categories: an overview of the literature reviewed, participant characteristics, disease screening, and technology acceptance. According to our objective, we further evaluated the disease-screening approaches and classified them as clinically administered screening (33%, n = 3), health-worker-administered screening (33%, n = 3), and home-based screening (33%, n = 3). Finally, we analysed the technology acceptance among the users and healthcare practitioners. We observed a significant statistical relationship between smartphone applications and standard clinical screening. We also reviewed user acceptance of these smartphone applications. Hence, we set out critical considerations to provide equitable healthcare solutions without barriers when designing, developing, and deploying smartphone solutions. The findings may increase research opportunities for the evaluation of smartphone solutions as valid and reliable screening solutions.
Road Surface Anomaly Assessment Using Low-Cost Accelerometers: A Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Martinelli Alessio , Meocci Monica , Dolfi Marco , Branzi Valentina , Morosi Simone , Argenti Fabrizio , Berzi Lorenzo , Consumi Tommaso
Published: May 2022

Roads are a strategic asset of a country and are of great importance for the movement of passengers and goods. Increasing traffic volume and load, together with the aging of roads, creates various types of anomalies on the road surface. This work proposes a low-cost system for real-time screening of road pavement conditions. Acceleration signals provided by on-car sensors are processed in the time–frequency domain in order to extract information about the condition of the road surface. More specifically, a short-time Fourier transform is used, and significant features, such as the coefficient of variation and the entropy computed over the energy of segments of the signal, are exploited to distinguish between well-localized pavement distresses caused by potholes and manhole covers and spread distress due to fatigue cracking and rutting. The extracted features are fed to supervised machine learning classifiers in order to distinguish the pavement distresses. System performance is assessed using real data, collected by sensors located on the car’s dashboard and floorboard and manually labeled. The experimental results show that the proposed system is effective at detecting the presence and the type of distress with high classification rates.
Printed Multilayer Piezoelectric Transducers on Paper for Haptic Feedback and Dual Touch-Sound Sensation
Authors: Schmidt Georg C. , Werner Jonas M. , Weissbach Thomas , Strutwolf Jörg , Eland Robert , Drossel Welf-Guntram , Hübler Arved C.
Published: May 2022

With a growing number of electronic devices surrounding our daily life, it becomes increasingly important to create solutions for clear and simple communication and interaction at the human machine interface (HMI). Haptic feedback solutions play an important role as they give a clear direct link and response to the user. This work demonstrates multifunctional haptic feedback devices based on fully printed piezoelectric transducers realized with functional polymers on thin paper substrate. The devices are flexible; lightweight and show very high out-of-plane deflection of 213 µm at a moderate driving voltage of 50 Vrms (root mean square) achieved by an innovative multilayer design with up to five individually controllable active layers. The device creates a very clear haptic sensation to the human skin with a blocking force of 0.6 N at the resonance frequency of 320 Hz, which is located in the most sensitive range of the human fingertip. Additionally the transducer generates audible information above two kilohertz with a remarkable high sound pressure level. Thus the paper-based approach can be used for interactive displays in combination with touch sensation; sound and color prints. The work gives insights into the manufacturing process; the electrical characteristics; and an in-depth analysis of the 3D deflection of the device under variable conditions
Evaluating Automatic Body Orientation Detection for Indoor Location from Skeleton Tracking Data to Detect Socially Occupied Spaces Using the Kinect v2, Azure Kinect and Zed 2i
Authors: Sosa-León Violeta Ana Luz , Schwering Angela
Published: May 2022

