bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Characterization and Functional Analysis of the Dipeptidyl Peptidase IV from Venom of the Ectoparasitoid Scleroderma guani
Authors: Wu Chaoyan , Yang Cheng , Wang Yuqin , Wang Jun , Zhu Jiaying
Published: April 2023

Dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPPIV) is a proline-specific serine peptidase that remains poorly investigated in terms of venom composition. Here, we describe the molecular characteristics and possible functions of DPPIV as a major venom component of the ant-like bethylid ectoparasitoid, Scleroderma guani, named SgVnDPPIV. The SgVnDPPIV gene was cloned, which encodes a protein with the conserved catalytic triads and substrate binding sites of mammalian DPPIV. This venom gene is highly expressed in the venom apparatus. Recombinant SgVnDPPIV, produced in Sf9 cells using the baculovirus expression system, has high enzymatic activity, which can be efficiently inhibited by vildagliptin and sitagliptin. Functional analysis revealed that SgVnDPPIV affects genes related to detoxification, lipid synthesis and metabolism, response to stimuli, and ion exchange in pupae of Tenebrio molitor, an envenomated host of S. guani. The present work contributes towards understanding the role of venom DPPIV involved in the interaction between parasitoid wasp and its host.
A Novel Multicellular Placental Barrier Model to Investigate the Effect of Maternal Aflatoxin B1 Exposure on Fetal-Side Neural Stem Cells
Authors: Zhou Zhiwei , Luo Dongmei , Li Mengxue , Lao Guangjie , Zhou Zhiqiang , Dinnyés András , Xu Wenming , Sun Qun
Published: April 2023

Ingestion of food toxins such as aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) during pregnancy may impair fetal neurodevelopment. However, animal model results may not be accurate due to the species’ differences, and testing on humans is ethically impermissible. Here, we developed an in vitro human maternal–fetal multicellular model composed of a human hepatic compartment, a bilayer placental barrier, and a human fetal central nervous system compartment using neural stem cells (NSCs) to investigate the effect of AFB1 on fetal-side NSCs. AFB1 passed through the HepG2 hepatocellular carcinoma cells to mimic the maternal metabolic effects. Importantly, even at the limited concentration (0.0641 ± 0.0046 μM) of AFB1, close to the national safety level standard of China (GB-2761-2011), the mixture of AFB1 crossing the placental barrier induced NSC apoptosis. The level of reactive oxygen species in NSCs was significantly elevated and the cell membrane was damaged, causing the release of intracellular lactate dehydrogenase (p < 0.05). The comet experiment and γ-H2AX immunofluorescence assay showed that AFB1 caused significant DNA damage to NSCs (p < 0.05). This study provided a new model for the toxicological evaluation of the effect of food mycotoxin exposure during pregnancy on fetal neurodevelopment.
Pre-Main Sequence Ap Star LkHα 324/B in LDN 988 Star Forming Region
Authors: Potravnov Ilya , Ryabchikova Tatiana , Artemenko Svetlana , Eselevich Maxim
Published: April 2023

We present results of the investigation of the star LkHα 324/B, which belongs to the starforming dark cloud LDN 988. Based on high resolution spectroscopy, we determined its fundamental parameters as Teff=11,175±130 K, log(L*/L⊙)=1.87±0.07. According to these parameters, we found that LkHα 324/B is a pre-main sequence star with mass M≈3M⊙ and age t≈2.9 Myr. Recently, it underwent the phase of actively accreting the Herbig Ae/Be star, but accretion has now ceased in the LkHα 324/B system. This is consistent with the fact that the star is surrounded by a circumstellar disk with an inner cavity, as was determined from its spectral energy distribution. Our analysis revealed the peculiar abundance pattern of LkHα 324/B typical to those of magnetic Ap stars. It possesses mild underabundance of the light elements and excess up to ∼2–4 dex (in comparison to the Sun) of the iron peak and rare earth elements. We found no evidence for abrupt vertical abundances gradients in the lines forming the region of the LkHα 324/B atmosphere, in agreement with the results of the theoretical diffusion calculations in this temperature domain. From the intensification of the magnetically sensitive lines, we deduced that LkHα 324/B probably hosts a global magnetic field of ⟨B⟩≈3.5 kG strength. We suppose that the stabilizing role of this field favored the elements’ separation by diffusion before the star reached the main sequence.
Evaluation and Determination of a Suitable Passage Number of Codon Pair Deoptimized PRRSV-1 Vaccine Candidate in Pigs
Authors: Lee Min-A , You Su-Hwa , Jayaramaiah Usharani , Shin Eun-Gyeong , Song Seung-Min , Ju Lanjeong , Kang Seok-Jin , Cho Sun-Hee , Hyun Bang-Hun , Lee Hyang-Sim
Published: April 2023

