bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increasing Personnel Competencies in Museums with the Use of Auditing and Controlling
Authors: Kupec Václav , Lukáč Michal , Písař Přemysl , Gubíniová Katarína
Published: December 2020

Society is constantly developing and museums must respond to this. Museums’ main tasks include conservation of humanity’s history, which puts high demands on museum staff. The level of care for cultural heritage depends on the quality of staff at the given museums. Thus, HR management can be perceived as a soft museum discipline that can be supplemented with hard management approaches. From here, certain research questions arise, such as: What are the vital factors for HR management in museums, or how can personnel competencies development be continuously improved? The research aim is, therefore, to define for museums the vital factors for personnel competencies development with an emphasis on efficiency improvement. The defined task will be completed using a questionnaire together with a multipoint Likert scale. The research was conducted on a sample of n = 810 museums in EU 27. A personnel competencies model was constructed based on the statistical analysis and using stepwise regression, which points to the importance of auditing and controlling approaches in the management of museums. The outcomes point to a lower than expected impact of the number of employees and the quality of management on the personnel competencies development. The correlation analysis of the variables shows interesting relations that should be used for the development of performance in museums.
Fast Searching Density Peak Clustering Algorithm Based on Shared Nearest Neighbor and Adaptive Clustering Center
Authors: Lv Yi , Liu Mandan , Xiang Yue
Published: December 2020

The clustering analysis algorithm is used to reveal the internal relationships among the data without prior knowledge and to further gather some data with common attributes into a group. In order to solve the problem that the existing algorithms always need prior knowledge, we proposed a fast searching density peak clustering algorithm based on the shared nearest neighbor and adaptive clustering center (DPC-SNNACC) algorithm. It can automatically ascertain the number of knee points in the decision graph according to the characteristics of different datasets, and further determine the number of clustering centers without human intervention. First, an improved calculation method of local density based on the symmetric distance matrix was proposed. Then, the position of knee point was obtained by calculating the change in the difference between decision values. Finally, the experimental and comparative evaluation of several datasets from diverse domains established the viability of the DPC-SNNACC algorithm.
Technological Development of an InP-Based Mach–Zehnder Modulator
Authors: Ishutkin Sergey , Arykov Vadim , Yunusov Igor , Stepanenko Mikhail , Troyan Pavel , Zhidik Yury
Published: December 2020

This paper presents the results of the development of a technology for manufacturing electro-optical Mach–Zehnder modulators based on InP. The key features of the technology are the use of one SiNx double-patterned dielectric mask with two sequential inductively coupled plasma (ICP) etchings of the heterostructure for the simultaneous formation of active and passive sections of the modulator’s optical waveguides. This prevents misalignment errors at the borders. The planarization of the wafer surface was performed using photosensitive benzocyclobutene (BCB) films in a combined scheme. Windows in the BCB film to the bottom ohmic contact and at the die boundaries were formed by lithography, and then the excess thickness of the BCB film was removed by ICP etching until the p-InGaAs contact regions of the p-i-n heterostructure were exposed. The deposition and annealing of the top ohmic contact Ti/Pt/Au (50/25/400 nm) to p-InGaAs was carried out after the surface planarization, with the absence of both deformation and cracking of the planarizing film. A new approach to the division of the wafers into single dies is presented in this paper. The division was carried out in two stages: first, grooves were formed by dicing or deep wet etching, and then cleaving was performed along the formed grooves. The advantages of these techniques are that it allows the edges of the waveguides at the optical input/outputs to be formed and the antireflection coating to be deposited simultaneously on all dies on the wafer, before it is divided.
Cornering Algorithm for a Crawler In-Pipe Inspection Robot
Authors: Xu Liang , Zhang Liang , Zhao Jinzhou , Kim Kiwan
Published: December 2020

Based on the large-scale wall-pressing three-legged crawler pipeline inspection robot, our team proposed a cornering algorithm based on space constraints, that aims to better control the smooth operation of the pipeline robot in the pipeline. This algorithm is aimed at large robots that use an electric telescopic rod structure to replace the elastic structure on traditional small robots. The electric telescopic rod structure meets the large-scale weight change of the robot and provides sufficient supporting force. However, this structure also makes it difficult for the robot to automatically adapt to the change of pipe diameter and increases the difficulty of the robot’s control. In order to solve this problem and more accurately control the operation of the robot during cornering, this paper analyzes the space constraints of the robot when turning, the optimization analysis of the telescopic rod expansion and the ratio of the speed of each crawler, obtaining a stable turning algorithm for pipeline robots. The algorithm guarantees that the robot can provide sufficient support in the bend pipeline, and that it has good stability and mobility.
Influence of Orbital Parameters on SEU Rate of Low-Energy Proton in Nano-SRAM Device
Authors: Ye Bing , Mo Li-Hua , Liu Tao , Sun You-Mei , Liu Jie
Published: December 2020