Analysing the dynamics in social interactions in indoor spaces entails evaluating spatial–temporal variables from the event, such as location and time. Additionally, social interactions include invisible spaces that we unconsciously acknowledge due to social constraints, e.g., space between people having a conversation with each other. Nevertheless, current sensor arrays focus on detecting the physically occupied spaces from social interactions, i.e., areas inhabited by physically measurable objects. Our goal is to detect the socially occupied spaces, i.e., spaces not physically occupied by subjects and objects but inhabited by the interaction they sustain. We evaluate the social representation of the space structure between two or more active participants, so-called F-Formation for small gatherings. We propose calculating body orientation and location from skeleton joint data sets by integrating depth cameras. The body orientation is derived by integrating the shoulders and spine joint data with head/face rotation data and spatial–temporal information from trajectories. From the physically occupied measurements, we can detect socially occupied spaces. In our user study implementing the system, we compared the capabilities and skeleton tracking datasets from three depth camera sensors, the Kinect v2, Azure Kinect, and Zed 2i. We collected 32 walking patterns for individual and dyad configurations and evaluated the system’s accuracy regarding the intended and socially accepted orientations. Experimental results show accuracy above 90% for the Kinect v2, 96% for the Azure Kinect, and 89% for the Zed 2i for assessing socially relevant body orientation. Our algorithm contributes to the anonymous and automated assessment of socially occupied spaces. The depth sensor system is promising in detecting more complex social structures. These findings impact research areas that study group interactions within complex indoor settings.
Building Transformation for Precautionary Measures against COVID-19 Pandemic: Case of Off-Street Car Parking of Campuses
Authors: Soliman Ashraf Mohamed
Published: May 2022

COVID-19 set off a problem for businesses due to an unbalanced utilization of buildings, services, and utilities. Thus, some countries reduced the length of the quarantine period and returned to natural life earlier than necessary to allow the economy and businesses to survive. This research aims to review the standards of off-street car parking (OSCP) for higher education institutes (HEIs) and examine the possibility of the transformation of the car parking buildings. Secondary and descriptive research approaches have been applied, and OSCP standards of different countries have been reviewed to identify the challenges facing the transformation design process in terms of standard dimensions, finishing materials, building envelope, illumination, ventilation, and technical installations. OSCP of Kingdom University (KU) in Bahrain has been analysed for proposing the rescheduling of space planning and accommodating a certain number of in-person attendance students as per the three situations of the COVID-19 pandemic. The author concluded that OSCP spaces of the HEIs are the most feasible building for design transformation in terms of rescheduling the space planning, but it is not very achievable in terms of affordability due to much adaptation being required and additional technical installations. At least 68% of the area of OSCP is used for circulation and services. Future studies seeking the feasibility of smart rotary car parking to save such a huge area of car circulation in the traditional OSCP building are recommended.
A Configurational Analysis of Family Farm Management Efficiency: Evidence from China
Authors: Li Wencheng , Wang Lei , Wan Qi , You Weijia , Zhang Shaowen
Published: May 2022

Family farms are the “most-desirable”; new-style agricultural production and management entities in China at this stage, as well as their production behaviors, play an important role in achieving sustainability in agricultural development. The scientific evaluation of family farm management efficiency and the identification of an effective path to the high efficiency of family farms with different resource endowments are critical for family farms to transform from quantitative growth to qualitative improvement and develop in a sustainable and healthy way. Based on the data from a rural fixed observation point of the Chinese Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, this study randomly selected representatives from 532 family farms from 27 provinces, municipalities, and autonomous regions in China as research objects; calculated their total factor productivity based on the DEA model; and employed the Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) method to identify the configuration models for a high total factor productivity, which combines the factors of land investment, capital investment, labor investment, education level of farm leaders, land transfer years, the introduction of new technology and new equipment, and financial support. It is found that the average efficiency of family farms in China is not high yet, and both the pure technical efficiency and scale efficiency have great room for improvement. The efficiency of family farms is not determined by one single condition, but by the combinations of multiple factors. The introduction of new technology and new equipment, long land transfer period, high input of production and labor, and financial support are the driving forces to improve the efficiency of family farms. This demonstrates that although the current family farms are still in the cultivation stage of capital and labor-intensive investment, they do not mainly rely on traditional agricultural productions such as labor to achieve high efficiency. The managerial implications are as follows. First, the strategy of intensive and efficient management instead of the blind expansion of land scale should be considered, the full play to the role of family labor while controlling the scale of employees is highly suggested. Second, attention should be paid to the accumulation of the human capital of family farm practitioners, which implies that more highly educated people for family farm management, as well as high-technical-skilled farm operators, should be employed. Third, it is necessary to create a good institutional environment for the development of family farms and to increase financial support such as credit loans for family farms.
Developing a Smart City Logistics Assessment Framework (SCLAF): A Conceptual Tool for Identifying the Level of Smartness of a City Logistics System
Authors: Xenou Elpida , Madas Michael , Ayfandopoulou Georgia
Published: May 2022