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is major economic problem given its effects on swine health and productivity. Therefore, we evaluated the genetic stability of a codon pair de-optimized (CPD) PRRSV, E38-ORF7 CPD, as well as the master seed passage threshold that elicited an effective immune response in pigs against heterologous virus challenge. The genetic stability and immune response of every 10th passage (out of 40) of E38-ORF7 CPD was analyzed through whole genome sequencing and inoculation in 3-week-old pigs. E38-ORF7 CPD passages were limited to 20 based on the full-length mutation analysis and animal test results. After 20 passages, the virus could not induce antibodies to provide effective immunity and mutations accumulated in the gene, which differed from the CPD gene, presenting a reason for low infectivity. Conclusively, the optimal passage number of E38-ORF7 CPD is 20. As a vaccine, this may help overcome the highly diverse PRRSV infection with substantially enhanced genetic stability.
The Intersection of COVID-19 and Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease: An Overview of the Current Evidence
Authors: Buchynskyi Mykhailo , Kamyshna Iryna , Oksenych Valentyn , Zavidniuk Nataliia , Kamyshnyi Aleksandr
Published: April 2023

The global population is currently experiencing the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, which has caused the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. With our profound comprehension of COVID-19, encompassing the involvement sequence of the respiratory tract, gastrointestinal system, and cardiovascular apparatus, the multiorgan symptoms of this infectious disease have been discerned. Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is a pervasive public health concern intricately linked with metabolic dysregulation and estimated to afflict one-fourth of the global adult population. The burgeoning focus on the association between COVID-19 and MAFLD is justified by the potential role of the latter as a risk factor for both SARS-CoV-2 infection and the subsequent emergence of severe COVID-19 symptoms. Investigations have suggested that changes in both innate and adaptive immune responses among MAFLD patients may play a role in determining the severity of COVID-19. The remarkable similarities observed in the cytokine pathways implicated in both diseases imply the existence of shared mechanisms governing the chronic inflammatory responses characterizing these conditions. The effect of MAFLD on the severity of COVID-19 illness remains uncertain, as indicated by conflicting results in cohort investigations.
Genetic Diversity and Dispersal of DENGUE Virus among Three Main Island Groups of the Philippines during 2015–2017
Authors: Sy Ava Kristy , Koo Carmen , Privaldos Kristine J. R. , Quinones Mary Ann T. , Igoy Mary A. U. , Villanueva Sharon Y. A. M. , Hibberd Martin L. , Ng Lee Ching , Hapuarachchi Hapuarachchige C.
Published: April 2023

Dengue has been one of the major public health concerns in the Philippines for more than a century. The annual dengue case burden has been increasing in recent years, exceeding 200,000 in 2015 and 2019. However, there is limited information on the molecular epidemiology of dengue in the Philippines. We, therefore, conducted a study to understand the genetic composition and dispersal of DENV in the Philippines from 2015 to 2017 under UNITEDengue. Our analyses included 377 envelope (E) gene sequences of all 4 serotypes obtained from infections in 3 main island groups (Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao) of the Philippines. The findings showed that the overall diversity of DENV was generally low. DENV-1 was relatively more diverse than the other serotypes. Virus dispersal was evident among the three main island groups, but each island group demonstrated a distinct genotype composition. These observations suggested that the intensity of virus dispersal was not substantive enough to maintain a uniform heterogeneity among island groups so that each island group behaved as an independent epidemiological unit. The analyses suggested Luzon as one of the major sources of DENV emergence and CAR, Calabarzon, and CARAGA as important hubs of virus dispersal in the Philippines. Our findings highlight the importance of virus surveillance and molecular epidemiological analyses to gain deep insights into virus diversity, lineage dominance, and dispersal patterns that could assist in understanding the epidemiology and transmission risk of dengue in endemic regions.
Treatment Options for Hepatitis A and E: A Non-Systematic Review
Authors: Gabrielli Filippo , Alberti Francesco , Russo Cristina , Cursaro Carmela , Seferi Hajrie , Margotti Marzia , Andreone Pietro
Published: April 2023

Hepatitis A and hepatitis E are relatively common causes of liver disease. Both viruses are mainly transmitted through the faecal–oral route and, consequently, most outbreaks occur in countries with poor sanitation. An important role of the immune response as the driver of liver injury is also shared by the two pathogens. For both the hepatitis A (HAV) and hepatitis E (HEV) viruses, the clinical manifestations of infection mainly consist of an acute disease with mild liver injury, which results in clinical and laboratory alterations that are self-limiting in most cases. However, severe acute disease or chronic, long-lasting manifestations may occur in vulnerable patients, such as pregnant women, immunocompromised individuals or those with pre-existing liver disease. Specifically, HAV infection rarely results in fulminant hepatitis, prolonged cholestasis, relapsing hepatitis and possibly autoimmune hepatitis triggered by the viral infection. Less common manifestations of HEV include extrahepatic disease, acute liver failure and chronic HEV infection with persistent viraemia. In this paper, we conduct a non-systematic review of the available literature to provide a comprehensive understanding of the state of the art. Treatment mainly consists of supportive measures, while the available evidence for aetiological treatment and additional agents in severe disease is limited in quantity and quality. However, several therapeutic approaches have been attempted: for HAV infection, corticosteroid therapy has shown outcome improvement, and molecules, such as AZD 1480, zinc chloride and heme oxygenase-1, have demonstrated a reduction in viral replication in vitro. As for HEV infection, therapeutic options mainly rely on the use of ribavirin, and some studies utilising pegylated interferon-alpha have shown conflicting results. While a vaccine for HAV is already available and has led to a significant reduction in the prevalence of the disease, several vaccines for HEV are currently being developed, with some already available in China, showing promising results.
Targeting the Host Mitochondria as a Novel Human Cytomegalovirus Antiviral Strategy
Authors: Bachman Lauryn O. , Zwezdaryk Kevin J.
Published: April 2023

