Coordination Unit Research Articles

One Health Best Practice Case Study: Advancing National One Health Coordination in the United States through the One Health Zoonotic Disease Prioritization Process

Abstract The U.S. government advances One Health coordination through the best practices of jointly developing shared priorities and utilizing formalized coordination platforms to connect partners from public health, agriculture, wildlife, environment, and other sectors at the national, subnational (e.g. state, tribal, local, and territorial), and non-governmental levels (e.g. academia, industry, non-governmental organizations, and the public) levels. Coordinated efforts were strengthened through the U.S. One Health Zoonotic Disease Prioritization (OHZDP) workshop in 2017, which led to the prioritization of eight zoonotic diseases and development of next steps and action plans for One Health collaboration across federal agencies (Prioritizing Zoonotic Diseases for Multisectoral, One Health Collaboration in the United States, 2017). This One Health best practice was used to prioritize the top endemic and emerging zoonoses of greatest concern for the United States, identify gaps, and define plans for U.S. government One Health collaboration to address the priority zoonotic diseases. Multiple actions that strengthened One Health coordination were enacted, including establishing the One Health Federal Interagency COVID-19 Coordination (OH-FICC) group. To further advance One Health in the United States, Congress mandated that the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Department of the Interior, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture collaborate to develop the National One Health Framework to Address Zoonotic Diseases and Advance Public Health Preparedness in the United States as well as formalize a One Health, multisectoral coordination mechanism, the United States One Health Coordination Unit at the federal level (Appropriations Committee Report, 2021; Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023). Enhancing national level One Health coordination in the United States has also helped advance collaboration with subnational and non-governmental levels to address timely One Health issues. Information © The Authors 2024. Open Access. This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

Quantifying Genetic Diversity Based on Morphological and Molecular Analysis in Pearl millet [<i>Pennisetum glaucum</i> (L.) R. Br.] Inbred Lines

The experiment was carried out with thirty pearl millet inbred lines at Research Farm of ICAR-AICRP on Pearl Millet, Project Coordinating Unit, Mandor-Jodhpur during kharif 2020 in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. Morphological and molecular diversity was assessed in 30 pearl millet inbred lines by Mahalanobis D2 analysis and Simple Sequence Repeats (SSR) molecular marker, respectively. Total five clusters were formed from D2 analysis and seven clusters were generated from SSR markers data analysis. The character viz. panicle girth, number of effective tillers per plant and 1000 seed weight contributed maximum to morphological diversity. The clustering pattern based on SSR markers data revealed that genotypes at molecular level had high diversity as compared to that seen at phenotypic level. There was significant differences among the clustering pattern of D2 and SSR molecular marker analysis. The reason may be environmental influence on phenotypic level. This information can be used as selection criteria to have hybridization between diverse parents to exploit heterosis in pearl millet breeding program.

Ultra-High Metal-Ions Selectivity Induced by Intramolecular Cation-π Interaction for the One-Pot Synthesis of Precise Heterometallic Architecture.

Heterometallic supramolecules, known for their unique synergistic effects, have shown broad applications in photochemistry, host-guest chemistry, and catalysis. However, there are great challenges to precisely construct heterometallic supramolecules rather than statistical mixture, due to the limited metal-ions selectivity of coordination units. Especially, heterometallic architectures precisely encoding with different metal ions usually fail to obtain in one-pot method when only one type of coordinated motif exists due to its poor metal-ion selectivity. Herein, we proposed an effective intramolecular cation-π (ICπ) strategy and successfully constructed the heterometallic supramolecule Zn2Cu4L34 by one-pot self-assembly of tritopic terpyridyl ligand L3 with Zn(II) and Cu(II), following the clear self-assembly mechanism that only thermodynamic dimers ZnL12 and Cu2L22 were constructed with model ligands L1, L2, Zn(II) and Cu(II) with perfect self-sorting and ultra-high metal-selectivity feature. The successful construction of the heterometallic supramolecule Zn2Cu4L34, encoding the definite sequence of metal ions Zn(II) and Cu(II) in one-pot method, will offer a novel approach to precisely construct heterometallic architectures.