The on-orbit single-event upset (SEU) rate of nanodevices is closely related to the orbital parameters. In this paper, the on-orbit SEU rate (OOSR) induced by a heavy ion (HI), high-energy proton (HEP) and low-energy proton (LEP) for a 65 nm SRAM device is calculated by using the software SPACE RADIATION under different orbits based on the experimental data. The results indicate that the OOSR induced by the HI, HEP and LEP varies with the orbital parameters. In particular, the orbital height, inclination and shieling thickness are the key parameters that affect the contribution of the LEP to the total OOSR. Our results provide guidance for the selection of nanodevices on different orbits.
Simple New Proofs of the Characteristic Functions of the F and Skew-Normal Distributions
Authors: Zhao Jun , Kim Sung-Bum , Kim Seog-Jin , Kim Hyoung-Moon
Published: December 2020

For a statistical distribution, the characteristic function (CF) is crucial because of the one-to-one correspondence between a distribution function and its CF and other properties. In order to avoid the calculation of contour integrals, the CFs of two popular distributions, the F and the skew-normal distributions, are derived by solving two ordinary differential equations (ODEs). The results suggest that the approach of deriving CFs by the ODEs is effective for asymmetric distributions. A much simpler approach is proposed to derive the CF of the multivariate F distribution in terms of a stochastic representation without using contour integration. For a special case of the multivariate F distribution where the variable dimension is one, its CF is consistent with that of the former (univariate) F distribution. This further confirms that the derivations are reasonable. The derivation is quite simple, and is suitable for presentation in statistics theory courses.
Topological Structures via Interval-Valued Neutrosophic Crisp Sets
Authors: Jo Dongsik , Saleh S. , Lee Jeong-Gon , Hur Kul , Xueyou Chen
Published: December 2020

In this paper, we introduce the new notion of interval-valued neutrosophic crisp sets providing a tool for approximating undefinable or complex concepts in real world. First, we deal with some of its algebraic structures. We also define an interval-valued neutrosophic crisp (vanishing) point and obtain some of its properties. Next, we define an interval-valued neutrosophic crisp topology, base (subbase), neighborhood, and interior (closure), respectively and investigate some of each property, and give some examples. Finally, we define an interval-valued neutrosophic crisp continuity and quotient topology and study some of each property.
Potential for Bacillus thuringiensis and Other Bacterial Toxins as Biological Control Agents to Combat Dipteran Pests of Medical and Agronomic Importance
Authors: Valtierra-de-Luis Daniel , Villanueva Maite , Berry Colin , Caballero Primitivo
Published: December 2020

The control of dipteran pests is highly relevant to humans due to their involvement in the transmission of serious diseases including malaria, dengue fever, Chikungunya, yellow fever, zika, and filariasis; as well as their agronomic impact on numerous crops. Many bacteria are able to produce proteins that are active against insect species. These bacteria include Bacillus thuringiensis, the most widely-studied pesticidal bacterium, which synthesizes proteins that accumulate in crystals with insecticidal properties and which has been widely used in the biological control of insects from different orders, including Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, and Diptera. In this review, we summarize all the bacterial proteins, from B. thuringiensis and other entomopathogenic bacteria, which have described insecticidal activity against dipteran pests, including species of medical and agronomic importance.
The Involvement of Central Noradrenergic Pathway in the Analgesic Effect of Bee Venom Acupuncture on Vincristine-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Rats
Authors: Li Daxian , Chung Geehoon , Kim Sun Kwang
Published: December 2020

Vincristine is a vinca alkaloid anti-mitotic drug with a broad spectrum of effects on solid and hematologic cancers. The major dose-limiting factor of this anti-cancer regimen is painful peripheral neuropathy. However, no gold-standard analgesic option has been used clinically. In this study, we investigated the effects and mechanism of bee venom acupuncture (BVA) to alleviate peripheral neuropathic pain induced by repeated intraperitoneal infusions of vincristine (1 mg/kg/day, days 1–5 and 8–12) in rats. Subcutaneous injection with bee venom (BV, 1.0 mg/kg) at the ST36 acupoint ameliorated cold and mechanical hypersensitivity (i.e., aberrant withdrawal responses in acetone drop and von Frey hair tests, respectively). In vivo extracellular recording demonstrated that BVA inhibited cutaneous cold (acetone) and mechanical (brush, press, and pinch) stimuli-elicited abnormal hyperexcitation of the spinal wide dynamic range (WDR) neurons in vincristine-treated rats. In addition, the microinjection of lidocaine into the ipsilateral locus coeruleus or the antagonism of the spinal α2-adrenergic receptors clearly reversed the effects of BVA on cold and mechanical hypersensitivity, indicating a vital role of the descending noradrenergic modulation in analgesia. These findings suggest that BVA could be a potential therapeutic option for vincristine-induced peripheral neuropathy.
Genotoxic Effects of Cylindrospermopsin, Microcystin-LR and Their Binary Mixture in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HepG2) Cell Line
Authors: Díez-Quijada Leticia , Hercog Klara , Štampar Martina , Filipič Metka , Cameán Ana M. , Jos Ángeles , Žegura Bojana
Published: December 2020