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) exploits host mitochondrial function to promote viral replication. HCMV gene products have been described to directly interact and alter functional or structural aspects of host mitochondria. Current antivirals against HCMV, such as ganciclovir and letermovir, are designed against viral targets. Concerns with the current antivirals include toxicity and viral resistance. Targeting host mitochondrial function is a promising alternative or complimentary antiviral approach as (1) drugs targeting host mitochondrial function interact with host targets, minimizing viral resistance, and (2) host mitochondrial metabolism plays key roles in HCMV replication. This review describes how HCMV alters mitochondrial function and highlights pharmacological targets that can be exploited for novel antiviral development.
Molecular Screening of Echinococcus spp. and Other Cestodes in Wild Carnivores from Central Italy
Authors: Crotti Silvia , Brustenga Leonardo , Cruciani Deborah , Bonelli Piero , D’Avino Nicoletta , Felici Andrea , Morandi Benedetto , Sebastiani Carla , Spina Sara , Gobbi Marco
Published: April 2023

Tapeworm infections are among the most relevant parasitic diseases in humans and animals. Tapeworms from the Genus Echinococcus are particularly important as they can cause cystic or alveolar echinococcosis. A molecular screening was performed on 279 fecal samples collected from carcasses of wild carnivores from Central Italy using PCR targeting diagnostic fragments of nad1, rrnS, and nad5 genes. Samples positive for either Taenia spp. or Echinococcus granulosus were sequenced to taxonomically identify the parasitic DNA. Of the 279 samples, 134 (48.0%) gave positive results in the multiplex PCR. Only one (0.4%) sample from an Apennine wolf tested positive for Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto (genotype G3), whereas no sample tested positive for E. multilocularis. The most frequently detected tapeworms were: Mesocestoides corti (syn M. vogae) (12.9%), M. litteratus (10.8%), Taenia serialis (9.3%), and T. hydatigena (6.5%), other tapeworms were rarely detected. The results suggest that Echinococcus infections in Central Italy do not seem to be sustained by sylvatic cycles, confirming the absence of E. multilocularis in Central Italy. The survey corroborates, yet again, the importance of passive surveillance of wild animals that can serve as reservoirs for zoonotic pathogens, especially on wild canids that in other areas are strongly implicated in the transmission of E. granulosus and E. multilocularis.
New Records of Tetraselmis sp. Strains with Biotechnological Potential Isolated from Greek Coastal Lagoons
Authors: Ntzouvaras Alexandros , Chantzistrountsiou Xanthi , Papageorgiou Niki , Koletti Aikaterini , Adamakis Ioannis-Dimosthenis , Zografaki Maria-Eleftheria , Marka Sofia , Vasilakis Gabriel , Tsirigoti Amerssa , Tzovenis Ioannis , Flemetakis Emmanouil , Economou-Amilli Athena
Published: April 2023

In the pursuit of sustainable sources for food, energy, and health products, microalgae have gained attention. In the present study, the lagoonal system of the Nestos River delta was selected as a sampling point in order to search for opportunistic and robust species. Two new strains of Tetraselmis are described with regards to their taxonomic features (as observed using light and transmission electron microscopy and molecular phylogenetics) and their biochemical properties (total lipid, total protein, and total carbohydrate content, photosynthetic pigments, and antioxidant capacity). The studied strains were identified as representatives of Tetraselmis verrucosa f. rubens. Furthermore, both strains exhibited an interesting biochemical profile coupled with high growth rates and promising antioxidant activity, without the use of enhancement and induction culture methods, warranting further investigation and showing potential for biotechnological use.
An Explicit Solution for Characterizing Non-Fickian Solute Transport in Natural Streams
Authors: Kim Byunguk , Kwon Siyoon , Seo Il Won
Published: April 2023

One-dimensional solute transport modeling is fundamental to enhance understanding of river mixing mechanisms, and is useful in predicting solute concentration variation and fate in rivers. Motivated by the need of more adaptive and efficient model, an exact and efficient solution for simulating breakthrough curves that vary with non-Fickian transport in natural streams was presented, which was based on an existing implicit advection-dispersion equation that incorporates the storage effect. The solution for the Gaussian approximation with a shape-free boundary condition was derived using a routing procedure, and the storage effect was incorporated using a stochastic concept with a memory function. The proposed solution was validated by comparison with analytical and numerical solutions, and the results were efficient and exact. Its performance in simulating non-Fickian transport in streams was validated using field tracer data, and good agreement was achieved with 0.990 of R2. Despite the accurate reproduction of the overall breakthrough curves, considerable errors in their late-time behaviors were found depending upon the memory function formulae. One of the key results was that the proper formula for the memory function is inconsistent according to the data and optimal parameters. Therefore, to gain a deeper understanding of non-Fickian transport in natural streams, identifying the true memory function from the tracer data is required.
Mapping Hydrogeological Structures Using Transient Electromagnetic Method: A Case Study of the Choushui River Alluvial Fan in Yunlin, Taiwan
Authors: Kassie Lingerew Nebere , Chang Ping-Yu , Zeng Jun-Ru , Huang Hsin-Hua , Chen Chow-Son , Doyoro Yonatan Garkebo , Lin Ding-Jiun , Puntu Jordi Mahardika , Amania Haiyina Hasbia
Published: April 2023

