bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapping Compound Databases to Disease Maps—A MINERVA Plugin for CandActBase
Authors: Vinhoven Liza , Voskamp Malte , Nietert Manuel Manfred
Published: October 2021

The MINERVA platform is currently the most widely used platform for visualizing and providing access to disease maps. Disease maps are systems biological maps of molecular interactions relevant in a certain disease context, where they can be used to support drug discovery. For this purpose, we extended MINERVA’s own drug and chemical search using the MINERVA plugin starter kit. We developed a plugin to provide a linkage between disease maps in MINERVA and application-specific databases of candidate therapeutics. The plugin has three main functionalities; one shows all the targets of all the compounds in the database, the second is a compound-based search to highlight targets of specific compounds, and the third can be used to find compounds that affect a certain target. As a use case, we applied the plugin to link a disease map and compound database we previously established in the context of cystic fibrosis and, herein, point out possible issues and difficulties. The plugin is publicly available on GitLab; the use-case application to cystic fibrosis, connecting disease maps and the compound database CandActCFTR, is available online.
The IL6-like Cytokine Family: Role and Biomarker Potential in Breast Cancer
Authors: Martínez-Pérez Carlos , Kay Charlene , Meehan James , Gray Mark , Dixon J. Michael , Turnbull Arran K.
Published: October 2021

IL6-like cytokines are a family of regulators with a complex, pleiotropic role in both the healthy organism, where they regulate immunity and homeostasis, and in different diseases, including cancer. Here we summarise how these cytokines exert their effect through the shared signal transducer IL6ST (gp130) and we review the extensive evidence on the role that different members of this family play in breast cancer. Additionally, we discuss how the different cytokines, their related receptors and downstream effectors, as well as specific polymorphisms in these molecules, can serve as predictive or prognostic biomarkers with the potential for clinical application in breast cancer. Lastly, we also discuss how our increasing understanding of this complex signalling axis presents promising opportunities for the development or repurposing of therapeutic strategies against cancer and, specifically, breast neoplasms.
Posttraumatic Lymphedema after Open Fractures of the Lower Extremity—A Retrospective Cohort Analysis
Authors: Wagner Johannes Maximilian , Grolewski Victoria , Reinkemeier Felix , Drysch Marius , Schmidt Sonja Verena , Dadras Mehran , Huber Julika , Wallner Christoph , Sogorski Alexander , von Glinski Maxi , Schildhauer Thomas A. , Lehnhardt Marcus , Behr Björn
Published: October 2021

Secondary lymphedema is a very common clinical issue with millions of patients suffering from pain, recurrent skin infections, and the constant need for a decongestive therapy. Well-established as a consequence of oncologic procedures, secondary lymphedema is also a well-known phenomenon after trauma. However, precise epidemiological data of lymphedema progress upon severe extremity injuries are still missing. In the present work, we analyzed a patient cohort of 94 individuals who suffered open fractures of the lower extremity and soft tissue injury, of 2nd and 3rd grade according to Tscherne classification, between 2013 and 2019. Typical symptoms of lymphedema have been obtained via interviews and patient medical records in a retrospective cohort analysis. Of all patients, 55% showed symptoms of secondary lymphedema and 14% reported recurrent skin infections, indicating severe lymphedema. Furthermore, comparing patients with and without lymphedema, additional parameters, such as obesity, total number of surgeries, infections, and compartment syndrome, related to lymphedema progress could be identified. According to these data, posttraumatic secondary lymphedema has a highly underestimated clinical prevalence. Further prospective studies are needed to validate this first observation and to identify high-risk groups in order to improve patient’s health care.
Does Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio Have a Role in Identifying Cytokeratin 19-Expressing Hepatocellular Carcinoma?
Authors: Lee Chao-Wei , Lin Sey-En , Yu Ming-Chin , Kou Hao-Wei , Lee Cheng-Han , Kuo Tony , Lee Kuan-Chieh , Tsai Hsin-I
Published: October 2021

Background: Cytokeratin 19-positive (CK19(+)) hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) are generally associated with poor prognosis after hepatectomy. It is typically detected from postoperative immunochemistry. We have analyzed several clinically available biomarkers, in particular, neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and aim to develop a panel of biomarkers in identifying CK19 expression in (HCC) preoperatively. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 36 HCC patients who underwent liver resections during January 2017 to March 2018 in Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. Patients were grouped based on the status of CK19 expression and their baseline characteristics, perioperative and oncologic outcomes were compared. Novel biomarkers including NLR, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and uric acid were analyzed and correlated with CK19 expression. Results: NLR is highly associated with CK19 expression. NLR alone gave an AUROC of 0.728 (p-value = 0.043), higher than AFP, CEA or tumor size alone. NLR when combined with AFP, CEA and uric acid, gave an AUROC as high as 0.933 (p-value = 0.004). Conclusion: The current study demonstrated the predictive capability of NLR in combination with AFP, CEA and uric acid for CK19 expression in HCC patients preoperatively. Further prospective, large-scale studies are warranted to validate our findings.
Membrane-Based Electrolysis for Hydrogen Production: A Review
Authors: Ahmad Kamaroddin Mohd Fadhzir , Sabli Nordin , Tuan Abdullah Tuan Amran , Siajam Shamsul Izhar , Abdullah Luqman Chuah , Abdul Jalil Aishah , Ahmad Arshad
Published: October 2021