Measurement and machining error assessment method for cycloid pump rotor profile based on STEP

Abstract The contour shape and machining precision of the rotor of an cycloid pump directly determine the sealing performance of the pump cavity. Precise measurement of contour machining errors is a crucial step in the manufacturing process. However, rotor contour curves are often designed by enterprises based on actual engineering needs, leading to inconsistency between the measured baseline contour and the designed contour, thus failing to accurately reflect the actual machining condition of the rotor. Therefore, this paper proposes a method for measuring the contour of the cycloid pump rotor and evaluating machining errors based on the standard for the exchange of product (STEP) files necessary for product design in manufacturing. Firstly, utilizing NX/OPEN API functions, contour coordinate points and unit normal vectors are obtained from the rotor’s STEP design data. Subsequently, by planning the process of measuring the closed continuous contour of the rotor, the transformation between the workpiece coordinate system and the measurement coordinate system is achieved to position the tested rotor, followed by analyzing the influence of different starting points on error measurement and evaluation determines the optimal starting point. Finally, a measurement sampling point strategy is established to collect data points of the actual machining contour of the rotor. By achieving the best matching between the actual machining contour and the measured baseline contour, a contour deviation calculation model is established. Utilizing gauge blocks enables accurate assessment of pitch deviation, radial runout, and tooth-to-tooth distance deviation, resulting in assessment results that better fit the actual meshing situation of the rotor. Experimental results verifies consistency between the measurements of the one-dimensional probe and Gleason measurements. This theory and method not only expand the measurement range of the one-dimensional probe but also provide more accurate and efficient guidance for the flexible machining of the rotor.

Dynamic, multi-color, multi-level stimulus-responsive luminescence in a co-crystallized coordination polymer: Modulation of energy transfer by acid-induced ligand protonation and photo-induced radical generation

Stimulus-responsive luminescent materials (SLMs), which can respond to external stimuli by switching their luminescence properties, hold great promise for a variety of applications. Particularly, multi-level SLMs with a logical stimulus sequence and a dynamic, multi-color transition are highly desirable for anti-counterfeiting and information encryption, but an effective design strategy is lacking. Herein, a co-crystallized coordination polymer multi-level SLM [Cd(9-AC)4]·(HAD)2·(9-HAC)2 (9-HAC for anthracene-9-carboxylic acid and AD for acridine) with dual emission centers of coordination unit ([Cd(9-AC)4]2-) and exciplex ([9-HAC/HAD]+) has been successfully constructed by a stepwise solvent process. This SLM possesses a variety of stimulus-responsive properties, including mechanochromic (MC), mechanochromic luminescence (MCL), reversible acidochromic luminescence (ACL), and reversible photochromic luminescence (PCL). Notably, both ACL and PCL properties are achieved by modulating the energy transfer process between the coordination unit and the exciplex, while there is a logical sequence between these two stimulus actions. The acid-induced activation and radical-regulated PCL performance has been exploited in the development of anti-counterfeiting and information encryption applications. This work provides an effective strategy to realize dynamic, multi-color, multi-level stimuli-responsive luminescence by modulating the energy transfer through acid-induced ligand protonation and photo-induced radical generation.

One dimensional water chain as a zipper in a new polymorph of trans [Cu(vanilin)2(H2O)2].2(H2O) crystal–A case of water induced polymorphism

A new polymorph [Cu(II)(vanillin)2(H2O)2].2(H2O) has been synthesized and characterized by single crystal X-ray structural studies. Two other crystals having same formula and coordination unit but differing supramolecular arrangement due to slightly different role played by water molecules have already been reported in the literature [B. Kozlevˇcar et al. Z. Naturforsch., B: Chem. Sci. 2005, 60, 1273][Kozlevčar et al. Acta Chim. Slov. 2005, 52, 40–43]. The current compound is another polymorph in this system which has arisen again due to a different supramolecular arrangement which is water induced. Hirshfeld surface and energy framework analysis have been employed to compare these three polymorphs by assessing the nature of intermolecular interactions. In the current compound strong OH···O hydrogen bonding interactions between coordinated water molecules and –OH group attached to vanillin ligand leads to parallel alignment of successive coordination units leading to a supramolecular ribbon topology that runs along the crystallographic a-axis. A zigzag chain of single file water chain is positioned in between successive ribbons which acts as a zipper giving rise to a 2D supramolecular arrangement of the molecular complexes. In two other reported polymorphs instead of a single file water chain a cyclic water motif has been observed. The electronic structure of the complex explored using DFT methodology. This set of three polymorphs is an interesting example of water induced polymorphism.