We used transient electromagnetic (TEM) to map the hydrogeological structures in the Choushui River Alluvial Fan in Yunlin County of central Taiwan. A total of 63 TEM measurements were collected using the FASTSNAP system with 50 × 50 m in-loop configurations in the middle and distal fan. The 1D model, based on prior information, was constructed from the inverted soundings. Results showed a thin, resistive shallow layer and a 40 m low-resistive (6–42 ohm-m) zone beneath it. High-resistive zones (50–170 ohm-m) were found from 50–120 m depth, and low-resistive zones were revealed below 120 m in some areas. Results were consistent with resistivity and lithology logs from nearby wells. The inverted TEM models provide reliable subsurface information when prior informations of vertical electrical sounding and TEM were considered. We interpolated resistivity at 10 m, 50 m, 100 m, and 160 m depth from the 1D model results to produce a slice map of the area, which indicated variations, trends, and depths of the sediment deposits. The TEM method successfully identified the hydrogeological structures, showing that the upper 40 m of sediment acts as a confining layer for the aquifer structure from 50 m to 120 m depth.
Recirculating Water through Concrete Aggregates Rapidly Produced Ecologically Hazardous Water Quality
Authors: Wright Ian A. , Nettle Holly , Franklin Michael J. M. , Reynolds Jason K.
Published: April 2023

The use of recycled concrete aggregates as a construction material is growing and this study was conducted to investigate the potential water quality issues that arise when concrete aggregates are exposed to water. The water used in the study was from a high-conservation-value wetland. It was dilute (17.8 µS cm−1), acidic (pH 5.97) and poorly buffered. The ionic composition comprised sodium, bicarbonate and chloride ions. Water was recirculated for 60 min through a control treatment and three treatments containing recycled concrete aggregates (RCAs) of different fragment sizes (10 mm, 20 mm and 60 mm). The fragment size influenced the final water quality, but the response patterns varied between the attributes tested. Post-recirculation, the RCA treatments increased the electrical conductivity by 6 to 12 times; pH by 2.3 to 3.8 pH units; and concentrations of calcium, potassium, bicarbonate and sulphate. The water exposed to RCA materials also increased the concentrations of several metals (aluminium, arsenic, copper, lead and zinc), resulting in hazardous concentrations for aquatic species according to ecological water quality guidelines. Strontium concentrations in water exposed to RCAs increased by 30 to 120 times background levels. The results from this study added further support to a growing body of evidence that the exposure of concrete materials to water can produce environmentally hazardous water quality.
The Use of Mixed Composed Amendments to Improve Soil Water Content and Peach Growth (Prunus persica (L.) Batsch) in a Mediterranean Environment
Authors: Cappelluti Onofrio , Bruno Maria Roberta , Modugno Anna Francesca , Ferrara Rossana Monica , Gaeta Liliana , De Carolis Gabriele , Campi Pasquale
Published: April 2023

Reduction of water availability imposes the agronomic issues of increasing the storage capacity of the soil and improving the use of rainwater or irrigation water. A field experiment in 2021 was conducted in a 5-year-old peach orchard in a Mediterranean environment to study the effect of mixed composed amendments (ACM), applied in different amounts, on the dynamics of soil water status. Water balance was monitored during the peach vegetative reproductive cycle on a daily scale. Three treatments of mixed composed amendments (ACM) were compared: A0, control; A1, with amendment (10 t ha−1); and A2, with half dose of amendment (5 t ha−1). On a seasonal scale, soil water content increased by 27% and 33% in A1 and A2 compared to A0, while relative extractable water varied between 0.41 (A0) and 0.65 (A1 and A2). Both soil water balance indicators show that storage capacity increases with the addition of amendment. Improved soil storage capacity was associated with higher values of stem water potential (throughout the growing season) and stomatal conductance (at the end of the season). Shoot and fruit growth observations were consistent with soil water content dynamics.
Sodium Alginate-Based Composite Films for Effective Removal of Congo Red and Coralene Dark Red 2B Dyes: Kinetic, Isotherm and Thermodynamic Analysis
Authors: Mokeddem Amina , Benykhlef Samir , Bendaoudi Amine Ahmed , Boudouaia Nacer , Mahmoudi Hacene , Bengharez Zohra , Topel Seda Demirel , Topel Önder
Published: April 2023