One of the main building blocks for sustainable cities is the development and efficient operation of a viable and sustainable city logistics system. City logistics exhibit several practical complications due to the conflicting interests of multiple actors involved, as well as the vague role or reluctant involvement of the public sector. Despite the plethora of innovative city logistics initiatives developed in European cities and European policy priorities towards the promotion of smart cities, little is known about the level of smartness of city logistics systems in Europe. In response to that, this paper proposes a conceptual multi-criteria and multi-assessment framework as a guidance tool for city planners, aiming to support the in-depth understanding of the main components of a smart city logistics ecosystem and facilitate the self-assessment of a city’s level of smartness. The proposed framework represents a four-level hierarchical assessment pyramid involving four main impact areas: (i) smart governance, (ii) smart economy, (iii) smart actors, and (iv) smart environment. A more in-depth analysis of each impact area is separately conducted by deconstructing the impact areas in specific criteria, sub-criteria, and KPIs. This paper presents in detail the methodology followed and the main components of this tool.
Application of 3D Virtual Prototyping Technology to the Integration of Wearable Antennas into Fashion Garments
Authors: Papachristou Evridiki , Anastassiu Hristos T.
Published: May 2022

A very large number of scientific papers have been published in the literature on wearable antennas of several types, structure and functionality. The main focus is always antenna efficiency from an engineering point of view. However, antenna integration into actual, realistic garments is seldom addressed. In this paper, 2D pattern and 3D virtual prototyping technology is utilized to develop regular clothing, available in the market, in which wearable antennas are incorporated in an automated manner, reducing the chances of compromising the garment elegance or comfort. The functionality of various commercial software modules is described, and particular design examples are implemented, proving the efficiency of the procedure and leading the way for more complex configurations.
Effects of Phthalate Mixtures on Ovarian Folliculogenesis and Steroidogenesis
Authors: Fletcher Endia , Santacruz-Márquez Ramsés , Mourikes Vasiliki , Neff Alison , Laws Mary , Flaws Jodi
Published: May 2022

The female reproductive system is dependent upon the health of the ovaries. The ovaries are responsible for regulating reproduction and endocrine function. Throughout a female’s reproductive lifespan, the ovaries undergo continual structural changes that are crucial for the maturation of ovarian follicles and the production of sex steroid hormones. Phthalates are known to target the ovaries at critical time points and to disrupt normal reproductive function. The US population is constantly exposed to measurable levels of phthalates. Phthalates can also pass placental barriers and affect the developing offspring. Phthalates are frequently prevalent as mixtures; however, most previous studies have focused on the effects of single phthalates on the ovary and female reproduction. Thus, the effects of exposure to phthalate mixtures on ovarian function and the female reproductive system remain unclear. Following a brief introduction to the ovary and its major roles, this review covers what is currently known about the effects of phthalate mixtures on the ovary, focusing primarily on their effects on folliculogenesis and steroidogenesis. Furthermore, this review focuses on the effects of phthalate mixtures on female reproductive outcomes. Finally, this review emphasizes the need for future research on the effects of environmentally relevant phthalate mixtures on the ovary and female reproduction.
Correction: Lagrange, E.; Vernoux, J.-P. Warning on False or True Morels and Button Mushrooms with Potential Toxicity Linked to Hydrazinic Toxins: An Update. Toxins 2020, 12, 482
Authors: Lagrange Emmeline , Vernoux Jean-Paul
Published: May 2022