Simultaneous occurrence of cylindrospermopsin (CYN) and microcystin-LR (MCLR) has been reported in the aquatic environment and thus human exposure to such mixtures is possible. As data on the combined effects of CYN/MCLR are scarce, we aimed to investigate the adverse effects related to genotoxic activities induced by CYN (0.125, 0.25 and 0.5 µg/mL) and MCLR (1 µg/mL) as single compounds and their combinations in HepG2 cells after 24 and 72 h exposure. CYN and CYN/MCLR induced DNA double-strand breaks after 72 h exposure, while cell cycle analysis revealed that CYN and CYN/MCLR arrested HepG2 cells in G0/G1 phase. Moreover, CYN and the combination with MCLR upregulated CYP1A1 and target genes involved in DNA-damage response (CDKN1A, GADD45A). Altogether, the results showed that after 72 h exposure genotoxic activity of CYN/MCLR mixture was comparable to the one of pure CYN. On the contrary, MCLR (1 µg/mL) had no effect on the viability of cells and had no influence on cell division. It did not induce DNA damage and did not deregulate studied genes after prolonged exposure. The outcomes of the study confirm the importance of investigating the combined effects of several toxins as the effects can differ from those induced by single compounds.
Comments on Proteomic Investigations of Two Pakistani Naja Snake Venoms Species Unravel the Venom Complexity, Posttranslational Modifications, and Presence of Extracellular Vesicles. Toxins 2020, 12, 669
Authors: Tasoulis Theo , Pukala Tara L. , Isbister Geoffrey K.
Published: December 2020

We read with interest the article by Manuwar et al [...]
Presence of Mycotoxins in Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) Food Supplements: A Review
Authors: Pickova Darina , Ostry Vladimir , Toman Jakub , Malir Frantisek
Published: December 2020

The consumption of herbal-based supplements, which are believed to have beneficial effects on human health with no side effects, has become popular around the world and this trend is still increasing. Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn, commonly known as milk thistle (MT), is the most commonly studied herb associated with the treatment of liver diseases. The hepatoprotective effects of active substances in silymarin, with silybin being the main compound, have been demonstrated in many studies. However, MT can be affected by toxigenic micro-fungi and contaminated by mycotoxins with adverse effects. The beneficial effect of silymarin can thus be reduced or totally antagonized by mycotoxins. MT has proven to be affected by micro-fungi of the Fusarium and Alternaria genera, in particular, and their mycotoxins. Alternariol-methyl-ether (AME), alternariol (AOH), beauvericin (BEA), deoxynivalenol (DON), enniatin A (ENNA), enniatin A1 (ENNA1), enniatin B (ENNB), enniatin B1 (ENNB1), HT-2 toxin (HT-2), T-2 toxin (T-2), tentoxin (TEN), and zearalenone (ZEA) seem to be most significant in MT-based dietary supplements. This review focuses on summarizing cases of mycotoxins in MT to emphasize the need for strict monitoring and regulation, as mycotoxins in relation with MT-based dietary supplements are not covered by European Union legislation.
Bacillus thuringiensis Toxins: Functional Characterization and Mechanism of Action
Authors: Bel Yolanda , Ferré Juan , Hernández-Martínez Patricia
Published: December 2020

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt)-based products are the most successful microbial insecticides to date [...]
Comparison of Rapid Antigen Tests for COVID-19
Authors: Yamayoshi Seiya , Sakai-Tagawa Yuko , Koga Michiko , Akasaka Osamu , Nakachi Ichiro , Koh Hidefumi , Maeda Kenji , Adachi Eisuke , Saito Makoto , Nagai Hiroyuki , Ikeuchi Kazuhiko , Ogura Takayuki , Baba Rie , Fujita Kensuke , Fukui Takahiro , Ito Fumimaro , Hattori Shin-ichiro , Yamamoto Kei , Nakamoto Takato , Furusawa Yuri , Yasuhara Atsuhiro , Ujie Michiko , Yamada Shinya , Ito Mutsumi , Mitsuya Hiroaki , Omagari Norio , Yotsuyanagi Hiroshi , Iwatsuki-Horimoto Kiyoko , Imai Masaki , Kawaoka Yoshihiro
Published: December 2020

Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR)-based tests are widely used to diagnose coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). As a result that these tests cannot be done in local clinics where RT-qPCR testing capability is lacking, rapid antigen tests (RATs) for COVID-19 based on lateral flow immunoassays are used for rapid diagnosis. However, their sensitivity compared with each other and with RT-qPCR and infectious virus isolation has not been examined. Here, we compared the sensitivity among four RATs by using severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) isolates and several types of COVID-19 patient specimens and compared their sensitivity with that of RT-qPCR and infectious virus isolation. Although the RATs read the samples containing large amounts of virus as positive, even the most sensitive RAT read the samples containing small amounts of virus as negative. Moreover, all RATs tested failed to detect viral antigens in several specimens from which the virus was isolated. The current RATs will likely miss some COVID-19 patients who are shedding infectious SARS-CoV-2.
Novel Broad-Spectrum Antiviral Inhibitors Targeting Host Factors Essential for Replication of Pathogenic RNA Viruses
Authors: Tampere Marianna , Pettke Aleksandra , Salata Cristiano , Wallner Olov , Koolmeister Tobias , Cazares-Körner Armando , Visnes Torkild , Hesselman Maria Carmen , Kunold Elena , Wiita Elisee , Kalderén Christina , Lightowler Molly , Jemth Ann-Sofie , Lehtiö Janne , Rosenquist Åsa , Warpman-Berglund Ulrika , Helleday Thomas , Mirazimi Ali , Jafari Rozbeh , Puumalainen Marjo-Riitta
Published: December 2020