Robust Switching Time Optimization for Networked Switched Systems via Model Predictive Control.

This article presents a model predictive control (MPC) strategy to find the optimal switching time sequences of networked switched systems with uncertainties. First, based on predicted trajectories under exact discretization, a large-scale MPC problem is formulated; second, a two-level hierarchical optimization structure coupled with a local compensation mechanism is established to solve the formulated MPC problem, where the proposed hierarchical optimization structure is actually a recurrent neural network consisting of a coordination unit (CU) at the upper level and a series of local optimization units (LOUs) related to each subsystem at the lower level. Finally, a real-time switching time optimization algorithm is designed to calculate the optimal switching time sequences.

Investigation of Social Innovations for Handling Opisthorchis viverrini and Cholangiocarcinoma in Thailand's Highest-Risk Areas for Further Development of Successful Solution.

Despite the national campaigns in 1997 to control Opisthorchis viverrini (OV), a significant risk factor for cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) was accounted for in the northeast of Thailand, which is also considered the highest-risk area for CCA as per the latest national-wide survey in 2019. Social innovations were employed to address OV and CCA issues in this area, but they have yet to be thoroughly investigated. Investigating social innovations in areas where issues can already be solved is a particular approach for expanding on a broad basis. This study aimed to search for social innovations used to handle OV and CCA in northeast of Thailand. Researchers coordinated with the Office of Disease Prevention and Control Region-10 (1 of 12 regional offices under the Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health) to specify the model areas for taking OV and CCA. In addition, researchers cooperated with local coordination units for data collection. The data were coded and classified for content analysis, and triangulation was performed for comparative analysis. Finally, a meeting was conducted to summarize the social innovations discovered in each study site area. Our findings have been presented according to the epidemiologic triad: agent (risk factors), host (individuals/communities), and environment. The researchers and experts addressed and proposed social innovations for dealing with OV and CCA, such as the "3 Health" (Health Behaviours, Health Hygiene, and Environmental Health), in order to achieve a CCA-free society. This is the first study to highlight the significance of social innovations in managing OV and CCA. The findings will be utilized to further create strategies for addressing these public health issues in this and other regions in a sustainable and successful manner.

New (O-Si) chelate with SiC2O2 framework: N-[acetimidate(dimethylsilyl)methyl]acetamide hydrochloride

The interaction of N-(trimethylsilyl)acetamide with ClCH2SiMe2F led to the formation of previously unknown (O-Si) chelate compound N-[acetimidate(dimethylsilyl)methyl]acetamide hydrochloride, containing imidate group as axial subsituent. This compound is new example of the little-known (O-Si) chelates with C = O→SiC2O coordination unit. Its structure was confirmed by the multinuclear NMR spectroscopy and X-ray analysis. The O1 and O2 atoms occupy the axial positions, and both bonds Si-O have the same length 1.931 Å.

Cd-Ln (Ln = Pr, Sm, Yb and Nd) heteronuclear complexes based on the linear chain ether Schiff base: Structural regulation and fluorescence properties

Four structurally different Cd-Ln heteronuclear complexes based on the linear chain ether Schiff base ligand (bis(3-methoxysalicylidene)-3-oxapentane-1,5-diamine (H2L) and the co-ligands 4,4′-bipyridine (bipy) or isonicotinate (IN), with composition [PrCd2L2(CH3COO)2](NO3)·CH2Cl2 (1), {[SmCdL(bipy)(NO3)3]·CH2Cl2·CH3CH2OH}n (2), [YbCdL(IN)(NO3)(CH3COO)]n (3) and {[Nd2Cd2L2(IN)2(NO3)2(CH3OH)2(CH3COO)](NO3)}n (4), have been synthesized by interfacial diffusion methods. Structural regulation is achieved by changes in the co-ligands or Ln(III) ions of different radii: Single crystal X-ray analysis determined that 1 is a trinuclear cluster with the Pr(III) ion as a joint bridging of two CdL coordination units; 2 and 3 are both infinite one-dimensional zigzag coordination polymers consisting of CdLnL secondary units through coordination bridging bipy or IN; 4 is a two-dimensional graphene laminate structure formed by two types of CdNdL secondary units bridged by both IN and acetate simultaneously. In the solid state, the complexes 1–4 all exhibit fluorescence peaks based on H2L with blue shift and enhancement. The order of fluorescence peaks intensity of the complexes in N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) solution is consistent with that in the solid state. Moreover, the corresponding characteristic emissions of Sm(III) ion in complex 2 can be observed in the fluorescence spectra in either solid state and DMF solution, indicating that [CdL] unit is suitable for the sensitization of Sm(III) ion.