The present study aimed to investigate the adsorption capacity of two anionic dyes, namely, Congored (CR) and Coralene Dark Red2B (DR), onto prepared alginate (Alg) and chitosan(Cs) biopolymer films. The two biopolymers were combined at different mass ratios using a “solvent-cast” process to incorporate their unique properties and evaluate their effectiveness in removing the dyes. All samples were characterized by means of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and determination of point of zero charge (pHpzc). The swelling ratios were determined by gravimetric measurements. The effects of pH, adsorption time, thickness, temperature and initial concentration of CR and DR dyes on the adsorption results were studied systematically. The dye adsorption kinetics showed that the Alg/Cs films at % proportions of 75/25, 50/50, 25/75 and 0/100 reached equilibrium from 30 min to 180 min with high removal efficiencies that varied between 222.30 mg/g and 842.36 mg/g. The adsorption mechanism of CR and DR onto the synthesized biofilms was confirmed through Langmuir isotherm and the kinetics fitted well by the pseudo-second-order model, suggesting a monolayer and chemisorption process. The thermodynamic results demonstrated the spontaneity and the feasibility of the process as well as the exothermic nature. Hence, the findings revealed that the Alg/Cs biofilms could be employed as potential natural adsorbents for the removal of anionic dye pollutants from aqueous environments.
Partial Nitrification Characteristics of an Immobilized Carrier in Municipal Wastewater under Low-Temperature Shock: The Role of the Nitrifying Bacterial Community Structure
Authors: Wang Jiawei , Yang Lixinrui , Zhang Yan , Zhang Haiping , Liu Jiaju
Published: April 2023

To analyze the effects of the nitrifying bacterial community structure on the partial nitrification (PN) characteristics in a PN-immobilized carrier in municipal wastewater under low-temperature shock, two PN-immobilized carriers with different nitrifying bacterial communities were investigated. The E1-immobilized carrier contained a high abundance of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB; 38.59%), and the E2-immobilized carrier had a low AOB abundance of 4.78%. The results of experiments with different dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations showed that the oxygen-limited environment inside the immobilized carrier, generated by the high AOB abundance, was critical for achieving PN. The nitrite accumulation rate (NAR) decreased from 90.0–93.9% to 84.2–88.3% for the E1-immobilized carrier and from 86.0–90.4% to 81.7–85.8% for the E2-immobilized carrier under low-temperature shock (the temperature suddenly decreased from 25 ± 1 °C to 15 ± 1 °C). The decrease in the ammonia oxidation rate due to the decreased AOB activity led to a decrease in NAR. Moreover, NOB abundance in the E2-immobilized carrier increased because of the destruction of the oxygen-limiting region in the immobilized carrier due to the low AOB abundance. Increasing the abundance of AOB in the PN-immobilized carrier could reduce the adverse effects from the low-temperature shock. The results of this study can be used to further develop immobilization technology for efficient PN in mainstream wastewater treatment.
Correction: Ricciardi et al. Microplastics in the Aquatic Environment: Occurrence, Persistence, Analysis, and Human Exposure. Water 2021, 13, 973
Authors: Ricciardi Maria , Pironti Concetta , Motta Oriana , Miele Ylenia , Proto Antonio , Montano Luigi
Published: April 2023

The original publication [...]
Spatiotemporal Variation Characteristics of Droughts and Their Connection to Climate Variability and Human Activity in the Pearl River Basin, South China
Authors: Cui Lilu , Chen Xiusheng , An Jiachun , Yao Chaolong , Su Yong , Zhu Chengkang , Li Yu
Published: April 2023

Droughts have damaging impacts on human society and ecological environments. Therefore, studying the impacts of climate variability and human activity on droughts has very important scientific value and social significance in order to understand drought warnings and weaken the adverse impacts of droughts. In this study, we used a combined drought index based on five Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) and GRACE Follow-On solutions to characterize droughts in the Pearl River basin (PRB) and its sub-basins during 2003 and 2020. Then, we accurately quantified the impact of climate variability and human activity on droughts in the PRB and seven sub-basins by combining the hydrometeorological climate index and in situ human activity data. The results show that 14 droughts were identified in the PRB, particularly the North River basin with the most drought months (52.78%). The El Niño-Southern Oscillation and the Indian Ocean Dipole were found to have important impacts on droughts in the PRB. They affect the operation of the atmospheric circulation, as well as the East Asia summer monsoon, resulting in a decrease in precipitation in the PRB. This impact shows a significant east–west difference on the spatial scale. The middle and upper reaches of the PRB were found to be dominated by SM, while the lower reaches were found to be dominated by GW. Human activity was found to mainly exacerbate droughts in the PRB, but also plays a significant role in reducing peak magnitude. The sub-basins with a higher proportion of total water consumption experienced more droughts (more than 11), and vice versa. The Pearl River Delta showed the highest drought intensification. Reservoir storage significantly reduces the drought peak and severity, but the impact effect depends on its application and balance with the total water consumption. Our study provides a reference for analyzing the drought characteristics, causes, and impacts of sub-basins on a global scale.
Evolution of Hydro-Technologies and Relevant Associations Focusing on Hellenic World
Authors: Angelakis Andreas N. , Margeta Jure , Salgot Miquel , Zheng Xiao-Yun
Published: April 2023