Recent RNA virus outbreaks such as Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and Ebola virus (EBOV) have caused worldwide health emergencies highlighting the urgent need for new antiviral strategies. Targeting host cell pathways supporting viral replication is an attractive approach for development of antiviral compounds, especially with new, unexplored viruses where knowledge of virus biology is limited. Here, we present a strategy to identify host-targeted small molecule inhibitors using an image-based phenotypic antiviral screening assay followed by extensive target identification efforts revealing altered cellular pathways upon antiviral compound treatment. The newly discovered antiviral compounds showed broad-range antiviral activity against pathogenic RNA viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, EBOV and Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV). Target identification of the antiviral compounds by thermal protein profiling revealed major effects on proteostasis pathways and disturbance in interactions between cellular HSP70 complex and viral proteins, illustrating the supportive role of HSP70 on many RNA viruses across virus families. Collectively, this strategy identifies new small molecule inhibitors with broad antiviral activity against pathogenic RNA viruses, but also uncovers novel virus biology urgently needed for design of new antiviral therapies.
Parents’ Knowledge, Attitude and Perceptions on Childhood Vaccination in Saudi Arabia: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Alabadi Marwa , Aldawood Zakariya
Published: December 2020

(1) Background: The responsibility of vaccinating children lies with their parents. Therefore, parents’ attitudes, knowledge and perceptions towards vaccination are of great importance as it drives their actions for timely and complete immunisation. This systematic literature review was conducted to gain a better understanding of parents’ knowledge, attitudes and perceptions regarding childhood vaccination in Saudi Arabia. (2) Methods: A comprehensive systematic literature review was conducted to identify evidence demonstrating parents’ knowledge, attitudes and perceptions on childhood vaccination in Saudi Arabia. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) reporting guidelines were used for this review. (3) Results: Nine studies were subsequently included in this systematic review. (4) Conclusions: All the individual reports in the literature do not cover the entire nation of Saudi Arabia, indicating the necessity of more comprehensive investigations so that the government and policymakers can develop versatile fact-based policies for the well-being of future generations.
Immunogenicity and Protection against Mycobacterium caprae Challenge in Goats Vaccinated with BCG and Revaccinated after One Year
Authors: Arrieta-Villegas Claudia , Vidal Enric , Martín Maite , Verdés Judit , Moll Xavier , Espada Yvonne , Singh Mahavir , Villarreal-Ramos Bernardo , Domingo Mariano , Pérez de Val Bernat
Published: December 2020

Vaccination has been proposed as a supplementary tool for the control of tuberculosis in livestock. The long-term immunogenicity elicited by bacillus Calmette–Guerin (BCG) and the efficacy of revaccination were investigated in thirty goat kids distributed into three groups: unvaccinated controls, BCG (vaccinated at week 0) and BCG-BCG (vaccinated at weeks 0 and 56). Sixty-four weeks after the first vaccination, all animals were challenged with Mycobacterium caprae and examined post-mortem (pathology and bacterial load) at week 73. Antigen-specific interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) release was measured throughout the experiment. At week 59, peripheral blood mononuclear cells were stained for CD4, CD45RO and IFN-γ to determine the presence of antigen-specific cells secreting IFN-γ. The BCG-BCG group showed reductions in rectal temperatures, M. caprae DNA load in pulmonary lymph nodes (LN), the volume of lesions in pulmonary LN, mineralization in lungs, and higher weight gains compared to unvaccinated controls. IFN-γ responses were undetectable from 32 weeks after primary vaccination until revaccination, when the BCG-BCG group showed detectable IFN-γ production and a greater percentage of antigen-specific CD4+CD45RO+IFNγ+ and CD4−CD45RO+IFNγ+ cells compared to the BCG and control groups, which may be an indicator of the mechanisms of protection. Thus, re-vaccination of goats with BCG appears to prolong protection against infection with M. caprae.
Post-Vaccination Yellow Fever Antiserum Reduces Zika Virus in Embryoid Bodies When Placental Cells are Present
Authors: Schultz Emily M. , Jones TyAnthony J. , Hopkins Hannah K. , Zeng Jingmei , Barr Kelli L.
Published: December 2020