The authors wish to make corrections to their paper [...]
Mentha pulegium L. (Pennyroyal, Lamiaceae) Extracts Impose Abortion or Fetal-Mediated Toxicity in Pregnant Rats; Evidenced by the Modulation of Pregnancy Hormones, MiR-520, MiR-146a, TIMP-1 and MMP-9 Protein Expressions, Inflammatory State, Certain Related Signaling Pathways, and Metabolite Profiling via UPLC-ESI-TOF-MS
Authors: El-Gazar Amira A. , Emad Ayat M. , Ragab Ghada M. , Rasheed Dalia M.
Published: May 2022

Pregnant women usually turn to natural products to relieve pregnancy-related ailments which might pose health risks. Mentha pulegium L. (MP, Lamiaceae) is a common insect repellent, and the present work validates its abortifacient capacity, targeting morphological anomalies, biological, and behavioral consequences, compared to misoprostol. The study also includes untargeted metabolite profiling of MP extract and fractions thereof viz. methylene chloride (MecH), ethyl acetate (EtOAc), butanol (But), and the remaining liquor (Rem. Aq.) by UPLC-ESI-MS-TOF, to unravel the constituents provoking abortion. Administration of MP extract/fractions, for three days starting from day 15th of gestation, affected fetal development by disrupting the uterine and placental tissues, or even caused pregnancy termination. These effects also entailed biochemical changes where they decreased progesterone and increased estradiol serum levels, modulated placental gene expressions of both MiR-(146a and 520), decreased uterine MMP-9, and up-regulated TIMP-1 protein expression, and empathized inflammatory responses (TNF-α, IL-1β). In addition, these alterations affected the brain's GFAP, BDNF, and 5-HT content and some of the behavioral parameters escorted by the open field test. All these incidences were also perceived in the misoprostol-treated group. A total of 128 metabolites were identified in the alcoholic extract of MP, including hydroxycinnamates, flavonoid conjugates, quinones, iridoids, and terpenes. MP extract was successful in terminating the pregnancy with minimal behavioral abnormalities and low toxicity margins.
Six Feet under Microbiota: Microbiologic Contamination and Toxicity Profile in Three Urban Cemeteries from Lisbon, Portugal
Authors: Viegas Carla , Cervantes Renata , Dias Marta , Gomes Bianca , Pena Pedro , Carolino Elisabete , Twarużek Magdalena , Kosicki Robert , Soszczyńska Ewelina , Viegas Susana , Caetano Liliana Aranha
Published: May 2022

Cemeteries are potential environmental reservoirs of pathogenic microorganisms from organic matter decomposition. This study aimed to characterize the microbial contamination in three cemeteries, and more specifically in grave diggers’ facilities. One active sampling method (impingement method) and several passive sampling methods (swabs, settled dust, settled dust filters and electrostatic dust cloths—EDC) were employed. The molecular detection of Aspergillus sections and SARS-CoV-2, as well as mycotoxin analysis, screening of azole resistance, and cytotoxicity measurement were also conducted. Total bacteria contamination was 80 CFU·m−2 in settled dust samples, reached 849 CFU·m−2 in EDC and 20,000 CFU·m−2 in swabs, and ranged from 5000 to 10,000 CFU·m−2 in filters. Gram-negative bacteria (VRBA) were only observed in in settled dust samples (2.00 × 105 CFU·m−2). Regarding Aspergillus sp., the highest counts were obtained in DG18 (18.38%) and it was not observed in azole-supplemented SDA media. SARS-CoV-2 and the targeted Aspergillus sections were not detected. Mycophenolic acid was detected in one settled dust sample. Cytotoxic effects were observed for 94.4% filters and 5.6% EDC in A549 lung epithelial cells, and for 50.0% filters and 5.6% EDC in HepG2 cells. Future studies are needed in this occupational setting to implement more focused risk management measures.
Microcystin Contamination and Toxicity: Implications for Agriculture and Public Health
Authors: Melaram Rajesh , Newton Amanda R. , Chafin Jennifer
Published: May 2022