Hydrogen is a zero-carbon footprint energy source with high energy density that could be the basis of future energy systems. Membrane-based water electrolysis is one means by which to produce high-purity and sustainable hydrogen. It is important that the scientific community focus on developing electrolytic hydrogen systems which match available energy sources. In this review, various types of water splitting technologies, and membrane selection for electrolyzers, are discussed. We highlight the basic principles, recent studies, and achievements in membrane-based electrolysis for hydrogen production. Previously, the Nafion™ membrane was the gold standard for PEM electrolyzers, but today, cheaper and more effective membranes are favored. In this paper, CuCl–HCl electrolysis and its operating parameters are summarized. Additionally, a summary is presented of hydrogen production by water splitting, including a discussion of the advantages, disadvantages, and efficiencies of the relevant technologies. Nonetheless, the development of cost-effective and efficient hydrogen production technologies requires a significant amount of study, especially in terms of optimizing the operation parameters affecting the hydrogen output. Therefore, herein we address the challenges, prospects, and future trends in this field of research, and make critical suggestions regarding the implementation of comprehensive membrane-based electrolytic systems.
A Numerical-Experimental Study on Orthogonal Cutting of AISI 1045 Steel and Ti6Al4V Alloy: SPH and FEM Modeling with Newly Identified Friction Coefficients
Authors: Afrasiabi Mohamadreza , Saelzer Jannis , Berger Sebastian , Iovkov Ivan , Klippel Hagen , Röthlin Matthias , Zabel Andreas , Biermann Dirk , Wegener Konrad
Published: October 2021

Numerical simulation of metal cutting with rigorous experimental validation is a profitable approach that facilitates process optimization and better productivity. In this work, we apply the Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) and Finite Element Method (FEM) to simulate the chip formation process within a thermo-mechanically coupled framework. A series of cutting experiments on two widely-used workpiece materials, i.e., AISI 1045 steel and Ti6Al4V titanium alloy, is conducted for validation purposes. Furthermore, we present a novel technique to measure the rake face temperature without manipulating the chip flow within the experimental framework, which offers a new quality of the experimental validation of thermal loads in orthogonal metal cutting. All material parameters and friction coefficients are identified in-situ, proposing new values for temperature-dependent and velocity-dependent friction coefficients of AISI 1045 and Ti6Al4V under the cutting conditions. Simulation results show that the choice of friction coefficient has a higher impact on SPH forces than FEM. Average errors of force prediction for SPH and FEM were in the range of 33% and 23%, respectively. Except for the rake face temperature of Ti6Al4V, both SPH and FEM provide accurate predictions of thermal loads with 5–20% error.
Ultrasonic-Assisted Brazing of Titanium Joints Using Al-Si Based Fillers: Numerical and Experimental Process Design
Authors: Muhrat Abdulsalam , Barbosa Joaquim
Published: October 2021

The ultrasonic-assisted brazing process was studied both numerically and experimentally. The ultrasonic brazing system was modeled by considering the actual brazing conditions. The numerical model showed the distribution of acoustic pressure within the filler and its variations according to the gap distance at different brazing temperatures. In the experimental part, brazing joints were studied and evaluated under multiple conditions and parameters. Although either the initial compression load or the ultrasonic vibration (USV) can initiate the interaction at the interface, the combined effect of both helped to produce joints of a higher quality with a relatively short brazing time, which can be further optimized in terms of their mechanical strength. The effect of the Si content on the joint interface, and the effect of the brazing conditions on the microstructures were studied and discussed.
Metabolomic Changes in Naturally MAP-Infected Holstein–Friesian Heifers Indicate Immunologically Related Biochemical Reprogramming
Authors: Taylor Emma N. , Beckmann Manfred , Villarreal-Ramos Bernardo , Vordermeier Hans-Martin , Hewinson Glyn , Rooke David , Mur Luis A. J. , Koets Ad P.
Published: October 2021

Johne’s disease, caused by Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP), causes weight loss, diarrhoea, and reduced milk yields in clinically infected cattle. Asymptomatic, subclinically infected cattle shed MAP bacteria but are frequently not detected by diagnostic tests. Herein, we compare the metabolite profiles of sera from subclinically infected Holstein–Friesian heifers and antibody binding to selected MAP antigens. The study used biobanked serum samples from 10 naturally MAP-infected and 10 control heifers, sampled monthly from ~1 to 19 months of age. Sera were assessed using flow infusion electrospray–high-resolution mass spectrometry (FIE–HRMS) on a Q Exactive hybrid quadrupole–Orbitrap mass spectrometer for high-throughput, sensitive, non-targeted metabolite fingerprinting. Partial least-squares discriminant analyses (PLS-DA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) of the data discriminated between naturally MAP-infected and control heifers. In total, 33 metabolites that differentially accumulated in naturally MAP-infected heifers compared to controls were identified. Five were significantly elevated within MAP-infected heifers throughout the study, i.e., leukotriene B4, bicyclo prostaglandin E2 (bicyclo PGE2), itaconic acid, 2-hydroxyglutaric acid and N6-acetyl-L-lysine. These findings highlight the potential of metabolomics in the identification of novel MAP diagnostic markers and particular biochemical pathways, which may provide insights into the bovine immune response to MAP.
Distinguishing between Isobaric Ions Using Microdroplet Hydrogen–Deuterium Exchange Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Song Xiaowei , Li Jia , Mofidfar Mohammad , Zare Richard N.
Published: October 2021