Zika virus (ZIKV) is a flavivirus that originated in Africa but emerged in Latin America in 2015. In this region, other flaviviruses such as Dengue (DENV), West Nile, and Yellow Fever virus (YFV) also circulate, allowing for possible antigenic cross-reactivity to impact viral infections and immune responses. Studies have found antibody-mediated enhancement between DENV and ZIKV, but the impact of YFV antibodies on ZIKV infection has not been fully explored. ZIKV infections cause congenital syndromes, such as microcephaly, necessitating further research into ZIKV vertical transmission through the placental barrier. Recent advancements in biomedical engineering have generated co-culture methods that allow for the in vitro recapitulation of the maternal–fetal interface. This study utilized a transwell assay, which was a co-culture model utilizing human placental syncytiotrophoblasts, fetal umbilical cells, and a differentiating embryoid body, to replicate the maternal–fetal axis. To determine if cross-reactive YFV vaccine antibodies impacted the pathogenesis of ZIKV across the maternal–fetal axis, syncytiotrophoblasts were inoculated with ZIKV or ZIKV incubated with YFV vaccine antisera, and the viral load was measured 72 h post-inoculation. Here, we report that BeWo and HUVEC cells were permissive to ZIKV and that the impact of YFV post-vaccination antibodies on ZIKV replication was cell line-dependent. Embryoid bodies were also permissive to ZIKV, and the presence of YFV antibodies collected 4–14 months post-vaccination reduced ZIKV infection when placental cells were present. However, when directly infected with ZIKV, the embryoid bodies displayed significantly increased viral loads in the presence of YFV antiserum taken 30 days post-vaccination. The data show that each of the cell lines and EBs have a unique response to ZIKV complexed with post-vaccination serum, suggesting there may be cell-specific mechanisms that impact congenital ZIKV infections. Since ZIKV infections can cause severe congenital syndromes, it is crucial to understand any potential enhancement or protection offered from cross-reactive, post-vaccination antibodies.
Geophysical Assessment of Seawater Intrusion into Coastal Aquifers of Bela Plain, Pakistan
Authors: Hasan Muhammad , Shang Yanjun , Jin Weijun , Shao Peng , Yi Xuetao , Akhter Gulraiz
Published: December 2020

Seawater intrusion is a major challenge in many coastal areas all around the world, mainly caused by over-exploitation of freshwater resources, climate change, and sea-level rise. Consequently, seawater intrusion reaches several kilometers inland, thus making the freshwater resources polluted and unsuitable for human use. Conventionally, the fresh-saline water interface is delineated by the number of laboratory tests obtained from boreholes. However, such tests suffer from efficiency in terms of data coverage, time, and cost. Hence, this work introduces Dar-Zarrouk (D-Z) parameters, namely transverse resistance (Tr), longitudinal conductance (Sc), and longitudinal resistivity (ρL) computed from non-invasive vertical electrical sounding (VES). Two-dimensional (2D) imaging of D-Z parameters provides a clear distinction of fresh-saline aquifers. Such techniques remove ambiguities in the resistivity interpretation caused by overlapping of fresh and saline aquifers during the process of suppression and equivalence. This study was carried out by 45 VES along five profiles in the coastal area of Bela Plain, Pakistan. D-Z parameters delineate fresh, brackish, and saline aquifers with a wide range of values such as freshwater with Tr > 2000 Ωm2, Sc < 3 mho, and ρL > 20 Ωm; saline water with Tr < 1000 Ωm2, Sc > 25 mho, and ρL < 5 Ωm; and brackish water with Tr between 1000–2000 Ωm2, Sc from 3 to 25 mho, and ρL between 5–20 Ωm. The D-Z results were validated by the physicochemical analysis using 13 water samples and local hydrogeological setting. The obtained results propose that D-Z parameters can be used as a powerful tool to demarcate the fresh-saline aquifer interface with more confidence than other traditional techniques. This geophysical approach can reduce the expensive number of borehole tests, and hence contributes to the future planning and development of freshwater resources in the coastal areas.
Planktonic Invertebrates in the Assessment of Long-Term Change in Water Quality of the Sorbulak Wastewater Disposal System (Kazakhstan)
Authors: Krupa Elena , Barinova Sophia , Romanova Sophia , Aubakirova Moldir , Ainabaeva Nazia
Published: December 2020

The multicomponent composition of wastewater makes it challenging to assess its quality objectively, but the last one is a prerequisite for the safe re-use of wastewater. The solution to this problem should be aimed at finding criteria that make it possible to increase the objectivity of assessing the water quality of reservoirs with multicomponent pollution. This work analyzes the water quality of the Sorbulak wastewater disposal system in the summer of 2017, based on chemical variables and zooplankton structure and assess the long-term changes in the water quality of Sorbulak. According to the Kruskal–Wallis test, in 2017, the differences between the studied water bodies in the content of nutrients and heavy metals were mostly insignificant. From 2000–2002 to 2017, nitrate, nitrite nitrogen, and heavy metals in Sorbulak significantly decreased. Zooplankton communities consisted of a relatively small number of eurybiontic species resistant to environmental factors. The variability of the quantitative variables of zooplankton was associated with the nutrients. Males dominated the population of the cyclopoid copepods Acanthocyclops trajani. In 2000–2002 individuals with morphological anomalies were found in cyclopoid copepods populations, but were absent in 2017. The appearance of individuals with morphological anomalies was associated with copper or lead. The chemical data and structure of zooplankton communities indicated that the toxic pollution of Sorbulak decreased by 2017 compared to 2000–2002. Our results demonstrate that the structural variables of zooplankton communities could be successfully used to assess the water quality of water bodies with mixed pollution. We recommend using not only the traditional set of biological variables (abundance, biomass, diversity indices, and the average mass of an individual), but also data on the structure of species dominance, the sex structure of copepod populations, and the presence of individuals with morphological anomalies for monitoring of water bodies with mixed pollution.
Parameterization of the Collection Efficiency of a Cylindrical Catching-Type Rain Gauge Based on Rainfall Intensity
Authors: Cauteruccio Arianna , Lanza Luca G.
Published: December 2020