Microcystins are natural hepatotoxic metabolites secreted by cyanobacteria in aquatic ecosystems. When present at elevated concentrations, microcystins can affect water quality aesthetics; contaminate drinking water reservoirs and recreational waters; disrupt normal ecosystem functioning; and cause health hazards to animals, plants, and humans. Animal and human exposures to microcystins generally result from ingesting contaminated drinking water or physically contacting tainted water. Much research has identified a multitude of liver problems from oral exposure to microcystins, varying from hepatocellular damage to primary liver cancer. Provisional guidelines for microcystins in drinking and recreational water have been established to prevent toxic exposures and protect public health. With increasing occurrences of eutrophication in freshwater systems, microcystin contamination in groundwater and surface waters is growing, posing threats to aquatic and terrestrial plants and agricultural soils used for crop production. These microcystins are often transferred to crops via irrigation with local sources of water, such as bloom-forming lakes and ponds. Microcystins can survive in high quantities in various parts of plants (roots, stems, and leaves) due to their high chemical stability and low molecular weight, increasing health risks for consumers of agricultural products. Studies have indicated potential health risks associated with contaminated fruits and vegetables sourced from irrigated water containing microcystins. This review considers the exposure risk to humans, plants, and the environment due to the presence of microcystins in local water reservoirs used for drinking and irrigation. Additional studies are needed to understand the specific health impacts associated with the consumption of microcystin-contaminated agricultural plants.
Interferon-Induced Protein 6-16 (IFI6-16) from Litopenaeus vannamei Regulate Antiviral Immunity via Apoptosis-Related Genes
Authors: Lǚ Kai , Li Haoyang , Wang Sheng , Li Anxing , Weng Shaoping , He Jianguo , Li Chaozheng
Published: May 2022

A growing number of evidence shows that some invertebrates possess an antiviral immunity parallel to the interferon (IFN) system of higher vertebrates. For example, the IRF (interferon regulatory factor)–Vago–JAK/STAT regulatory axis in an arthropod, shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei (whiteleg shrimp) is functionally similar to the IRF–IFN–JAK/STAT axis of mammals. IFNs perform their cellular immunity by regulating the expression of target genes collectively referred to as IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs). However, the function of invertebrate ISGs in immune responses is almost completely unclear. In this study, a potential ISG gene homologous to the interferon-induced protein 6-16 (IFI6-16) was cloned and identified from L. vannamei, designated as LvIFI6-16. LvIFI6-16 contained a putative signal peptide in the N-terminal, and a classic IFI6-16-superfamily domain in the C-terminal that showed high conservation to other homologs in various species. The mRNA levels of LvIFI6-16 were significantly upregulated after the stimulation of poly (I:C) and challenges of white spot syndrome virus (WSSV). Moreover, silencing of LvIFI6-16 caused a higher mortality rate and heightened virus loads, suggesting that LvIFI6-16 could play a crucial role in defense against WSSV. Interestingly, we found that the transcription levels of several caspases were regulated by LvIFI6-16; meanwhile, the transcription level of LvIFI6-16 self was regulated by the JAK/STAT cascade, suggesting there could be a JAK/STAT–IFI6-16–caspase regulatory axis in shrimp. Taken together, we identified a crustacean IFI6-16 gene (LvIFI6-16) for the first time, and provided evidence that the IFI6-16 participated in antiviral immunity in shrimp.
Experimental Study Demonstrating a Cost-Effective Approach for Generating 3D-Enhanced Models of Sediment Flushing Cones Using Model-Based SFM Photogrammetry
Authors: Haghjouei Hadi , Kantoush Sameh A. , Beiramipour Sepideh , Rahimpour Majid , Qaderi Kourosh
Published: May 2022