Insights into Amorphous Metal‐Organic Framework as Carbonic Anhydrase Mimic

AbstractCarbonic anhydrase (CA) is an important enzyme which breaks the C−O bond and catalyzes the hydration of CO2 and developing artificial enzyme to mimic the function of CA is important for the related applications. Zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) with typical tetrahedral Zn−N coordination units which were similar to the catalytically active site of natural CA have been reported to displayed CA‐like activities. However, the activity of crystalline ZIFs remains unsatisfactory. Herein, amorphous zeolitic imidazolate framework (aZIF) was fabricated through a facile self‐assembly process and exhibited 2.2‐fold higher CA‐like hydrolytic activity than the corresponding crystalline ZIF‐8.This phenomenon can be ascribed to the unsaturated Zn−N coordination structure and mesopores inside aZIF. This work affords a new avenue for the rational design of nanozymes.

P-636 Effects of maternal circadian rhythm changes: intergenerational influences on testicular steroidogenesis in offspring

Abstract Study question Do alterations in the maternal circadian rhythm during pregnancy and lactation result in changes to the male offspring’s testicular steroidogenesis intergenerationally? Summary answer The expression of proteins associated with steroidogenesis is altered due to maternal circadian rhythm changes during pregnancy and lactation periods. What is known already Circadian rhythms impact diverse physiological processes, including reproduction. Several clock genes have been linked to reproductive function. However, there is a complex interaction between hormones, fertility, and the circadian clock. It has been shown that disruption of the circadian clock machinery has negative effects on reproductive biology. Current literature indicates a potential relationship between the circadian clock, testicular steroidogenic-related gene expression profiles, and testosterone synthesis. Steroidogenesis involves a complex cascade of enzymatic reactions. An increasing body of evidence from animal studies suggests a relationship between maternal chronodisruption and long-term offspring health and fertility. Study design, size, duration Male offspring from pregnant Wistar rats (n = 60) were exposed to control (12 hours light/12 hours dark), short day (SD) (8 hours light/16 hours dark), or long day (LD) periods (16 hours light/8 hours dark) during only pregnancy, only lactation, or both periods (n = 6/group) categorized as control, SD pregnancy (SD-P), SD lactation (SD-L), SD pregnancy and lactation (SD-P+L), LD pregnancy (LD-P), LD lactation (LD-L), LD pregnancy and lactation (LD-P+L) groups. Participants/materials, setting, methods The expression of critical components of testicular steroidogenesis, including steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (cytochrome p450scc), 17-beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 3 (HSD17B3), androgen receptor (AR), and luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR), was analyzed in the testis by counting the percentage of positively-stained Leydig cells and ImageJ analysis of immunohistochemistry and western blot. Serum FSH, LH, and testosterone hormones were measured at four zeitgeber time (ZT) points (ZT0, ZT6, ZT12, and ZT18) using ELISA. Main results and the role of chance All of these testicular steroidogenic enzymes were localized in the Leydig cell, and AR was predominantly observed in the Sertoli cell. Although there are no significant differences between the groups in terms of immunolocalization patterns, the expressions of p450scc and AR proteins were significantly decreased in the SD-P and SD-L groups compared to the control group (p < 0.001). In addition, western blot data indicated a decreased expression of p450scc in the SD-P+L group. However, an increased expression of HSD17B3 was detected in both SD-P+L and LD-P+L groups compared to the control group (p = 0.003, p < 0.001, respectively). Among the steroidogenesis-related proteins evaluated, the protein expression levels of StAR and LHR proteins were not altered. FSH showed a statistically significant increase in the LD-L (ZT0), SD-P+L (ZT12), LD-L (ZT12), and LD-P+L (ZT18) groups when compared to the corresponding control groups at the respective time points (p < 0.05). In contrast, LH levels decreased significantly in the LD-P+L (ZT0) group (p < 0.05). Nevertheless, no statistical difference was determined for testosterone levels between groups. Limitations, reasons for caution Most studies on circadian rhythm have used rodent models. Results from animal models are often informative. However, there is a limitation in the appropriate translation of findings in rodents to human studies. Wider implications of the findings The effects triggered by maternal chronodisruption can be intergenerationally transmitted, potentially affecting offspring health. Our results indicate alterations in the expression of proteins involved in testicular steroidogenesis and time-point-dependent changes in the FSH and LH hormone levels due to maternal circadian rhythm changes, further supporting the potential implications for offspring. Trial registration number This work was supported by research grants from the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK) (SBAG 219S636) and Akdeniz University, The Scientific Research Projects Coordination Unit (TYL-2018-3580).