Despite the numerous contributions available in the literature about the wind-induced bias of rainfall intensity measurements, adjustments based on collection efficiency curves are rarely applied operationally to rain records obtained from catching-type rain gauges. The many influencing variables involved and the variability of the results of field experiments do not facilitate the widespread application of adjustment algorithms. In this paper, a Lagrangian particle tracking model is applied to the results of computational fluid dynamic simulations of the airflow field surrounding a rain gauge to derive a simple formulation of the collection efficiency curves as a function of wind speed. A new parameterization of the influence of rainfall intensity is proposed. The methodology was applied to a cylindrical gauge, which has the typical outer shape of tipping-bucket rain gauges, as a representative specimen of most operational measurement instruments. The wind velocity is the only ancillary variable required to calculate the adjustment, together with the measured rainfall intensity. Since wind is commonly measured by operational weather stations, its use adds no relevant burden to the cost of meteo-hydrological networks.
Combined Application of Real-Time Control and Green Technologies to Urban Drainage Systems
Authors: Altobelli Margherita , Cipolla Sara Simona , Maglionico Marco
Published: December 2020

The increase in waterproof surfaces, a typical phenomenon of urbanization, on the one hand, reduces the volume of rainwater that naturally infiltrates the subsoil and, on the other, it determines the increase in speeds, flow rates, and outflow volume surface; at the same time, it causes a qualitative deterioration of the water. This study researched the optimal management of urban drainage systems via the combined application of real-time control and green technologies. A hydraulic model of the sewer system of the suburbs of Bologna (Italy) was set up using the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Storm Water Management Model (SWMM) to evaluate the reduction in water volume and the masses of pollutants discharged in water bodies. The combined application of these technologies allows significantly reducing both the pollutants released into the receiving water bodies and the overflow volumes, while optimizing the operation of the treatment plants. Green technologies cause an average reduction equal to 45% in volume and 53% of total suspended solids (TSS) sent to the receiver. The modeled cases represent only some of the possible configurations achievable on urban drainage systems; the combined use of different solutions could lead to further improvements in the overall functioning of the drainage system.
Impact of Water Deficit on Seasonal and Diurnal Dynamics of European Beech Transpiration and Time-Lag Effect between Stand Transpiration and Environmental Drivers
Authors: Nalevanková Paulína , Sitková Zuzana , Kučera Jíři , Střelcová Katarína
Published: December 2020

In-situ measurements of tree sap flow enable the analysis of derived forest transpiration and also the water state of the entire ecosystem. The process of water transport (by sap flow) and transpiration through vegetation organisms are strongly influenced by the synergistic effect of numerous external factors, some of which are predicted to alter due to climate change. The study was carried out by in-situ monitoring sap flow and related environmental factors in the years 2014 and 2015 on a research plot in Bienska dolina (Slovakia). We evaluated the relationship between derived transpiration of the adult beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) forest stand, environmental conditions, and soil water deficit. Seasonal beech transpiration (from May to September) achieved 59% of potential evapotranspiration (PET) in 2014 and 46% in 2015. Our study confirmed that soil water deficit leads to a radical limitation of transpiration and fundamentally affects the relationship between transpiration and environmental drivers. The ratio of transpiration (E) against PET was significantly affected by a deficit of soil water and in dry September 2015 decreased to the value of 0.2. The maximum monthly value (0.8) of E/PET was recorded in August and September 2014. It was demonstrated that a time lag exists between the course of transpiration and environmental factors on a diurnal basis. An application of the time lags within the analysis increased the strength of the association between transpiration and the variables. However, the length of these time lags changed in conditions of soil drought (on average by 25 min). Transpiration is driven by energy income and connected evaporative demand, provided a sufficient amount of extractable soil water. A multiple regression model constructed from measured global radiation (RS), air temperature (AT), and air humidity (RH) explained 69% of the variability in beech stand transpiration (entire season), whereas (RS) was the primary driving force. The same factors that were shifted in time explained 73% of the transpiration variability. Cross-correlation analysis of data measured in time without water deficit demonstrated a tighter dependency of transpiration (E) on environmental drivers shifted in time (−60 min RS, +40 min RH and +20 min vapour pressure deficit against E). Due to an occurrence and duration of soil water stress, the dependence of transpiration on the environmental variables became weaker, and at the same time, the time lags were prolonged. Hence, the course of transpiration lagged behind the course of global radiation by 60 (R2 = 0.76) and 80 (R2 = 0.69) minutes in conditions without and with water deficit, respectively.
Holistic Design Approach of a Throttled Surge Tank: The Case of Refurbishment of Gondo High-Head Power Plant in Switzerland
Authors: Seyfeddine Mona , Vorlet Samuel , Adam Nicolas , De Cesare Giovanni
Published: December 2020