Hydro-technologies, and especially the need for developing drinking water treatments, have been known since the ancient times. Water supply treatment devices were developed even during prehistoric times but were especially improved during the Classical and Hellenistic periods. Nevertheless, after several centuries, particularly during the last two, intensive and effective efforts have been made all over the world to obtain sufficient amounts of water with the necessary quality to improve the quality of life and health of humankind. As a result, life expectancy has globally increased at unprecedented rates, especially in the developed world. This paper represents an effort to study the relationship between water history, the development of water-related technologies, and the health and quality of ecosystems, especially those affecting human beings. Thus, it should be pointed out that: The history of water is equivalent to the history of the world, and the history of water quality is equivalent to the history of quality of life (Andreas N. Angelakis).
Effect of Environmental Factors on Nitrite Nitrogen Absorption in Microalgae–Bacteria Consortia of Oocystis borgei and Rhodopseudomonas palustris
Authors: Ma Yukun , Luo Zhishen , Zhong Jiazhan , Zhang Hanyi , Huang Xianghu , Li Changling , Zhang Yulei
Published: April 2023

The effects of temperature, salinity, and illumination on the nitrite uptake rate of the microalgae–bacteria consortia of Oocystis borgei and Rhodopseudomonas palustris were investigated. The absorption rates of nitrite and the contribution rate of each component in the consortia under different temperatures (15, 20, 25, 30, 35 °C), illuminations (0, 15, 25, 35, 45 μmol·m−2·s−1), and salinities (0, 5, 15, 25, 35‰) were determined by stable isotope labeling technique. The single and combined effects of three environmental factors on nitrite uptake by the microalgae–bacteria consortia were analyzed using single-factor and orthogonal experiments. The single-factor experiment showed that the microalgae–bacteria consortia could absorb nitrite efficiently when the temperature, salinity, and illumination were 20~30 °C, 0~15‰, and 25~45 μmol·m−2·s−1, respectively, with the highest absorption rates were 2.086, 3.058, and 2.319 μg∙g−1∙h−1, respectively. The orthogonal experiment showed that the most efficient environmental conditions for nitrite uptake were 30 °C, 5‰ salinity, 35 μmol·m−2·s−1 illumination, and the rate of nitrite uptake by the microalgae–bacteria consortia was 3.204 μg∙g−1∙h−1. The results showed that the nitrite uptake rate of the O. borgei–R. palustris consortia was most affected by temperature, followed by salinity, and least by illumination. Under the same conditions, the nitrite absorption capacity of the microalgae–bacteria consortia was greater than that of single bacteria or algae, and R. palustris played a major role in the nitrite absorption of the consortia. The O. borgei and R. palustris consortia still maintain high nitrite absorption efficiency when the environment changes greatly, which has broad application prospects in the regulation and improvement of water quality in shrimp culture.
Wind Speed Forecast for Sudan Using the Two-Parameter Weibull Distribution: The Case of Khartoum City
Authors: Younis Abubaker , Elshiekh Hazim , Osama Duaa , Shaikh-Eldeen Gamar , Elamir Amin , Yassin Yassir , Omer Ali , Biraima Elfadil
Published: April 2023

In this quick study, we estimated the Weibull distribution’s parameters using wind data collected between March 2017 and January 2018 using a twelve-meter mast meteorological station on the grounds of the National Energy Research Center in Khartoum. In order to quantify these descriptors, we relied on analytical and stochastic methods, subsequently enabling specialists from researchers, engineers, decision-makers, and policymakers to apprehend the wind characteristics in the vicinity. Hence, the computed scale and shape parameters were provided, in which the Firefly algorithm (FA) resulted in the most accuracy in terms of the coefficient of determination, which equaled 0.999, which we considered logical due to the observed nonlinearity in the wind speed numbers. On the contrary, the energy pattern factor method had the worst prediction capability depending on several goodness-of-fit metrics. This concise work is unique because it is the first to use data from Sudan to forecast local wind speeds using artificial intelligence algorithms, particularly the FA technique, which is widely used in solar photovoltaic modeling. Additionally, since classic estimating approaches act differently spatially, evaluating their efficacy becomes innovative, which was accomplished here. On a similar note, a weighted-average wind speed was found to equal 4.98 m/s and the FA average wind speed was 3.73 m/s, while the rose diagram indicated that most winds with potential energy equivalent to 3 m/s or more blow from the north.
Pathogenesis of nitrosative stress and approaches to modulation of NO levels in organs and tissues
Authors:   North-Western State Medical University named after I. I. Mechnikov (St. Petersburg, Russia), Dadali V. A.
Published: April 2023

The pathogenesis of nitrosative stress and approaches to the modulation of NO levels in organs and tissues are considered. Nitrosative stress occurs with the participation of the NO molecule in situations where the formation of reactive nitrogen species exceeds the ability of the biological system to neutralize and eliminate them. Nitrosative stress can lead to nitrosation, and, accordingly, changes in the structures of various proteins and inhibition of their biological functions.
Hemobiochemical profile and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome: a paradigm for objective assessment of small bowel fistula treatment
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «Yaroslavl State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation», Yaroslavl, Russia, Larichev A. B. , Efremov K. N. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «Yaroslavl State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation», Yaroslavl, Russia, Kuzmin V. S. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «Yaroslavl State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation», Yaroslavl, Russia, Chetverov M. G. ,   State Budgetary Healthcare Institution of the Yaroslavl Region «Clinical Hospital named after N. A. Semashko», Yaroslavl, Russia
Published: April 2023