An Evaluation of DNA Methylation Levels and Sleep in Relation to Hot Flashes: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Objectives: We aimed to evaluate the DNA methylation levels in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women, measured through Long Interspersed Element-1 (LINE-1) and Alu, and the sleep parameters in relation to the presence of hot flashes (HFs). Methods: This cross-sectional study included 30 peri- or postmenopausal women aged between 45 and 55. The menopausal status was determined according to STRAW + 10 criteria and all participants had a low cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk profile determined by Framingham risk score. The sample was divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of HFs documented in their medical history during their initial visit: Group 1 (n = 15) with HFs present and Group 2 (n = 15) with HFs absent. The patients had polysomnography test and HFs were recorded both by sternal skin conductance and self-report overnight. Genomic DNA was extracted from the women's blood and methylation status was analyzed by fluorescence-based real-time quantitative PCR. The quantified value of DNA methylation of a target gene was normalized by β-actin. The primary outcome was the variation in methylation levels of LINE-1 and Alu and sleep parameters according to the presence of HFs. Results: LINE-1 and Alu methylation levels were higher in Group 1 (HFs present), although statistically non-significant. LINE-1 methylation levels were negatively correlated with age. Sleep efficiency was statistically significantly lower for women in Group 1 (HFs present) (74.66% ± 11.16% vs. 82.63% ± 7.31%; p = 0.03). The ratio of duration of awakening to total sleep time was statistically significantly higher in Group 1 (HFs present) (22.38% ± 9.99% vs. 15.07% ± 6.93, p = 0.03). Objectively recorded hot flashes were significantly higher in Group 1 (4.00 ± 3.21 vs. 1.47 ± 1.46, p = 0.03). None of the cases in Group 2 self-reported HF despite objectively recorded HFs during the polysomnography. The rate of hot flash associated with awakening was 41.4% in the whole sample. Conclusions: Women with a history of hot flashes exhibited lower sleep efficiency and higher awakening rates. Although a history of experiencing hot flashes was associated with higher LINE-1 and Alu methylation levels, no statistical significance was found. Further studies are needed to clarify this association. This study was funded by the Scientific Research Projects Coordination Unit of Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa. Project number: TTU-2021-35629.

Synthesis, characterization, crystal structure, molecular dynamics simulations, MM-GBSA analysis, and bioactivity studies of pyrazine- and pyrimidine-modulated unsymmetrical dipyridylamide complexes