Accurate measurements of sediment flushing cone geometry (SFCG) are essential for determining sediment removal efficiency in reservoirs. SFCG measurements are related to the point-to-point height that affects bathymetry accuracy, and they are used to develop a digital elevation model (DEM). Conventional bathymetry monitoring techniques require a longer time for data processing and output data with insufficient accuracy despite being inexpensive and simple. In the current research, a close-range photogrammetric method called the structure from motion (SFM) method was investigated to determine the SFCG in an experimental study. The regular geometric shape of a cube was used to verify the SFM. Additionally, measurements between model control points (MCPs) on the flushed sediment bed were compared with those from the SFM method. The results indicated that the calculated SFM values were consistent with the measured values. To determine the SFCG, two sets of images were captured with 70% average overlapping before and after the completion of each test. After processing and post-processing via the SFM tool AgiSoft Metashape, a georeferenced 3D model was achieved. The accuracy of the surveyed data in terms of the dimensions, cross-sections, and temporal developments of the sediment flushing cone was investigated to verify the SFM method. Finally, the results revealed good agreement (R2=0.99 and average error of 0.03–0.74 mm) between the DEMs created by the SFM method and the actual model.
Imputation of Ammonium Nitrogen Concentration in Groundwater Based on a Machine Learning Method
Authors: Li Wanlu , Ye Xueyan , Du Xinqiang
Published: May 2022

Ammonium is one of the main inorganic pollutants in groundwater, mainly due to agricultural, industrial and domestic pollution. Excessive ammonium can cause human health risks and environmental consequences. Its temporal and spatial distribution is affected by factors such as meteorology, hydrology, hydrogeology and land use type. Thus, a groundwater ammonium analysis based on limited sampling points produces large uncertainties. In this study, organic matter content, groundwater depth, clay thickness, total nitrogen content (TN), cation exchange capacity (CEC), pH and land-use type were selected as potential contributing factors to establish a machine learning model for fitting the ammonium concentration. The Shapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) method, which explains the machine learning model, was applied to identify the more significant influencing factors. Finally, the machine learning model established according to the more significant influencing factors was used to impute point data in the study area. From the results, the soil organic matter feature was found to have a substantial impact on the concentration of ammonium in the model, followed by soil pH, clay thickness and groundwater depth. The ammonium concentration generally decreased from northwest to southeast. The highest values were concentrated in the northwest and northeast. The lowest values were concentrated in the southeast, southwest and parts of the east and north. The spatial interpolation based on the machine learning imputation model established according to the influencing factors provides a reliable groundwater quality assessment and was not limited by the number and the geographical location of samplings.
Effects of Water and Nitrogen Management on Water Productivity, Nitrogen Use Efficiency and Leaching Loss in Rice Paddies
Authors: Chen Kaiwen , Yu Shuang’en , Ma Tao , Ding Jihui , He Pingru , Dai Yan , Zeng Guangquan
Published: May 2022

Effective water and nitrogen (N) management strategies are critical for sustainable agricultural development. Lysimeter experiments with two deep percolation rates (low percolation and high percolation, i.e., LP and HP: 3 mm d−1 and 5 mm d−1) and five N application levels (N0~N4: 0, 60, 135, 210 and 285 kg N ha−1) were conducted to investigate the effects of controlled drainage on water productivity (WP) and N use efficiency (NUE) in water-saving irrigated paddy fields. The results demonstrated that NH4+-N and NO3−-N were the major components of total nitrogen (TN) in ponded water and leachate, accounting for more than 77.1% and 83.6% of TN, respectively. The risk of N leaching loss increased significantly under treatment of high percolation rates or high N application levels. High percolation loss required greater irrigation input, thus reducing WP. In addition, N uptake increased with increasing N application, but fertilization applied in excess of crop demand had a negative effect on grain yield. NUE was affected by the amount of N applied and increased with decreasing N levels. Water and N application levels had a significant effect on N uptake of rice, but their interaction on N uptake or NUE was not significant. For the LP and HP regimes, the highest N uptake and WP were obtained with N application levels of 285 kg ha−1 and 210 kg ha−1, respectively. Our overall results suggested that the combination of controlled drainage and water-saving irrigation was a feasible mitigation strategy to reduce N losses through subdrainage percolation and to provide more nutrients available for rice to improve NUE, thus reducing diffuse agricultural pollution. Long-term field trials are necessary to validate the lysimeter results.
Wind Energy Assessment for Renewable Energy Communities
Authors: Araveti Sandeep , Quintana Cristian Aguayo , Kairisa Evita , Mutule Anna , Adriazola Juan Pablo Sepulveda , Sweeney Conor , Carroll Paula
Published: May 2022