When organizing the treatment process for small bowel fistula, timely diagnosis of significant pathophysiological changes arising from intra-abdominal complications is relevant. We studied the results of the treatment of 41 patients with an unformed small bowel fistula, caused by the failure of the intestinal suture placed in connection with the violation of the integrity of the enteral wall in technically difficult viscerolysis,against the background of diffuse peritonitis, as well as the suture failure after bowel resection in open and closed abdominal trauma and in a strangulated hernia. At three stages of the study (initial — 1–2, intermediate — 5–7, and final — 28 days from the start of treatment), the functional state of vital organs and systems and electrolyte imbalance were assessed by monitoring 10 biochemical blood parameters (total protein and bilirubin, alkaline phosphomonoesterase, alanine and aspartate aminotransferase, urea,creatinine, glucose, amylase and potassium), thereby objectifying the nature of multiple organ dysfunction in its three-stage gradation. It has been found that in the presence of an unformed small bowel fistula at the time of its occurrence, there are multisystem disorders of varying severity. Against the background of the traditional complex of therapeutic measures, including conservative treatment and surgical technologies, there are changes in the evaluated criteria, which become especially clear within the framework of the concept of hemobiochemical profile in its graphical presentation. At the final time interval of follow-up, a third of patients have a critical level of the main clinical and laboratory parameters, including hemobiochemical parameters. Preservation of severe forms of multiple organ dysfunction — sub- and decompensation (from 47 to 69 % of patients), in the process of implementing a three-stage follow-up model, as well as a high level of mortality (41.46 %) indicate the low effectiveness of traditional tactics for the treatment of an unformed small bowel fistula.
Transformation of priorities in the social security of medical workers: a note to the accountant
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Russian Economic University named after G. Plekhanov”, Ministry of Science and Education of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, Lebedev V.A. , Lebedeva E.I. ,   Non-profit Partnership “Institute of Professional Accountants and Auditors of Russia”, Moscow, Russia
Published: April 2023

The novelties of legislation in force since January 1, 2023, provided for by the decree of the Government of the Russian Federation “On additional state social support for medical workers of medical organizations included in the state and municipal health care systems and participating in the basic program of compulsory medical insurance or territorial programs of compulsory medical insurance” are considered. The analysis of the development of legislation regulating the remuneration of public sector employees, including differentiated approaches to remuneration and social support for certain categories of medical workers, which is due to the need to consolidate the scarce staff of doctors, specialists with secondary medical education and junior medical personnel in primary health care, including in rural areas, in the emergency care system.
CADEIA DE SUPRIMENTOS INTELIGENTE: ESTUDO DE CASO EM UMA EMPRESA DO SUBSETOR DE CONCENTRADOS PARA BEBIDAS NÃO ALCOÓLICAS DO POLO INDUSTRIAL DE MANAUS
Authors: MARISTELA REIS MORAES MIRIAM , ARAÚJO DE SOUZA JÚNIOR ARMANDO
Published: April 2023

At the present time, industries are experiencing digital transformation with the advent of the 4th Industrial Revolution, also called Industry 4.0. Although Industry 4.0 started as an industrial policy, the new technologies of Industry 4.0 can be implemented in a practical way to create different solutions to the needs of companies. In this way, Industry 4.0 is considered as a new stage of maturity for companies. In this sense, this work has as main objective the measurement of the level of maturity in relation to Industry 4.0 technologies in the supply chain of a company. For that, a case study was carried out in a factory, in the subsector of concentrates for non-alcoholic beverages, in the Industrial Pole of Manaus. This is a quantitative-qualitative and descriptive research. At first, some maturity models were identified, where specific models for the intelligent supply chain were found. Being chosen, for application in the case study, the Maturity Model for Logistics 4.0, based on 07 dimensions proposed by Facchini (2020). The selected model focuses on identifying the company's maturity level in the implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies in its logistics processes. The result of applying the chosen model indicated strong integration between the management, material flow and information flow of the participating company and pointed out implemented advanced solutions that improved the entire supply network (inbound logistics) and distribution (outbound logistics), being observed potential points of improvement in its operations with regard to the transition to Logistics 4.0. The evaluation of the result obtained with the scale of the model showed the level of maturity Managing for the dimensions Employees, IT Systems, Intelligent Products and Technologies; and level of maturity Adopting for the dimensions, Knowledge, Strategy and Leadership and Intelligent Warehouses, in relation to Intelligent Logistics. The study reflected the actions under development and ongoing investments in the participating company, in the quest to achieve intelligence in Supply Chain Management.
Response Words of Evaluation in Modern English: Functional Aspect
Authors: Solovyova L.
Published: April 2023

The article focuses on investigating the categorial features of the units belonging to functional-semantic class of response words of evaluation that express positive and negative axiological categories in Modern English. The linguistic status of response words is defined. Response words are viewed in the article as the units of communication which form the reaction to the words of the interlocutor or the situation itself. They comprise one-word or above-word ones which express agreement or disagreement with the communicant’s point of view and the variety of positive and negative emotions such as joy, delight, contempt, despair. The article deals with the structure of the functional field of the response words, the nucleus of which is comprised by interjections. The specific character of interjections is the ability to perform an expressive function and serve for the direct manifestation of feelings and volitional intentions. The modal-evaluative response words adjacent to the nucleus of the functional field are taken into account. Above-word response words as peripheral structures of the field are described. Response words with the sentence structure occupying the extreme periphery of the field are investigated. Idiomatic response words and non- idiomatic response words as the constituents of idiomatic and non-idiomatic zones of the functional-semantic field are specified. The further perspective of the research lies in determining the cognitive-pragmatic characteristics of axiological units. Linguo-cultural and ethnolinguistic peculiarities of axiological nominations may be identified. The changes of stereotypes in the English-speaking linguo-cultural community may be singled out.
Persuasive vs Manipulative Functions of Metacommunication
Authors: Gnezdilova Ya.
Published: April 2023