In order to increase the installed capacity, the refurbishment of Gondo high-head power plant required a modification of the existing surge tank by installing a throttle at its entrance. In a previous study, the geometry of this throttle was optimized by physical modeling to achieve the target loss coefficients as identified by a transient 1D numerical analysis. This study complements previous analyses by means of 3D numerical modeling using the commercial software ANSYS-CFX 19 R1. Results show that: (i) a 3D computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model predicts sufficiently accurate local head loss coefficients that agree closely with the findings of the physical model; (ii) in contrast to a standard surge tank, the presence of an internal gallery in the surge tank proved to be of insignificant effect on a surge tank equipped with a throttle, as the variations in the section of the tank cause negligible local losses compared to the ones induced by the throttle; (iii) CFD investigations of transient flow regimes revealed that the head loss coefficient of the throttle only varies for flow ratios below 20% of the total flow in the system, without significantly affecting the conclusions of the 1D transient analysis with respect to minimum and maximum water level in the surge tank as well as pressure peaks below the surge tank. This study highlights the importance of examining the characteristics of a hydraulic system from a holistic approach involving hybrid modeling (1D, 3D numerical and physical) backed by calibration as well as validation with in-situ measurements. This results in a more rapid and economic design of throttled surge tanks that makes full use of the advantages associated with each modeling strategy.
Water Loss Management in Small Municipalities: The Situation in Tyrol
Authors: Oberascher Martin , Möderl Michael , Sitzenfrei Robert
Published: December 2020

Water losses in water distribution networks (WDNs) are unavoidable. Water losses are evaluated based on performance indicators (PIs) and used for future recommendations for network operators to take measures against water losses. However, these evaluations primarily focus on large and medium sized WDN and do not deal with the challenges of small WDNs (e.g., technical, and financial limitations, missing data). Therefore, an appropriate water loss management is a major challenge for operators in the federal state of Tyrol (Austria) due to the high number of small WDNs, e.g., low income in combination with long network lengths. In this regard, this work specifies and discusses state funding in Austria to support network operators to reduce water losses. To assess the impacts on management strategies, 40 WDNs, supplying 200 to 16,000 inhabitants, are investigated in detail. As the comparison of different PIs shows, a volume related PI (e.g., water loss volume divided by total water demand) is recommend as the decision criterion for local authorities due to minimal efforts and its easy calculation. Moreover, public funding helps to significantly reduce water losses in individual systems, but countermeasures should be different for small and larger WDNs. For example, leakage detection campaigns and rehabilitation planning based on pipe age should be established in future for larger WDNs in Tyrol. In contrast, an online flow metering system to monitor system inflows is suggested for small WDNs. Based on measurement data, leakages and burst can be detected and repaired swiftly.
Heterogeneous Catalytic Ozonation of Aniline-Contaminated Waters: A Three-Phase Modelling Approach Using TiO2/GAC
Authors: Ferreiro Cristian , Villota Natalia , Lombraña José Ignacio , Rivero María J.
Published: December 2020

This work aims to study the sustainable catalytic ozonation of aniline promoted by granular active carbon (GAC) doped with TiO2. Aniline was selected as a model compound for the accelerator manufacturing industries used in the manufacture of rubber due to its environmental impact, low biodegradability, and harmful genotoxic effects on human health. Based on the evolution of total organic carbon (TOC), aniline concentration measured using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), pH and ozone concentration in liquid and gas phase, and catalyst loading, a three-phase reaction system has been modelled. The proposed three-phase model related the ozone transfer parameters and the pseudo-first order kinetic constants through three coefficients that involve the adsorption process, oxidation in the liquid, and the solid catalyst. The interpretation of the kinetic constants of the process allowed the predominance of the mechanism of Langmuir–Hinshelwood or modified Eley–Rideal to be elucidated. Seven intermediate aromatic reaction products, representative of the direct action of ozone and the radical pathway, were identified and quantified, as well as precursors of the appearance of turbidity, with which two possible routes of degradation of aniline being proposed.
Impact of Climate and Geology on Event Runoff Characteristics at the Regional Scale
Authors: Chen Xiaofei , Parajka Juraj , Széles Borbála , Valent Peter , Viglione Alberto , Blöschl Günter
Published: December 2020