Isobaric ions having the same mass-to-charge ratio cannot be separately identified by mass spectrometry (MS) alone, but this limitation can be overcome by using hydrogen–deuterium exchange (HDX) in microdroplets. Because isobaric ions may contain a varied number of exchangeable sites and different types of functional groups, each one produces a unique MS spectral pattern after droplet spray HDX without the need for MS/MS experiments or introduction of ion mobility measurements. As an example of the power of this approach, isobaric ions in urinary metabolic profiles are identified and used to distinguish between healthy individuals and those having bladder cancer.
Multi-Media Geochemical Exploration in the Critical Zone: A Case Study over the Prairie and Wolf Zn–Pb Deposits, Capricorn Orogen, Western Australia
Authors: Henne Anicia , Reid Nathan , Thorne Robert L. , Spinks Samuel C. , Pinchand Tenten , White Alistair
Published: October 2021

In this study, we compared traditional lithochemical sample media (soil) with hydrochemical (groundwater), biogeochemical (plant matter of mulga and spinifex), and other near-surface sample media (ferro-manganese crust), in a case study applied to mineral exploration in weathered terrain, through the critical zone at the fault-hosted Prairie and Wolf Zn–Pb (Ag) deposits in Western Australia. We used multi-element geochemistry analyses to spatially identify geochemical anomalies in samples over known mineralization, and investigated metal dispersion processes. In all near-surface sample media, high concentrations of the metals of interest (Zn, Pb, Ag) coincided with samples proximal to the mineralization at depth. However, the lateral dispersion of these elements differed from regional (several km; groundwater) to local (several 100′s of meters; solid sample media) scales. Zinc in spinifex leaves over the Prairie and Wolf deposits exceeded the total concentrations in all other sample media, while the metal concentrations in mulga phyllodes were not as pronounced, except for Ag, which exceeded the concentrations in all other sample media. These observations indicate potential preferential metal-specific uptake by different media. Pathfinder elements in vegetation and groundwater samples also indicated the Prairie Downs fault zone at the regional (groundwater) and local (vegetation) scale, and are, therefore, potentially useful tools to trace fault systems that host structurally controlled, hydrothermal Zn–Pb mineralization.
High-Performance Laterally Oriented Nanowire Solar Cells with Ag Gratings
Authors: Zhang Yangan , Li Yao , Yuan Xueguang , Yan Xin , Zhang Xia
Published: October 2021

A laterally oriented GaAs p-i-n nanowire solar cell with Ag gratings is proposed and studied via coupled three-dimensional optoelectronic simulations. The results show that the gratings significantly enhance the absorption of nanowire for both TM and TE polarized light due to the combined effect of grating diffraction, excitation of plasmon polaritons, and suppression of carrier recombination. At an optimal grating period, the absorption at 650–800 nm, which is an absorption trough for pure nanowire, is substantially enhanced, raising the conversion efficiency from 8.7% to 14.7%. Moreover, the gratings enhance the weak absorption at long wavelengths and extend the absorption cutoff wavelength for ultrathin nanowires, yielding a remarkable efficiency of 13.3% for the NW with a small diameter of 90 nm, 2.6 times that without gratings. This work may pave the way toward the development of ultrathin high-efficiency nanoscale solar cells.
Recent Advances in Layered Double Hydroxide-Based Electrochemical and Optical Sensors
Authors: Kim Andrew , Varga Imre , Adhikari Arindam , Patel Rajkumar
Published: October 2021

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) have attracted considerable attention as promising materials for electrochemical and optical sensors owing to their excellent catalytic properties, facile synthesis strategies, highly tunable morphology, and versatile hosting ability. LDH-based electrochemical sensors are affordable alternatives to traditional precious-metal-based sensors, as LDHs can be synthesized from abundant inorganic precursors. LDH-modified probes can directly catalyze or host catalytic compounds that facilitate analyte redox reactions, detected as changes in the probe’s current, voltage, or resistance. The porous and lamellar structure of LDHs allows rapid analyte diffusion and abundant active sites for enhanced sensor sensitivity. LDHs can be composed of conductive materials such as reduced graphene oxide (rGO) or metal nanoparticles for improved catalytic activity and analyte selectivity. As optical sensors, LDHs provide a spacious, stable structure for synergistic guest–host interactions. LDHs can immobilize fluorophores, chemiluminescence reactants, and other spectroscopically active materials to reduce the aggregation and dissolution of the embedded sensor molecules, yielding enhanced optical responses and increased probe reusability. This review discusses standard LDH synthesis methods and overviews the different electrochemical and optical analysis techniques. Furthermore, the designs and modifications of exemplary LDHs and LDH composite materials are analyzed, focusing on the analytical performance of LDH-based sensors for key biomarkers and pollutants, including glucose, dopamine (DA), H2O2, metal ions, nitrogen-based toxins, and other organic compounds.
Alleviation of Chlorpyrifos Toxicity in Maize (Zea mays L.) by Reducing Its Uptake and Oxidative Stress in Response to Soil-Applied Compost and Biochar Amendments
Authors: Aziz Humera , Murtaza Ghulam , Saleem Muhammad Hamzah , Ali Shafaqat , Rizwan Muhammad , Riaz Umair , Niaz Abdullah , Abualreesh Muyassar H. , Alatawi Aishah
Published: October 2021