Renewable and local energy communities are viewed as a key component to the success of the energy transition. In this paper, we estimate wind power potential for such communities. Acquiring the most accurate weather data is important to support decision-making. We identify the most reliable publicly available wind speed data and demonstrate a case study for typical energy community scenarios such as a single commercial turbine at coastal and inland locations in Ireland. We describe our assessment methodology to evaluate the quality of the wind source data by comparing it with meteorological observations. We make recommendations on which publicly available wind data sources, such as reanalysis data sources (MERRA-2, ERA-5), PVGIS, and NEWA are best suited to support Renewable Energy Communities interested in exploring the possibilities of renewable wind energy. ERA5 is deemed to be the most suitable wind data source for these locations, while an anomaly is noted in the NEWA data.
Review of the use of the drug «Lomustin» in the treatment of oncological diseases
Authors:   Laboratory of High Performance Liquid Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry, FSUE Central Research Institute of Chemistry and Mechanics named after D. I. Mendeleev, Federal State Autonomous Education Institute of Higher Education «Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia» Institute of Biochemical Technologies and Nanotechnologies, Moscow, Reshetnikova Irina Olegovna , Zhilkina Vera Yurievna ,   Institute of Biochemical Technology and Nanotechnology, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia
Published: May 2022

The relevance of the formation of enterprises for the production of substances and drugs in the territory of the Russian Federation is substantiated. On the example of a review of clinical cases of unintentional overdose of «Lomustine», the need to regulate the design of the package and the possible adjustment of the composition of the dosage form is shown.
Activities for the validation of processes, qualification of equipment and systems used in the industrial manufacture of medicines
Authors:   FSAEI HE Peoples' Friendship University of Russia, Institute of Biochemical Technologies and Nanotechnologies, Korobkin Igor Valerievich
Published: May 2022

The quality of the finished product must be laid down before the production process. It seems relevant to create guarantees that the finished medicinal product not only meets regulatory conditions, but is also manufactured in accordance with the same procedure and under the same conditions every time it is released. Validation, as a section of the GMP rules, describes the control of a given process.
Possibilities of increasing the efficiency of atopic dermatitis treatment in children using physiotherapeutic methods
Authors:   Voronezh State Medical University named after N.N. Burdenko, Dontsova Elena V. , Ivanova I. I. ,   Central State Medical Academy of the Department of Presidential Affairs, Novikova L. A. ,   Voronezh State Medical University named after N.N. Burdenko, Dontsov V. G. ,   Voronezh State Medical University named after N.N. Burdenko, Borzunova L. N. ,   Voronezh State Medical University named after N.N. Burdenko, Koroleva T. V. ,   Central State Medical Academy of the Department of Presidential Affairs,
Published: May 2022