By using unsymmetrical pyrazine- and pyrimidine-modulated oligo-α-pyridylamine ligand N-(4-methylpyrimidin-2-yl)pyrazin-2-amine (Hmpmpza) (1), 1D copper(II) coordination polymer {[Cu(mpmpza)(CH3COO)](CH3OH)(H2O)}n (2) and mononuclear copper(II) complex [Cu(Hmpmpza)(NO3)2] (3) were first successfully synthesized and structurally characterized. In complex (2), Cu(II) is six-coordinated in an elongated octahedral geometry. The Hmpmpza molecule coordinates with the Cu(II) as a tridentate ligand, in which the pyrimidine and amine group nitrogen atoms link the coordination units to an infinite 1-D chain polymer. Extensive hydrogen bonds between amino groups, acetate anions, methanol, and water molecules are observed in 2, resulting in a 3D network of the 2. Complex 2 provides the first example of the complex with a modulated Hdpa ligand, in which nitrogen atoms both of the pyrazine and pyrimidine cycles participated in the coordination with the metal center. There are two crystallographically independent molecules in a mononuclear complex 3 and the Cu(II) atom is six-coordinated in an elongated octahedral geometry. Hmpmpza in complex 3 coordinates to the Cu(II) in an anti-anti conformation as a bidentate ligand. The hydrogen bonds between amino groups and coordinated nitrate anions in complex 3, link its molecules to a 1-D chain structure. However, no hydrogen bonding linkage between the 1-D chains is observed. The temperature dependence magnetic susceptibility measurement for complex 2 described by the Bonner-Fischer approximation shows a weak antiferromagnetic coupling between Cu(II) ions. The best fitting results were obtained with parameters g = 2.141, J = −0.73 cm−1 and R = 4.85 × 10−6. The molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of the 2-hAChE, 3-hAChE, 2-hBChE, and 3-hBChE complexes offer comprehensive insights into the stability and dynamic behavior of ligand-protein interactions. These findings contribute to a detailed understanding of the specific dynamics governing the stability of acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase complexes.

Health Planning in Times of COVID-19 in Burkina Faso: The Role of Its National Strategic Pandemic Management Committee.

Presenting the COVID-19 crisis as a pandemic misleadingly implies a certain homogeneity between the regions of the Globe in terms of their burden and reactions. However, from the outset of the crisis, countries presented different epidemiological realities and sometimes adopted divergent, even opposing measures. Curiously, the heterogeneity of responses persisted as scientific evidence accumulated about COVID-19 and the strategies for dealing with it. This commentary aims to recount the specific experience of Burkina Faso, and how it reoriented its initial biomedical response into a multisectoral strategy. Burkina Faso set up a committee specifically to examine the effects not only of the pandemic, but also of the control measures. This committee was mandated to decompartmentalize the lens through which the COVID-19 was dealt with. It entered into dialogue with a level of stakeholders often overlooked during national health crisis: communities. As a member of this "National Committee for Crisis Management of the Pandemic", one of the co-authors contributed to its orientations and has witnessed first-hand some of the challenges it faced. This experience suggests that the project of extricating the field of public health from medicine is advancing in Burkina Faso. In order to manage future crises more effectively and across different sectors, there is an urgent need to establish state structures and to strengthen public health systems. States need coordination units that have the legitimacy, authority and resources required to mobilize a variety of actors at the community, national and international levels.

Collective activities of the Thai Coordinating Unit for One Health (CUOH): Past activities and future directions

In Thailand, One Health concepts have been implemented among government agencies, academic institutions, intergovernment, and civil society organizations. The Thai Coordinating Unit for One Health (CUOH) was established as a collaborating body for One Health-related activities in the country in 2014. To better understand what activities CUOH has completed thus far and to assess future activities, we conducted a network analysis to identify and visualize linkages between organizations and activities from 2015 to 2021. Activities were divided into four categories: organizing meetings, developing products, providing funds, and managing resources. Most of the 114 CUOH-managed meeting participants were representatives from 72 government and 20 academic institutions. The Thai Ministry of Public Health's Department of Disease Control participated in 148 meetings, the highest attendance among all organizations working with CUOH. The first CUOH guideline or manual was published in 2020, and 11 were published in 2021. In funding management, the CUOH worked with 25 organizations to carry out 71 projects from 2015 to 2021. Additionally, the CUOH played an important role in allocating COVID-19 vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic. The CUOH has connected organizations working in different health sectors to collaborate jointly through meetings and projects that use a One Health approach, which can holistically improve health management in Thailand. Diverse funding sources are needed to ensure the sustainability of the unit in the future.