Chlorpyrifos (CP) is a pesticide used extensively in agricultural crops. Residual CP has been found in a variety of soils, vegetables and fruits indicating a serious danger to humans. Therefore, it is necessary to restrict its entry into agricultural products for food safety. A wire-house pot experiment was conducted with maize plants in biochar- and compost-amended soil (at 0.25% and 0.50%, respectively, in weight-by-weight composition) contaminated with 100 and 200 mg kg−1 of CP, respectively. Results indicated toxicity at both CP levels (with 84% growth reduction) at CP 200 mg kg−1. However, application of compost and biochar at the 0.50% level improved the fresh weight (2.8- and 4-fold, respectively). Stimulated superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POX) activities and depressed catalase (CAT) activity were recorded in response to CP contamination and were significantly recovered by the amendments. Both amendments significantly decreased the CP phytoavailability. With biochar, 91% and 76% reduction in the CP concentration in maize shoots and with compost 72% and 68% reduction was recorded, at a 0.50% level in 100 and 200 mg kg−1 contaminated treatments respectively. Compost accelerated the CP degradation in postharvest soil. Therefore, biochar and compost amendments can effectively be used to decrease CP entry in agricultural produce by reducing its phytoavailability.
Temporal Control of Morphogenic Factor Expression Determines Efficacy in Enhancing Regeneration
Authors: Gonzalez Juan H. , Taylor Joseph S. , Reed Kelsey M. , Wright R. Clay , Bargmann Bastiaan O. R.
Published: October 2021

Background: Regeneration of fertile plants from tissue culture is a critical bottleneck in the application of new plant breeding technologies. Ectopic overexpression of morphogenic factors is a promising workaround for this hurdle. Methods: Conditional overexpression of WUS and ARF5Δ was used to study the effect of timing the overexpression of these morphogenic factors during shoot regeneration from root explants in Arabidopsis. In addition, their effect on auxin-signaling activation was examined by visualization and cytometric quantification of the DR5:GFP auxin-signaling reporter in roots and protoplasts, respectively. Results: The induced expression of both WUS and ARF5Δ led to an activation of auxin signaling in roots. Activation of auxin signaling by WUS and ARF5Δ was further quantified by transient transformation of protoplasts. Ectopic overexpression of both WUS and ARF5Δ enhanced regeneration efficiency, but only during the shoot-induction stage of regeneration and not during the callus-induction stage. Conclusions: The overexpression of WUS and ARF5Δ both lead to activation of auxin signaling. Expression during the shoot-induction stage is critical for the enhancement of shoot regeneration by WUS and ARF5Δ.
A New MiRNA MiRm0002 in Eggplant Participates in the Regulation of Defense Responses to Verticillium Wilt
Authors: Zhu Wenjiao , Liu Xinru , Chen Min , Tao Nianjiao , Tendu Alexander , Yang Qing
Published: October 2021

Verticillium wilt is a major disease that severely affects eggplant production, and a new eggplant miRNA named miRm0002 identified through high-throughput sequencing was highly induced by Verticillium wilt infection. However, the miRm0002 function was still elusive. In this study, the sequence of the miRm0002 precursor was cloned and transgenic eggplants were constructed. In vivo inoculation test and in vitro fungistatic test showed that overexpressing miRm0002 lines were more resistant to Verticillium dahliae and inhibiting miRm0002 lines were more sensitive, compared to the wild-type (WT) control. Some physiological indicators were selected and the results showed that SOD, POD, and CAT activities were significantly increased in Verticillium wilt-infected overexpressing miRm0002 lines, indicating that the expression of miRm0002 activates the antioxidant system. QRT-PCR assay showed that the transcript expression of miRm0002 candidate target ARF8, a gene encoding auxin response factor was negatively related to miRm0002 in WT as well as transgenic eggplants. However, RLM-RACE mapping and degradome sequencing showed miRm0002 could not cleave the sequence of ARF8. Taken together, these data suggest that miRm0002 plays a positive role in the defense response of eggplant against Verticillium wilt.
Influence of Iron Addition (Alone or with Calcium) to Elements Biofortification and Antioxidants in Pholiota nameko
Authors: Budzyńska Sylwia , Siwulski Marek , Magdziak Zuzanna , Budka Anna , Gąsecka Monika , Kalač Pavel , Rzymski Piotr , Niedzielski Przemysław , Mleczek Mirosław
Published: October 2021

Mushrooms supplementation with iron (Fe) is usually limited, and therefore it would be beneficial to search for other vital elements able to improve the process. The aim of this study was to verify a possible interaction between Fe and calcium (Ca) to estimate the role of the addition of the latter metal to stimulate Fe accumulation in Pholiota nameko. Additionally, an analysis of phenolic compounds and low molecular weight organic acids (LMWOAs) was performed. The increase of Fe concentration in the substrate caused a significantly higher accumulation of this metal in P. nameko. The addition of Ca (5 or 10 mM) stimulated Fe accumulation, just as Fe concentration in the substrate stimulated Ca accumulation, which pointed to a synergism between these metals. The obtained results show that the presence of Fe in the substrate may also promote K, Mg, Mn, Na, P, and S accumulation. In contrast, the addition of Ca stimulates and/or inhibits their content in fruit bodies. The phenolic and organic acids profile was poor. Only gallic, 4-hydroxybenzoic, sinapic and syringic acids (phenolics), as well as citric and succinic acids (LMWOAs), were quantified in some combinations in P. nameko fruiting bodies.
Wheat and Cereal Rye Inter-Row Living Mulches Interfere with Early Season Weeds in Soybean
Authors: Geddes Charles M. , Gulden Robert H.
Published: October 2021