Introduction. Modern complex treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) in children involves not only drug treatment, but also the use of physiotherapy techniques. Purpose: to develop an effective complex method for the treatment of children with AD with the combined use of hydrotherapy (HT), non-selective chromotherapy (NCT) and low-intensity laser blood irradiation (NLBI), which reduces the severity of the disease and improves the children and their families’ quality of life. Material and methods. We examined 164 children diagnosed with AD from 4 to 15 years old (mean age 8±2.9 years). For a comparative study of the effectiveness of various treatment methods, 5 groups of patients were formed who received: basic drug therapy (BMT), GT+BMT, NHT+BMT, NLBI+BMT, GT+NHT+NLBI+BMT. Before the start of treatment, after 1 month and 3 months. assessed the severity of clinical manifestations of AD using the SCORAD scale, children’s dermatological quality of life index (DQLI), family DQLI (FDQLI), Results. After 1 month from the beginning of treatment in the groups of BMT, GT+BMT, NHT+BMT, NLBI+BMT, GT+NHT+NLBI+BM, the values of the SCORAD indices decreased by 1.5; 2; 2.5; 3.4; 4.6 times (respectively), the DQLI index — 1,5 times; 1.9; 2.3; 2.9; 4.6 times (respectively), the FDQLI index of 1.3; 1.5; 2.1; 2.7; 4.5 times (respectively). Conclusion. The developed method of combined use of HT, NCT, NLBI and basic drug therapy in the treatment of children with AD is more effective than the use of these methods in isolation. This is confirmed by a decrease in the DQLI and FDQLI indices by 78.3% and 71.7%, respectively, and a decrease in the SCORAD index by 78.3% with the transition from a moderate to mild form of the disease.
Dynamics of the residential real estate prices in the 1st quarter of 2022
Authors:   ", Vasilyeva E. Yu. ,   Budget-and-contracted work in construction",   Journal
Published: May 2022

The price dynamics in the real estate market in 2022 suffers not only the influence of habitual social-and-economic factors, but also the influence of political events as well as the anti-russian sanctions, announced after February 24. Some analysts reacted to the change of the market condition very quickly and at the beginning of March they provided the data on the price dynamics and also expressed their opinion on the reasons and forecasts. The relevant information on the dynamics of the residential real estate prices in the Russian Federation in the 1st quarter of 2022 is generalized in the article.
Obligatory transition to BIM-teсhnologies: to whom is it necessary and are the domestic companies ready for it?
Authors:   Editor-in-Chief of the ", Vasilyeva E. Yu. ,   Budget-and-contracted work in construction",   Journal
Published: May 2022

In 2022 the transition of the construction industry to the use of digital models is going to take place, and it has begun with the obligatory implementation of BIM in the field of the government and municipal contracts. However, it is obvious that the implementation of BIM technologies will extend over time. To whom are the BIM technologies really necessary and useful? How real is their full implementation in the construction sphere of the Russian Federation in the nearest future? How ready are the domestic companies for this innovation?
Educational digital technologies of the humanitarian cycle in the construction industry: legislative fundamentals
Authors:   Moscow State University of Civil Engineering, Maximova E. V.
Published: May 2022

In the conditions of development of digital society, the education system of the Russian Federation actively applies the new digital technologies which predetermine the competitiveness both in internal, and in external (international) space, the efficiency of use of digital and through technologies in the professional activity of future experts, including the construction industry experts. The main idea of the author is the disclosure of intellectual and creative and technical potential of students by the means of introduction of digital and through technologies which will allow to form independent way of thinking and creative approach in realization of professional tasks and purposes, in the educational programmes.
Estrategias de oposición a los derechos de salud sexual y reproductiva en América Latina
Authors: Güemes Cecilia
Published: May 2022

Este trabajo identifica narrativas y estrategias que buscan detener u obstaculizar los derechos de salud sexual y reproductiva en América Latina. En primer lugar, bajo el paraguas de la ideología de género como dispositivo movilizador y combativo, se diferencian los marcos conceptuales que ponen en juego. En segundo lugar, se sistematizan y ejemplifican estrategias institucionales y sociales por las que se movilizan los actores para desmontar, desdibujar o cercenar el reconocimiento jurídico y las prestaciones de bienes y servicios públicos vinculados a tales derechos. Se concluye destacando cómo la oposición a estos derechos debe preocupar no solo a las afectadas sino a todos los demócratas de la región.