Assessing the functionality of a water-vending kiosk network with high-frequency instrumentation in Freetown, Sierra Leone

Access to safe, reliable, and equitable water services in urban settings of low- and middle-income countries remains a critical challenge toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6.1, but progress has either slowed or stagnated in recent years. A pilot water kiosk network funded by the United States Millennium Challenge Corporation was implemented by the Sierra Leone Millennium Challenge Coordinating Unit into the intermittent piped water distribution network of Freetown, Sierra Leone, as a private-public partnership to improve water service provision for households without reliable piped water connections and to reduce non-revenue water. This study employs the use of high-frequency instrumentation to monitor, model, and assess the functionality of this water kiosk network over 2,947 kiosk-days. Functionality was defined via functionality levels on a daily basis through monitored stored water levels and modeled water withdrawals. The functionality levels across the kiosk network were found to be 34% operational, 30% offline, and 35% empty. Statistically significant (p<0.001) determinants of functionality were found for several predictors across the defined thresholds. Finally, modeling of water supply, water demand and withdrawal capacity, and water storage was conducted to further explain findings and provide additionally externally relevant support for kiosk operations.

Some Aspects Related to the Competent Bodies in the Matter of Budgetary Control

The fight against fraud needed regulation, and even more, to be the main object of the activity of specialized bodies. Thus, in 1988, the task force "Anti-Fraud Coordination Unit" was created, formalizing the fight against fraud and corruption and protecting the EU's financial interests. In 1995 (July 26), through Council Act 95/C 316/032, the "Convention on the protection of the financial interests of the European Communities" was introduced. In 1999, OLAF (the European Anti-Fraud Office) was established, so that in 2017 (12 October) to establish the European AntiCorruption Prosecutor's Office - EPPO, through Council Regulation (EU) 2017/19393. EPPO becomes operational from June 2020.

Performance evaluation of a seismic strengthening applied on a masonry school building by dynamic analyses

With its unreinforced masonry structural system, Münevver Şefik Fergar Primary School has been analyzed and retrofitted by the Istanbul Project Coordination Unit, IPKB in Istanbul. The applied strengthening is mainly composed of the addition of reinforced concrete layers to the masonry walls by shotcreting. This study is performed to monitor the variation of the dynamic properties of the building through the constructional works and evaluate the effects of the performed retrofitting. For this aim, six sets of operational modal analysis type dynamic identification, starting from the original building and ending with the retrofitted building, were performed to extract the dynamic properties of the building. To discuss the effectiveness of retrofitting efficiently, numerical analyses have also been conducted. The original and retrofitted form of the building has been modeled by finite element modeling technique and Eigenvalue analyses were performed to obtain the dynamic properties of the building numerically for both phases. The comparison of the dynamic characteristics of the original and retrofitted building enabled the assessment of the efficiency of the applied seismic strengthening. Moreover, the experimentally and numerically obtained results were compared. It is seen that, while both experimental and numerical results proved the effectiveness of the performed retrofitting to increase the dominant frequencies of the building, the difference in their quantity was worth noting and should be accounted for seismic analysis of similar structures.

Heteropentanuclear {Ru(II)Cu(II)4} Kuratowski Complexes Assembled from a Ruthenium(II) Precursor Complex to Study Competing Exchange Interactions in M(II)(ta)2 Networks [ta(-) = 1,2,3-Triazolate

We report a directed two-step synthesis toward pentanuclear Kuratowski complexes. First, six 5,6-dimethylbenzo[1,2,3]triazole ligands (Me2btaH) are coordinated to a single Ru(II) ion, providing a topologically ideal template for the addition of further metal ions. The synthesis and crystal structures of [RuCu4X4(Me2bta)6] [X = acetylacetonate (acac) and tris(3,5-dimethyl-1-pyrazolyl)borate (Tp*)] are described. Both represent new members of the family of so-called Kuratowski (K3,3) complexes. The coordination units feature triazolato-bridged metal-centered {MM4} tetrahedra, which are known for frustrated magnetic interactions in both complexes and metal-organic frameworks. The novel Ru(II)-centered complexes were synthesized in order to investigate the influence of the presence or absence of a paramagnetic central metal ion in the Kuratowski complex. Superconducting quantum interference device and electron spin resonance measurements demonstrate that small deviations in bond lengths and valence angles can lead to the formation of pairs of magnetic exchange-coupled Cu(II) ions. Which Cu(II) ions pair up can be predicted in Jahn-Teller active compounds by the overlap of the respective orbitals. These data are compared with those gleaned for M(II)(ta)2 (ta = 1,2,3-triazolate) lattices, in which structurally similar {MM4} tetrahedra constitute the secondary building units.