Rapid growth of cool-season weeds in the spring exacerbates weed interference during early soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) establishment in northern climates. This study tested the utility of spring-seeded inter-row living mulches in soybean for early season weed suppression using volunteer canola (Brassica napus L.) as a representative model weed species. The effects of the presence or absence of spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) or winter cereal rye (Secale cereale L.) living mulches (mulch type) that had been seeded simultaneously with soybean grown using 38 or 76 cm row spacing (spatial arrangement) and the presence or absence of herbicides used for mid-season mulch termination (herbicide regime) were evaluated in three environments in Manitoba, Canada, in 2013 and 2014. Soybean yield was similar in the presence and absence of the living mulches. In the environment that received the lowest precipitation (Carman 2013), the mulches terminated with post-emergence glyphosate resulted in a 55% greater soybean yield compared to the mulches that remained live throughout the growing season. Inter-row mulches that had been living or terminated mid-season reduced volunteer canola seed production by about one-third (up to 9000 seeds m−2). This study demonstrates the utility of wheat or cereal rye inter-row living mulches for enhanced interference with weeds during early soybean establishment.
Different Drought-Tolerant Mechanisms in Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) and Djulis (Chenopodium formosanum Koidz.) Based on Physiological Analysis
Authors: Lin Pin-Hua , Chao Yun-Yang
Published: October 2021

The purpose of this experiment is to study the effects of treatment with 90% (28.5% volumetric water content (VWC)), 75% (24% VWC), 50% (16% VWC), and 25% (8% VWC) of water requirements on the growth of two djulis (Chenopodium formosana Koidz) varieties (red: RP and yellow: OR) and one quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd) varieties (PI). The results showed that drought stress (8% VWC) significantly reduced plant growth and relative water content, and increased H2O2 and MDA content in C. formosana and C. quinoa. The most significant increase in these parameters was detected in the OR variety. The antioxidant enzymes, such as SOD, APX, and GR activities of PI variety under drought treatment (8% VWC), are significantly increased, while GR activity of C. formosana also increased significantly. Additionally, C. formosana and PI variety remained at a stable AsA/DHA ratio, but the GSH/GSSG ratio decreased during drought treatment. Moreover, drought stress increased total soluble sugars and proline content in the PI variety. However, C. formosana proline content was extremely significantly enhanced, and only the OR variety increased the total soluble sugar content at the same time during the vegetative growth period. In summary, C. formosana and C. quinoa have different drought tolerance mechanisms to adapt to being cultivated and produced under severe drought conditions.
A Dramatic Change in Rheological Behavior of a Clay Material Caused by a Minor Addition of Hydrophilic and Amphiphilic Polyelectrolytes
Authors: Panova Irina G. , Kiushov Alexander A. , Khaydapova Dolgor D. , Zezin Sergey B. , Arzhakov Maxim S. , Yaroslavov Alexander A.
Published: October 2021

Wide usage of clay-based materials in industry requires investigations concerning efficient modification techniques to control their mechanical behavior in aqueous media. The challenging problem in this field involves minimization of the modifying agent content to provide marked changes in the operating characteristics of the material. In this work, the physicochemical, mechanical and structural aspects of the interaction of capillary water-saturated kaolinite with polyelectrolytes were studied. Modification of kaolinite with a negligible amount (0.1 wt.%) of hydrophilic and amphiphilic polyelectrolytes provides the control for rheological parameters of kaolinite suspensions such as storage and loss modulus in the range of three orders of magnitude. The results obtained reveal the wide possibilities for the production of a spectrum of clay materials using minor amounts of polymer modifying agents.
Investigating the Knowledge and Attitudes towards Plastic Pollution among the Youth in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Oguge Nicholas , Oremo Francis , Adhiambo Salome
Published: October 2021

Kenya has made many attempts to regulate the production of single-use plastics through partial bans and the imposition of hefty taxes. Whereas government initiatives are crucial to resolving single-use plastic pollution, commitments made by youths can be an important part of the solution. Yet, youths are habituated to using single-use plastics without understanding fully their negative impacts. Understanding the knowledge and attitudes of youths is of the utmost importance in the effort to turn the tide against plastic pollution. This study set out to investigate knowledge and attitudes towards single-use plastics among youths in Nairobi, Kenya. This was a mixed study approach, where both qualitative and quantitative data were derived. The results showed that youths perceive single-use plastics as a serious environmental and health issue. Most respondents expressed willingness to switch to reusable alternatives if provided with financial incentives. In addition, the results showed stronger support for enhanced awareness campaigns and plastic recycling infrastructure. Social media was the most preferred channel to disseminate plastic pollution messaging among the youth. These findings are important in policy development for intensifying awareness and targeting a range of communication and financial support to reduce single-use plastic pollution.
EFEITOS DA DISCRETIZAÇÃO DO MÉTODO DAS DIFERENÇAS FINITAS NA SOLUÇÃO DA EQUAÇÃO DA ONDA
Authors: Machado Christie de Vilhena Prata , Prata Magnus Carvalho de Vilhena , de Souza Raphael Vieira Menezes , Mansur Webe João
Published: October 2021