The dynamics of flood event characteristics, such as the runoff coefficient and the recession time constant, differ in time and space, due to differences in climate, geology, and runoff generation mechanisms. This study examines the variability of event runoff characteristics and relates them to climatic and hydro-geological characteristics available at the regional scale. The main focus is to examine the role of rainfall patterns (i.e., event precipitation volume, precipitation intensity, and antecedent precipitation) and runoff regime (i.e., initial flow before runoff event and event duration) characteristics on the seasonal dynamics of runoff response. The analysis is performed in four small Austrian catchments representing different hydro-geological settings obtained by field mapping. The results are based on an analysis of 982 runoff events identified from hourly measurements of streamflow and precipitation in the period 2002 to 2013. The results show that larger event runoff coefficients and flow peaks are estimated in catchments with high mean annual precipitation than in drier catchments. In contrast to some previous studies, the results show only poor relation between antecedent precipitation (as an index of catchment wetness) and event runoff response. The initial flow is found to be the main factor influencing the magnitude of runoff coefficient and event peaks in all analyzed catchments and geological settings. The recession time constant tends to be inversely related to the maximum event precipitation intensity, with an exception for one catchment (Wimitzbach), which is characterized by the largest proportion of deep interflow contribution to runoff. The analysis of the runoff response by different event types indicates that runoff coefficients and recession time constants are the largest for snowmelt runoff events.
Perforated Baffles for the Optimization of Disinfection Treatment
Authors: Bruno Paolo , Di Bella Gaetano , De Marchis Mauro
Published: December 2020

Water disinfection is one of the main treatments aimed at maintaining human health. Traditionally, the treatment takes place inside multichamber tanks that facilitate the contact between disinfectant and pathogenic microorganisms to be removed. However, the traditional contact tanks used for disinfection have geometric characteristics causing the formation of dead or recirculation zones that reduce treatment efficiency with potentially harmful effects on human health. This study proposes the creation of holes in the baffles that divide the various chambers in order to increase the mixing inside the reactor. In particular, various configurations with holes of different sizes were considered. The results obtained through fluid dynamics simulations based on the LES (large eddy simulation) model show that the jet emerging from the holes penetrates the recirculation zones, transforming them into areas of active mixing. The analysis of the hydraulic mixing indices traditionally used to evaluate the performance of these tanks shows that the presence of the holes allows a significant increase in the mixing efficiency by reducing the short-circuit phenomena and the entrapment of the disinfectant inside the dead zones. Parameters of fundamental importance are the size of the holes, the arrangement of the holes within the baffles and the perforation percentage.
Effect of Soaking Time and Salt Concentration on Mechanical Characteristics of Slip Zone Soil of Loess Landslides
Authors: Xue Chen , Wang Xingang , Liu Kai
Published: December 2020

Loess landslides are closely related to the variation in mechanical properties of soils due to the leaching of irrigation water in the irrigation area which causes the loss of soluble salt in the loess stratum. To investigate the effect of leaching on the mechanical characteristics of loess, ring shear tests were conducted on the slip zone soil samples obtained from a typical loess landslide under different soaking time and salt concentration. Furthermore, the microstructural observations were made on shear planes by using SEM (scanning electron microscopy) tests. The experiment revealed that: firstly, the shear strength of loess decreases with the increase of soaking time before reaching the minimum value at the soaking time of 1 d, and then increases with the soaking time until reaching a relatively stable value. Secondly, the shear strength of loess has an increasing tendency with the salt concentration before reaching a maximum value at the salt concentration of 8%, and then shear strength decreases. In addition, a “stress-softening” was found for the loess samples with the soaking time of 1 d and salt concentration of 8%. It is found that the total number of micropores and small-pores in loess samples decreases with increasing salt concentration up to 8%, but increases rapidly between salt contents of 8% and 20%. The SEM tests showed that the increase in salt concentration (0% to 8%) facilities the formation of small aggregates within loess soils, which in turn promotes the increasing of shear strength. However, further increase in salt concentration (8% to 20%) helps the development of relatively large aggregates in loess samples, resulting in the reduction in shear strength.
A Framework for Sustainable Planning and Decision-Making on Resource Recovery from Wastewater: Showcase for São Paulo Megacity
Authors: Chrispim Mariana C. , de M. de Souza Fernanda , Scholz Miklas , Nolasco Marcelo A.
Published: December 2020

Currently, it is important to develop strategic frameworks to support the selection of sustainable resource recovery solutions. This study applies a new framework for planning, implementation, and assessment of resource recovery strategies for a full-scale wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in São Paulo megacity. The framework comprises several steps based on case study-specific data and information from current literature. Data were collected from various sources: a survey with a wastewater treatment utility, national and regional databases, and review of local regulations and international literature. Treatment configuration, wastewater and by-products composition, potential demand (for water, energy, and phosphorus), stakeholder identification, and local legislation were thoroughly discussed regarding decision-making on resource recovery. Scenario analysis was used to explore suitable nutrient and energy recovery measures based on indicators. Biogas recovery and sewage sludge composting showed more favorable conditions due to similar experiences in the area and robust legislation. The proposed framework is a simplified tool, and its application can support managers to get information on resource recovery and how to plan such initiatives in easier ways to facilitate wiser decision-making, and better operation and management. The results on framework use and refinement can guide potential applications in other contexts and stimulate public policy formulation and further research.
Sediment Management: Hydropower Improvement and Habitat Evaluation
Authors: Hauer Christoph
Published: December 2020

It is predicted that 60% of all new energy investments over the next 20 years will be in renewables [...]
Interaction between Waves and Maritime Structures
Authors: Buccino Mariano , Martinelli Luca
Published: December 2020

Understanding the interaction between waves and maritime structures (IWMS) has been a primary concern for humans since ancient times, when they started sailing oceans and defending land from flooding and erosion [...]