The article deals with rather a discursive notion of metacommunication and the functions it plays in verbal interaction. Verbal communication with the exchange of cognitive meaningful information presupposes the existence of metacommunication, that is, the use of language means for the regulation of that exchange. Metacommunication is realized via special language means, e.g., speech stereotypes; it is conventionalized, ritualized, and dominant here is social and regulative information. Yet, regulative function is also true for manipulation where its role lies not in the establishing and maintaining contact between the interlocutors, but in hidden intentions of the speaker and his / her speech actions which make the hearer do what the speaker needs. Special attention is also paid to the differentiation of such similar notions as 'influence', 'persuasion' and 'manipulation'. Thus, manipulation is not generally viewed as synonymous to psychological influence as it cannot be unilateral and is realized in interaction only. However, manipulation is stated to be a form of persuasion (but with passive recipients). The scope of this research focuses on the use of metacommunication in persuasive and manipulative contexts which is illustrated by the discourse fragments selected from a movie "Wedding crashers". The results obtained prove that metacommunication can function as a tool of manipulation and as a perfect 'veil' in situations where one prefers to distract hearer’s attention and conceal his / her true intentions, yet preserving good relationships and positive emotional feedback from the interlocutor.
Design and Domestic Narratives
Authors:   University at Buffalo, Jamrozik Julia
Published: April 2023

Referencing Gaston Bachelard, Clare Cooper Marcus and Rachel Sebba and their writings related to children and domesticity, this paper elaborates on the themes of experience and memory and their relationships to design. It is based on two projects undertaken by the author in collaboration with Coryn Kempster: the research project “Growing up Modern” and the design project “Sky House.” Using a methodology based on oral history, “Growing up Modern” comprises conversations with children, now senior citizens, who were the first to inhabit Modernist houses and housing, and photo¬graphic documentation of the iconic homes themselves. The study discovered patterns of living and occupation as well as memories of spatial arrangements and idiosyncratic details. Influenced by the focus of this study was the subsequent design of “Sky House.” The project is rooted in a desire to accommodate and elicit personal domestic narratives through specificity as much as it is driven by more conventional architectural preoccupations such as careful understanding of the site, and associated massing, programmatic, environmental and material strategies. Foregrounding personal narratives of inhabitation, the paper explores the relationship between research and design in architectural scholarship and practice, and the links possible between historical analysis and con-temporary application.
UPDATE STATUS DAN NAMA FACEBOOK DENGAN PERILAKU NARSISTIK
Authors: Ummah Wakhiatul , Kelly Estalita
Published: April 2023

The development of increasingly sophisticated telecommunication equipment so that many people who utilize modern telecommunications facilities such as internet. One of the most popular sites is Facebook. People use Facebook to show the activities performed to be seen by others. The facebook users who write down all activities without a specific intention to deliberately to gain the attention of others. The purpose of this study to determine the relationship between status updates and the facebook account with attention seeking behavior called narcissistic behavior. The subjects used are facebook users as many as 100 people. Narcissistic behavior is measured using a narcissistic behavior scale. The result of the research is there is a significant relationship between status updates and name of facebook with narcissistic behavior (rx1x2y = 0,225 with rtable 1% = 0,256 and rtable5% = 0,195).
Sex Categories in Healthcare Contexts―A Consequentialist Analysis1
Authors: Boxall Susanna Flavia , Cox-White Becky
Published: April 2023

We offer a consequentialist-based rejection of a recent argument claiming that patients should no longer be required to specify a sex category (i.e., mark “male” or “female”) on healthcare forms. The targeted argument—based on claims that non-binary and transgender patients experience negative consequences when asked to choose a sex category—fails because (1) no data are provided to support this claim; (2) the broader consequences of removing this information have not been considered; and (3) eliminating the sex category question is unlikely to solve the problems identified.
Why Shouldn’t Race Be a Costume?―A (Qualified) Defense of Wearing Cross-Racial Make-Up During Halloween
Authors: de Vries Bouke
Published: April 2023

Over the past decade, many politicians and celebrities in North America have found themselves embroiled in scandals that involved them having worn black make-up and in at least one incident white make-up. In most of these cases, the used make-up was part of a costume for Halloween, Purim, Carnival, or a themed party. This article challenges the view that wearing cross-racial make-up on such occasions as part of personal costumes—as opposed to costumes that are integral to specific cultural traditions, such as the New Orleans Zulu parade—is always wrong. To do so, it assesses the five most promising objections to this practice. Although some of these objections count against certain uses of cross-racial make-up, I show that in several high-profile cases where such make-up was worn, none of them had force, whether because the objections themselves were implausible and/or because they did not apply.