A equação da onda tem sido utilizada ao longo dos anos em diversas aplicações em engenharia e geofísica. O fenômeno físico de propagação de ondas é modelado por meio dessa equação, que tem sido uma ferramenta vital nas atividades exploratórias de bacias sedimentares que buscam hidrocarbonetos, uma vez que o método da sísmica de reflexão é um dos mais utilizados para esses fins (KEAREY, A., 2009). Esse método consiste em criar um campo de ondas, oriundo de uma fonte pontual, que se propaga pela subsuperfície terrestre, de modo que a energia desse pulso é particionada nas interfaces entre as camadas de impedâncias acústicas diferentes. Dessa forma, parte da energia é refletida e ascende até ser lida na superfície e a outra parte segue descendente até encontrar outra interface e assim ter sua energia particionada novamente (TARANTOLA, A., 1984). É a partir dos dados registrados em superfície que a indústria do petróleo consegue utilizar técnicas de imageamento para recuperar as propriedades de subsuperfície, utilizadas para localizar as reservas de hidrocarbonetos. A acurácia dessas técnicas de imageamento, que em sua maioria consiste na resolução de problemas inversos, depende da precisão e estabilidade dos métodos utilizados na modelagem da propagação de ondas, e é nesse contexto que este trabalho está inserido. O presente trabalho aborda a modelagem no domínio do tempo da propagação de ondas, utilizando o Método das Diferenças Finitas (MDF), e busca, por meio de diferentes experimentos numéricos, avaliar os efeitos da escolha de diferentes discretizações espaciais e temporais do operador do MDF na obtenção da solução da equação da onda em modelos geológicos com diferentes dimensões.
King Peroz’s last stand: Assessing Procopius’s account of the Hephthalite-Sasanian War of 484
Authors: KHONSARINEJAD Ehsan , KHORASHADI Sorour
Published: October 2021

In Procopius’s account of the Hephthalite-Sasanian War of 484, the Sasanian defeat is attributed to an overextended and camouflaged ditch. Over the time, some other ancient historians have retold these events with alternative and occasionally controversial details. The authors have found these narratives problematic, and based on ancient military and historical facts have questioned the historicity of the ditch story. The authors propose that the Sasanian army was either ambushed or was soundly defeated in a pitched battle. As a result, the battle survivors and the Sasanian state may have spread disinformation about the deadly ditch for lifting the lost prestige of their military machine and to keep the empire intact as its very foundation was already shaken.
The Three Hephthalite Wars of Peroz 474/5-484
Authors: SYVÄNNE Ilkka
Published: October 2021

The first aim of this study is to reconstruct the main features of Peroz’s Hephthalite wars and their military significance for Persia. Secondly, it seeks to analyze the combat doctrine and tactics used by Peroz. Thirdly, the study aims to show what lessons the Persians drew from his defeat and how this affected the Persian combat doctrine. This article demonstrates how the reckless behaviour of Peroz resulted in military, political and economic disasters which undid the achievements of the previous generations. This analysis shows how his disastrous policies led to the abandonment of the reforms of the Bahram V Gur and caused the adoption of one-sided combat doctrine.
Military Architecture and the Four-Spāhbed System for Defense of the Sasanian Empire (224-651 CE)
Authors: FARROKH Kaveh , KARAMIAN Gholamreza , KARAMIAN Hamid
Published: October 2021

This article examines Sasanian military architecture with respect to its integration with the four-region Spāhbed system (Ādurbādagān-Spāhbed, Xwarāsān-Spāhbed, Xwarbārān-Spāhbed and Nēmrōz-Spāhbed) for defending the empire. Following an overview of Sasanian military architecture within Iran, the article examines the Darband wall of the Caucasus in the context of the office of the Ādurbādagān-Spāhbed facing the empire’s north and northwest (Ādurbādagān, Media Atropatene corresponding with the historical Azerbaijan in Iran’s northwest), the Tammisha and Gorgan wall systems of the Xwarāsān-Spāhbed facing the nomadic warrior peoples of the Central Asia, the military architecture of the Xwarbārān-Spāhbed facing the western (Romano-Byzantine) frontiers, and the Khandaq-e Shapur of the Nēmrōz-Spāhbed facing the southwest, notably raiders from the Arabian Peninsula threatening the empire’s southwest marches.
NUMERICAL CALCULATION OF UNDERGROUND STRUCTURES USING PACKAGE PHASE2 VERSION 7.0
Authors: Buhavac Biljana
Published: October 2021

The paper presents a numerical calculation using the software package PHASE2 version 7.0. which is based on the finite element method. Numerical calculation requires numerical modeling with description of geometry, load, boundary conditions and material properties, as well as faithful simulation of excavation phase and substructure of underground structure. The verification of the PHASE2 software package is presented through a simple example of an underground structure for which an overview and analysis of the results of stresses and displacements around the underground opening are given.
ADVICE ON URGENT REMEDIATION MEASURES FOR NEWLY ACTIVATED LANDSLIDES IN GORAŽDE CITY
Authors: Nikolić Toni
Published: October 2021

During 2020 and 2021, some landslides that had been activated in Goražde city threatened to have an impact on private houses and infrastructure facilities. In order to solve this problem efficiently and as soon as possible, it was necessary to determine the factors on site and to provide advice for urgent remediation measures, i.e. the activities that should be undertaken in order to stabilize the slopes permanently. This paper will briefly present three activated slopes, their statuses and the advice for the activities on stabilisation. The most difficult task was to determine the trigger of the landslides occurrence, which was, unfortunately, mostly of an anthropogenic character, either due to the impact of structure to the stability or due to untimely stabilisation after the change of balance force in the slope. The first landslide was activated in the Obarak settlement, at the very entrance to town Goražde, on a slope above private building. The lanslide occured during construction as a consequence of a slope cut performed without any subsequent securing. Groundwater and surface water, whose presence in the area has been known since before, have a significant impact on landslide's activation. The second case is in the Pijesak settlement. In detailed research, it has been determined that the trigger is water reservoir located at the top of the slope, behind the house. Unused, excess water seeped over the basin and slope and thus activated the landslide. The third landslide is in the Čitluk settlement, where a large water spring is located above the building with a flow over 1 l/s. The water is collected by the reservoirs poorly. A significant quantity of water flows down the slope uncontrollably. The water saturates the landslide, triggering its movement towards the building at the bottom of the slope. The proposed solutions and advice will be described in detail in the paper.
The Risk Factor of Leprosy and The Care Process of Patient with Leprosy in Mahengetang Island of Sangihe: Qualitative Study
Authors: Tinungki Yeanneke , Kalengkongan Detty Jeane
Published: October 2021

Leprosy is a chronic disease caused by Mycobacterium Leprae and can cause disability. Leprosy is a contagious disease from a medical perspective and extends social, economic, cultural, and social resilience issues. Mahengetang Island is one of the small islands in the  Tatoareng District, Sangihe Islands Regency, with the highest leprosy cases in North Sulawesi Province. The research objective was to determine the risk factors for Leprosy and  Care of leprosy patients in Mahengetang Tatoareng Island, Sangihe. The research method is a qualitative design with 13 informants who were interviewed. The participants are leprosy patients who undergo treatment and leprosy treatment which health workers supervise on Mahengetang Island. The research has been on for three months, from July to October 2020. The result showed that the risk factors for Leprosy were white spots (P1, P3, P5, P6), tasteless and cramps (P1, P2, P5, P10), thickened blackish skin (P2, P3, P4, P10, P12), itching and redness all over the body (P8). The result of research about leprosy patients are showed that one Participant took medication for six months (P1), seven participants took medication for one year, and five participants took the drug once. The conclusion is that the risk factors for Leprosy are white patches on the skin, tasteless and cramps, thickened black skin, itching, and redness all over the body. The care of Leprosy patients showed that all participants took Rifampicin with different periods depending on leprosy classification.
Feasibility Study of 3P Implementation in Handling Solid Waste by Empowering Housewives
Authors: Marniati Marniati , Putri Enda Silvia , Mulyani Itza , Muliadi Teuku , Khairunnas Khairunnas , Dharmayant Cokorda Istri , Nadiah Nur
Published: October 2021

The empowerment of homemakers has a significant effect on the Implementation of Extermination Transport Collection in handling solid waste to improve the cleanliness of the residential environment. The problem in this study is the low Implementation of 3P, where garbage collection is not left correctly scattered; the Transportation of garbage is not routine every day so that the garbage is scattered. Garbage is not destroyed as often as possible so that it harms health. This study aims to assess the feasibility of implementing 3P in dealing with solid waste by empowering homemakers in Drien Rampak Village, Johan Pahlawan District, West Aceh Regency. This research is a sectional observational study with one group pretest post-test design. I conducted in October 2020, which became the population of housewives with a total sample of 45 people. The study results show differences before and after measuring the 3P Implementation with the empowerment of homemakers in improving the cleanliness of the residential environment, as evidenced by the value (Probability 0.000) where there is a difference before and after measurement with a mean value of -1.622. The 3P Implementation by empowering homemakers is feasible. Suggestions for continuing to empower the role of homemakers in implementing 3P solid waste to improve the quality of cleanliness in residential environments.
Organoleptic Test of Herbal Drinks From Family Medicinal Plants as Body Immunity in The Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Sinaga Muhammad Siddik , Khaesarani Inayah Rizki , Nasution Sonya Liani , Riskinandiya Jumatun , Eliska Eliska
Published: October 2021

Family Medicinal Plants (FMP) have benefits and properties for the health of the body. However, this plant is only used as a kitchen spice alone without knowing other properties. Thus, then created an innovation or new product from the family medicinal plant. The goal is to find out the benefits of herbal beverage products through Organoleptic tests as the body's immunity during the Covid-19 pandemic for the people of Pulau Sejuk Village. This product is called Jakusema Herbal, which consists of ginger, turmeric, lemongrass, and honey. The research design uses a Pre-Experimental Design type One-Shot Case Study with nine panellists as research subjects. The study parameters used organoleptic and qualitative tests of vitamin C with potassium iodine (betadine) to see whether or not vitamin C was present in herbal beverage products. The results showed the best treatment was P2 treatment with consumer-preferred levels reaching: (1) colour 7,055>6,23 (2) texture 9,475>6,23, (3) taste 28,003>6,23, and (4) scent 7,617>6,23. Based on the results of organoleptic tests obtained that P2 treatment has a real influence on herbal beverage products. Furthermore, herbal beverage products were tested qualitatively. Then, P2 treatment has a higher vitamin C content than other treatments seen from discolouration in the product. Due to time constraints, vitamin C testing is only done qualitatively. It is recommended for further research using quantitative tests so that the data of research results are more detailed and accurate.
Kelimpahan Diatom Bentik Berdasarkan Perbedaan Tipe Substrat di Perairan Pulau Dompak, Kepulauan Riau
Authors: Rusmiati Rusmiati , Apriadi Tri , Idris Fadhliyah
Published: October 2021

Perairan pesisir Pulau Dompak memiliki tipe substrat berbeda yaitu Tanjung Duku dengan substrat berlumpur, sedangkan Tanjung Siambang dengan subtrat berpasir.  Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk membandingkan kelimpahan Diatom bentik dengan perbedaan tipe substrat di perairan Pesisir  Dompak, Kepulauan Riau. Penelitian ini dilakukan di dua stasiun yaitu Tanjung Duku dan Tanjung Siambang. Masing-masing stasiun terdapat 15 titik pengabilan sampel yang ditentukan secara acak. Hasil penelitian ini ditemukan bahwa jumlah genera Diatom bentik di Tanjung Duku (12 genera) lebih banyak daripada anjung Siambang (5 genera). Total kelimpahan Diatom bentik di Tanjung Duku sebesar 67,9 sel/cm2 sedangkan di anjung Siambang 8,25 sel/cm2. Pleurosigma sp. memiliki kelimpahan tertinggi di Tanjung Duku (16,7 sel/cm2), sedangkan di Tanjung Siambang adalah  Coconeis (2,45 sel/cm2). Ordo Pennales memiliki nilai kelimpahan lebih tinggi dibandingkan Ordo Centrales di semua stasiun. Tekstur substrat berlumpur memiliki jumlah genera dan kelimpahan Diatom bentik yang lebih banyak dibandingkan substrat berpasir.
PENGGUNAAN WEARABLE INTERNET OF THINGS (WIoT) OLEH KAUM MILENIAL
Authors: Lorinsa Dian
Published: October 2021

In digital era like now, internet and millennial generation are inseparable, the use of the internet of things adopted into wearable devices such as Applewatch products is very interesting to explore. This article tries to analyze the extent of the use of the internet of things for Applewatch users in Indonesia, especially among millennial generation. This research article uses a meta-analysis method that reveals previous research related to the concept and object of research, which is complemented by observations and interviews with individuals belonging to millennials, namely those born between 1980-2000. The results of 18 previous research articles related to research on the internet of things, wearable devices in the millennial generation, have not found research that focuses on the use of wearable devices in this case Applewatch. The results of interviews with millennial samples of Applewatch users in Indonesia found that the use of Applewatch is primarily as an alternative and complement to smartphones and is used for notification and wearable fast response tools. Applewatch users have not utilized the technology and health features available to the full.
INDUSTRI MEDIA BUDAYA POPULER ANALISIS SEMIOTIKA PEIRCE PADA DRAMA KOREA START UP
Authors: Bimantoro Anggana Aletta , Sary Marisa Puspita , Putri Rizki Anindia
Published: October 2021

The focus of this studied lies in understanding the meaning behind the 'start up' Korean drama scene. The purpose of this study was to learned about the popular Korean culture. Available representations may help an interpretation of the performer starting the Korean drama. The approach used was a qualitative approach with a semiotic studied from peirce.  There were 3 points of interest in peirce semiotics. Which were icon, index and symbol. The icon portrayed in drakor startup, the shooting site was at the sandbox and the hangang river. Both were known as an iconic sites in South Korea. Then the index seen in the startup film is when seo dal mi was having a religious service as she goes to her car test. Finally, the signed of drakor startup is the festival of chuseok. Further research is recommended for closer analysis so as to provide an even better representation of peirce semiotics analysis.
OPTIMIZING IRRIGATION BENEFITS IN THE WATER SYSTEM USING DYNAMIC PROGRAMMING
Authors: Juwono Pitojo Tri , Limantara Lily Montarcih , Putra Alvin Rusiando
Published: October 2021

Irrigation is defined as the system through which water is utilized in agriculture. There are various ways in which an irrigation system, as implemented, can ensure maximum use of water. One such technique is the optimization technique. Optimization techniques are commonly used to solve several water resource development problems in an area. A variety of aspects need to be explored on this front. These include putting in place an irrigation system. The present study focuses on the Gembleng Kanan irrigation area in Banyuwangi, which is spread over 407 ha. There is water shortage and decrease in the growth intensity during the dry season. The systems analysis and the crop production improvement uses dynamic program optimization. The results of this study show that the average irrigation water requirement in the growing season depending on the selected crop layout pattern is 0.236 m3.s-1 during the rainy season, 0.275 m3.s-1 during the dry season-1, and 0.14 m3.s-1 during dry season-2. Based on the water system availability, irrigation water can be continuously supplied during the rainy season and dry season-1, whereas the rotation system is carried out during dry season-2. Through the use of dynamic programming, it has been estimated that the benefits of the water irrigation system during dry season-2 in the Gembleng Kanan irrigation area amount to Rp 1,835,570,000.00. In other words, there is an 11.5 % increase in profits.